Offbeat Alert: Did You Know This Ancient Hiking Trail Meghalaya That Once Was A Trading Route?

If you're a trekking enthusiast looking for a memorable adventure, the David Scott trek in Meghalaya is an experience you should not miss. This historic trail is one of the oldest in the region and offers a captivating journey steeped in history and natural beauty. Originally part of a 100-kilometre trade route established during the British colonial era, this trek allows you to step back in time while also enjoying the stunning landscapes of Meghalaya.

About The Trek

The David Scott trek covers 16 kilometres through the picturesque Eastern Khasi Hills, meandering through an enchanting mix of mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, and serene rivers. This trek dates back to the early 1800s and stands as one of Meghalaya's rare preserved natural treasures, showcasing the region's unspoiled beauty.

Named after David Scott, a British administrator assigned to northeastern India during that era, the trail holds historical significance and natural charm. As you progress along the trek, you'll pass through several Khasi villages. The scenery along the route is diverse and breathtaking, featuring ancient sacred groves, verdant meadows dotted with wildflowers, rolling hills, babbling streams, charming stone bridges, and natural pools that provide perfect spots to rest and take in the surroundings.

The Terrain

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Eastern Khasi Hills with the David Scott Trek. This remarkable journey, reaching an altitude of 4,892 feet, meanders through majestic mountains, lush valleys, vibrant forests, and sparkling rivers. As you traverse the trail, the serene Umiam River flows gracefully alongside, enhancing the experience with its beauty.

Connecting the two famous Khasi villages of Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment for outdoor enthusiasts. Each step along the route provides breathtaking vistas and a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. For those passionate about exploration, the David Scott Trek promises to be an exhilarating escape into the great outdoors that you won’t want to miss.

A Sacred Grove

The trail will take you close to one of the most revered Indigenous landmarks of the Khasis—the Sacred Grove of Mawphlang. This primordial forest is believed to be over 800 years old, and its ancient character contrasts against the pine groves and grassy meadows that make up the rest of the landscape. In addition to its untouched natural beauty, it served as a site for various rites practised by the former Khasi royals. Mawphlang has been recognised as a Best Tourism Village from Meghalaya in the 2024 Best Tourism Village Competition, specifically in the heritage category.

Covering nearly 80 hectares, the Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a treasure trove of rare medicinal trees and plants, including the English yew, Chinese sumac, and chinquapin. There are about 450 species of trees and plants in this forest, along with rare species of animals and birds. The biodiversity of this community-protected forest is awe-inspiring.

Known as 'law kyntang' in the Khasi language, these groves are home to medicinal trees that have thrived for centuries. They are not ordinary forests; they also house a protective deity revered by the village chief and elders to ensure the grove's safety. These sacred groves have stood for over 1,000 years, and cutting down any tree or branch in these areas is strictly prohibited, contributing to their preservation.

Moreover, the forest is an important ritual site for the people of Hima Mawphlang, who perform various thanksgiving and blessing ceremonies in the area. This practice has been ongoing for a significant period, as evidenced by scattered mounds of ritual stones and menhirs, some over 900 years old.

A River Runs Through It

Descending from Mawphlang presents an extraordinary opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the Umiam-Mawphlang River and the stunning valley below. This sparkling river captivates your attention as it occasionally disappears from view, only to reemerge at perfectly timed intervals. The trail meanders along a picturesque gravel path, featuring gentle ascents and descents, ultimately leading to a modern suspension bridge that gracefully spans the Umiam-Mawphlang River, flowing toward the enchanting landscapes of Bangladesh.

Near Mawphlang, stop at ‘Ka Kor Ka Shonmai,’ a lovely resting place inviting you to pause and rejuvenate. Along your route, you will encounter quaint villages that showcase the simplicity and charm of rural life. As you approach Lad Mawphlang, you’ll be surrounded by impressive rock formations that add to the area’s allure.

Best Time To Go

For an unforgettable outdoor experience, plan your trek between October and May, with October and November offering the most vibrant scenery.

Trek Level

Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, this trail welcomes you to enjoy it at your own pace. Just keep in mind that it may not be suitable for those who are not in good physical health.

Getting There

You can use Shillong as your base for accessing the trek; it is 26 km away. Other points of access to the route are Guwahati Airport, which is 140 km away, and Guwahati Railway Station, located 117 km away.