6-Day Shillong & North East Meghalaya Explorer

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati & Transfer to Shillong

Morning: Arrive at Guwahati Airport where you will meet your driver and begin the scenic 3‑hour drive to Shillong, enjoying views of rolling hills and tea gardens.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Shillong, freshen up, and take a leisurely walk around Ward's Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for a quick snack.

Evening: Stroll through the bustling Police Bazar market, sampling local street food and picking up handicrafts before an early night’s rest.

Day 2: Shillong City Highlights

Morning: Visit the majestic Elephant Falls, where a cascade drops over a rock formation shaped like an elephant’s trunk, followed by a short hike to the viewpoint.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant cultural hub of Shillong Peak for panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding valleys, then head to the serene Umiam Lake for a boat ride.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Khasi cuisine, and perhaps catch live music at a café in the lively Police Bazar area.

Day 3: Laitlum Canyons & Cherapunjee Waterfalls

Morning: Drive to the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons, where you’ll trek along the rim to soak in sweeping vistas of valleys shrouded in mist.

Afternoon: Continue to Cherrapunjee (Sohra) to witness the spectacular Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, followed by a visit to the enchanting Seven Sisters Falls.

Evening: Return to Shillong for a relaxed dinner, reflecting on the day’s natural wonders while enjoying the cool mountain air.

Day 4: Mawlynnong – The Cleanest Village

Morning: Depart early for Mawlynnong, renowned as Asia’s cleanest village, and wander its immaculate streets lined with bamboo huts.

Afternoon: Cross the iconic Living Root Bridge and explore nearby waterfalls, then savor a traditional Khasi lunch prepared by local families.

Evening: Return to Shillong, where you can unwind at your hotel or explore the night market for souvenirs.

Day 5: Shongpudeng Adventure

Morning: Head to Shongpudeng (also known as Shongpung) for a day of adventure; start with a trek to the spectacular Shongpung Waterfall, a hidden gem set within lush forest.

Afternoon: Participate in optional activities such as zip‑lining or a guided nature walk to learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna.

Evening: Return to Shillong for a farewell dinner, enjoying local specialties like jadoh and tungrymbai.

Day 6: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll around Umiam Lake for any last photographs.

Afternoon: Check out of the hotel and begin the scenic drive back to Guwahati Airport, with optional stops for souvenirs.

Evening: Board your flight home, carrying memories of Meghalaya’s misty hills and vibrant culture.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Guwahati Airport Transfer (round‑trip) – 6 hours total – $30
• Ward's Lake – 1 hour – $5 (entry & refreshments)
• Police Bazar – 1.5 hours – $10 (shopping & snacks)
• Elephant Falls – 1 hour – $3
• Shillong Peak & Umiam Lake – 3 hours – $12 (entry & boat)
• Laitlum Canyons – 2.5 hours – $8 (guide)
• Nohkalikai Falls & Seven Sisters Falls (Cherrapunjee) – 3 hours – $10 (entry & guide)
• Mawlynnong Village & Living Root Bridge – 3 hours – $7 (entry & local lunch)
• Shongpudeng Waterfall Trek – 4 hours – $15 (guide & equipment)
• Meals (average $15 per day × 6) – 6 days – $90
• Accommodation in Shillong (2 nights) – $80

Total Estimated Cost: $280

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding an extra night in Mawlynnong to explore nearby villages or a sunrise trek at Laitlum. Conversely, you can shorten the trip to 4 days by skipping Shongpudeng and focusing on Shillong, Laitlum, and Cherrapunjee, which still captures the region’s highlights.