Darjeeling & Meghalaya Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling & Local Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Darjeeling and settle into your accommodation. Start your adventure with a visit to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, known for its rare Himalayan species.

Afternoon: Explore the serene Botanical Gardens and enjoy lunch nearby. Afterwards, visit the iconic Tiger Hill viewpoint to admire panoramic views of the sunrise over the Himalayas.

Evening: Stroll through the bustling Chowrasta Mall and sample some local street food. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk around Batasia Loop.

Day 2: Darjeeling - Tea Gardens and Cultural Sites

Morning: Visit the famous Happy Valley Tea Estate for a guided tour and tea tasting session.

Afternoon: Head to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and nearby Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park if not visited on Day 1. Enjoy lunch with a mountain view.

Evening: Take time to explore local markets and visit the Mahakal Temple, a peaceful spiritual spot.

Day 3: Travel to Meghalaya - Shillong Arrival & Sightseeing

Morning: Depart early from Darjeeling towards Shillong, Meghalaya. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax.

Afternoon: Visit the captivating Ward's Lake and Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to get a glimpse of Meghalaya’s tribal heritage.

Evening: Explore the local night market in Shillong and enjoy traditional Khasi cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cherrapunji

Morning: Take a scenic drive to Cherrapunji. Visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India.

Afternoon: Explore the spectacular Mawsmai Cave and walk on the living root bridges in Nongriat.

Evening: Return to Shillong for a restful evening at your hotel.

Day 5: Mawlynnong & Dawki River

Morning: Visit Mawlynnong Village, Asia’s cleanest village, and enjoy its natural beauty and cultural charm.

Afternoon: Travel to Dawki River for a boat ride in crystal clear waters along the India-Bangladesh border.

Evening: Return to Shillong, enjoy a calm dinner, and prepare for departure next day.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: 2-3 hours, ₹100 entry fee
• Botanical Gardens: 1-2 hours, ₹40 entry fee
• Tiger Hill: 2 hours, no cost
• Chowrasta Mall & Batasia Loop: 1-2 hours, no cost
• Happy Valley Tea Estate Tour: 2 hours, ₹200
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: 2 hours, ₹50 entry
• Mahakal Temple: 1 hour, no cost
• Ward's Lake: 1 hour, ₹20 entry
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: 2 hours, ₹50
• Cherrapunji - Nohkalikai Falls & Mawsmai Cave: Full day, ₹100 transport + ₹30 entry
• Living Root Bridges: 3-4 hours trekking, no entry fee
• Mawlynnong Village: Half day, minimal local contribution ₹50
• Dawki River Boat Ride: 1-2 hours, ₹150 per person

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately ₹840 plus transportation and accommodation.

Tips

To extend the trip, consider adding a night in Cherrapunji or Nongriat village to fully experience the living root bridges and nearby waterfalls at a relaxed pace. For reducing the duration, focus on Darjeeling highlights and a single day trip to major Meghalaya spots like Shillong and Cherrapunji, skipping Mawlynnong and Dawki River.