Start with a relaxed breakfast at Cafe Shillong (popular with travellers) — expect coffee, eggs and local toast; cafe typically opens around 8:00am. Good place to get last-minute supplies for your ride.
A short, easy walk around Ward's Lake (park best visited in morning; typically accessible from 6:00am–6:00pm) then browse shops at Police Bazaar for maps, rain gear and SIM top-ups.
Collect your rented bike in Shillong; typical options: scooter (Activa) ~INR 500/day, 150–350cc bikes ~INR 900–1500/day, Royal Enfield Classic ~INR 1500–2000/day. You will need a valid driving licence (international or Indian), ID and a refundable deposit (usually INR 2,000–5,000).
One of the best cultural museums in the northeast showcasing Khasi and other tribal arts and history; usually open circa 9:30am–4:30pm but check local timing on the day.
Drive up to Shillong Peak for panoramic views (generally accessible 7:00am–5:00pm) and stop at Elephant Falls (typically open 8:00am–5:00pm) on the return if time permits; views are best before sunset.
Dinner at a relaxed restaurant in Laitumkhrah/Police Bazaar area offering continental and local Khasi dishes; many places open until 9:30–10:00pm. Try local pork or vegetarian Khasi curry.
Budget: Zostel/hostel or simple guesthouse (INR 800–1500/night). Mid-range: boutique hotels in Police Bazaar/Laitumkhrah (INR 2000–4000/night). Comfort/Luxury: heritage hotels or high-end hotels (INR 5000+/night). Book in advance during peak season.
Short drive to Elephant Falls — a scenic, tiered waterfall; visitor access generally 8:00am–5:00pm. The steps can be slippery in wet weather so wear good shoes.
Visit the Shillong Golf Course (open early morning to evening) for views of rolling greens and then stroll Lady Hydari Park if open (typically daytime). Both are pleasant short stops for photos.
Lunch at a local restaurant in Police Bazaar to try Khasi-style dishes or pan-Indian favourites; eateries typically open through lunchtime and early afternoon.
Spend the afternoon at Don Bosco Museum if you missed it on Day 1, or visit smaller local galleries; Don Bosco hours are usually mid-morning to late afternoon — confirm on arrival.
Return to the same Shillong hotel or guesthouse; check bike parked securely and confirm weather and road conditions for tomorrow's trip to Cherrapunji.
Early breakfast and check-out; set off eastwards toward Cherrapunji (Sohra). The ride takes about 2–2.5 hours from Shillong depending on stops and weather.
Visit the famous Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint for dramatic cliff-top views; viewpoint access is typically 9:00am–5:00pm, and the falls are best after rain.
Visit viewpoints for panoramic vistas of multiple waterfalls (Seven Sisters) and the park for short walks; viewpoints are open during daylight hours but can be foggy in wet weather.
If time and light allow, explore Arwah Cave (generally open in daytime); otherwise relax at a viewpoint or your accommodation to enjoy the rainforest ambience.
Dinner at your guesthouse or a nearby restaurant; many homestays and lodges serve fresh local meals — perfect to try Khasi specialities in a homely setting.
Begin the trek early to the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat; the hike is steep (approx. 3–4 km one-way with many steps) and a round trip including time down & up takes 4–6 hours. Entry is free but hire a local guide for safer navigation (recommended).
Drive south to Mawlynnong (around 1–1.5 hours from Cherrapunji area); explore the village, living root bridges, and the skywalk viewpoint. The village is open all day; local attractions and cafés usually operate 8:00am–5:00pm.
Short drive to Dawki (around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on route) and check in to a riverside guesthouse or homestay. Roads are narrow in places — ride carefully.
Dinner at your homestay or a simple riverside restaurant; Dawki has good fresh fish dishes and locally prepared meals — confirm closing times with your host.
Options include basic guesthouses and riverfront homestays (INR 1200–2500/night) or slightly more comfortable cottages; book in advance for weekends and high season.
Take a clear-water boat ride on the Umngot River (best in the morning); boating is typically available from around 8:00am–3:00pm and costs roughly INR 300–800 per boat depending on season and group size.
Walk the Dawki suspension bridge for scenic river views and visit the Tamabil border viewpoint to see Bangladesh plains; these are open during daylight hours and free to visit (photo friendly).
Lunch at a riverside café or your homestay; fresh river fish and simple Meghalaya dishes are commonly available — ask about closing times as many eateries close mid-afternoon.
Return your rented bike in Shillong; final inspection and deposit refund typically take 15–30 minutes—confirm opening hours of the rental office when you picked up the bike.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Shillong near your hotel or at Police Bazaar; many restaurants serve until 9:30–10:00pm. If catching late transport, confirm timings in advance.
If departing tonight, depart to airport/rail/bus; otherwise check in for one final night in Shillong. Confirm next-day travel arrangements and any luggage storage needs.