The Truth About Self Drive in Meghalaya & Arunachal (2025-26 Guide)
Is it legal? Is it safe? Read the full clarification on why Guwahati cars are the best choice for your road trip.
1. Is Self Drive Legal in Meghalaya? (The "Ban" Explained)
There is a lot of confusion regarding self-drive cars in Meghalaya due to news reports from mid-2025. Here is the clear status for tourists starting from Guwahati.
The Short Answer:
Yes, it is allowed for Guwahati cars. The "Ban" applies only to vehicles rented within Meghalaya from unauthorized local shops.
Why Onroadz Guwahati's Cars are Safe & Allowed:
At Onroadz Guwahati, we provide well-maintained White Plate (Private Registration) cars. This is actually a benefit for you:
- Privacy: You don't look like a taxi. It feels like you are driving your own personal family car.
- No Harassment: The ban in Meghalaya specifically targeted local Meghalaya-registered private cars that were running as illegal taxis. Assam-registered (AS) cars entering as tourists are completely allowed.
- Authority to Drive: We provide you with a valid "Authority to Drive" permit/letter on our agency letterhead. This legal document authorizes you to drive the vehicle anywhere in NE India.
Peace of Mind: Thousands of our customers drive to Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Dawki every month without any issue. The police checking is for local offenders, not for tourists from Assam.
2. Is it Safe & Legal to Drive in Arunachal Pradesh?
Arunachal Pradesh is a restricted area, meaning you need specific permits to enter. It is 100% legal to take our self-drive cars there.
The ILP (Inner Line Permit) Rule
Even with a rental car, every person in the car (including the driver) must strictly have an ILP (Inner Line Permit). You can apply for this online at the Arunachal ILP portal.
Safety Tips for Tawang & Sela Pass
- Terrain: The road to Tawang crosses Sela Pass (13,700 ft). It is often foggy, snowy, or slippery.
- Car Choice: We strictly recommend SUVs (Scorpio N, Thar, Creta, Brezza) for Arunachal. Hatchbacks may struggle with ground clearance.
- Timing: Do not drive at night in Arunachal. Landslides are common, and visibility drops to zero after 4 PM in winter.
3. How to Rent a Self Drive Car in Guwahati?
Since Guwahati is the gateway to the Northeast, it is best to pick up your car here before heading to the hills.
- Booking: Select your dates and car model (Hatchback for Meghalaya / SUV for Arunachal).
- Documents: WhatsApp us your original Driving License and Aadhaar Card/Voter ID.
- Security Deposit: Pay the refundable security deposit.
- Pickup: Collect the car from our Chandmari office or request Airport Delivery.
Note: We provide the "Authority Letter" along with RC, Insurance, and Pollution papers in the glove box. You just need to carry your personal ILP for Arunachal.
4. Recommended Road Trip Routes
Option A: Meghalaya (The Abode of Clouds)
Best for: Couples, Families, Relaxed Driving
- Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong (stop at Umiam Lake).
- Day 2: Shillong to Cherrapunji (See Nohkalikai Falls & Caves).
- Day 3: Cherrapunji to Dawki (Umngot River) & Mawlynnong.
- Day 4: Dawki to Guwahati (via Jowai Bypass).
Option B: Arunachal (The Tawang Circuit)
Best for: Adventure Lovers, Experienced Drivers
- Day 1: Guwahati to Bhalukpong/Bomdila.
- Day 2: Bomdila to Tawang (cross Sela Pass).
- Day 3: Tawang Sightseeing (Bumla Pass requires local permit).
- Day 4: Tawang to Dirang.
- Day 5: Dirang to Guwahati.