Popular bakery-café in Shillong for good coffee, fresh bread and local breakfast items; a relaxed stop before short Shillong sightseeing. Check opening times (usually opens around 8:00am).
Visit Shillong Peak for panoramic views over Shillong (best on clear mornings) and stop at Elephant Falls en route; both are short visits and set you up before continuing to Sohra. Many viewpoints are accessible dawn–dusk; check local access (Shillong Peak can be closed on poor weather).
A reliable local chain serving hearty North-East and Indian dishes, convenient in Police Bazaar for a mid-day refuel before the hill drive to Cherrapunji.
Scenic 2–2.5 hour drive from Shillong to Sohra with viewpoints en route; expect winding roads and misty hill scenery, arrive in mid–late afternoon for check-in.
Settle into your hotel or guesthouse in Cherrapunji and prepare for nearby late-afternoon sightseeing; most hotels allow check-in from mid-afternoon but confirm with your property.
Explore the limestone passages of Mawsmai Cave (short, well-lit sections) and the adjoining Eco Park for panoramic cliff views — accessible in daylight (typically 8:00–17:00, but check seasonal hours).
Visit viewpoints for Nohsngithiang (Seven Sisters) waterfall and nearby vantage points for dramatic evening views; waterfalls are best seen in good light and high flow after rain (accessible daylight hours).
Enjoy local Khasi dishes and simple Indian cuisine; if Orange Roots is closed, eat at your hotel restaurant or nearby eateries that serve fresh local produce. Confirm current opening times with accommodation.
Have an early or packed breakfast at the hotel — you need energy for the day’s hiking/trek. Ask reception for a packed option if you plan the root-bridge trek.
Start very early to reach the Tyrna/Nongriat trailhead; the round-trip trek to the double-decker living root bridge takes 5–7 hours depending on pace and includes steep stone steps and river crossings. This is a must-see unique living root structure — hire a local guide if unsure of the route.
Eat a packed lunch or simple local meal at Nongriat; options are basic but filling — plan and carry water and snacks for the trek. There are small teashops in the village but limited choices.
Finish the trek back to your vehicle and return to the hotel for rest; expect sore legs and rewarding views. Freshen up and recover for late-afternoon short excursions if energy allows.
Drive to the famous Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint to see one of India’s tallest plunge waterfalls — best in late afternoon light; viewpoint is usually open from morning until dusk.
If time permits, visit Dainthlen or other nearby viewpoints for evening vistas and local legend sites; most viewpoints are accessible at daylight hours only, so arrive before dusk.
Try local Khasi specialities such as Jadoh (rice with meat), momos and steamed river fish where available; many hotels serve decent local meals — confirm restaurant opening times in advance.
Have an early breakfast, check out and prepare for a full day visiting Mawlynnong (the cleanest village in Asia) and Dawki (Umngot River). Carry rain gear — weather in Meghalaya can change quickly.
About a 1.5–2 hour drive from Sohra; stroll the village, visit the living root bridge nearby and the Sky View tower for panoramic views. Mawlynnong village and Sky View usually open during daylight hours; check for local fees (small local charges apply).
Walk around the famously tidy village, visit the skywalk (bamboo viewing tower) and small local craft stalls; this is a relaxed cultural stop with photo opportunities and local tea stalls.
Short scenic drive (about 30–45 minutes) to Dawki where crystal-clear river water offers boat rides and great photo ops; the river is usually accessible from mid-morning to late afternoon — check boat availability and safety conditions.
Have a fresh river-side lunch (fish and simple local dishes) at a riverside shack; offerings can be basic but are fresh — check opening times (most operate through midday and afternoon).
Take a shallow boat ride on the famous glass-like Umngot River. Boats typically operate 9:00am–4:00pm; river clarity depends on season and weather, but it’s a highlight for many travellers.
Start the return drive to Guwahati (about 4.5–5 hours depending on stops and traffic); plan for rest/tea stops en route and expect to arrive in the evening.
Enjoy a proper sit-down dinner in Guwahati on arrival; choose a well-reviewed city restaurant or your hotel’s restaurant to round off the trip. Check opening times (many restaurants open until 10:00–11:00pm).