Laitlum Canyon, Shillong - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 8 km from Smit and 24 km from Shillong, Laitlum Canyon is a picturesque mountain ridge situated near Smit in Meghalaya. Perched atop the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, it is one of the top places of trekking in Meghalaya and among the best places to visit in Shillong.

Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored yet enthralling tourist spot known for its sublime natural beauty. The word Laitlum means 'The end of hills' and this beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. Also referred to as the 'Smit Valley' by the locals, the hilltop overlooks breathtaking landscapes which include undulating verdant hills, sprawling bamboo plantations and colourful beds of orchids. The canyon is covered with a white misty blanket and is known for the best bird's eye view of Shillong.

The scenic hill slopes of Laitlum are often called the Amphitheatre of Meghalaya. The hill slopes are painted in a multitude of hues from earthy brown to soft pink and vibrant orange at sunrise and sunset. Furthermore, at the bottom of the canyon is a gurgling stream flows amidst grassy meadow. In addition, there is also a quaint little wooden bridge over the stream that brings a magical touch to the scenery. The meadow serves as an excellent picnic spot with a beautiful viewpoint of four waterfalls.

From the top of Laitlum Canyon, one can see Rasong, a small hamlet nestled deep in the lush green ridges of the Laitlum gorge. A long steep stairway of about 3000 steps, hewn out of the mountain and lined with fern covered rocks, winds its way down the verdant slopes to this tiny hamlet. The 300 residents of Rasong depend on an old ropeway pulley to transport food grains and essential commodities down to the valley and up to the hilltop. This beautiful long rocky trail of Laitlum is a trekker's paradise which attracts trekking enthusiasts, adventurers and nature lovers. The terrain is a bit difficult to navigate but it has some of the best views in the world and the freshest air one can breathe. There is only one shop in the vicinity which offers simple snacks.

The best time to be at Laitlum Canyons is in the afternoon hours as the places is covered with fog in the morning and in the evening.

Timings: 6 AM - 5 PM