Anand Mahindra left amazed by an Indian village with its 'head' in the clouds. Where is this tourist destination, and how can you reach it?

When industrialist Anand Mahindra takes a break from business to share his travel discoveries, the world listens. His recent post on X (formerly Twitter) has put the spotlight on a little-known village in Meghalaya called Nongjrong. Nestled in the East Khasi Hills, this hamlet is so elevated that, as Mahindra wrote, it “literally has its head in the clouds.”The post, tagged #SundayWanderer, has left travel enthusiasts curious: Where is this cloud-kissed village and how can you experience it for yourself?

A Village Few Have Heard Of

According to Outlook Traveller, Nongjrong remains one of the least explored destinations in Meghalaya. Home to just around 1,440 residents, the village thrives on agriculture and has preserved its traditional way of life. The simplicity of daily living here is matched only by the grandeur of its natural surroundings, where clouds, rivers, hills, and sunrays blend into scenes that look almost unreal.

The highlight of Nongjrong is its hilltop viewpoint. Those who hike up early are rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise as the entire valley lies draped in thick clouds, while golden sunlight slowly touches the peaks. Below, the Umngot River glimmers, bordered by lush greenery. Visitors often describe the experience as stepping into a painting.

Waterfalls and Wilderness

Just 3 km from the village lies the Nongjrong Falls, a spectacular cascade surrounded by dense forest. The trek to reach it is as rejuvenating as the destination itself, with monsoon being the best time to witness its power. The clear pool at the base of the falls offers a serene spot to unwind in nature’s lap.

How to Get There

• By Air: The nearest airport is Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, about 100 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available.
• By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is the closest major railhead, with onward connections by road.
• By Road: Nongjrong is around a four-hour drive from Guwahati. Car rentals and taxis from Shillong offer flexible travel options.

The best months to experience Nongjrong’s charm are between October and May, when the skies are clearer and the landscapes greener. Beyond soaking in the views, adventure seekers can head 10 km to the Umngot River near Dawki for kayaking or rafting, an activity made more thrilling by its crystal-clear waters.