Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum is a trekker's paradise. To reach the viewing spot, a short 2-kilometre trek has to be undertaken. One can also choose the longer path to reach the top. 

Trek to Smit Village: There is also a challenging, yet interesting trekking opportunity for the adventure lovers and trekkers down to the Smit village, which is about 6 kms away from the Canyons. The flowing Laitlum stream, underneath an ancient-looking bridge enroute promises wonderful views and a lush green path. There is also a 270-degree viewpoint where one can stop and stare, as well as click photographs of the 4 nearby waterfalls. The trail is not an easy one and has alternate steel and gentle stretches. The round trip requires about 4-5 hours. Although the terrain is difficult with a lot of curves and bends, the lush green valleys, the clouds floating within an arm's length and the spectacular view is worth it. However, if one is acrophobic, he/she must avoid this trek. 

Trek to Rasong Village: There are trails that lead one to a small local village known as Rasong, which is inhabited by as less as 300 people, who depend on an old fashioned ropeway system that transports food and other items of livelihood to them. The trail that leads to Rasong is a stairway comprising of 3000 steps, passing through bamboo plantations and orchids on the way. Villagers take this route to reach the nearest market. 

Other trails: There are other small trails and paths that lead to tiny slate-roofed homes, perched at great heights. There is a grassy hilltop overlooking the valley, where one can climb and explore the stray shops. One can find a lot of tea sellers here. These Canyons have been shot in the recent Bollywood flick Rock On 2.

Laitlum Canyons remain accessible from 6:00 AM in the morning to 5:00 PM in the evening. The best time to visit it is in the afternoon hours since during morning and evening, the places are covered with fog and one cannot catch clear views.

To reach the Canyons from Shillong, hire a private taxi. The Unmed Road is the last motorable point before the Canyons. From Shillong, one must turn east onto Laitumukrah point, then turn right at Demsein long bus stop, then take a couple of left turns to reach Swalad bus stop. Head on NH 44 followed by a right turn to Smit Road move straight to Jongsha Mawkynrew road and Unmed Road, after which one can spot the Canyons.