Collect the prebooked SUV or meet your taxi/driver at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport — this vehicle will be used for the Meghalaya loop. Confirm fuel and driver allowances before leaving. Driving time Guwahati → Shillong is ~3–3.5h (100–110 km) depending on traffic.
Try jadoh (spiced rice with pork), dohneiiong (pork with black sesame) and local chutneys; Cafe Shillong is casual and popular for authentic Khasi dishes and quick service. (Open ~9:00–22:00).
Short drives to Shillong Peak (panoramic views of the Shillong plateau) and Elephant Falls (scenic cascade). Both are scenic and easy stops — Shillong Peak typically accessible until ~5:30pm, Elephant Falls ~9:00–5:00pm.
Choose a cozy couple-friendly restaurant in Police Bazar serving both local and continental dishes; sample momos and Khasi pork as small plates to share. Popular dinner spots are open until ~10:00–11:00pm.
Visit one of India’s tallest waterfalls with dramatic cliff-top views — best photographed in morning light; viewpoint usually open during daylight hours (approx 7:00–5:30pm).
Short, safe cave exploration with easy pathways — fun and mildly adventurous for couples, usually open 9:00–16:30. Wear good shoes; bring a torch for darker pockets.
Try local Khasi curry preparations, bamboo shoot, and steamed rice at a recommended local eatery close to the attractions; keeps you fueled for light treks.
Explore viewpoints and the surrounding living landscapes — easy walking and photo stops; ideal for couples and photography lovers. Most viewpoints accessible until late afternoon.
If energy permits, opt for a 1–2 hour easy trail near Cherrapunji for a more adventurous feel without doing the full root-bridge trek (which requires a full day). This gives a taste of Meghalaya trekking safely.
Back in Shillong, enjoy an easy dinner with local favourites like momos, thukpa and Khasi pork; reasonable, friendly spots in Police Bazaar are open late (till ~10:30pm).
Drive ~3h (100+ km) from Shillong to Mawlynnong for a day of culture, village walks and the living root bridge viewpoint at Riwai. Village is open daylight hours — best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Stroll the tidy streets, sample local tea and climb the bamboo Sky View tower for panoramic valley views; this is peaceful, couple-friendly and very photogenic. Tower open daytime only.
Eat at a family-run eatery in Mawlynnong: simple, fresh regional dishes (try smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry). This is a great chance to taste authentic home cooking.
Short drive to Dawki (approx 45–60 min). Enjoy clear-water boat rides on the Umngot River (glass-like water) — peak boating hours ~8:00–16:00; wear light jackets for wind and bring a waterproof bag for phones/cameras.
Back in Shillong for a relaxed dinner; tonight pick a restaurant known for fusion and dessert options so you can sample Khasi sweets and local tea culture.
If you have 2–3 hours before your flight, a quick spiritual stop at Kamakhya Temple gives a cultural cap to the trip; temple visiting hours vary — morning & afternoon darshan times apply, check timings before visiting.