4‑Day Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki & Jowai Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration of Shillong

Morning: Arrive at Shillong Airport and transfer to your hotel for a quick refresh. Stroll through Police Bazar where the lively markets showcase local crafts and snacks.

Afternoon: Visit the serene Ward’s Lake for a leisurely boat ride and photo opportunities. Continue to the panoramic viewpoint at Shillong Peak for sweeping vistas of the city and surrounding hills.

Evening: Wander the illuminated streets of Laitumkhrah and enjoy a traditional Khasi dinner at a local eatery. End the night with a relaxed walk around the hotel’s garden.

Day 2: Cherrapunji – The Land of Waterfalls

Morning: Depart early for Cherrapunji (≈2‑hour drive). Your first stop is the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls, one of India’s tallest waterfalls.

Afternoon: Explore the fascinating underground world of Mawsmai Cave, then head to the cascading Seven Sisters Falls for a quick hike and photo session.

Evening: Return to Shillong, stopping at a scenic viewpoint for sunset. Enjoy a relaxed dinner back in the city and unwind.

Day 3: Dawki & Mawlynnong – The Cleanest Village

Morning: Drive to the India‑Bangladesh border town of Dawki. Take a serene boat ride on the crystal‑clear waters of the Umngot River, often called the “Living Root Bridge of the Sea”.

Afternoon: Continue to Mawlynnong Village, famed as the cleanest village in Asia. Walk the famous Living Root Bridge and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Evening: Head back to Shillong, enjoying the cool hill‑top breeze. Have dinner at a local café and share stories of the day’s adventures.

Day 4: Jowai and Surroundings

Morning: Depart for Jowai, a charming town nestled in the Jaintia Hills. Explore the bustling Jowai Market and visit the picturesque Thadlaskein Lake for a peaceful walk.

Afternoon: Discover the historic Nartiang Monoliths, ancient stone pillars steeped in local legend. Then head to the nearby Laitlum Canyons for dramatic landscape photography.

Evening: Return to Shillong (or proceed to the airport, depending on departure plans). Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Khasi delicacies and reflect on the journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Police Bazar – 2 hrs – $0
• Ward’s Lake – 1 hr – $20
• Shillong Peak – 1.5 hrs – $30
• Nohkalikai Falls – 2 hrs – $0
• Mawsmai Cave – 1 hr – $40
• Seven Sisters Falls – 1.5 hrs – $0
• Umngot River (Dawki) boat ride – 2 hrs – $150
• Mawlynnong Village – 2 hrs – $0
• Living Root Bridge – 1 hr – $0
• Jowai Market – 1 hr – $0
• Thadlaskein Lake – 1 hr – $0
• Nartiang Monoliths – 1 hr – $0
• Laitlum Canyons – 2 hrs – $0
• Total Estimated Cost: $240

Tips

If you have extra days, consider adding a full‑day trek to the stunning Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat or a visit to the serene Umiam Lake. To shorten the trip, skip the Dawki boat ride and focus on the core attractions of Shillong and Cherrapunji, which will still give you a rich experience of Meghalaya’s natural beauty.