The Meghalaya Waterfalls Landscape Photography Tour is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of India's "abode of clouds. "With its abundant rainfall and undulating terrain, Meghalaya is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. From the iconic Nohkalikai Falls plunging into verdant valleys to the ethereal beauty of Krang Suri Falls hidden amidst lush forests, each cascade offers a unique opportunity for photographers to capture the raw power and natural splendor of these majestic wonders. As mist rises from the cascading waters, photographers can capture the play of light and shadow, creating ethereal and dreamlike compositions. The ever-changing weather adds an extra dimension to the photography experience, offering a chance to capture dramatic scenes of rainbows and swirling mists.Led by experienced guides, this tour provides photographers with the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Meghalaya's landscape while honing their photography skills. It's a journey that promises not only stunning images but also a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of nature in this enchanting corner of India.
Photography Partner for the Tour Specialising in Landscape Photography
NILAKKHYA DUTTA
Nilakkhya, an Official Nikon Creator is a published Landscape Photographer of India from Delhi and has been in the photography arena for the last 11 years. To talk of some of his accomplishments, he has been published on all major platforms of photography including some of the top photography magazines of India. Above all he has been leading Landscape and Astro Photography Workshops for 3 years now and holds a rich experience in teaching the concepts to the participants. For his complete set of works, do visit
SRIDHAR BALASUBRAMANIAN
Hi this is Sridhar!! The best way to travel is with a bunch of photographers where the best of light or absence of lights will lead you in to a world of wonder and delight! Started off with photography chasing squirrels and egrets and when things began to dawn into my head, I found myself fatally attracted to the landscapes of India.
Key Features of our Trip
The group size will range from a minimum of 6 participants to a maximum of 10 participants, all mentored by two landscape photographers, based on a first-come, first-served basis.
Embark on a meticulously planned 7-night/8 -day journey to explore the corners of Meghalaya thoroughly, ensuring that every opportunity to capture its beauty is seized without rushing through.
Participants will have the chance to use the latest high-end Nikon cameras and lenses, as Nikon is our equipment partner.
Engage in the concept of Travel, Share, and Learn about Landscape Photography with Nilakkhya Dutta and Sridhar Balasubramanian. Nilakkhya is an experienced landscape photographer known for showcasing the purest form of a place's beauty. Nilakkhya, a published photographer in various platforms and magazines worldwide, will guide the group and has been now conducting workshops for the last 4 years across India.
Post-processing sessions will be conducted on-field every evening after photography sessions, with additional online sessions if required. Participants will be encouraged to develop their own style and vision, rather than imitating others, fostering individual artistic growth.
The trip departs from Guwahati, with participants transferred in comfortable Tempo Traveler throughout the tour and the drop will be at Guwahati airport. Guwahati is well-connected by flights and roads, and airport pick-up and drop-off services are provided.
Accommodation in Guwahati will be provided in a cozy hotel on a twin sharing basis.
Accommodation in different parts of Meghalaya will be provided in Home Stays on a Twin sharing basis. Home stays are typically very inviting and comfortable indoors.
All meals, including breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner, will be provided from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8 in Guwahati.
An experienced professional tour leader will accompany the group throughout the journey.
All necessary permits/ILP for travel on the route will be arranged.
First aid kits will be available for any emergencies.
Strict adherence to COVID protocols will be ensured, following the guidelines of the state of Meghalaya at the time of the tour.
Detailed Itinerary Day Wise
20th September - Day -1 (Saturday) - Arrival at Guwahati and transfer of participants in Tempo Traveler to our hotel in Sohra, Meghalaya. We expect the participants to book the flights reaching max by 12 noon to Guwahati.
21st September - Day -2 (Sunday) - Start at 7:00 am or early to cover all spot. Walking distance from parking lot and average trek required for some. A. Mawsawdong falls B. Lyngksiar falls C. Janailar falls D. Prut falls Stay at Sohra
22nd September - Day -3 (Monday) - Early morning to catch Sunrise at Nohkalikai A. Nohkalikai Falls B. Garden of Caves C. Weisawdong falls D. Dainthlen Falls (Astro, if sky is clear) Back to Shillong and stay.
23rd September - Day -4 (Tuesday) - Shillong to Umsawwar (Mawkynrew): 2 hrs 20 mins, starts at 7:00 am or earlier. Average trek from parking lot. A. Synrangkhit falls B. Riat Sohlwai falls C. Weiniur falls Back to Shillong. Stay
24th September - Day -5 (Wednesday) - We are keeping this day for exploratory visits to a few waterfalls.
25th September - Day -6 (Thursday) - We are keeping this day for exploratory visits to a few waterfalls.
26th September - Day -7 (Friday) - We are keeping this day for exploratory visits to a few waterfalls and then back to Guwahati. Overnight in Guwahati.
27th September - Day -8 (Saturday) - Participants will be bid farewell and transferred back to Guwahati Airport by cabs after breakfast.
Please Note that the walks to the Waterfalls from the Parking Spot would require some amount of trekking for half an hour to one hour at some places. Participants should come with that mental preparation.
Package Cost
Rs. 48,000 per person
(Ex-Airports Twin sharing in Hotels and Home Stays)
Prices quoted above are exclusive of GST of 5%.
Single Supplement - 30% Extra
What is included
All accommodations in Meghalaya in Home Stays in Twin Sharing Basis
All transfers will be in one Tempo Traveler.
Airport transfers to and from Guwahati Airport are included.
All meals from Guwahati will be provided, including breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 9.
All Entry Tickets
Guide fee for Waterfall treks.
An experienced tour leader will accompany the group for the entire tour.
A first aid kit will be available.
Permits for the entire tour are included.
Participants will have the opportunity to use Nikon high-end camera gears for taking pictures.
Photography assistance will be provided for day time landscapes and night astroscapes on all days, including image critique.
Participants will be guided on camera settings for capturing the sceneries.
Post-processing sessions will be conducted for participants during the tour.
Exclusions
Travel to Guwahati and return journey from Guwahati to your destination.
Accommodation and meals during transit from your destination to Guwahati and back from Guwahati.
Breakfast on Day 1, and Lunch and Dinner on Day 8.
Any additional meal expenses incurred during the tour, such as delayed meals due to photography or travel requirements, where participants opt to purchase food from an external source.
Personal expenses like tips, laundry, or similar.
Costs of any food or beverages purchased by participants during travel between locations.
Mineral water bottles. (We recommend participants to avoid plastic bottles and carry their own refillable insulated bottles).
Additional expenses for extra food or beverages, excluding hard drinks at high altitudes, which are not encouraged for participants.
Any medical emergency costs for participants.
Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like civil unrest, weather disruptions, or other events beyond our control that result in an increased duration of the tour.
FAQ's
1. What are the terms of Payment and Booking Procedure?
Booking Amount - Rs. 15,000 +5% GST(Rs. 750) = Rs. 15,750 at the Time of Confirmation.
Final Payment - Rs. 33,000 +5% GST(Rs. 1650) = Rs. 34,650 45 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 5th August, 2025.
The prices mentioned above include a 5% GST and may be adjusted in case of any change in the GST rate due to a government directive. An invoice will be issued for every payment made by the participants.
If you wish to make a booking using the Razorpay Payment Gateway, kindly contact us to receive a payment link. Please note that gateway charges of 2% of the transaction fee plus 18% GST on that 2% amount will apply.
2. What is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
If a cancellation is made 60 days before the Departure date, specifically on or before July 20th, 2025, a 50% refund of the Advance Amount will be provided.
Cancellations made between 60 days before the departure date and 45 days before the Departure date, meaning between July 20th, 2025 and August 5th, 2025, will result in No Refund of the Advance Amount.
If a cancellation is made between 45 days before the departure date and the Departure Date, i.e., between August 5th, 2025 and September 20th, 2025, there will be No Refund of the Full Amount of the Trip (assuming the final payment was made by August 5th, 2025).
Participants who do not make the final payment by August 5th, 2025, and cancel their participation between August 5th, 2025, and September 20th, 2025, will receive No Refund of the Advance Amount.
In the event of a trip cancellation by the organizer due to a surge in Covid cases, a lockdown, or a participant testing positive in RTPCR, a Full Refund of the Advance Amount or Full Payment will be issued. The organizer will not withhold any amount, although participants may choose to keep the amount as a deposit for a future trip with thEscape.
If there are less than 6 participants enrolled, there will be an Increased cost per participant or a Full Refund of the tour amount if the cancellation is due to insufficient enrolments by the organisers.
In the case of a cancellation by the organizer for ANY reason (including insufficient participants, reasons beyond control, or others), there will be No Refund of the flight charges booked by the participants. Participants are advised to book flights with zero cancellation policies. Those uncertain about the tour status can contact thEscape up to 30 days before the tour starts.
If a participant fails to deposit the full tour amount by the specified date, their seat will be opened for others to enroll. The deposited advance will be forfeited and not refunded. However, if the participant finds a replacement, the amount will be adjusted accordingly.
The GST component of any payments made will not be refunded in any scenario mentioned above.
Any potential refunds from the organiser will be processed one month after the tour ends, by October 27th, 2025.
3. What are the precautions to be kept in mind as monsoons of Meghalaya are too wet?
Firstly, a tour specifically for Landscape Photography is designed for participants solely interested in Photography. Reaching the waterfalls requires trekking, so strong determination is necessary. Staying hydrated and wearing appropriate attire are essential. Additionally, due to weather or other reasons, if we need to alter the itinerary or skip a location for the participants' well-being and their physical and mental health, the tour leader's decision will be final, and the team must comply with it. No refunds will be issued in such cases. We will embark on this tour with a strong mind and passionate heart, and I'm confident the team will succeed and capture remarkable Landscape Photography of the Meghalaya Waterfalls.
4. What can be anticipated regarding Logistic Support? How challenging will it be and are there any specific details in the itinerary?
Considering this as a Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography Tour, we classify it as a Photography Workshop for participants rather than a leisure trip or vacation. Below are some key points to help you comprehend what to expect and the level of difficulty of the tour-
Since the emphasis will be on locations, there will be day-long travels. Nights will be dedicated to Astro Photography whenever feasible, so sleep may become secondary at times. Therefore, participants are expected to rest when designated as a group.
Despite factors beyond our control, we strive to maintain consistent sleep and wake times to capture the optimal light for Photography. Participants are required to adhere to these timings.
This is a group tour where sharing rooms with strangers, often meeting them for the first time, is common. Participants should approach this situation with a sporting attitude.
Most stays in unique locations will be in Home Stays with basic facilities, such as beds or mattresses on the floor and village-style linen. It is important for participants to value the location for photography rather than focus on the accommodation. Keep in mind that the accommodations provided are the best available for that specific location during that season. Participants are expected to appreciate and respect this. However, participants have the option to bring their own linen or sleeping bags.
In hotels/home stays situated in remote areas, heating may not be provided. Although the rooms are warm, guests are advised to dress in layers or use warmers to stay warm, as heaters might not be accessible.
Food served in remote offbeat locations or based on seasonal availability will be basic. Mainly comprising simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes as per what's locally available. The menu decision lies with the travel partners who understand the terrain and can quickly serve suitable meals.
While traveling in the Himalayas during the rainy season, which is the most unpredictable time of the year, the itinerary may be altered due to circumstances such as road closures, snowfall, landslides, etc. It is important for participants to be aware of this possibility, as a place or two may be omitted or added beyond our control.
Participants are advised to set realistic expectations and comprehend the tour's level of difficulty. This tour is exclusively focused on Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography. Failure to adhere to the guidelines and rules of the tour, creating a negative atmosphere for others, the group leader, or the local support system, will result in a warning and expulsion from the tour without a refund. Approach this tour with a positive and open mindset, and excel in the realm of Landscape Photography.
5. What are the rules and protocols to be followed during the tour?
During the tour, the group leaders traveling in the Tempo Traveler will determine the stops for photography. While participants can take photos from their windows, the decision to stop and disembark for capturing specific scenes will be made by the group leaders.
The group leaders will inform every one of the time allocated for capturing images after leaving the vehicle, based on the scene being photographed. It is essential for all participants to adhere to the given time frame. If it's 10 minutes, everyone must return to the vehicle within 10 minutes, and if more time is needed, it will be granted. Sufficient time will be provided to capture each scene effectively.
All participants must follow the waking and sleeping times communicated by the group leaders. Individuals are responsible for waking up on time, as missing the specified time will result in missing out on photography opportunities. Ensuring the right lighting conditions for images, especially during sunrise and sunset, is crucial on a photography tour.
While photographing at a location, it's important not to obstruct each other's shots. If someone wishes to capture the same scene as another participant, it is recommended to allow the first person to complete their shot before taking a turn.
Participants must avoid conflicts during the tour. Any issues with other participants, whether related to photography or otherwise, should be addressed to the tour organizers for resolution.
For logistical concerns, participants are advised to follow the standard procedure of contacting the hotel helpdesk or the Travel Partner during the tour. If issues persist, participants can seek assistance from the organizers for resolution.
Littering, such as leaving plastic bottles or wrappers, is strictly prohibited during the tour. Participants are expected to dispose of waste appropriately at designated locations.
Participants are responsible for handling their camera equipment, including cameras, lenses, tripods, and memory cards. Any damage to equipment provided by Nikon India will be the participant's responsibility to cover the costs.
Every evening, there will be a review session where participants can receive feedback on their images. It is encouraged to accept feedback positively and use it to enhance photography skills.
Participants may consume alcohol during the evening sessions in moderation. Alcohol should be brought from the participants' respective airports, as it may not be readily available in Meghalaya though we don't encourage it's consumption in high altitude.
Participants should be prepared for unconventional and challenging travel and accommodation arrangements, with a focus on photography. Any delays in meals or facilities should be understood, and any negativity or complaints that disrupt the photography spirit will not be tolerated.
Individuals choosing to venture away from the group for photographs do so at their own risk, and the tour organizers will not be liable for any mishaps.
Personal visits during the tour, typically undertaken by tourists, are discouraged as this is a Landscape Photography tour.
In the event of skipping any destinations due to factors beyond control, such as roadblocks or weather conditions, alternative arrangements will be provided. Any additional costs incurred will be the responsibility of the participants.
6. What are the minimum and maximum participant requirements, and what is the consequence if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?
We require a minimum of 6 participants for the tour. If the minimum number is not met, we will proceed with the tour but there will be an additional cost per participant.
7. What happens if a participant needs to leave the trip due to an emergency? Will the fee be refunded, and arrangements be made for their return to Guwahati and their destination?
If a participant needs to leave the trip unexpectedly, there will be no refund provided. Additionally, the participant will be responsible for covering the cost of arranging transportation back to Guwahati and their original destination.
8. What Photography Equipment are participants expected to bring?
The trip is primarily a Landscape Photography tour, but it also welcomes individuals interested in creating art in the mountains through painting or creative writing for potential publication in an anthology. Camera equipment expected from all participants:
One DSLR/Mirrorless camera with wide and telephoto lenses
Tripod
Filters for those interested in Long Exposures: ND10 and ND6 and Polariser
Memory Cards
Shutter Release remote, particularly for Long Exposures
L-bracket for those wanting to capture vertical long exposures and panoramas
While this is a comprehensive list, it is not mandatory for everyone to carry all items. Participants interested in simple landscape photography during golden and blue hours, as well as learning Astro photography, can bring a DSLR/Mirrorless, lenses, and a tripod. For long exposures, filters and a shutter release remote are essential.
Given the remote nature of the trip with uncertain electricity supply, participants are advised to bring extra battery sets in case of depletion. An extension board for additional chargers could be useful if participants choose to bring it. To prevent batteries from losing charge in cold weather, participants can keep them close to their bodies inside their clothing. Painters and writers are expected to bring their creative kits, including notebooks, pens, painting materials, canvas, and colors.
9. Can a participant bring a Non-Photographer Friend or Companion or a Non-Photographer or a Non-Artist Join?
We welcome two types of individuals: those who have a passion for Landscape Photography and those who appreciate art. Additionally, if someone wishes to join the tour for sightseeing purposes, they are also welcome, provided they adhere to the following conditions:
There will be no reduction in the fee cost.
Photography and art tours proceed at a leisurely pace, with frequent stops for artistic endeavors. Non-art participants are expected to be respectful of the artists' time and adjust to their pace.
10. What level of fitness is necessary for this trip? Does it involve Trekking or Long Walks?
Visitors to the waterfalls, especially photographers, should possess a basic level of fitness for daily activities during the tour. Although our trip primarily involves driving and does not include full-day hikes or treks, reaching the waterfalls requires trekking down and up through jungles in wet conditions, so participants must be physically prepared. In addition to this fitness level, participants are responsible for managing their medications throughout the trip and bringing sufficient quantities to prevent any issues. If any problems arise, they should rest and proceed at a pace comfortable for their body. Participants are also expected to bring their medical and first aid kits. It is the participant's responsibility to inform the staff of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disabilities that might impact their ability to travel on this trip.
11. What Age Group is Suitable for the Trip and Can Participants Bring Children?
Given that this is an Art trip focused on Photography, it is recommended to bring children only if they can keep up with the pace of the trip and appreciate the artists' attention to detail. Children under 15 years old will not be permitted on the tour due to its altitude and artistic focus.
12. Will the organizers use the photos taken by the participants or of the participants for Promotional Purposes?
Yes, by signing up for the trip, participants also agree to allow thEscape to use certain images captured of or by them, as well as any artwork, with proper credit given to the artists, on their website and social media platforms.
13. Under what circumstances does the organizer have the right to cancel a member's participation during the trip?
If any participant engages in misbehavior or misconduct during the trip, such as causing distress to fellow travelers, damaging property, sexual harassment, or any form of misconduct, they will be removed from the trip without a refund and will be responsible for their own return costs. The Group Leader's decision is final in these cases to maintain the group's reputation. Participants are expected to be respectful to hotel staff, drivers, and support personnel. Disrespectful behavior towards them will result in a warning from the group leader, with repeated offenses leading to expulsion from the tour. We have a strict policy against misbehavior under the influence of alcohol. Participants should maintain discipline and avoid spreading negativity among fellow travelers. Violations will result in warnings and potential expulsion from the tour without a refund, with the participant covering their return expenses.
14. In the event that odd numbers result from the Male Female Ratio when assigning twin sharing to participants, what should be done?
If this situation arises, the organizer will provide the most suitable solution, ensuring that twin sharing is never allocated to individuals of the opposite sex.
15. Is there any Mobile connectivity in Meghalaya?
Mobile connectivity in Meghalaya is on and off. Airtel and Jio postpaid services are available.
16. What is the total number of individuals accompanying the tour participants?
Nilakkhya and Sridhar will be the photography partner, in addition to the support staff.
17. Policy on the Use of Psychotropic Substances, Alcohol, and Smoking During the Tour
The use of psychotropic substances (drugs) is strictly prohibited during the tour. Anyone found in possession of or consuming these substances will be immediately dismissed from the tour. Smoking is permitted, but participants are asked to ensure that it does not disturb others. For those who have not opted for a Single Supplement, it is recommended that all participants discuss smoking with their roommates. Alcohol consumption is allowed, and it is advised to drink in moderation that suits one's tolerance levels without causing any issues.
18. Are there any other Terms and Conditions that need to be considered?
It is essential for participants to understand that this is a photography tour, requiring a degree of flexibility. The daily itinerary serves as a general guide only, and we cannot be held liable for delays due to factors such as international or domestic flight issues, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such instances, we will offer suitable alternatives through mutual agreement, with any additional costs to be covered by the participants.
If a participant fails to arrive in Guwahati by 1 PM on September 20th, 2025, it will be assumed that they have canceled the tour, resulting in a "No Show" status with no refund provided.
We reserve the right to adjust pricing on our website due to external factors beyond our control. However, we strive to maintain the current rates. Minor increases in hotel prices or related expenses will not affect confirmed bookings made with a deposit.
We strongly advise participants to obtain medical and unforeseen event insurance before embarking on this or any trip.
The tour dates and itinerary are fixed, tailored for Landscape Photography needs, with no alterations possible to accommodate individual preferences.
Participants must adhere to photography restrictions in certain areas and present government-issued IDs at checkpoints. It is essential to keep documents readily available for inspection by authorities throughout the trip.
Participants are required to comply with document checks by authorities and deposit a signed indemnity bond along with their Aadhar Cards before the trip commences.
Participants acknowledge the potential risks of the journey, including accidents, illnesses in remote areas, political instability, and natural disasters, and agree to assume all associated risks to the fullest extent allowed by Indian law.
If you have any booking inquiries, please email us at thescapebiz@gmail.com or call +91 9717960028 to speak with Nilakkhya.
For transferring the advance booking amount and final payments, we will provide you with the necessary bank account details, contract, and trip acknowledgment. Alternatively, you can opt for Razorpay Payment Gateway for payment through Debit Cards, Credit Cards, UPI, Wallets, or EMI.
Let's make this trip unforgettable with plenty of memories and artwork. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Disclaimer: The photographs featured here are of Ratnadwip Saha who has done a tour to this region and has happily agreed to share his images with thEscape for advertising purpose.
By making a booking payment, you agree to the cancellation policy and the Terms and Conditions stated above.
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