Begin your journey at Chennai International Airport for your morning flight to the gateway of Northeast India. As a slow traveler, enjoy a quiet coffee while watching the early airport bustle before your departure.
Touch down at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. Take your time collecting your rucksacks and soak in the humid, tropical air of the Brahmaputra valley before heading to the taxi stand.
Begin your scenic ascent toward the hills in a private cab, traveling along the well-maintained Guwahati-Shillong Road. This route offers a beautiful transition from the flat plains of Assam to the undulating green slopes of the Khasi Hills.
Make your first slow-paced stop in the town of Nongpoh, the midpoint of your journey. Stretch your legs and sample some fresh local pineapples or a cup of red tea at a small roadside stall overlooking the Ri-Bhoi District forests.
Arrive at the breathtaking Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani. Take a moment to sit by the banks and watch the light reflect off the vast blue waters, surrounded by serene coniferous forests.
Continue the short remaining drive into Shillong and stop for a traditional Khasi lunch at Jadoh in the Don Bosco Square area. Try their signature red rice and smoked meats for a true introduction to the local flavors.
Check into your cozy backpacker-friendly homestay in the vibrant neighborhood of Laitumkhrah. Take your time to settle in and enjoy a warm welcome tea while chatting with your local hosts about the days ahead.
Take a gentle, short walk to Ward's Lake, a historic colonial-era park. Wander across the ornate wooden bridge and observe the swans gliding on the water under the shade of ancient trees.
As the evening air turns crisp, wander through the lively lanes of Laitumkhrah Market, stopping to browse through local bookshops or simply watching the local life unfold at a leisurely pace.
Head over to Dylan's Toasted & Roasted, a tribute to the legendary Bob Dylan. Settle into a corner with your partner and enjoy a slow pour-over coffee while listening to soft folk music that permeates this cozy community hub.
For dinner, walk to the iconic Cafe Shillong to experience the city's musical heritage. Share a plate of their local Khasi Spare Ribs or artisanal pasta while soaking in the warm, wood-paneled ambiance.
Slowly make your way back to your homestay in Laitumkhrah. Spend a peaceful half-hour on the veranda wrapped in a shawl, stargazing through the clear mountain air before resting for your first full day in the hills.
Start your morning with a quiet, aimless walk through the pine-lined residential paths of Laitumkhrah. Witness the morning routines of the Khasi community and admire the traditional Assam-style cottages that give the neighborhood its unique character.
Head to The Little Chef for a leisurely breakfast in a cozy, sun-drenched setting. Savor a slow cup of local tea and try their signature waffles while watching the city's main thoroughfares begin to bustle below.
Wander over to the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a world-class museum dedicated to the heritage of Northeast India. Take your time exploring the 17 galleries, moving at your own pace through the rich displays of tribal art and history.
Climb to the museum's Sky Walk to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Shillong skyline. Spend a few moments identifying the distinct mountain ridges that surround the city before heading back down into the heart of the town.
Head towards the bustling area of Police Bazar to find Trattoria, a legendary spot for authentic Khasi cuisine. Take your time savoring a slow plate of Jadoh and Doh-neiiong (pork with black sesame) while soaking in the local lunchtime atmosphere.
Take a short taxi ride to the Shillong Golf Course, often referred to as the 'Gleneagles of the East'. Instead of rushing, find a quiet spot on the sprawling green undulating meadows to sit and watch local life pass by under the towering pine trees.
Explore the serene grounds of the All Saints' Cathedral, a colonial-era church known for its beautiful timber architecture and stained-glass windows. This quiet corner of the city offers a peaceful contrast to the morning's museum visit, perfect for a slow afternoon stroll.
Walk through the labyrinthine lanes of Iew Duh (also known as Bara Bazar), one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Northeast India. Navigate the narrow pathways at your own pace, observing the local vendors selling indigenous herbs, wild honey, and handmade bamboo crafts.
Exit the market's intensity and find sanctuary at Quill and Canvas, a boutique bookstore where you can leisurely browse through local literature and photography books focused on Meghalaya.
Take a short cab ride to The Heritage Club - Tripura Castle, the former summer residence of the Manikya dynasty, to enjoy a quiet evening drink in the historic, wood-paneled lounge.
Head to The City Hut Family Dhaba near Police Bazar for a relaxed dinner, savoring their famous tandoori specialties or local fusion dishes in a cozy, garden-like environment.
End your night with a slow walk back to your stay in Laitumkhrah, stopping for a quiet moment at Don Bosco Square to appreciate the silhouettes of the surrounding cathedrals against the night sky.
Begin your morning with a relaxed breakfast at ML 05 Cafe, a favorite among local travelers. Enjoy the vintage automotive-themed decor while savoring a slow cup of Meghalaya Highland Coffee before you pack your bags for the journey ahead.
Check out of your Shillong homestay and begin your scenic drive toward the south. The route takes you through the lush pine groves of Upper Shillong, where the morning mist often clings to the towering trees, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for your road trip.
Arrive at the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons, a vast expanse of green ridges and deep gorges. Find a quiet spot on the grassy meadow to sit with your partner and simply watch the clouds dance across the East Khasi Hills, feeling no pressure to move.
Take a very slow walk along the rim of the canyon to look down upon the tiny, remote village of Rasong. Observe the locally engineered ropeway system that the villagers use to transport goods up and down the steep cliffs of the Laitlum valley.
Drive through the quiet pastoral landscapes of Smit Village on your way back to the main highway. Pause briefly to admire the Iing Sad, the traditional thatched palace of the Khasi royalty, which stands as a masterpiece of indigenous architecture built without any iron nails.
Stop for a relaxed vegetarian lunch at Orange Roots, a popular spot on the road to Sohra. Savor their South Indian thali while enjoying the view of the surrounding hills from their large bay windows.
Pause at the Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint to witness the dramatic V-shaped gorge. Walk leisurely across the Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge and take in the sheer scale of the landscape as you transition into the heart of the Cherrapunji plateau.
Arrive in the town of Sohra and check into your cozy, eco-conscious accommodation like D-Cloud Guesthouse. Take a moment to sit on the porch with your partner, breathe in the incredibly fresh air, and settle into the slower rhythm of this famously rainy region.
Take a short drive to the Garden of Caves, a soft exploration of natural limestone formations and hidden cascades. Wander at your own pace through the Lumshong Waterfall and Baby Falls, where the afternoon light filters beautifully through the rock openings.
Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Eco Park, situated right on the edge of the cliffs. Walk slowly along the rim to catch the first hints of the sunset over the vast plains of Bangladesh visible in the distance.
Head to N7 Cafe, a charming and rustic local haunt, to enjoy a slow-brewed tea and soak in the cozy, backpacker-friendly vibe. It is the perfect place to unwind and journal about your journey through the East Khasi Hills while listening to soft acoustic music.
Enjoy a quiet, candlelit dinner at The Jiva Grill, known for its serene ambiance and excellent fusion of local Khasi and continental dishes. Savor a slow meal of Khasi-style Smoked Pork or a warm bowl of seasonal stew as the cool mountain air settles over the Sohra plateau.
Return to your balcony at D-Cloud Guesthouse for a final moment of reflection before sleep. Spend a peaceful half-hour gazing at the distant, flickering lights of the Bangladesh plains visible on the horizon, enjoying the profound stillness of the Meghalayan night.
Begin your morning with a slow-paced breakfast at Saimika Resort, where you can enjoy local organic honey and warm bread while gazing at the rolling hills of the Khasi Plateau.
Venture to the Arwah Cave, reaching it via a beautiful wooden walkway carved into the side of a cliff. Spend time exploring the wide limestone chambers at your own speed, searching for the prehistoric fossils clearly visible in the cave walls.
Head to the iconic Nohkalikai Falls, the highest plunge waterfall in India. Rather than rushing your visit, find a quiet spot along the viewing ridge to watch the sunlight shift over the turquoise pool far below as the mist settles over the East Khasi Hills.
Take a short drive to Soo-Ra-Sa for a restorative lunch featuring traditional Khasi flavors. Savor a slow-cooked meal of smoked meats and bamboo shoot curry in their welcoming, sun-filled dining area.
Visit the Mawsmai Cave, moving at your own pace through the well-lit limestone passages. Take a moment to admire the ancient stalactites and stalagmites that have been formed over centuries in this iconic subterranean world.
Head to the viewpoint for the Seven Sisters Falls, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, to see the water descent across the limestone cliffs. Find a quiet bench away from the main crowd to observe the play of light on the seven distinct streams.
Explore the trails within Thangkharang Park, a tranquil space managed by the forest department. From the park's edge, enjoy a panoramic view of the Kynrem Falls and the vast floodplains of Bangladesh stretching toward the horizon.
Stop by the massive Khoh Ramhah rock formation, locally known as the 'Giant Basket.' Spend a quiet half-hour looking out from this vantage point as the late afternoon sun casts long, dramatic shadows across the deep valleys of Sohra.
Retreat to the cozy interiors of Sohra House Bistro in the town center. Share a pot of local ginger-infused tea with your partner, enjoying the warmth of the hearth as the evening mist rolls over the Sohra plateau.
Enjoy a quiet dinner at the Rainforest Restaurant within the grounds of Saimika Resort. Savor a slow-cooked meal of traditional Khasi stew and locally grown red rice, reflecting on the day's cave explorations while the mountain air turns sharp and cool.
Return to your balcony at D-Cloud Guesthouse for a final moment of stillness. Spend a few minutes organizing your daypacks for tomorrow's trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, listening to the rhythmic sounds of the night insects under a clear Meghalaya sky.
Wake up to the gentle mountain breeze at D-Cloud Guesthouse and enjoy a slow cup of tea while looking out at the mist-covered Sohra Plateau.
Savor a substantial breakfast of local pancakes and organic honey to fuel your upcoming trek, taking a few final moments to appreciate the quietude of Cherrapunji.
Take a slow, scenic 30-minute cab ride through the winding roads of the East Khasi Hills to reach the trailhead at Tyrna Village.
Begin your descent down the 3,000 stone steps, keeping a relaxed pace and pausing frequently to admire the dense canopy of the Khasi Jungle surrounding the path.
Reach the first major milestone, the massive and sturdy Long Living Root Bridge, where you can pause to observe the intricate bio-engineering of the rubber tree roots.
Cross the swaying Steel Suspension Bridge over the turquoise Umshiang River, feeling the thrill of the heights while moving slowly toward the heart of the valley.
Arrive at the magnificent Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Take your time to cross both levels of this 180-year-old living marvel, feeling the strength of the ancient rubber tree roots beneath your feet.
Enjoy a simple, organic lunch at Serene Homestay, located just steps away from the bridge. Savor a slow meal of local red rice and dal while listening to the distant roar of the river.
Take a short, gentle walk further along the trail to the Mawsaw Root Bridge. Spend a quiet hour by the Natural Swimming Pools, where you can dip your feet into the cool, turquoise water and watch the sunlight filter through the dense jungle canopy.
Check into your rustic room at Nongriat Homestay. As a slow traveler, staying overnight in the village allows you to experience the profound silence of the valley once the day-trippers have departed.
Relax on the wooden porch of your homestay, sipping a cup of hot red tea. Observe the local Khasi children playing in the village paths and enjoy the slow pace of life in this remote, car-free corner of Meghalaya.
Take a short, slow walk back to the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge as the day-trippers depart, leaving the area in a hauntingly beautiful silence. Watch the twilight shadows stretch across the Nongriat Village valley as the jungle begins its nocturnal chorus.
Head back to the kitchen at Nongriat Homestay to watch your hosts prepare a traditional Khasi hearth fire. Immerse yourself in the local way of life by helping shell peas or simply chatting about the history of the East Khasi Hills while the aroma of woodsmoke fills the air.
Savor a warm, home-cooked dinner featuring organic vegetables grown in the village and locally caught fish from the Umshiang River. This communal meal is the essence of slow travel, allowing you to bond with your partner and hosts over steaming bowls of red rice and spicy chutneys.
Step out onto the balcony of your homestay for a session of stargazing in the ink-black skies of Meghalaya. With no light pollution in the deep valley, the Milky Way appears vividly above the silhouettes of the ancient rubber trees and the jagged cliffs of Sohra.
Lulled by the constant, rhythmic sound of the distant waterfalls, settle into your bed at the Nongriat Homestay. Reflect on the 3,000 steps you conquered today and drift into a deep sleep, surrounded by the profound tranquility of the Khasi Jungle.
Wake up to the natural chorus of the jungle in Nongriat Village and enjoy a final, quiet cup of local tea while watching the morning mist lift from the Umshiang River.
Savor a slow, hearty breakfast at the Nongriat Homestay, taking your time to pack your rucksack and soak in the serene atmosphere of this remote valley one last time.
Begin your slow and steady ascent back up the stone steps toward Tyrna Village, maintaining a deliberate pace and pausing frequently to admire the vibrant orchids and mosses of the East Khasi Hills.
Stop for a restorative rest at a small roadside stall midway up the trail to enjoy a fresh lime soda while looking back at the spectacular depth of the Nongriat Valley.
Reach the summit at Tyrna and meet your driver for a scenic, winding journey toward Mawphlang, passing through the rolling high-altitude meadows that define the Meghalayan Plateau.
Arrive in the quiet village of Mawphlang and enjoy a rustic, home-style lunch at a local community-run eatery, savoring fresh seasonal vegetables and traditional Khasi red rice.
Check into MaplePine Farm, a serene eco-stay that operates entirely off-grid. Spend a slow hour settling into your cabin and enjoying the peaceful sounds of the nearby stream and whispering pines.
Begin your gentle exploration of the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, an ancient forest preserved by local tribal laws for over 700 years. Take a slow, guided walk through the moss-covered trees and learn about the sacred myths of the Khasi Hills.
Wander through the nearby Khasi Heritage Village, an open-air museum featuring authentic replicas of tribal huts. Take your time to admire the craftsmanship of the thatched roofs and the symbolic stone monoliths.
Find a quiet spot on the rolling grassy meadows overlooking the valley to watch the golden hour light settle over the East Khasi Hills. This is a perfect time for quiet reflection or a slow conversation with your partner as the air turns cool.
Return to the cozy communal space at MaplePine Farm as the temperature drops. Settle in by a small, crackling outdoor fire with your partner, enjoying the profound silence of the East Khasi Hills while sipping on a warm mug of local ginger tea.
Join your hosts for a farm-fresh, candlelit dinner featuring organic produce grown right on the property. Savor a slow-paced meal of Khasi style lentils and smoked meats, appreciating the off-grid simplicity and the warm hospitality of the Mawphlang community.
Step out into the crisp night air for a final session of stargazing. Because MaplePine Farm is far from any urban light pollution, you can witness the brilliance of the night sky over the Mawphlang Sacred Grove in its purest form.
Retire to your rustic wooden cabin, lulled by the gentle sound of the wind through the surrounding pine forest. Reflect on your day of recovery and cultural immersion before drifting into a deep sleep in the quiet heart of Meghalaya.
Wake up to the crisp, highland air at MaplePine Farm and enjoy a final, slow-paced organic breakfast of farm-fresh eggs and local bread. Take a moment to walk through the dew-covered grass of the farm one last time before packing your rucksack for the journey south.
Bid farewell to your hosts in Mawphlang and begin a scenic drive toward the high-altitude ridges of the Meghalayan Plateau. The road offers sweeping views of the deep, mist-filled valleys that define the remote landscape of the East Khasi Hills district.
Arrive in the quiet, mist-prone town of Pynursla, famous for its vibrant tribal markets. Stop at a local tea stall near the Pynursla Market for a cup of red tea and some traditional Khasi snacks, watching the local life unfold at a leisurely pace.
Head toward the nearby village of Mawkyrnot to begin your gentle exploration of the Mawkyrnot Living Root Bridge, which is known as one of the longest of its kind. Walk slowly through the village paths, observing the traditional stone houses and the quiet, agricultural lifestyle of the locals.
Savor a slow and authentic lunch at Bakordor's Local Kitchen, a tiny eatery known for its traditional Khasi smoked meats and freshly prepared bamboo shoot pickles.
Begin a gentle descent through the emerald forest to discover the Rityngkai Living Root Bridge. Take your time sitting by the cool waters of the Umrew River, enjoying the solitude of this hidden architectural marvel.
Explore the surrounding Betel Nut Plantations of Mawkyrnot, walking slowly through the tall, slender trees while observing the unique agricultural practices of the local community.
Check into the Pumpkin Pynursla Homestay, a cozy backpacker refuge. Spend the late afternoon on the veranda with your partner, watching the famous Pynursla mist descend upon the East Khasi Hills.
Take a short, gentle walk to the Pynursla Viewpoint to witness the ethereal transition as the dense mist swirls around the limestone ridges of the East Khasi Hills. It is a quiet and contemplative moment to appreciate the vastness of the southern slopes before the night fully sets in.
Wander back through the heart of Pynursla Village to see the local shops closing for the day and perhaps pick up some hand-woven Khasi Shawls from a village artisan. The evening atmosphere is incredibly peaceful, allowing for a slow and authentic immersion into high-altitude Khasi life.
Return to the Pumpkin Pynursla Homestay for a traditional home-cooked dinner featuring Doh-neiiong (pork with black sesame) and wild organic greens. Share stories with your hosts by the warmth of a small kitchen fire, enjoying the intimate and laid-back environment that defines the true backpacking experience.
Conclude your evening on the veranda, wrapped in blankets, to gaze at the distant, flickering lights of the Bangladesh Plains shimmering on the southern horizon. The cool, crisp air of Pynursla provides a perfect setting for a final, quiet reflection on your journey through the hills before resting for the night.
Savor a quiet, slow breakfast at the Pumpkin Pynursla Homestay, enjoying the cool morning air of the East Khasi Hills before packing your gear for the descent toward the river valley.
Begin your scenic drive from Pynursla toward the border town of Dawki. The road winds through lush betel nut groves and offers frequent glimpses of the vast Bangladesh Plains stretching out far below the cliffs.
Arrive in the tranquil village of Shnongpdeng and check into your cozy Riverside Tent Camp. Take your time to settle in and simply sit by the banks of the Umngot River, marveling at the incredible transparency of the emerald-colored water.
Cross the high Shnongpdeng Suspension Bridge at a leisurely pace, stopping midway to look down at the boats that appear to be floating in mid-air above the crystal-clear riverbed of the Umngot River.
Savor a slow-paced, traditional Jaintia lunch at Pioneer Adventure Cafe, where you can enjoy local river fish development and smoked meats while sitting just a few feet from the banks of the Umngot River.
Find a quiet, shaded spot on the smooth river pebbles for a post-lunch rest, taking your time to soak in the serene atmosphere and watch the light play on the turquoise waters of the Shnongpdeng valley.
Head out for a gentle solo or tandem kayaking session, paddling leisurely across the glass-like surface of the Umngot River to witness the mesmerizing 'floating boat' effect as the sun illuminates the riverbed.
Wander slowly along the riverbank trails toward the edge of the Jaintia Hills, observing the local Khasi and Jaintia fishermen skillfully navigating their narrow wooden boats through the tranquil waters.
Return to your tent at the Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp for a warm cup of local red tea, enjoying the quiet transition of the 'golden hour' as the sun dips behind the towering cliffs of the East Khasi Hills.
As the stars begin to emerge, gather around a crackling bonfire at the Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp. Share stories with fellow backpackers while listening to the gentle lap of the Umngot River against the shoreline stones.
Enjoy a rustic riverside dinner at the Brightstar Guest House & Camping, savoring a slow-cooked meal of Khasi-style Grilled Fish and steamed rice prepared over an open flame by your local hosts.
End your night with a quiet walk along the riverbank pebbles, gazing up at the exceptionally clear night sky above the Jaintia Hills. The lack of light pollution in Shnongpdeng reveals a breathtaking view of the Milky Way, reflecting beautifully in the still, dark waters.
Wake up to the soft sound of water at your Shnongpdeng campsite and enjoy a slow, hot chai while watching the morning sun illuminate the limestone cliffs of the Jaintia Hills.
Savor a simple breakfast of local bread and eggs at the Pioneer Adventure Cafe, taking your time to soak in the final views of the peaceful riverside before the day-trippers arrive.
Head to the main Dawki Boating Point for a private, slow-paced boat ride. Glide over the glass-like surface of the Umngot River, stopping for photos where the water is so clear it looks like your boat is floating on thin air.
Take a gentle walk across the historic Dawki Suspension Bridge, an engineering feat from the British era that provides a magnificent panoramic view of the turquoise river entering the plains of Bangladesh.
Wander through the small lanes of the Dawki Town Market and settle in at Zeenat Restaurant for a slow, authentic lunch of river fish and local greens, soaking in the unique cross-cultural energy of this border town.
Stroll down to the India-Bangladesh Friendship Gate to observe the international border at Tamabil, taking your time to watch the landscape change as the hills finally meet the vast plains of Bangladesh.
Take a short, scenic ride to the Burhill Falls, a hidden roadside gem where you can sit by the cool spray and enjoy the lush, mossy surroundings of the Jaintia Hills in near solitude.
Find a quiet, shaded spot on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Umngot River to simply relax with your partner and watch the light reflect off the crystal-clear water while the afternoon heat begins to fade.
Begin a slow return to your camp in Shnongpdeng, pausing at the Dawki Viewpoint to witness the 'golden hour' illuminate the riverbed and the bridge in a warm, ethereal glow.
Return to your cozy tent at the Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp as the evening temperature begins to drop. Sit by the edge of the water with a warm mug of local tea, watching the fireflies start to flicker among the trees bordering the Umngot River.
Walk slowly into the heart of Shnongpdeng Village for a traditional Jaintia dinner at a local home-style eatery like The Jaintia Kitchen. Savor a bowl of slow-cooked Dohkhlieh or smoked river fish, prepared with local herbs uniquely found in the Jaintia Hills.
Conclude your day with a final, meditative stroll along the riverbank pebbles near the Shnongpdeng Suspension Bridge. Enjoy the profound stillness of the valley and the brilliant display of stars reflected in the mirror-like surface of the Umngot River before settling in for the night.
Enjoy a final, slow-paced breakfast at the Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp, watching the morning sunlight filter through the mist above the Umngot River. Take your time to pack your rucksacks and bid farewell to the riverside community that hosted you for the last two nights.
Begin your journey north into the West Jaintia Hills toward the town of Jowai. The drive through the Amlarem Civil Sub-Division is incredibly scenic, featuring winding roads that pass through deep forests and small Pnar villages where life moves at a traditional rhythm.
Arrive at the trailhead for Krang Suri Falls, widely considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing waterfalls in Meghalaya. Walk down the gentle, chiseled stone pathway that winds through a dense canopy of trees, stopping to appreciate the unique limestone structures along the way.
Reach the base of Krang Suri Falls and marvel at the incredible turquoise color of the natural pool. As a slow traveler, rent a life jacket and spend an hour floating in the cool, azure waters while the midday sun creates shimmering rainbows in the waterfall's mist.
Make your way back up the stone path from Krang Suri Falls and stop at a local roadside shack for a quiet, rustic lunch. Savor a slow meal of Pnar style red rice and seasonal wild greens while chatting with the friendly vendors.
Take a scenic drive to the Syntu Ksiar valley, where the Myntdu River gracefully curves around the town of Jowai. Spend a meditative hour walking along the riverbank and visit the Madaniah Monument, a historic site dedicated to the Khasi-Jaintia freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah.
Continue your slow exploration with a visit to Tyrshi Falls. Enjoy a gentle stroll through the vast Pynthor Nein paddy fields to reach the arched bridge, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the waterfall cascading down the lush green cliffs.
Check into your tranquil accommodation at the Jaintia Hills Homestay and take some time to decompress. Relax on the balcony with a warm cup of local tea, watching the afternoon light fade over the rolling hills of the West Jaintia Hills.
Head to the center of town to explore the Iawmusiang Market, the oldest and largest traditional market in the Jaintia Hills. Wander through the stalls selling local tobacco, fermented bamboo shoots, and traditional Khasi and Jaintia handlooms at a relaxed pace.
Take a quiet evening walk to see the exterior of the Jowai Presbyterian Church, whose historic stone spire looks particularly atmospheric against the darkening sky of the West Jaintia Hills.
Savor a traditional Pnar dinner at Na-I-Khyllung, a local favorite where you can enjoy authentic dishes like Doh Shain (pork meatballs) or slow-cooked lentils in a warm and unpretentious environment.
Return to the Jaintia Hills Homestay for a final night in the mountains. Spend a contemplative half-hour on the veranda, listening to the distant sounds of Jowai town fading into the night as the cool highland air settles over the valley.
Savor your final mountain breakfast at the Jaintia Hills Homestay, enjoying a slow cup of red tea while watching the morning fog lift from the valleys of Jowai.
Take a short, final excursion to the Nartiang Monoliths, where you can wander among the world's tallest collection of ancient sandstone markers dedicated to the Jaintia Kings.
Begin your slow descent from the West Jaintia Hills toward the plains of Assam, enjoying the transition from the cool highland pines to the lush tropical greenery of the Ri-Bhoi District.
Make a peaceful stop at Thadlaskein Lake, a historic man-made lake. Spend a few minutes walking along the serene shoreline and reflecting on your 11-day journey through the heart of Meghalaya.
Stop for a relaxed, restorative lunch at Woodland's Dhaba along the Guwahati-Shillong Road. Savor a final meal of local Assamese thali while enjoying the transition into the warmer, tropical atmosphere of the Brahmaputra Valley.
Continue your slow drive through the lush greenery of the Ri-Bhoi District, keeping your eyes peeled for roadside vendors selling world-famous Nongpoh Pineapples and ginger.
Enter the city of Guwahati and head straight to the quiet banks of the Brahmaputra River. Take a slow, meditative walk along the Mahatma Gandhi Road riverside promenade, watching the massive wooden ferries glide across the water.
Visit the Dighalipukhuri Park, an ancient and serene man-made lake at the heart of the city. Spend an hour sitting on a shaded bench under the historic raintrees, reflecting on your 11-day backpacking journey through Meghalaya.
Find a cozy corner at The Bean Journal, a specialty coffee house in the Pan Bazar area. Enjoy a slow-poured cup of Northeast Indian coffee and take a final moment to browse through your favorite photos of the East Khasi Hills.
Head to Uzan Bazar for a final slow walk by the river as the sun sets. Visit the historic Umananda Ghat and watch the small wooden boats carry passengers across the dark waters of the Brahmaputra River.
Settle in for a farewell dinner at Paradise Restaurant, famous for its authentic Parampara Thali. Savor the subtle flavors of Assamese pitika and Khar, reflecting on the incredible diversity of the Northeast with your partner.
Take a slow, quiet walk through the Latasil area, enjoying the cooler night air and the sight of the illuminated colonial buildings. Stop at a local betel nut shop for a final taste of the regional 'tamul' before heading toward the airport or your transit hotel.
Arrive at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport early for your late-night flight back to Chennai. Spend your final moments in the terminal browsing the NEC BD Outlet for some last-minute bamboo handicrafts to remember your slow journey through Meghalaya.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Jadoh in Don Bosco Square | ₹300 |
| Ward's Lake | ₹50 |
| Dylan's Toasted & Roasted | ₹400 |
| Cafe Shillong | ₹600 |
| The Little Chef | ₹400 |
| Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures | ₹100 |
| Trattoria | ₹350 |
| Shillong Golf Course | Free |
| Tripura Castle Lounge | ₹700 |
| City Hut Family Dhaba | ₹600 |
| ML 05 Cafe | ₹500 |
| Laitlum Canyons | Free |
| Orange Roots | ₹400 |
| Garden of Caves | ₹50 |
| Eco Park Sohra | ₹50 |
| The Jiva Grill | ₹800 |
| Arwah Cave | ₹50 |
| Nohkalikai Falls | ₹50 |
| Soo-Ra-Sa | ₹500 |
| Mawsmai Cave | ₹50 |
| Thangkharang Park | ₹50 |
| Sohra House Bistro | ₹500 |
| Rainforest Restaurant | ₹700 |
| Double Decker Living Root Bridge | ₹50 |
| Serene Homestay Lunch | ₹300 |
| Mawphlang Sacred Grove Guide | ₹300 |
| Khasi Heritage Village | ₹50 |
| Bakordor's Local Kitchen | ₹350 |
| Pioneer Adventure Cafe | ₹500 |
| Kayaking on Umngot River | ₹500 |
| Dawki Boating | ₹400 |
| Zeenat Restaurant | ₹400 |
| Krang Suri Falls | ₹100 |
| Na-I-Khyllung | ₹500 |
| Woodland's Dhaba | ₹500 |
| Dighalipukhuri Park | ₹20 |
| The Bean Journal | ₹400 |
| Paradise Restaurant Guwahati | ₹700 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹13,820 |