Pick up at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi (Guwahati) Airport or Guwahati rail station and drive to Shillong (100–110 km). The road is scenic—expect 3–4 hours depending on traffic.
Popular café with Khasi and continental options—good first taste of local food and bakery items; convenient for central check-in. (Opens ~8:00am, kitchen until ~9:00pm.)
Pleasant short stroll around Ward's Lake and explore Police Bazaar shops for local handicrafts and woolens; it's a gentle introduction to Shillong (Ward's Lake open ~6:00am–8:00pm).
Drive up to Shillong Peak for panoramic views (peak area generally accessible 8:00am–5:00pm) then visit Elephant Falls to see cascading tiers—great at sunset if weather permits.
Simple local restaurant or guesthouse lunch—enjoy Khasi specialties like Jadoh or local chicken preparations; most eateries serve lunch midday (11:00am–3:00pm).
Descend the famous stepped trail (~3,000 steps total down then back up) to reach the double-decker living root bridge and nearby pools—this trek is the highlight of the region and worth a guided visit (guides recommended for navigation and safety).
Simple home-cooked meal and rest—Nongriat homestays offer basic but tasty local food and the chance to interact with residents; no large restaurants here.
Head southeast to Mawlynnong (approx. 2.5–3 hours). Explore the famously clean village, skywalk and local craft stalls—open all day but shops are busiest mid-morning.
Wander the tidy lanes, visit the living root footbridge at Riwai (nearby), and enjoy village life and photo spots; village attractions are open during daylight hours.
Famous crystal-clear river boating with glass-like reflections—boats generally operate 8:00am–3:00pm; plan to arrive early in the day for the clearest water (operators may continue later in good weather).
Visit the dramatic Krang Suri limestone pool and waterfall—best viewed in daylight and excellent for photos and short swims when permitted (daylight access only).
Visit the serene Thadlaskein Lake and the historic Nartiang megalithic site (largest collection of Jaintia monoliths); these sites give cultural context to the region (open daylight hours).
Grab lunch near the airport or in the city—many eateries and airport outlets serve Indian and continental options (airport lounges/cafés open throughout the day).
If your schedule allows, visit the important Kamakhya Temple (opening hours and entry times vary by puja schedule—generally early morning and evening; check local timings before visiting).