6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Shillong

  1. Friday, November 3: Ward's Lake
    10 minutes (2.7 km) from Downtown Shillong

    Start your trip by visiting Ward's Lake, a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by lush gardens. Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll and take in the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, you can go boating on the lake or have a picnic with your family. In the evening, explore the local market near the lake for some souvenir shopping.

    • Boating: Estimated cost: INR 100, Estimated time: 1 hour
    • Picnic: Free of cost, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  2. Saturday, November 4: Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
    15 minutes (5.2 km) from Ward's Lake

    Spend your morning at the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. Learn about the traditions, customs, and lifestyle of the indigenous people. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, indulge in local cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants.

    • Don Bosco Centre: Estimated cost: INR 100, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Shillong Peak: Estimated cost: INR 40, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
  3. Sunday, November 5: Elephant Falls
    30 minutes (12.4 km) from Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

    Start your day by visiting the mesmerizing Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture beautiful photos with your family. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in India. In the evening, you can visit the bustling Police Bazaar for shopping and street food.

    • Elephant Falls: Free of cost, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Shillong Golf Course: Estimated cost: INR 200, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
  4. Monday, November 6: Laitlum Canyons
    1 hour 15 minutes (24.8 km) from Elephant Falls

    Embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons. Marvel at the panoramic views of the mountains and deep gorges. Spend your morning exploring the trails and enjoying a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Mawphlang Sacred Forest to learn about the Khasi tribal culture and enjoy a guided nature walk. In the evening, return to Shillong and relax at your hotel.

    • Laitlum Canyons: Free of cost, Estimated time: 3-4 hours
    • Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated cost: INR 50, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  5. Tuesday, November 7: Umiam Lake
    45 minutes (17.3 km) from Laitlum Canyons

    Start your day by visiting the scenic Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake. Enjoy water activities such as boating or kayaking with your family. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Lumpongdeng Island, a small island in the middle of the lake, and have a picnic. In the evening, return to Shillong and explore the lively Police Bazaar for shopping and local delicacies.

    • Boating/Kayaking: Estimated cost: INR 200, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Picnic at Lumpongdeng Island: Free of cost, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
  6. Wednesday, November 8: Mawsynram
    2 hours (55.6 km) from Umiam Lake

    Take a day trip to Mawsynram, the wettest place on earth. Explore the enchanting Mawjymbuin Cave, known for its natural rock formations. Visit the nearby Mawsmai Cave, featuring stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy a traditional Khasi lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, return to Shillong and relax at your hotel.

    • Mawjymbuin Cave: Estimated cost: INR 50, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost: INR 50, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Traditional Lunch: Estimated cost: INR 300, Estimated time: 1 hour

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider visiting the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunji, about 1.5 hours away from Shillong. It's a unique natural wonder and a great opportunity for a trek. For day trips, you can explore the picturesque village of Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia, or visit the stunning Dawki River and experience boating in crystal clear waters. To make the most of your money, try local street food and shop for handicrafts at the traditional markets.

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