Overview
About Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons is a high viewpoint in East Khasi Hills where the plateau ends abruptly above a network of deep, forested gorges. The name is usually translated as "end of the hills", which describes the place well: a grassy ridge with the land dropping away on several sides and valleys stretching into the distance. The main attraction is the view itself. On a clear day you can follow the folds of the valleys for many kilometres; on misty days cloud fills the gorges and can lift within minutes. The grassy slopes around the viewpoint are open for walking and photography. A long stone stairway, often described as about 3,000 steps, leads down from the ridge to Rasong, a small village in the valley that has long relied on this path to reach the nearest market. Walking part of the stairway gives a closer look at the gorge, but the full descent and climb back takes several hours and needs good fitness.
On the day
What to expect at Laitlum Canyons
Viewpoint: Open grassy ridge with wide views over the canyons; no fixed railings in many places, so keep away from edges. Walk: A short walk from the parking area to the main viewpoint, plus optional trails along the ridge. Stairway: Steps lead down towards Rasong village; most visitors go only part of the way. Facilities: Parking with a small fee and a few basic tea and snack stalls; no large restaurants, so carry water.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to April
Monsoon (June–September): Very green, but cloud and rain often hide the view and the paths turn slippery. Post-monsoon (October–November): Clearest views and lush slopes; the best period. Winter (December–February): Cold, dry and usually clear, though early mornings can be foggy. Spring (March–May): Pleasant, with more haze. Mornings can be foggy, so late morning to afternoon often gives clearer views; leave before dark as the road is unlit.
Getting There
Laitlum is about 23–25 km south-east of Shillong, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by car.
Laitlum is about 23–25 km south-east of Shillong, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by car. The usual route leaves Shillong towards Smit and then follows a narrower village road to the last motorable point near the viewpoint; navigation apps sometimes show two roads beyond Smit, so a driver who knows the route helps. From the parking area it is a short walk to the main viewpoint. The site is not on the Sohra road, so it is normally visited as a separate half-day trip. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya.
Entry & Duration
Allow 1–2 hours at the viewpoint. If you want to walk the stairway down to Rasong and back, plan for 3–4 hours or more.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Laitlum Canyon from Shillong?
About 23–25 km, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by car via Smit.
Is there an entry fee for Laitlum Canyons?
Sources disagree: some list no entry fee, others a small local charge. Expect to pay a modest parking fee and carry some cash.
What does Laitlum mean?
Laitlum is usually translated from Khasi as "end of the hills", after the way the plateau drops into the gorges.
How many steps are there to Rasong village from Laitlum?
The stairway down to Rasong is commonly described as about 3,000 steps. The round trip takes several hours and the climb back is demanding.
What is the best time to visit Laitlum Canyons?
October to April, when skies are clearer. Late morning or afternoon often avoids the early fog.
Can Laitlum be covered with Cherrapunji in one day?
It is in a different direction from Sohra, so most travellers visit Laitlum as a separate half-day trip from Shillong.
