Situated in the lap of Northeast India, Meghalaya, is a truly surreal place where time stands still. Adorned with mountains, hills, forests, and rivers, tourists will feel like they’ve stepped into a beautiful picture, where every view is stunning and every moment feels calm and refreshing. Among Meghalaya’s wonders, Shnongpdeng is what captivates tourists the most! This peaceful riverside village near Dawki is famous for the emerald-green waters of the Umngot River. Shnongpdeng is the ultimate destination for adventure and relaxation!
To make your visit truly memorable, go beyond just sightseeing. Keep reading to explore our carefully crafted list of the top things to do in Shnongpdeng, promising memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
List of the Best Things To Do In Shnongpdeng
The charm of Shnongpdeng feels truly magical and unreal. Here’s a list of the best Shnongpdeng activities that will allow you to experience the state’s magic on a deeper, more soul-stirring level.
Boat Ride
This is one of the most enjoyed and popular things to do in Shnongpdeng, filled with amazement and wonder. The boat ride is conducted on a wooden boat over the crystal clear waters of the Umngot River. The best part about this experience is that you’ll see every pebble, colorful fish, and ripple beneath, and it will make you feel like you are floating in the air. The air feels fresh, and the water sparkles as the sunshine falls on its surface.
- Duration: 30 – 45 min
- Timings: Falls within general activity hours (08:00 – 18:00).
- Fee: Approximately ₹500 per head; boat holds ~4 – 5 people
Shnongpdeng Suspension Bridge Walk
This is another most recommended thing to do in Shnongpdeng, which feels like a nature documentary. This suspension bridge hangs over the emerald waters of the Umngot River, offering a bird’s-eye view of boats “floating” in the crystal-clear water below. This will be a thrilling experience as you carefully walk across the bridge, all while enjoying the distant sounds of village life. You can take a pause in between, enjoy photography, and soak in the glittering sunshine and nature.
- Duration: 10 – 20 min (stroll + photos)
- Timings: Likely accessible during daylight (08:00 – 18:00); not formally timed.
- Fee: No direct data; the bridge walk is free as part of the village experience.
Snorkeling
This is one of the most soul-stirring Shnongpdeng activities, where every moment feels magical. Snorkeling allows you to explore the underwater world of Meghlaya, including striking pebbles and fish. Also, the water is so clear that it feels as if you’re floating in air, surrounded by shimmering light and colors.
- Duration: 45 – 60 min
- Timings: Anytime of the day
- Fee: Varies- ₹500 per person typical, ₹550 in some packages
Scuba Diving
Scub Diving is one of the must-try Shnongpdeng adventure sports, where you get to explore the world inside the Umngot River deeply. This experience offers complete silence and calmness as you descend slowly, where small fish swim past you, and plants move gently with the current. And there’s no need to worry as your guide will stay close through the experience. Every glance shows something new, whether it’s a tiny fish or the sparkle of sunlight on pebbles.
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hrs (includes briefing, gear-up, dive)
- Timings: During the general activity window (08:00 – 18:00).
- Fee:
- ₹3,200 per person per Kajaawa
- ₹3,500 per head as per Pioneer Adventure Tour, includes training and underwater photos
Kayaking
Kayaking is another famous river sport in Meghalaya, a peaceful yet exciting way to enjoy the beauty of the Umngot River. You are made to sit on the kayaks, and it slowly drifts along with the water currents, which is so clear you can see every stone/pebble below. The paddles gently swing, and all you can hear is the soothing sounds of nature, the river flowing, and birds. Also, on both sides, you will witness green hills that add more enchantment and visual appeal to the overall experience.
- Duration: 45 – 60 min
- Timings: Anytime during the day
- Fee:
- ₹500 per person via Kajaawa
- ₹600 per head via Pioneer Adventure Tour
Zip-lining Over the Umngot
Another one from the list of the best Shnongpdeng adventure sports is zip-lining done over the Umngot River. This adrenaline-pumping activity makes you feel like you’re flying in the air, with emerald green water below. This will be a quick riding experience, but the moment will stay in your minds forever. Also, you can spot tiny boats on the river, people camping by the shore, and the suspension bridge in the distance, giving the Umngot River a unique appeal.
- Duration: 15-20 mins (including preparation and safety briefing)
- Timings: Within general hours (08:00 AM- 6:00 PM).
- Fee: ₹700 per head
Cliffjumping
Only courageous souls are welcome for this activity! Cliffjumping is a not-to-be-missed thing to do in Shnongpdeng, where fun and excitement are guaranteed. Just climb up the rock, take a deep breath, and JUMP! For a moment, you will feel as if you’re flying through the air, weightless and free, before splashing into the fresh, cool water. If done with high spirit, this adventure activity will be all about letting go, feeling alive, and creating a memory you’ll never forget.
- Duration: 30 – 45 min
- Timings: Same window.
- Fee:
- ₹500 per person via Kajaawa
- ₹300 per person reported in broader guides
Angling
Angling (fishing) is another of the most common and widely tried things to do in Shnongpdeng by the tourists. All you have to do is find a quiet spot by the Umngot’s edge, expertly set up your fishing line, and let it slip gently into the clear water. For a moment, it’s just you and nature with nothing in between. Take your time and be patient while catching your fish. Even if you fail, you will still enjoy the calm surroundings, the soft sound of flowing water, and the peaceful rhythm of the river. Ngling is undoubtedly the best lazy afternoon activity that you must try in Shnongpdeng!
- Duration: It’s flexible (1-2 hrs) minimum
- Timings: Flexible, likely within 08:00 AM – 6:00 PM daylight, depending on weather.
- Fee: No specific charge found, assumed free or nominal with basic equipment.
Riverside Camping
The best and not to be missed activity is riverside camping in Shnongpdeng, where you’ll get to spend undisturbed and me-time in nature. As the sun sets, the sky becomes clearer, with the surroundings turning more peaceful, and all you can hear is the gentle rush of the river water. A warming campfire will be there, along with marshmallows, comforting dinner, and a star-lit sky! The camping night will feel magical, far away from the noise of urban city life.
- Duration: Overnight
- Timings: Typically overnight with check-in about 12:00 PM and check-out at 10:00 AM.
- Fees:
- ₹2,100 per person for basic private camping package (tent, bedding, bonfire, dinner & breakfast)
- ₹3,400 per person, adding kayaking, cliff jumping, and snorkeling
- ₹6,900 per person, including scuba diving too
- ₹3,900 per head via Safari Tent campsite with meals, bonfire, boat transfers
- From traveler reports: ₹400 per person for camping, meals extra (veg ₹200, non-veg ₹250)
Please note: The information for riverside camping varies. You can get in touch with JustWravel’s team to personalize your package as per your preference.
Trekking and Rock Activities
Treeking and rock climbing are truly the best things to do in Shnongpdeng, where fun is guaranteed! The trek will be conducted in the village, surrounded by green hills and scenic landscapes. You will pass through scenic trails with forests, riversides, and small, quiet paths where every step feels like a discovery. Also, the fresh mountain air and the surreal nature views are to be cherished all along! Rock activities here add an exciting twist to the trek. You might find yourself showing your courageous side while climbing over boulders, balancing on uneven stones, or exploring rocky slopes with the guidance of local experts.
- Duration: 2-4 hrs (short village trails to moderate hikes) and 1–2 hrs for rock climbing
- Timings: Likely 08:00 AM 6:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any special tips for camping in Shnongpdeng?
To make your camping experience worthwhile and hassle-free, you must follow the tips below:
- Keep your valuables safe.
- Secure your tent properly.
- Carry some warm clothes as the temperature may drop during the night.
- Choose a riverside spot for the best views.
- Avoid camping too close to the riverbank during high-water seasons for safety.
What are the top 2 things to do in Shnongpdeng?
The top two activities in Shnongpendeng are boating across the emerald waters of the Umngot River and spending an overnight riverside camping experience for a truly memorable experience.
Do I need prior experience to try river sports in Meghalaya?
No, for maximum sports, you do not require any prior experience, as the guides will give you brief training for a safer execution.
What is the best season for river sports in Meghalaya?
The best time to try river sports in Meghalaya is during the winter months, which are from November to April. During this time, the river is at its clearest, and weather conditions are perfect for both water and adventure activities.
Why wait any longer? Book a super-personalized package of your dreams with JustWravel today and get ready for Shnongpdeng escape, where emerald waters, heart-racing adventures, starlit camps, and soulful moments create a story you’ll be telling for years!
A visit to the Snongpdeng in Meghlaya will let you explore nature on a whole new level! With all the above-mentioned things to do in Shnongpdeng, you are bound to have a thrilling and fantastic experience.
