Homestays in Meghalaya – Tucked in the heart of Northeast India, Meghalaya is famous for its rolling hills, sacred forests, living root bridges, and friendly locals. If you’re planning a trip here, ditch the usual hotels and opt for a homestay. It’s the best way to experience local Khasi culture, traditional food, and warm hospitality—all while staying close to nature.

Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort

Location: Laitkynsew Village, ~10 km from Cherrapunji town 

Price: ₹8,080 (Executive Non-AC) to ₹11,944 (Superior Valley-View AC) per night Includes buffet breakfast, evening tea, and vegetarian dinner 

Contact: Book via official website or call +91‑96153‑38500

Perched on a misty hillside with sweeping views of valleys and waterfalls, Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort is a family-run retreat that blends nature, comfort, and Khasi culture. Guests are welcomed with warm hospitality, live music evenings, and a buffet of local and pan-Indian flavors. Whether you’re trekking to living root bridges or relaxing by a bonfire, this resort offers a complete nature getaway.

Why stay here:

• 23 spacious rooms (AC and Non-AC) with hot water, reliable power, and valley views
• Cultural evenings with live Khasi music and bonfires
• Guided treks, caving, canyoning, and root bridge adventures
• Complimentary buffet meals; separate kitchens for veg and non-veg
• Rated 4.2/5 on Tripadvisor with glowing reviews for food, views, and hospitality

Ibankordor Jungle Homestay

Location: Lyngkien Village, near Mawphlang Sacred Forest (~25 km from Shillong) 

Price: ₹1,000–₹2,450 per night (varies by cabin type; meals extra on request) 

Contact: +91 98560 41205 / cp@culturalpursuits.com

Tucked into a quiet valley surrounded by streams and farmland, Maple Pine Farm is a solar- and wind-powered homestay that blends rustic charm with sustainability. Run by James (a Canadian-Khasi) and Valariena, this off-grid retreat is ideal for travelers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature—just minutes from the sacred Mawphlang forest.

Why stay here:

• Four handcrafted wooden cabins (some with cozy attics), private bathrooms, and shared solar-heated showers
• Powered entirely by wind and solar—expect limited but thoughtful amenities like hot water and soft lighting
• Meals include Khasi, Indian, and continental dishes—pre-order for local specialties like jadoh and barbecue
• Great base for exploring the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, David Scott Trail, and nearby root bridges
• Rated ~4.5/5 on major platforms; praised for its peaceful setting, eco-friendly ethos, and personal touch

Kongthong Whistling Village Homestay

Location: Kongthong Village, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya 

Price: ₹1,500–₹2,000 per night (some packages include meals) 

Booking: Available through local tour operators or on-site

Nestled in the serene East Khasi Hills, this homestay in Kongthong—famously known as the “Whistling Village”—offers a truly one-of-a-kind cultural experience. Here, villagers greet each other not by name, but with unique tunes composed by their mothers at birth. Staying here means stepping into a world where melody replaces words, and tradition sings through the hills.

Why stay here:

• Live with local families in charming bamboo cottages
• Get your own “whistling name” and learn about the tradition of Jingrwai Lawbei
• Enjoy guided treks, forest walks, and cultural storytelling
• Savor fresh, home-cooked Khasi meals made with local ingredients
• Rated 4.4/5 on Google and loved by travelers seeking offbeat experiences

Pine Hill Homestay (Shillong)

Location: 7th Mile, Upper Shillong, near Elephant Falls 

Price: ₹1,500–₹2,200 per night 

Contact: +91‑98566‑98793

Tucked into the pine-scented hills of Upper Shillong, Pine Hill Homestay is a peaceful, family-run retreat that feels like a home away from home. With cozy rooms, warm hosts, and hearty home-cooked meals, it’s a perfect escape from the city buzz—yet just a short drive from popular spots like Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak.

Why stay here:

• 4 clean, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms
• Enjoy home-style meals, a bonfire area, and a lush garden
• Amenities include free Wi-Fi, parking, hot water, and power backup
• Ideal location for exploring nearby waterfalls and scenic viewpoints
• Rated 4.2/5 on Google and 7.5/10

Emily & Sankrita’s Homestay – Shillong

• Location: Mawsynram Village, about 60 km from Shillong
• Price: ₹1,500–₹1,900 per night; meals available on request (~₹200 per person)
• Booking: Available via Airbnb, HiChee, or local travel platforms

Tucked away in the rain-soaked hills of Mawsynram—the wettest place on Earth—this cozy homestay offers a warm, down-to-earth experience. Emily manages bookings with ease, while Sankrita greets guests with hot tea, hearty meals, and the comfort of a traditional Khasi home. It’s a great pick for travelers who love quiet village life, dramatic monsoon views, and authentic local food.

Why stay here:

• Private room with a balcony to enjoy the rain and mist
• Home-cooked Khasi meals served family-style (pre-order recommended)
• Local guides available for treks, cave visits, and village walks
• Amenities include hot water, kitchen access, parking, and TV
• Rated 4.8/5 on Airbnb (132 reviews); 10/10 on local listings

Why Choose a Homestay in Meghalaya?

• Feel at Home: When you stay in a homestay, you’re not just renting a room—you’re becoming part of a local family. It’s a cozy and welcoming experience where you’re treated like one of their own.
• Taste Local Flavors: Try traditional Khasi dishes like Jadoh (a rice and meat combo), Dohneiiong (a pork curry with black sesame), and Tungrymbai (a unique fermented soybean dish). Every meal is cooked with care and packed with local flavor.
• Stay Green: Most homestays in Meghalaya follow eco-friendly practices. You’ll find places that avoid plastic, use natural materials, and aim to protect their beautiful surroundings.
• Discover Local Life: This is your chance to really connect—learn about everyday Khasi customs, listen to folktales by the fire, and witness age-old traditions that make Meghalaya so unique.

Quick Tips Before Booking

• Read Recent Reviews: Before booking, take a look at the latest reviews on websites like Google, Airbnb, or Booking.com.
• They’ll give you honest insight into the stay and the hosts.
• Bring Cash: Many places might not accept cards, especially in remote villages. Having cash makes things easier.
• Be Respectful: Always ask before clicking photos of people or sacred spaces. It’s a simple gesture that goes a long way in showing respect.
• Dress Warm: Even summers can be chilly here, especially in the evenings. Pack a jacket or sweater just in case.
• Book Ahead: October to March is a busy season in Meghalaya. Booking your homestay early helps avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion

Meghalaya isn’t just about stunning waterfalls and mist-covered hills—it’s about the warm, welcoming people who call this magical place home. Staying in a homestay lets you dive into the real spirit of the state. You’ll share stories over home-cooked meals, sleep in cozy rooms surrounded by nature, and experience daily life the way locals do. Whether you’re hiking through thick forests, exploring root bridges, or just taking in the mountain air, a homestay adds a personal touch to your journey. You don’t just visit—you connect. And when it’s time to leave, you’ll carry more than just photos—you’ll take home memories and friendships that last.

For more travel inspiration and guides like this, check out Xplro.com

FAQs – Homestays in Meghalaya

1. Is it safe to stay in homestays in Meghalaya?

• Yes, staying in a homestay is generally very safe in Meghalaya. Most are run by local families who are warm and welcoming. Travelers, including solo female tourists and families, usually feel comfortable here.

2. What is the average price of a homestay in Meghalaya?

• The cost of a homestay usually falls between ₹1,000 and ₹4,000 per night, depending on the location and the facilities offered. Homestays in smaller villages are usually more budget-friendly than those in tourist-heavy towns.

3. Do homestays in Meghalaya serve local food?

• Yes, almost all homestays offer freshly cooked Khasi meals, which may include rice, pork, fish, and local vegetables. You can also request vegetarian food or simple dishes depending on your preference.

4. Can I book a homestay online?

• Yes, many homestays are listed on websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, or MakeMyTrip. Some smaller homestays in remote areas may take bookings over phone or WhatsApp after checking their Google reviews.

5. Will I get Wi-Fi and electricity at a homestay?

• In cities like Shillong, most homestays offer Wi-Fi. However, in remote villages like Nongriat or Mawlynnong, internet access may be slow or unavailable. Electricity is usually available, but there might be short power cuts in some areas.

6. When is the best time to visit Meghalaya for a homestay experience?

• The best months to visit are from October to April, when the weather is clear and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) is beautiful too, but heavy rains may affect travel plans.

7. Are homestays ideal for couples or honeymoon trips?

• Yes, homestays are great for couples looking for a peaceful, private experience. Many are located in scenic spots like Cherrapunjee and Shillong, making them perfect for romantic getaways.

8. Can I work from a Meghalaya homestay?

• Partly yes. If you’re staying in Shillong or nearby areas, you can usually work online with decent Wi-Fi. But remote villages may not have reliable internet, so working remotely from there can be difficult.

9. Do homestays provide hot water and heating in winter?

• Most homestays provide hot water using geysers or buckets. However, very few have room heaters. It’s best to carry warm clothes if you’re visiting during the colder months (especially November to February).

10. How do I reach a homestay in Meghalaya from Guwahati?

• You can take a taxi or shared cab from Guwahati to Shillong (around 3 hours). From Shillong, you’ll find local transport to places like Cherrapunjee, Mawphlang, or Mawlynnong. For Nongriat, you must first reach Tyrna village and then trek down to the homestay.

11. Do I need to know the local language to stay in a homestay?

• Not at all. While locals mainly speak Khasi, most homestay owners can understand and speak basic English or Hindi, especially in tourist-friendly areas. You’ll have no problem communicating.