Gitartha.bordoloi · Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0Nongkhnum is Meghalaya's largest river island, about 21 sq km, formed by the Kynshi and Namliang rivers in West Khasi Hills, about 14 km from Nongstoin and roughly 110 km (3.5 hours) from Shillong. Go between November and April for its sandy beach, waterfalls and camping. No permit is needed; the last stretch of road is rough.
Nongkhnum is what happens when a river splits and rejoins around a piece of land. In West Khasi Hills, the Kynshi and Namliang rivers enclose an island of about 21 sq km, the largest river island in Meghalaya. It has grassland, forest, rocky gorges, a sandy beach where the rivers divide, and waterfalls along its edges.
Tourism here is still small. Nongstoin, the district headquarters, is the nearest town, about 14 km away, and the road from there gets rough in the last stretch. Facilities on the island are basic: a few camping spots, local boatmen, and a suspension footbridge over the river. That is the appeal for travellers who like space and silence more than services.
We plan Nongkhnum between November and April, when the rivers are low and clear, the sand beach is exposed and the tracks are drier. It pairs with Langshiang Falls, one of Meghalaya's tallest falls at roughly 337 m, about 24 km from Nongstoin. Go with a local contact or guide, and carry supplies for the day.
What makes it worth the trip
River beach
A sandy stretch where the Kynshi splits, good for a picnic and a swim in calm, low water.
Langshiang Falls
A tall waterfall of roughly 337 m in the same region, about 24 km from Nongstoin.
Riverside camping
Pitch a tent or join a local camp on the grassland and sand in the dry season.
Few visitors
Even in peak season, you will share the island with far fewer people than at Dawki.
Suspension footbridge
A footbridge across the river gives views up and down the gorge.
Things to do
- Camp overnight on the island in the dry season
- Swim or paddle at the river beach in calm, low water
- Take a short boat ride with local boatmen
- Walk across the suspension footbridge over the river
- Visit Langshiang Falls with a local guide
- Walk the grassland and forest edges at sunrise
- Stop at Nongstoin market for supplies and local snacks
Getting there
Nongkhnum is reached via Nongstoin, the headquarters of West Khasi Hills, which is about 95 km west of Shillong by road, around 3 hours. From Nongstoin, it is about 14 km to the island, and the last part of the road is rough; a sturdy vehicle with good clearance helps, especially after rain. Public transport runs from Shillong to Nongstoin, but not reliably to the island. Hire a car and driver from Shillong for the trip, or arrange local transport in Nongstoin.
Where to stay
Options are limited. On the island, camping with your own gear or with small local operators is the main choice in the dry season; confirm toilets, water and food before you go. Nongstoin, about 14 km away, has a few modest hotels and guest houses where you can base yourself for a night. There are no resorts nearby. Travellers wanting comfort should stay in Shillong and treat Nongkhnum as a long day, though that means 6 to 7 hours of driving in total.
Local tips
- Go only between November and April; the rivers rise quickly in the monsoon
- Carry drinking water, food and a torch; facilities on the island are basic
- Hire a local guide in Nongstoin, especially for Langshiang Falls
- Do not swim in fast or deep water, and never after rain upstream
- Carry cash; there are few ATMs outside Nongstoin
- Leave no rubbish; there is no waste collection on the island
Rain and weather
Source: IMD 1991–2020 normals
November to April, when rivers are low, the beach is exposed and the roads are drier.
