Across the Jaintia hills
From Shillong, the highway heads east to Jowai, then south-east through Khliehriat and the coal and limestone country of the Jaintia hills, before descending steeply to the Barak Valley and crossing into Assam near Badarpur. From there it runs east to Silchar. Parts of the road have been rebuilt, but the hill sections remain slow, and heavy trucks share the road.
Leaving Shillong
If your home is on a slope or a narrow lane, goods may need to be carried or shuttled to the truck. Start early so the hill sections are driven in daylight.
Landslides and the monsoon
Between May and September, landslides can block the road for hours or days, especially on the descent to the Barak Valley. Ask your mover to check the road before setting off, wrap everything against rain, and keep a spare day or two. November to March usually suits this route best.
Into Assam
The road crosses from Meghalaya into Assam on the way down to the valley. Keep the signed packing list, the mover's invoice and your ID in the truck in case of a check.
Where in Silchar
Coming from Badarpur, the truck enters Silchar from the west. The centre around Central Road and the markets is crowded, with narrow lanes; Tarapur, Ambicapatty, Meherpur and the roads towards the medical college and the university have more houses and newer buildings. Give the exact address and a landmark.
Silchar homes
Many homes are independent houses, some Assam-type with wooden floors, and newer apartment buildings have small lifts. Tell your mover about the approach and any steps.
Why people make this move
Government postings, Assam University, NIT Silchar, the medical college, and family in the Barak Valley account for many moves on this route. If an employer is paying, ask what documents they need; every mover we work with provides a GST invoice.
From cool hills to a humid valley
Silchar is much warmer and more humid than Shillong. Fans will matter in the new home, and woollens can be stored with moisture absorbers.
Festivals
Durga Puja fills Silchar with pandals and traffic, and Christmas crowds Shillong. Choose a date clear of them.
Students
A student moving to Assam University, NIT Silchar or a Silchar college usually needs only a few-items move. Check the hostel's dates first.
Packing for a long hill drive
Ask for heavy pieces to be loaded low and tied firmly, extra padding on glass and electronics, and fabrics in waterproof covers.
Jowai on the way
Jowai, the main town of the Jaintia hills, is a destination for some moves on this route. Give the exact address and a landmark.
Settling in
In Silchar, ask how the water supply works, check the power backup for storms, and keep an eye on flood warnings in the monsoon. Your vehicle registration may need updating after an interstate move. Our guide to address changes after moving lists the official records to update.