5 Day 6 Night Adventure: Meghalaya, Nepal & Bhutan from Bangalore

Day 1: Arrival in Shillong, Meghalaya

Morning: Arrive in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, and check into your hotel. Begin your day exploring the scenic Ward’s Lake, an urban oasis perfect for leisurely strolls.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Elephant Falls, a stunning three-tier waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy lunch at a local Khasi restaurant to savor traditional flavors.

Evening: Explore the bustling Police Bazaar, the heart of Shillong's shopping and dining scene. Experience local street food and shop for Khasi handicrafts.

Day 2: From Shillong to Kathmandu, Nepal

Morning: Transfer to Guwahati airport early morning and catch a flight to Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Check into your hotel and rest briefly.

Afternoon: Explore the historic Durbur Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Nepalese architecture and temples. Visit the ancient Kasthamandap pavilion within the square.

Evening: Wander through the colorful Thamel district, known for lively shops, cafes, and cultural performances. Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner with live music.

Day 3: Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan

Morning: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan. After arrival, relax at your hotel and prepare for a day of cultural immersion.

Afternoon: Visit Paro Dzong, a fortress and monastery perched above the Paro river valley. Explore the surrounding town and local markets.

Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the Paro river and dine at a traditional Bhutanese restaurant sampling local dishes such as ema datshi (chili cheese stew).

Day 4: Tiger’s Nest Monastery Trek & Thimphu

Morning: Embark on the iconic trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), a sacred Buddhist site perched on a cliff. The hike offers breathtaking views and spiritual ambiance.

Afternoon: After returning from the trek, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. Visit the Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest Buddha figures in the world.

Evening: Explore Thimphu’s night market where you can experience local crafts, food stalls, and friendly interactions with Bhutanese locals.

Day 5: Return to Bangalore

Morning: Depart from Thimphu airport to Guwahati via connecting flights and then onward transfer to Bangalore. Reflect on your diverse journey across three unique cultures.

Afternoon: Transit and flight connections; rest at your convenience during travel.

Evening: Arrive back in Bangalore, marking the end of your enriching trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Ward’s Lake, Shillong: 1.5 hours, ₹200 entry fee
• Elephant Falls, Shillong: 2 hours, free entry
• Police Bazaar, Shillong: 2 hours, shopping costs vary
• Durbur Square, Kathmandu: 2 hours, NPR 1000 (approx. ₹750) entry fee
• Thamel district exploration: 3 hours, meals approx. NPR 1000 (₹750)
• Paro Dzong, Bhutan: 1.5 hours, Bhutanese visa and permits apply (~₹2000)
• Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek: 4-5 hours, permit and guide approx. NPR 3000 (₹2250)
• Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu: 1 hour, free entry
• Flights (Bangalore-Guwahati-Kathmandu-Paro-Guwahati-Bangalore): Approx. ₹25,000 to ₹30,000
• Accommodation (5 nights): Approx. ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 depending on choice

Total Estimated Cost: ₹45,000 to ₹55,000 (excluding personal shopping and meals)

Tips

If you wish to extend your trip, consider adding extra days in Bhutan to explore Punakha and Gangtey Valley or extend your stay in Nepal for a visit to Pokhara or an Annapurna base camp trek. To shorten the trip, focus on just two destinations, such as Meghalaya and Nepal, to reduce travel time and enjoy a more relaxed pace.