7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Shillong in December 2023

1. Day 1: Elephant Falls
   30 minutes (12.5 miles) from Shillong

   In the morning, visit Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall with scenic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic in the surrounding park, and in the evening, explore the nearby Mawsmai Cave.

2. Day 2: Shillong Peak
   20 minutes (5.5 miles) from Elephant Falls

   Take a morning hike up to the Shillong Peak, the highest point in the city, for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. In the afternoon, visit Don Bosco Museum to learn about the culture and history of the Northeast region. In the evening, stroll along Police Bazar for street food and shopping.

3. Day 3: Laitlum Canyons
   1 hour 45 minutes (34 miles) from Shillong Peak

   Start the day early with a scenic drive to Laitlum Canyons, a picturesque spot with breathtaking views. Spend the morning hiking and exploring the area. In the afternoon, visit Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. In the evening, relax with a cup of tea at one of the nearby cafes.

4. Day 4: Umiam Lake
   1 hour (16.5 miles) from Nohkalikai Falls

   Spend the morning at Umiam Lake, a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and picnicking. In the afternoon, visit the Sacred Forest for a peaceful walk among the trees. In the evening, catch a movie or play at the nearby Bijou Cinema.

5. Day 5: Mawlynnong Village
   2 hours 30 minutes (56 miles) from Umiam Lake

   Take a day trip to Mawlynnong Village, known as Asia's cleanest village, to explore the local culture and traditions. Visit the Living Root Bridge, a unique bridge made entirely out of living tree roots. In the evening, return to Shillong for a traditional Khasi dinner.

6. Day 6: Dawki River
   2 hours 30 minutes (56 miles) from Mawlynnong Village

   Drive to Dawki River in the early morning for a boat ride on the crystal clear water. Afterward, visit the nearby Bangladesh border. In the afternoon, visit the David Scott Trail, a scenic trek through the forest. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire at the nearby camping site.

7. Day 7: All Saints Church
   2 hours (45 miles) from Dawki River

   Visit the All Saints Church in the morning, a beautiful historic church built in the colonial era. In the afternoon, relax at the nearby Shillong Golf Course. In the evening, visit the Ward's Lake for a peaceful walk and a boat ride.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, especially the Khasi dishes. For a side trip, consider visiting Cherrapunjee for more scenic views and waterfalls. To maximize your fun, be sure to plan your itinerary around the opening and closing times of each location. Also, be prepared for long drives and unpredictable weather conditions.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Elephant Falls (2 hours, free)
• Mawsmai Cave (1 hour, INR 20)
• Shillong Peak (2 hours, free)
• Don Bosco Museum (2 hours, INR 100)
• Police Bazar (2 hours, varies)
• Laitlum Canyons (4 hours, free)
• Nohkalikai Falls (2 hours, INR 20)
• Umiam Lake (3 hours, INR 50)
• Sacred Forest (1 hour, INR 20)
• Bijou Cinema (2 hours, INR 150)
• Mawlynnong Village (6 hours, INR 100)
• Dawki River (4 hours, INR 500)
• David Scott Trail (3 hours, free)
• All Saints Church (1 hour, free)
• Shillong Golf Course (2 hours, INR 300)
• Ward's Lake (2 hours, INR 50)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1360

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