Popular café in Police Bazaar offering Western breakfasts and local favourites; good place to fuel up and get maps. Dylan's typically opens ~8:00am and is reliable for early travellers.
Highest viewpoint around Shillong with panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills; best visited early for clear air. Access is generally allowed from early morning until late afternoon (approx 6:00am–4:00pm), though timings can vary by season.
A pleasant, compact urban park with a lake, flowerbeds and paved walks—good for a relaxed stroll and photos; parks are normally open daily (approx 6:00am–6:00pm).
Reliable local chain serving Indian and Khasi-style dishes; convenient for sampling jadoh or other Khasi specialties in a central location. Most outlets open from midday into the evening (approx 11:00am–10:00pm).
Well-curated museum covering tribal cultures of Northeast India; excellent context for Khasi heritage and hill life. Open roughly 9:00am–4:30pm; allocate ~1.5–2 hours.
Three-tiered waterfall a short drive from Shillong with several viewpoints and short walks; best visited before dusk as park access is typically 8:00am–5:00pm.
Popular Italian/continental option in Shillong for a restful dinner after a travel day; usually open evenings (approx 11:30am–11:00pm). If you prefer Khasi food, opt for a local restaurant in Police Bazaar for dohneiiong or jadoh.
Start early for the 1.5–2 hour drive to Cherrapunji to maximize daylight at viewpoints and waterfalls; roads are scenic but can be narrow—allow extra time in wet weather.
One of India's tallest plunge waterfalls with a dramatic cliff-top viewpoint; public viewpoint is typically open approx 8:00am–5:00pm—visit in the morning for best lighting and safety.
Park/viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding falls and valleys; great for photos and short walks. Generally accessible during daylight hours (approx 6:00am–5:00pm).
Well-lit limestone cave near Cherrapunji that's easy to explore and showcases stalactites and narrow passages—typically open 8:00am–4:00pm; suitable for a relaxed 45–60 minute visit.
Local hotel/restaurant near the main sights serving both Indian and Khasi dishes—handy for a hot meal before afternoon exploration. Most local restaurants serve lunch from mid-morning to early evening.
If daylight remains and you have energy, stop at a Mawsynram viewpoint or eco park to experience the wettest-place-on-earth landscape; open during daylight hours.
Scenic ~1.5–2 hour drive south to Mawlynnong; the village is iconic for cleanliness, bamboo pathways, living root fences and local hospitality. Mawlynnong is open all day to visitors.
Walk the village lanes, see living root fences, and climb the Sky View Tower for a sweeping view into Bangladesh and the plains—tower typically open 8:00am–5:00pm.
Homestay kitchens serve simple, tasty Khasi dishes and local produce—great for authentic flavours and supporting the community. Most homestays will serve lunch by arrangement.
Short scenic drive (about 1–1.5 hours) to Dawki on the Bangladesh border; aim to arrive mid-afternoon when the Umngot’s water is normally at its clearest.
Glass-clear river boat rides are the highlight here—boats usually operate approx 9:00am–5:00pm and are weather dependent; hire a boat (shared or private) to float on the emerald water and photograph the surreal clarity.
Drive back to Shillong (approx 2–3 hours depending on stops). Option to dine at Cafe Shillong (opens ~8:00am–10:00pm) or stop en route at a reputable local diner.
Have a quick breakfast and depart very early to reach the Tyrna parking/step-start point in time for a safe, daylight trek to Nongriat; packed lunch is recommended. Local guesthouses can arrange transport.
The trek involves many stone steps (steep descent ~2.5–3 hours down); no formal entry fee but guides are strongly recommended for safety and navigation—start early to avoid afternoon rain and crowds.
World-famous living root bridge formed by centuries-old Ficus roots; swim in natural pools if weather permits and photograph the unique bridge. The village and bridge are accessible all day, but wet-season conditions can change access—check locally.
Simple, hearty local meals at a village home or packed lunch; support local homestays and replenish energy before the return climb which can be strenuous.
Allow 3–4 hours to climb back to the trailhead; start in the early afternoon to maintain safe daylight margins. The climb is steep—pace yourself and carry water.
Celebrate finishing the trek with a warm dinner in Shillong—either try contemporary Khasi/Meghalayan dishes at a local specialty place or opt for familiar comfort food at City Hut.