Getting around in Assam and Meghalaya is an adventure in itself — from winding hill roads to serene river crossings and bustling local markets. While public transport exists, many parts of these states are best explored by local taxis, shared jeeps, or even ferries. Understanding the local transport scene can help you plan a smooth and scenic journey through these Northeastern gems.
1. Shared Sumo Jeeps
Why read this: These are the lifeline of intercity travel in remote and hilly areas of Meghalaya and interior Assam.
Do: Use shared Sumos from designated taxi stands for routes like Shillong–Cherrapunji or Guwahati–Dawki. They're affordable and widely used by locals.
Don’t: Expect luxury or fixed departure times — they leave when full, and legroom is limited.
Final tip: For less-crowded travel, book the front seat early or pay for an extra seat if you have luggage.
2. City Autos & E-rickshaws
Why read this: In towns like Guwahati, Shillong, and Tezpur, autos and e-rickshaws are a fast and cheap way to get around.
Do: Use them for short distances within cities, like markets or local sights. E-rickshaws are common in flat areas of Assam.
Don’t: Skip fare negotiation — autos rarely run on meters outside of Guwahati.
Final tip: Ask locals for expected fare ranges before boarding to avoid being overcharged.
3. Local Buses
Why read this: Buses connect major towns but are less reliable in hilly areas due to narrow roads and fewer services.
Do: Use ASTC (Assam State Transport) buses for budget intercity travel or to reach points like Kaziranga.
Don’t: Rely on buses for last-mile connectivity or sightseeing in remote Meghalaya towns — schedules are limited.
Final tip: Book tickets in advance for long routes and expect basic comfort (no AC on most services).
4. Private Taxis & Cab Rentals
Why read this: The best way to explore offbeat destinations like Mawlynnong or Majuli is by hiring a local cab for a day or multi-day trip.
Do: Hire registered cabs from Guwahati, Shillong, or Silchar taxi stands. Most drivers act as informal guides too.
Don’t: Depend on app-based services like Ola or Uber beyond Guwahati — they don’t work in Meghalaya or rural Assam.
Final tip: Settle fare upfront, including waiting time and return — around ₹3000–₹4500/day depending on distance and vehicle type.
5. Ferries & Boats (Majuli & Dawki)
Why read this: River crossings are an essential and scenic part of transport in riverine areas of Assam and border towns like Dawki.
Do: Take ferries from Nimati Ghat to reach Majuli or wooden boats in Dawki for river rides on the Umngot.
Don’t: Expect fixed schedules in monsoon or winter fog; boat rides may be delayed or canceled.
Final tip: Arrive early at ferry points, especially in peak season, as they fill up fast. Keep cash handy.
6. Shared Cabs from Police Bazaar (Shillong)
Why read this: Shillong’s Police Bazaar is the main hub for shared taxis to almost all major Meghalaya destinations.
Do: Use this as your base to catch shared rides to Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, or Dawki. They're economical and efficient.
Don’t: Look for app cabs in Shillong — they are nearly non-existent or unreliable in most parts of the city.
Final tip: Sumos and small hatchbacks fill up early in the morning — arrive by 7:00–8:00 AM for better availability.
7. Two-wheeler Rentals
Why read this: For the more adventurous, renting a scooty or bike is a fun way to explore areas like Shillong, Sohra, and Umiam Lake.
Do: Rent from authorized shops with ID proof and check brakes, lights, and fuel levels before starting.
Don’t: Attempt hilly drives in rain or fog if inexperienced — Meghalaya roads can be steep and narrow.
Final tip: Rent early (₹800–₹1200/day), wear helmets, and avoid night travel in remote stretches.
8. Airport to City Transfers
Why read this: Knowing how to get from airports to city centers makes arrival smoother in Guwahati or Shillong.
Do: Book prepaid taxis at Guwahati Airport or use shuttle buses to reach the city or Shillong.
Don’t: Assume Meghalaya’s Umroi Airport has regular flights — limited connectivity means most visitors use Guwahati instead.
Final tip: Guwahati to Shillong takes 3–4 hours by cab; shared taxis cost ₹400–₹500 per person from the airport taxi stand.
9. Walkable Towns & Short Treks
Why read this: Many of Meghalaya’s scenic spots are best explored on foot, especially near waterfalls and living root bridges.
Do: Pack good walking shoes and trek to places like Nongriat or the single root bridge near Mawlynnong.
Don’t: Underestimate terrain difficulty — many routes include hundreds of steps and slippery stones.
Final tip: Start hikes early, carry water, and consider hiring local guides for safety and insights.
10. Train Travel in Assam
Why read this: While Meghalaya has no rail network, Assam has good train routes to Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, and Silchar.
Do: Use trains for long-distance travel within Assam or to enter from major Indian cities.
Don’t: Expect fast trains or luxury classes on all routes — some are basic and slow but scenic.
Final tip: Book in advance via IRCTC; Guwahati is your rail gateway to the entire Northeast.
Feature Image:- Photo by Vincenzo Cassano on Unsplash
