Hidden Paradise: 9 Magical Treks to Explore in Meghalaya

 

Tucked away in the misty hills of Northeast India, Meghalaya is a trekker’s paradise — where clouds kiss the mountains, waterfalls roar through green canyons, and every trail feels like a path into a dream. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just someone who loves nature’s raw beauty, these 9 mind-blowing treks in Meghalaya will leave you speechless (and breathless in the best way).

1. 🌉 Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek – Nongriat

One of the most iconic treks in India, this trail leads you through dense jungles and hundreds of mossy steps to reach a bridge grown from living tree roots. Yes, it’s as surreal as it sounds. Waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and warm village smiles make the journey unforgettable.

🗺️ Duration: 3-4 hours (one way)

🌟 Highlight: The magical Rainbow Falls nearby

2. 🌿 David Scott Trail – Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang

An ancient trade route that winds through forested valleys, streams, and charming Khasi villages. This trek is perfect for those who love history as much as nature.

🗺️ Duration: 4-5 hours

🌟 Highlight: Lush pine forests and century-old stone bridges

3. ⛰️ Laitlum Canyon Trek – East Khasi Hills

Laitlum means “end of the hills,” and that’s exactly what it feels like — standing on the edge of the world. This short trek offers panoramic views of rolling green hills, misty cliffs, and hidden hamlets.

🗺️ Duration: 1-2 hours

🌟 Highlight: Epic sunrise/sunset views

4. 🏞️ Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trail – Wahkhen Village

Dubbed the scariest trek in Meghalaya, this bamboo bridge trail is not for the faint-hearted. Suspended over gorges and rivers, the hand-crafted trail leads to a sacred monolith — U Mawryngkhang, the King of Stones.

🗺️ Duration: 3-4 hours

🌟 Highlight: Adrenaline-pumping bamboo walkways

5. 💧 Wei Sawdong & Dainthlen Waterfall Trail – Sohra (Cherrapunjee)

This combo trek takes you to two of Meghalaya’s most photogenic waterfalls. Crystal-clear turquoise pools, layered falls, and a backdrop of dense jungle make it a photographer’s dream.

🗺️ Duration: 2-3 hours

🌟 Highlight: Hidden natural swimming pools

6. 🌄 Shnongpdeng to Dawki River Trek

This offbeat riverside trail along the Umngot River is all about tranquil beauty — think emerald-green waters, quaint river huts, and suspension bridges.

🗺️ Duration: 1.5 hours

🌟 Highlight: Glass-like river perfect for kayaking

7. 🌲 Smit Village Trek – Cultural meets Nature

If you want to blend hiking with rich Khasi traditions, this trail through Smit village near Shillong is perfect. Surrounded by forested hills, this route offers a peek into local life and age-old customs.

🗺️ Duration: Flexible

🌟 Highlight: Traditional Khasi architecture and organic farming

8. 🏔️ Nongkhnum Island Trek – India’s 2nd Largest River Island

Yes, Meghalaya has an island trek too! Explore winding trails, sandy riverbanks, and hidden waterfalls on this peaceful island adventure.

🗺️ Duration: Half-day

🌟 Highlight: Complete solitude and picnic-perfect spots

9. 🌌 Krem Liat Prah Trek – Into the Caves

Meghalaya is home to some of the longest caves in India. Krem Liat Prah is a thrilling cave trek for those who love geology, mystery, and a bit of mud.

🗺️ Duration: Half-day to full-day exploration

🌟 Highlight: Jaw-dropping rock formations and underground rivers

🌟 Final Thoughts:

Meghalaya isn’t just a place — it’s an emotion. Every trail tells a story, every turn reveals a secret. These 9 treks will connect you to the land, the people, and your inner explorer.

So pack your boots, charge your camera, and get ready to chase clouds in Meghalaya. You’ll return with muddy shoes, a full heart, and stories to last a lifetime. 🌧️💚

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.

                      

                    " Roam more, marvel always — only on Roammarvel "

8 Stunning Indian Villages That Will Take Your Breath Away

 

When you think of travel in India, it’s easy to picture iconic cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Jaipur. But the real heart of India? It’s found in its villages—untouched, raw, and overflowing with natural beauty and cultural richness. These little slices of paradise are where time slows down, traditions stay alive, and nature paints its most beautiful canvas. 

Let’s take a journey into 8 of the most stunning Indian villages—each with its own soul, stories, and scenery that’ll leave you awestruck.

1. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Asia’s Cleanest Village

📍 East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya

Nicknamed "God's own garden", this dreamy village is spotless, serene, and stunningly green. Bamboo dustbins line every path, and eco-friendly is a way of life. You’ll fall in love with the living root bridges, treehouses, and the warm hospitality of the Khasi people.

🌿 Don’t Miss: The Sky View platform offering panoramic views of Bangladesh.

2. Khonoma, Nagaland – The Warrior Village Turned Eco Haven

📍 Near Kohima, Nagaland

This Angami village has a rich warrior past but today stands as India's first green village. Surrounded by lush forests, Khonoma practices sustainable farming and community conservation. It's a perfect blend of nature, culture, and resilience.

🌄 Best For: Offbeat travel lovers and culture seekers.

3. Gokarna Village, Karnataka – Coastal Calm Beyond Goa

📍 Gokarna, Karnataka

Nestled by the Arabian Sea, Gokarna is a mix of spiritual charm and beach bliss. Think less crowds than Goa, more soul-soothing beauty. Visit the village temples, hike between secluded beaches, and feel time slow down.

🏖️ Must Try: Sunset at Om Beach, followed by local seafood dinner!

4. Zuluk, Sikkim – The Village Above the Clouds

📍 East Sikkim

Perched at nearly 10,000 feet, this little hamlet offers jaw-dropping Himalayan views, especially of the famous Zig-Zag Road and Kanchenjunga. With snow in winters and rhododendrons in bloom during spring, Zuluk is pure magic.

❄️ Experience: Wake up to clouds floating past your window!

5. Chilika (Satapada), Odisha – Where Dolphins Pla

📍 Near Puri, Odisha

At the edge of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Satapada village is where land meets water and nature puts on a show. Take a boat ride to spot Irrawaddy dolphins, watch migratory birds, and soak in the peace.

🐬 Bonus: Sunset on the lake is postcard-perfect.

6. Banavasi, Karnataka – The Ancient Capital

📍 Uttara Kannada district

This 2,000-year-old village sits beside the Varada River and is older than history books remember. With quiet temples, hand-carved sculptures, and timeless traditions, Banavasi is like stepping into a different era.

🏛️ Don’t Miss: The Madhukeshwara Temple built in the 9th century.

7. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh – The Last Village

📍 Baspa Valley, Kinnaur District

Chitkul is the last village on the Indo-Tibet border that tourists can visit. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, wooden homes, and wildflower meadows, it’s a Himalayan fairy tale come to life.

🧊 Best Time: April to June or September to October.

8. Hodka, Gujarat – A Desert Dream

📍 Kutch District

Located in the heart of the Rann of Kutch, Hodka offers mud houses with colorful decor, local crafts, folk music, and endless white salt desert views. It’s rustic, rich in culture, and absolutely photogenic.

🎨 Pro Tip: Stay in a traditional Bhunga for a true Kutchi experience.

💫 Final Thoughts

These stunning Indian villages aren’t just places—they're experiences. They tell stories of traditions, connect you with nature, and offer a peaceful escape from busy lives. Whether you're chasing mountains, beaches, deserts, or culture—India’s villages welcome you with open arms and hearts full of warmth. 💛

📍 Which village would you visit first?

Drop your thoughts in the comments!

And don’t forget to save this post for your next offbeat getaway.

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.

                          " Roam more, marvel always — only on Roammarvel "

10 Most Beautiful Scenic Train Routes in the World

 

There’s something undeniably magical about train travel—the rhythmic hum of the tracks, the ever-changing landscapes outside your window, and the slow, scenic pace that invites you to truly savor the journey. From snow-capped mountains to coastal cliffs and desert dunes, the world’s most stunning train routes are like moving postcards you’ll never forget.

Here are 10 of the most breathtaking train journeys across the globe that deserve a spot on every travel lover’s bucket list.

1. The Glacier Express – Switzerland 🇨🇭

Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz

Duration: 8 hours

Nicknamed the "slowest express train in the world," the Glacier Express glides through the Swiss Alps, passing 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, and picturesque alpine villages. Panoramic windows offer unmatched views of snowy peaks and lush meadows.

🗻 Highlight: The Landwasser Viaduct — a jaw-dropping bridge curving out of a mountain tunnel!

2. The Rocky Mountaineer – Canada 🇨🇦

Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper

Duration: 2–3 days (daytime only)

Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies in luxury. Towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and grizzly bear sightings make this a dream for nature lovers.

🏞️ Highlight: Viewing the wild beauty of Banff National Park while sipping local wine.

3. The Ghan – Australia 🇦🇺

Route: Adelaide to Darwin

Duration: 3–4 days

A legendary journey across the heart of Australia. From red deserts to tropical rainforests, The Ghan delivers an epic cross-continental experience.

🌵 Highlight: Watching the sun rise over the outback in the middle of nowhere.

4. The Trans-Siberian Railway – Russia 🇷🇺

Route: Moscow to Vladivostok

Duration: 7 days

At over 9,000 kilometers, it’s the world’s longest train ride. You’ll pass through forests, mountains, remote villages, and even cross Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake.

🌍 Highlight: Immersing in diverse cultures and landscapes all in one trip.

5. The West Highland Line – Scotland 🏴

Route: Glasgow to Mallaig

Duration: 5 hours

Famous for its role in the Harry Potter films (hello, Hogwarts Express!), this route cuts through moors, lochs, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

🧙 Highlight: Riding through landscapes straight out of a fairytale.

6. The Bernina Express – Switzerland to Italy 🇨🇭🇮🇹

Route: Chur to Tirano

Duration: 4 hours

A UNESCO World Heritage route, the Bernina Express climbs glaciers and descends into palm-filled Italian valleys—all in one ride!

🚂 Highlight: The spiral viaduct at Brusio and glacier views at the top.

7. The Flam Railway – Norway 🇳🇴

Route: Myrdal to Flam

Duration: 1 hour

Short but stunning, this steep journey showcases Norway’s fjords, waterfalls, and Viking charm.

🌊 Highlight: Kjosfossen Waterfall, where a mythical “Huldra” may just dance for you!

8. The Blue Train – South Africa 🇿🇦

Route: Pretoria to Cape Town

Duration: 27 hours

This isn’t just a train—it’s a 5-star hotel on wheels. Enjoy South African luxury while passing through savannahs and mountain ranges.

🍷 Highlight: A glass of wine in the observation car with views of Table Mountain.

9. TranzAlpine – New Zealand 🇳🇿

Route: Christchurch to Greymouth

Duration: 5 hours

Hop aboard for jaw-dropping views of the Southern Alps, deep gorges, and river valleys.

🌿 Highlight: Crossing the Waimakariri River with the snow-dusted peaks in the background.

10. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – India 🇮🇳

Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling

Duration: 7 hours

A heritage toy train that winds through tea gardens, pine forests, and mountain vistas. At times, you feel like you’re floating in the clouds.

☁️ Highlight: The view of Mount Kanchenjunga—the world’s third-highest peak.

🚂💬 Which train ride would you take first? Let us know in the comments below!

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.

10 Best Places to Visit in Redmond, Washington

 

Redmond, Washington — a charming city known as the home of Microsoft and nestled in the lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest. While it may not always make the top tourist radar, Redmond is a must-explore treasure trove of scenic beauty, tech innovation, and small-town charm wrapped in big city vibes.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Evergreen State or just looking for your next weekend escape, here are the 10 best places to visit in Redmond that’ll make you fall in love with this underrated gem! 💚

1. Marymoor Park – Nature’s Playground

📍 6046 West Lake Sammamish Parkway NE

This is Redmond’s crown jewel. With over 640 acres of fields, trails, rock climbing walls, and even an off-leash dog park, Marymoor is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to just breathe in that fresh Washington air. During summer, don’t miss the outdoor concerts under the stars!

☀️ Pro Tip: Rent a bike and ride through the scenic Sammamish River Trail!

2. Downtown Park – Heart of the City

📍 16101 NE Redmond Way

A modern, urban park in the middle of downtown! With interactive fountains, walking paths, and cozy spots for picnics, this is a perfect place to unwind after a local café visit. It’s also beautifully lit at night — very Instagram-worthy!

3. Microsoft Visitor Center – Geek Out!

📍 15010 NE 36th Street

Tech enthusiasts, this one’s for you! Explore interactive exhibits about AI, gaming, innovation, and more. It’s a peek into one of the world’s tech giants and their vision of the future. Bonus: admission is free.

🎮 Gaming fans will love the Xbox zone inside!

4. Redmond Town Center – Shop, Eat, Repeat

📍 7525 166th Ave NE

An open-air mall packed with boutique stores, eateries, and entertainment options. Whether you’re craving bubble tea or high-end sushi, this is the place to hang out, especially on weekends. Check their schedule for live music and events too!

5. Idylwood Beach Park – Lakeside Bliss

📍 3650 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE

Located right on the shores of Lake Sammamish, this quiet beach park is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun. It’s family-friendly and peaceful, with dreamy views during golden hour.

🧺 Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket!

6. Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park – A Wholesome Escape

📍 19545 Redmond Rd NE

Yes, Redmond has a farm park! Perfect for kids and families, this place has adorable farm animals, hiking trails, and even horseback riding. A unique way to escape city life without leaving it.

7. Redmond Saturday Market – Local & Lively

📍 7730 Leary Way NE (Seasonal)

This vibrant, open-air market features local produce, handmade crafts, food trucks, and live music. It’s where the community comes alive every Saturday morning from May to October. A must-visit for the real “Redmond vibe.”

8. Evans Creek Preserve – Trail Heaven

📍 4001 224th Ave NE

Looking for a tranquil hike? This hidden gem has miles of peaceful, well-maintained trails with wetlands, meadows, and forest views. It’s like stepping into a postcard.

📷 Bring your camera — deer sightings are common!

9. K1 Speed Indoor Go Kart Racing – For the Thrill Seekers

📍 2207 NE Bel-Red Rd

Want a little adrenaline rush? K1 Speed is an epic indoor go-kart track with high-speed electric karts and a fun, energetic vibe. It’s great for families, date nights, or a friendly race with friends.

10. Anderson Park – Cozy and Historic

📍 7802 168th Ave NE

The oldest park in Redmond, Anderson Park is small, serene, and absolutely lovely. With log cabins, tall trees, and a peaceful ambiance, it’s great for an afternoon read or quiet stroll.

✨ Final Thoughts

Redmond might be best known for tech, but it’s the mix of urban convenience and natural beauty that makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re an adventurer, foodie, or someone who just wants to unwind, there’s a little magic in Redmond for everyone. 💫

- Which place would YOU visit first?

Drop a comment and let’s chat! And hey — if you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with your fellow wanderlusters  📍

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.

7 Bucket List Spots in Zanskar

 

Hidden away in the heart of Ladakh, Zanskar is not just a destination — it's a soul-stirring journey. Remote, raw, and remarkably beautiful, this Himalayan treasure is a dream for thrill-seekers, peace-lovers, and culture chasers alike.

Ready to explore the untouched? Let’s dive into 7 epic spots in Zanskar that absolutely deserve a place on your travel bucket list:

1. Phugtal Monastery – The Hidden Cave Monastery

Imagine a monastery carved into a cliffside cave, hanging over a river like a scene from a fantasy novel — that’s Phugtal Monastery. Accessible only by foot, this ancient gompa offers spiritual serenity and jaw-dropping views of the Lungnak Valley.

Don’t miss: Watching monks chant in the candle-lit cave while the river hums below. Pure magic.

2. Zanskar Valley – Nature in Its Purest Form

This is the heart of the region — wild, vast, and hypnotically beautiful. Snow-capped peaks, golden fields, frozen rivers, and the silence of the skies — Zanskar Valley is an artist’s canvas painted by nature.

Pro tip: Visit in summer for trekking, or winter for the epic Chadar Trek over the frozen Zanskar River.

3. Sani Village & Monastery – The Oldest Spiritual Hub

Nestled quietly near Padum, Sani Monastery is one of the oldest in Ladakh, surrounded by barley fields and ancient stupas. The vibe? Peaceful, ancient, and humbling.

Insider tip: Time your visit with the annual Sani Naro-Nasjal Festival for colorful Buddhist dances and ceremonies.

4. Zongkhul Monastery – Meditation with a View

Perched on a rocky cliffside, Zongkhul Gompa is less known, but its views are unforgettable. It's said that great Indian saint Naropa meditated in a cave here — the marks of his footsteps still preserved!

Why go? No crowds. Just you, the wind, and 360-degree views of untouched Himalayan glory.

5. Drang Drung Glacier – A Living River of Ice

You don’t need to go to Antarctica to see glaciers. Drang Drung is Zanskar’s crown jewel — a mighty glacier that feeds the Zanskar River and dazzles all who visit.

How to see it: Stop at Pensi La Pass on your way to Padum — the glacier appears like a massive frozen snake curling through the mountains.

6. Padum – The Gateway to Zanskar

The main town in Zanskar and your base for all adventures, Padum offers local culture, small cafés, and access to nearby monasteries and treks. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and Himalayan stillness.

Travel tip: Spend a night here to acclimatize and explore nearby attractions like Karsha Monastery.

7. Lingshed Village – A Remote Slice of Heaven

Reaching Lingshed is a trek — literally — but the reward is immense. With ancient monasteries, pure-hearted locals, and surreal landscapes, this isolated village is a glimpse into life untouched by time.

Trek highlight: Part of the Lamayuru to Padum trek — perfect for real adventurers.

🌟 Final Words: Why Zanskar Belongs on Your Bucket List

Zanskar isn’t just about places — it’s about presence.

No Wi-Fi, no city noise — just mountains, monasteries, and moments that make you feel alive.

If you're craving an adventure that awakens your senses and touches your soul, Zanskar is waiting.

📌 Pin it. Share it. Pack your bag.

Let the wild heart of Zanskar guide your next journey. 💫

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.

9 Best Places to Visit in South India – A Journey Through Paradise

 

South India is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, lush landscapes, ancient temples, and serene beaches. From the cool hills of Ooty to the spiritual aura of Rameswaram, this region offers a mix of natural beauty and rich heritage. If you're looking to explore the charm of southern India, here are the 9 best places to visit in South India that you’ll instantly fall in love with.

1. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg is a picturesque hill station known for its coffee plantations, misty mountains, and lush greenery. It's the perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Highlights: Abbey Falls, coffee estates, Dubare Elephant Camp. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

2. Munnar, Kerala – A Tea Lover’s Paradise

Munnar is a dreamy hill station carpeted with tea gardens, misty hills, and cool breezes. It’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers looking for peace and scenic views.

Highlights: Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam. 

Best Time to Visit: September to May

3. Pondicherry – The French Riviera of the East

With its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and calm beaches, Pondicherry offers a unique blend of Indian and French cultures. A perfect spot for a relaxed coastal getaway.

Highlights: Auroville, Promenade Beach, French Quarter. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

4. Hampi, Karnataka – A Timeless Heritage Site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a surreal destination filled with ancient ruins and temple complexes. It’s a haven for history buffs and backpackers alike.

Highlights: Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hampi Bazaar. 

Best Time to Visit: October to February

5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – The Queen of Hill Stations

Ooty is a charming hill station with rolling tea gardens, colonial-style architecture, and tranquil lakes. Whether it’s a honeymoon or a family trip, Ooty has it all.

Highlights: Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Mountain Railway. 

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

6. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu – A Spiritual Retreat

Known as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Rameswaram is steeped in mythological history and religious importance. Its stunning temples and coastal beauty make it truly unique.

Highlights: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge. 

Best Time to Visit: October to April

7. Alleppey, Kerala – The Venice of the East

Famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises, Alleppey is a dreamlike destination. A perfect escape to experience Kerala’s rich culture and serene water landscapes.

Highlights: Houseboat rides, Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha Beach. 

Best Time to Visit: November to February

8. Mysore, Karnataka – The Royal City

Mysore is known for its regal heritage, grand palaces, and vibrant Dasara festival. It offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of South India.

Highlights: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens.

 Best Time to Visit: October to February

9. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu – Where Oceans Meet

The southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge. The sunrise and sunset views here are absolutely magical.

Highlights: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Beach. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Please note: This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional travel advice.