Since you arrived today and it's early evening in Shillong, use the morning to ease into the landscape with a gentle start: stroll through Ward's Lake enjoying the manicured gardens and paddle-boat views, then wander over to the nearby Don Bosco Museum to get a richly illustrated introduction to Northeastern cultures and history. Finish with a relaxed brunch at a local café near Police Bazaar, sampling Khasi-style jadoh or a steaming cup of single-origin Meghalaya tea to set the tone for the week.
As the afternoon unfolds, take a leisurely drive to the leafy precincts of Laitumkhrah, exploring its bookshops and cosy cafés before settling for a late lunch at Trattoria or a popular local spot to try Khasi pork dishes and thukpa. Afterward, wander through the charming lanes to Lady Hydari Park for gentle strolling and people-watching, then catch the golden light at Shillong View Point for sweeping panoramas of the pine-clad hills as the day moves toward evening.
As twilight settles, take a short drive to Police Bazar's Evening Market for lively street food-try a steaming plate of momos or spicy chaat while watching locals unwind. Follow this with a relaxed riverside stroll along the lit promenade at Umium Lake Viewpoint (or nearby lakeside cafés) and finish with live acoustic music and local beer at The Habitat Café & Bar, soaking in Shillong's mellow night rhythm.
Start your day with a refreshing drive to Elephant Falls, where stepped cascades and ferny pools make for excellent morning light and short walking trails; linger on the viewing platforms and sip a thermos of local tea while listening to the falls. Next, head to Shillong Peak for panoramic vistas over the city and surrounding Khasi Hills, then descend to explore the lively stalls of Pynthorumkhrah (Pynursla) Market for fresh produce, local spices and handmade betel nut souvenirs before a hearty brunch at a nearby Khasi homestyle eatery.
After a morning of Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak, spend the afternoon wandering the leafy lanes of Laitumkhrah-browse independent bookshops and sample freshly roasted coffee at a cosy café-then head to the charming colonial-era Lady Hydari Park to relax among orchids and koi ponds. Later, visit the bustling Police Bazaar for people-watching and shopping for woollens and Khasi handicrafts, followed by a late-afternoon snack at City Hut Family Dhaba to taste local street-style snacks and sweet tea before returning to your hotel as the light softens.
As dusk falls, wander to the charming riverside precinct of Umkhrah Riverbank for a peaceful stroll and photo ops of local fishermen and stilted houses lit by lanterns; stop at a riverside tea stall to sample smoky Khasi kahwa. Then head to Barapani (Umiam Lake) Boat Jetty for a short, tranquil sunset boat ride followed by a riverside dinner at Cafe Shillong Lakeside, enjoying fresh trout and locally brewed beer while listening to live folk music.
Rise early for a scenic drive into the highlands and begin with a mist-kissed hike to Nohkalikai Falls-linger on the viewpoint for dramatic plunging-water photos, then continue to the nearby terraces of Dainthlen Falls for a quieter, lush gorge walk. From there, head to the village of Mawkdok Dympep to explore lesser-known limestone caverns and panoramic platforms, stopping at a roadside stall for hot Khasi tea and rice cakes while taking in the sweeping valley vistas.
After a misty morning hike, spend the afternoon exploring the highland plateaus and lesser-known attractions: picnic among the pine groves at Arwah Caves viewpoint for sweeping valley vistas, then visit the handcrafted Mawlyngbna Suspension Bridge for a gentle walk and local village interactions. Finish with a guided trek to the lesser-visited Riwai Living Root Bridge, where a local guide demonstrates root-weaving techniques and you can cool off in the nearby clear pools while learning about community conservation efforts.
As dusk settles, stroll through the mossy lanes to Arwah Cave viewpoint for soft evening light and panoramic valley silhouettes, then pause at Mawsmai Sunset Terrace to watch mist roll into the gorge while sipping warm local tea from a roadside vendor. Finish with a relaxed dinner at Seven Sisters Homestay, where you can taste homestyle Khasi curry and hear local stories around a wood-fired stove, keeping the pace gentle after a full day of exploration.
Depart Shillong after an early breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive with stops at the roadside viewpoint of Nongkhyllem Viewpoint for sweeping valley light, then cross into Assam with a short stretch break at Khanapara Tea Estate to stretch legs and savour a cup of freshly brewed Assam tea. Arrive near Kaziranga by late morning for a guided walk through the tea-shadowed lanes around Bagori village, meeting local naturalists to learn about elephant corridors and traditional conservation practices before checking into your lodge for a brief rest.
After checking into your lodge and resting briefly, head out for a guided village-to-floodplain walk around Kohora Tea Garden edges and the adjoining Bagori Wetlands where local trackers point out birdlife such as Asian openbills and marsh larks while explaining seasonal flood patterns. Finish with a boat ride on the calmer stretches of the Dhansiri River, watching marsh deer graze and listening to tales from boatmen about elephant movement corridors before returning to the lodge to prepare for the evening wildlife watch.
As dusk deepens, join a guided dusk safari along the floodplain edge near Agoratoli Range, where trackers spotlight grazing hog deer and the first silhouettes of one-horned rhinoceros against the tall elephant grass. After the drive, settle at a riverside hide by Kolodyne River Viewpoint for a quiet light-and-sound vigil-listen for barasingha calls and watch resident waterfowl settle-then return to your lodge for a lantern-lit dinner and a short debrief with your naturalist to plan tomorrow's early jeep safari.
Set out at first light for an exhilarating jeep safari into the Kohora Range, scanning riverine grasslands for the iconic one-horned rhinoceros and herds of wild Asian elephants while your naturalist interprets tracks and calls; pause at the open Bagori Grasslands for close-but-safe photo opportunities and birding. After the safari, visit the nearby Kolong Riverbank village to meet community trackers, learn about traditional floodplain livelihoods, taste home-brewed rice beer and locally smoked fish, and walk a short village trail to see thatched stilt houses and ox-plough fields-an intimate follow-up to your park sightings that highlights human-wildlife coexistence.
After your morning jeep safari and village visit, spend the afternoon on a guided walk through the nearby Burhapara Wetlands, where marsh trails reveal secretive reed warblers and you can watch gharials basking on sandbars while a local naturalist explains seasonal flood dynamics. Later, visit the artisanal hamlet of Kolongpur to meet weavers and potters-try your hand at a simple bamboo-weaving demo and sample a homestyle Assamese thali at a family-run courtyard eatery before returning to the lodge for a relaxed late tea and storytelling session about local conservation efforts.
As dusk deepens, take a gentle boat cruise on the Brahmaputra tributary near the park edge to watch riverbank life awaken-spot kingfishers, river lapwings and the silhouettes of grazing barasingha while your guide points out seasonal feeding spots. After the cruise, visit the nearby riverside hamlet of Dhowa Village for a community-hosted supper of smoked fish, rice and bamboo-cooked curry, where villagers share conservation stories and traditional folk songs around a kerosene lantern, before returning to the lodge for a restful night and notes for tomorrow's early safari.
Begin with a tranquil stroll through Mawlynnong Village, visiting the famed living root walkway managed by local guardians and stopping at a family home for a short demonstration of traditional betel-leaf weaving and a cup of sweet Khasi rice tea. From there, take a short drive to the elevated Sky View Tower viewpoint for panoramic views over Bangladesh's plains, then descend to the community-run bamboo craft centre to try a hands-on mini workshop weaving a simple keepsake before a village-style breakfast of sticky rice, pork curry and seasonal greens.
After the village morning, take a short drive to the crystal-clear stretch of the Umngot River at Dawki for a glass-bottom boat ride that lets you peer at shoals of fish and submerged boulders; pause at the riverside Dawki Suspension Bridge for photos and to watch local fishermen mend nets. Later, visit the nearby community-run Eram Village to explore quiet pine trails, meet women from the cooperative selling handwoven shawls, and enjoy a riverside picnic of smoked fish and bamboo rice while learning about cross-border trade with Bangladesh.
As twilight falls, wander up to the elevated Riwai Ridge Viewpoint for a wide, cooling panorama of the Dawki valley and watch the last light silver the river below while local children sell roasted corn and teas. Later, join a community-hosted riverside supper at Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp featuring bamboo-cooked fish and live Khasi folk songs around a bonfire, then take a short lantern-lit walk to the quiet Lakadong Tea Terrace to sip a cup of single-origin Lakadong tea under the stars before returning to your homestay.
Ease back into Shillong with a relaxed visit to Police Bazaar Artisans Alley, where you can meet local leatherworkers and textile vendors, watch a short demonstration, and pick up last-minute handmade khasi shawls. Continue to Don Bosco Craft Centre for a guided look at traditional bamboo and cane workshops and try a quick hands-on session weaving a simple coaster, then enjoy a leisurely brunch at Cafe Shillong Heritage while planning your departure details and souvenir list.
Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring Laitumkhrah's Artisan Lane, where independent makers run tiny studios crafting silver filigree and hand-painted khasi pottery-pop into a workshop for a quick lesson and pick a bespoke souvenir. Then head to the atmospheric Umkhrem Market to taste seasonal street snacks, meet spice sellers who blend Shillong masalas, and finish with a calm riverside tea at Pynursla Riverside Café, using the time to pack purchases and confirm onward travel arrangements.
As dusk settles, head to Pynursla Cultural Centre for a short live demonstration of Khasi weaving and a chance to purchase finished shawls directly from village artisans, followed by a stroll through the adjoining handicraft stalls to pick up pottery and bamboo curios. Finish the night with a relaxed dinner at Cafe Shillong Residency, sampling a trout or pork thali while a local storyteller from the centre shares final travel tips and memorable anecdotes to round off your week.
If you have a morning before departure, take a gentle drive to Lady Hydari Park's Orchid House for a calm walk among orchids and koi ponds, then head to Polo Grounds for a brisk stroll where locals practise morning tai chi and you can watch vendors set up for the day. Finish with a satisfying breakfast at Cafe Shillong Homestead, sampling a trout omelette or Khasi-style pancake while you confirm onward travel and savour a last cup of Lakadong tea.
If you have a midday layover before departure, take a calm cultural detour to Polo Museum to see Khasi sporting history and vintage photographs, then stroll the adjacent lawns and meet local artisans at the small craft stalls. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed riverside lunch at Mawroh Riverside Café, sampling trout and a final cup of Lakadong tea while your guide helps arrange onward transfers and a smooth check-in for your journey home.
If your flight or train is later, enjoy a gentle final evening exploring Polo Ground Promenade for a relaxed walk and local cricket watching, then sip a last cup of Lakadong at Cafe Polo Terrace while packing. Finish with a farewell meal at The Bamboo Hut, tasting a Khasi-style river fish curry and listening to soft folk guitar - a calm, memorable close that ties together the week's flavours before your onward journey.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ward's Lake | Free |
| Don Bosco Museum | ₹30 |
| Brunch near Police Bazaar ( Khasi jadoh / tea ) | ₹200 |
| Laitumkhrah (bookshops & cafes) | Free |
| Trattoria Shillong (late lunch) | ₹450 |
| Lady Hydari Park | Free |
| Shillong View Point | Free |
| Police Bazar Evening Market (street food) | ₹150 |
| Umium Lake Viewpoint (Umium/Umiam area lakeside cafes) | Free |
| The Habitat Café & Bar (live music, local beer) | ₹500 |
| Elephant Falls | ₹10 |
| Shillong Peak | Free |
| Pynthorumkhrah (local market) | Free |
| City Hut Family Dhaba (snack) | ₹150 |
| Umkhrah Riverbank (stroll / tea) | Free |
| Barapani (Umiam Lake) boat ride | ₹350 |
| Cafe Shillong Lakeside (dinner, trout/local beer) | ₹600 |
| Nohkalikai Falls (viewpoint) | Free |
| Dainthlen Falls | Free |
| Mawkdok Dympep (viewpoints / caves) | Free |
| Arwah Caves viewpoint | Free |
| Mawlyngbna Suspension Bridge | Free |
| Riwai Living Root Bridge (guided trek) | ₹300 |
| Mawsmai Sunset Terrace | Free |
| Seven Sisters Homestay (dinner/home meal) | ₹400 |
| Nongkhyllem Viewpoint | Free |
| Khanapara Tea Estate (tea stop) | Free |
| Bagori village guided walk (near Kaziranga) | ₹250 |
| Kohora Tea Garden / Bagori Wetlands walk (guided) | ₹300 |
| Dhansiri River boat ride | ₹250 |
| Agoratoli Range evening wildlife watch (guided) | ₹400 |
| Kolodyne River Viewpoint (hide vigil) | Free |
| Kohora Range morning jeep safari (Kaziranga) - per person | ₹1500 |
| Kolong Riverbank village visit / community interaction | ₹200 |
| Burhapara Wetlands guided walk | ₹200 |
| Kolongpur artisan visit / bamboo-weaving demo | ₹150 |
| Brahmaputra tributary boat cruise (riverside) | ₹300 |
| Dhowa Village community supper | ₹350 |
| Mawlynnong Village (living root walkway visit) | Free |
| Sky View Tower (Mawlynnong viewpoint) | Free |
| Mawlynnong bamboo craft centre workshop | ₹200 |
| Umngot River glass-bottom boat (Dawki) | ₹300 |
| Dawki Suspension Bridge | Free |
| Eram Village visit / cooperative purchases | Free |
| Riwai Ridge Viewpoint | Free |
| Shnongpdeng Riverside Camp community riverside supper | ₹400 |
| Lakadong Tea Terrace (tea tasting) | ₹100 |
| Police Bazaar Artisans Alley (shopping) | Free |
| Don Bosco Craft Centre (guided bamboo/cane demo) | ₹50 |
| Cafe Shillong Heritage (brunch) | ₹350 |
| Laitumkhrah's Artisan Lane (workshop / souvenir) | ₹250 |
| Umkhrem Market (snacks / spices) | ₹150 |
| Pynursla Riverside Café (tea / riverside tea) | ₹200 |
| Pynursla Cultural Centre (demonstration / shawl purchase) | ₹200 |
| Cafe Shillong Residency (dinner) | ₹500 |
| Lady Hydari Park's Orchid House | Free |
| Polo Grounds (stroll) | Free |
| Cafe Shillong Homestead (breakfast) | ₹300 |
| Polo Museum | Free |
| Mawroh Riverside Café (lunch) | ₹400 |
| Polo Ground Promenade / Cafe Polo Terrace (tea) | ₹150 |
| The Bamboo Hut (farewell dinner) | ₹450 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹12980 |