Transfer from Guwahati airport/railhead (if arriving via Guwahati) to Shillong and check into your hotel; use this time to drop bags and refresh for the afternoon. Driving time typically 2.5–3 hours from Guwahati by road, so time will vary by your arrival.
Popular cafés in Police Bazaar offering local breakfast and good coffee; a relaxed introduction to Shillong’s food scene. Cafés typically open from ~8:30am to late evening, but hours vary by outlet so check locally.
Central market area for souvenirs, local handicrafts, woolens and street food; a good place to feel the city pulse and buy ponchos or wet-weather gear.
A scenic, quiet park in the city with a chance to stroll by the lake and see local families; great for a relaxed post-lunch walk. Park is generally open early morning until evening (approx 7:00am–6:00pm).
Top cultural museum showcasing tribes and traditions of the Northeast; excellent for cultural context before traveling the state. Typical opening hours ~9:00am–5:00pm (closed some Mondays) — arrive before closing.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring Khasi specialties (jadoh, dohneiiong) or continental dishes; many restaurants close around 10:00–11:00pm so plan accordingly.
Highest point in Shillong with panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills—best visited in clear weather for photography. Accessible by road; arrive during daylight (park open from early morning until late afternoon).
A multi-tiered waterfall near Shillong with easy trails and viewpoints; scenic stop en route to Mawphlang. Entry and access open roughly 8:00am–5:00pm.
A protected sacred grove with dense flora and a guided trail showing Khasi cultural reverence for forests; take a local guide at the entrance. Visiting typically allowed during daylight hours (approx 9:00am–4:00pm).
One of India’s tallest plunge waterfalls with a dramatic viewpoint—best seen in daylight and after rains when flow is strong. Small viewpoint parking fee may apply; open during daylight hours.
Visit Eco Park (Sohra) viewpoints and watch the multiple stream falls from designated viewing points; shaded walks and photo spots make this a pleasant afternoon stop. Open approx 9:00am–5:00pm.
Short drive to the Tyrna trailhead where registration/permits and local guides are available; arrive early to avoid crowds. Permits/guides are advised and arranged locally.
A steep downward trek (~3–4 hours round trip including exploration) through steps, forest and streams to the famed double-decker living root bridge and nearby waterfalls; this is the highlight for many visitors. Plan for muddy/steep sections and carry rain protection.
Spend time at the double-decker living root bridge and the local swimming/waterfall area—great photo and cultural stop. No formal long opening hours, but visit in daylight; local vendors may offer tea/snacks.
Climb back (steep) to Tyrna; the ascent takes longer for many travelers—allow time and move at a comfortable pace. Ensure you have adequate water and rest breaks.
Explore the ‘Cleanest Village in Asia’ with well-kept lanes, living root tree and climb the Sky View Tower for panoramic views—tower open approx 9:00am–5:00pm. Short donation/entrance for upkeep may apply.
Short scenic drive to Dawki village on the India–Bangladesh border where the clear Umngot River offers glass-like boating—boats operate best in daylight, often from early morning until mid-afternoon (approx 7:00am–3:00pm).
Take a short wooden boat ride on the famously clear river (water so clear boats look like floating in air) — best done in calm daylight; operators usually charge per boat and run until early–mid afternoon.
Return to Shillong (~3–4 hours) or choose to stay in Dawki/Mawlynnong area; evening drive times vary—consider daylight and road conditions before departing.
Scenic waterfall with crystal-clear pools ideal for photos and short swims; typically open in daylight (approx 8:00am–4:00pm) with basic entry/parking fees.
If time permits, visit Nartiang monoliths near Jowai to see ancient standing stones, otherwise begin the return drive to Guwahati (approx 3.5–4.5 hours depending on route).
Return drive to Guwahati for onward travel or flights; plan for evening arrival and buffer for traffic—aim to reach the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Arrive Guwahati, drop off rental car or reach airport/rail station and depart with memories of Meghalaya’s waterfalls, villages and living root bridges.