Morning: Arrive at Srinagar Airport and check into a houseboat on Dal Lake. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while the mist rolls over the water, then take a short shikara ride to the iconic Shalimar Bagh for a stroll among Mughal gardens.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Shankaracharya Temple perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the valley. Afterwards, wander through the bustling Old City Bazaar to sample Kashmiri kebabs and buy hand‑knotted Pashmina.
Evening: Return to the houseboat for a sunset cruise on Dal Lake, watching the mountains glow pink. End the day with a traditional Wazwan dinner served aboard.
Find HotelsMorning: Fly to Kochi and transfer to Alleppey (≈2 hrs drive). Board a comfortable houseboat and set off into the tranquil backwaters, gliding past lush paddy fields.
Afternoon: Anchor at the serene village of Kettuvallam where you can explore a coconut grove and watch local artisans weaving mats. Enjoy a freshly prepared Kerala lunch on board.
Evening: Continue cruising as the sun sets, spotting herons and dragonflies. Delight in a candlelit dinner with Kerala spices while the water reflects the amber sky.
Find HotelsMorning: Disembark the houseboat and fly from Kochi to Guwahati, then take a scenic 3‑hour drive to Shillong. Check into a boutique hotel near the city center.
Afternoon: Explore the lively Police Bazar Market, tasting local dishes like momos and bamboo shoot pickle. Visit the nearby Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to learn about the region’s heritage.
Evening: Stroll along Umiam Lake promenade, enjoying the cool mountain breeze. Dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the lake, sampling Khasi delicacies.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart for Cherrapunjee (≈2 hrs). Marvel at the spectacular Nohkalikai Falls, one of India’s tallest waterfalls, and capture its misty veil.
Afternoon: Explore the unique limestone formations at Mawsmai Caves and the living root bridges at Riwai. Picnic lunch amid the cloud‑kissed hills.
Evening: Return to Shillong and unwind at the vibrant Dogra Falls viewpoint. Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local fish cooked in banana leaves.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the tranquil Elephant Falls and the historic Shillong Peak for sweeping vistas of the valley. Take a leisurely coffee at a local café.
Afternoon: Transfer to Guwahati Airport for a flight to Delhi. Use any spare time for last‑minute souvenir shopping at the airport market.
Evening: Arrive in Delhi and conclude the trip, with memories of mountains, lakes, and backwaters.
Find HotelsIf you have extra days, consider adding a side trip to Guwahati to explore the Brahmaputra River and Kamakhya Temple, or extend your stay in Meghalaya to visit the pristine Dawki River and Mawlynnong Village, the cleanest village in Asia. For a shorter itinerary, skip the Alleppey leg and spend an additional full day exploring the hills of Shillong and nearby waterfalls, which reduces travel fatigue while still capturing the region’s natural beauty.