The David Scott Trail is a hiking trail in the Meghalaya Highlands of India. This goes through some of the most remote and untouched parts of India, and people come here for adventure.

Trekking through the sub tropical rain forest, the David Scott Trail in Meghalaya is sure to be an adventure. With striking views and a variety of natural sights, it's no wonder so many people decide to embark on this trail.

If you're planning to hike The David Scott Trail, you'll want to make sure that you see as much of the area as possible. This remote region is home to some of India's most pristine forests and valleys, making for an awe-inspiring hike.

History Of David Scott Trail

One of the oldest trails in Meghalaya, this trail was named after a British officer, David Scott.

He was an agent to the Governor General and one of the first English officers to be sent in North-East Frontier during the British period.

Born in Scotland in CE 1786, David Scott worked in the North-east India for over 30 years in various capacities. He died on the 20th August 1831 at the age of 45 years.

This route was a trade route between Assam and Bangladesh in the 1800s.

During his time, a horse-cart carrying goods was laid down and a war broke out between the Khasis backed by King Tirot Singh of Khadsawphra and the British, which went on for almost 4 years until the Khasi leaders and King Tirot Singh were captured by the British.

Don’t forget to pay a visit to the memorial pillar erected in memory of David Scott at Cherrapunji. The obelisk is made of ashlar stone masonry raised over a square platform with inscription engraved on the memorial pillar.

A Complete Guide To David Scott Trek

The David Scott Trail is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The trailhead is located at Sohra, which is about 90 kilometers from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. The trail is well marked and there are several rest stops along the way. 

The David Scott Trail is an easy trail route in the Meghalaya Highlands, crossing through some of the breathtaking terrains in Meghalaya. It trail passes through beautiful valleys, alongside the Umiam river.

You will also come across the ancient and sacred groves of Mawphlang, some of the lush green meadows, sparse fields and stretch the Khasi and Jaintia hills. You will also pass through some old bridges, gushing waterfalls and natural pools.

The trek can be divided into 4 parts.

Part 1: Trailhead - Suspension Bridge

The trailhead of the trek, also known as Nongrum Mawphlang is where you officially begin your trekking journey. You will have to trek 5 km to reach the Suspension bridge. You can stop by, and admire the view of the river from the hanging bridge.

Part 2: Suspension bridge - Laithsohma Village

In this part of the trek, you will cross a river and walk through a thin path between thick forests. After trekking for 4 km down the path, you will reach a village called Laithsohma. There you can have your lunch at a local eatery and rest your feet and back for a while.

Part 3: Laithsohma - The Arch Bridge

This stretch of 3 km is mostly flat. Follow the trail and you will come across a medieval-era bridge that is 'arch-shaped'. You can again stop by for some minutes and then start walking to the final stretch of the trek.

Part 4: The Arch Bridge - Lad Mawphlang

In the final part of the trek, you will come across monoliths and a stone bench after a 2 km hike. You can stop and rest in the point. If you look back, you can spot the Mawphlang village and the sacred groves.

The other 2 km is a descend to Wah-Umiong river. A few steps after, you will reach the exit point - Lad Mawphlang.

If you are planning to do The David Scott Trail, it is important to be prepared. The trail can be challenging at times, so make sure you are in good physical shape.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and pack plenty of food and water. Most importantly, enjoy the trek and take in the stunning scenery of Meghalaya!

How Much Time Does It Take To Complete David Scott Trek?

The entire 16 km trek will take you about 5 hours to complete. This is a one-way trek, so you exit from Law Mawphlang right after you complete your journey.

If you start early in the morning from Shillong, the drive to Mawphlang will take about 1 hour. If you start your trek at 9 am, you will easily be able to exit by 3 - 4 pm, given that you stop at multiple points during the trek and also stop for lunch.