Whistles and Roots: A Journey to Kongthong and Wah Myor
2
Days
This 2-day trip from Shillong takes you deep into Meghalaya’s quieter corners, where nature and culture come together in simple, powerful ways. On the first day, you trek through forest trails to Wah Myor, a towering living root bridge hidden far from the tourist map. The journey winds through shaded paths, mossy rocks, and clear pools—perfect for those looking to explore nature without crowds. After the trek, you settle into Kongthong, a village unlike any other, where every resident has a unique tune instead of a spoken name. On the second day, you explore the rhythms of village life—learn about their whistled naming tradition, walk through bamboo-lined paths, and visit local beekeepers who raise stingless bees in hollow logs and bamboo hives. With its rare cultural practices, deep quiet, and rich connection to the forest, Kongthong offers a side of Meghalaya that’s as thoughtful as it is unforgettable.
Itinerary
DAY 1
- Leave Shillong early morning and drive toward Kongthong region.
- On reaching near Kongthong, head straight for a guided trek to Wah Myor, one of Meghalaya’s tallest and least-known living root bridges.
- The trail winds through dense forest, hanging roots, moss-covered rocks, and quiet streams.
- Take your time at the bridge—dip in the nearby natural pool, photograph the unique structure, and soak in the complete silence.
- Return from the trek by afternoon and head to Kongthong village, just a short distance away.
- Check into a your stay for the night and relax for the evening.
- Enjoy a warm local dinner and a quiet night surrounded by forested hills, stories and folk tunes.
- Start your morning with a traditional Khasi breakfast at your homestay, surrounded by forested hills and birdsong.
- Begin a slow-paced village walk with a local guide—pass bamboo huts, kitchen gardens, and small forest paths.
- Spend time understanding Kongthong’s whistled-name tradition (jingrwai iawbei)—you might even receive your own tune from a village elder.
- Mid-morning, visit a local household involved in traditional beekeeping.
- Learn how stingless bees (ka ngap) are kept in hollowed-out logs, bamboo tubes, or stone nests.
- Observe how the honey is collected and stored, and taste a small spoon of raw medicinal honey—highly prized in Khasi homes.
- Hear stories about how bees are part of village life, folklore, and natural healing.
- Optional short walk to a viewpoint or quiet picnic spot nearby before heading back.
- After an early lunch, depart for Shillong and return by evening, carrying the quiet music and charm of Kongthong with you.
GALLERY
Trip Highlights
- Forest trek to Wah Myor, one of Meghalaya’s tallest and least-visited living root bridges, surrounded by untouched jungle and quiet natural pools.
- Overnight stay in Kongthong, a hilltop village known globally as the “Whistling Village”, where each person is identified by a unique tune instead of a spoken name.
- Cultural immersion through guided village walks, storytelling, and traditional Khasi hospitality.
- Hands-on beekeeping experience with local villagers—learn about stingless bees, see bamboo and log hives, and taste raw, medicinal honey.
- Stay in eco-conscious community-run homestays, with locally grown food, scenic views, and peaceful surroundings.
- Perfect blend of light adventure, cultural discovery, and quiet rural life, away from tourist trails.
Includes
- ED Local expert
- Guided trek to Wah Myor
- Curated village walk.
- Immersive beekeeping and honey extraction experience
- Stay in Kongthong Village
- Picnic lunch and Dinner on day 1.
- Breakfast on day 2
- Bonfire setup
Excludes
- Travel to and from Shillong available as an optional add-on
- Meals, beverages, or refreshments not mentioned above
- Personal expenses like shopping, snacks, or additional activities
- Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff
- Accommodation or transport not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary
- Extra costs arising due to unforeseen situations like weather delays, roadblocks, strikes, or natural events
- Any other items or services not clearly listed under “Inclusions”
FAQs
The trek is moderate—expect about 1.5–2 hours (one way) of forest trails, stone steps, and shaded paths. If you’re comfortable walking for a while and don’t mind a bit of a sweat, you’ll do just fine. Plus, the reward? A root bridge most people will never see.
It depends! The root bridge trek might be challenging for young kids or elders with mobility issues. But the village part? Super peaceful and enriching. If you're okay with splitting up the group (some skip the trek), we can make it work for everyone.
Think warm homestay vibes: clean, simple rooms, locally cooked meals (rice, vegetables, chicken, and Khasi-style comfort food), and mountain hospitality that money can't buy. No frills, no fancy, just genuine warmth.
Yes, our friendly local experts and guides will accompany you throughout. They’re from the region, know the trails by heart, and help bridge the gap between you and the culture—literally and metaphorically.
In a word: intimacy. While others rush through popular spots, this trip slows things down. You explore a hidden root bridge, stay in a village where people sing your name, and immerse yourself in ways most tourists never do. It's not just scenic—it's soulful.
Minimal to none—and that’s the magic of it. Expect a digital detox. No scrolling, no buzzing notifications. Just the sound of birds, breeze through bamboo, and maybe a local calling their child with a melody.
Who is this for?
- Slow travelers and mindful explorers seeking meaning over mileage
- Nature lovers who prefer forest trails, root bridges, and clear pools over tourist hotspots
- Culture enthusiasts intrigued by rare traditions like the whistled names of Kongthong
- Solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking to disconnect from noise and connect with something deeper
- Weekend escape seekers who want a short but powerful experience wrapped in peace, tradition, and nature
Terms and Conditions
The company shall not be liable for damages/charges incurred by travellers including but not limited to the following reasons if applied:
- Natural Disaster, war, civil unrest, pandemic, alteration or cancellation of tour itinerary due to such causes.
- Accidents during transportation or accommodation, damages by fire.
- Orders of either Indian Govt or immigration regulations, isolation resulting from infectious diseases and tour itinerary alterations due to such causes.
- Accidents occur during travels or activities.
- Food Poisoning.
- Theft.
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Trip name: Whistles and Roots: A Journey to Kongthong and Wah Myor