Shillong

Meghalaya, the abode of the clouds, is one of India's most dramatic landscapes: rolling grassy plateaus cut by deep gorges, waterfalls that plunge hundreds of metres into the valleys and rivers so clear that boats seem to float on air. Shillong, the state capital, is the gateway, a hill town with a colonial-era feel, a lively music scene and the pine-fringed Umiam Lake on its doorstep.

Our five-night package uses Shillong as the base and fans out to the places that have made Meghalaya famous. In Cherrapunji, also called Sohra, you see Nohkalikai Falls, the limestone Mawsmai Cave and the Seven Sisters Falls. The highlight for many is the descent of around 3,500 steps to Nongriat to walk across the double-decker living root bridge, grown by Khasi villagers from the roots of rubber fig trees over generations. Another day takes you to Dawki, where boats glide over the glass-clear Umngot River, and to Mawlynnong, often described as Asia's cleanest village.

Meghalaya appeals to travellers who like a bit of effort with their scenery. The roads are good, the people are warm and English is widely spoken, but the walks are steep and the weather changes quickly, so this is a trip for moderate fitness levels. From Hyderabad you fly to Guwahati and drive up to Shillong in around three hours. On the way, Umiam Lake gives you the first glimpse of the hills, and the evenings in Shillong are for cafes, live music and the busy lanes of Police Bazaar. Pack layers, sturdy shoes and patience for the weather, and Meghalaya repays you with some of the most unusual scenery in India.