Meghalaya Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

1. Thursday, September 21: Shillong
   10 minutes (3.4 miles) from Umiam Lake

   Enjoy the morning by visiting the picturesque Umiam Lake. Take a boat ride and admire the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, showcasing the rich heritage of Northeast India. In the evening, stroll along Police Bazaar, a bustling shopping area.

   • Umiam Lake: Free, 2 hours
   • Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: INR 100/person, 3-4 hours
   • Police Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours
2. Friday, September 22: Cherrapunji
   2 hours (34 miles) from Shillong

   Start your day with a visit to Mawsmai Caves, famous for their natural limestone formations. Afterward, explore the Nohkalikai Waterfall, one of India's tallest waterfalls. In the evening, witness the living root bridges in Mawlynnong, a charming village known as "Asia's Cleanest Village."

   • Mawsmai Caves: INR 40/person, 1-2 hours
   • Nohkalikai Waterfall: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Mawlynnong Village: Free, 2-3 hours
3. Saturday, September 23: Dawki
   2 hours 30 minutes (54 miles) from Cherrapunji

   Spend your morning boating on the crystal-clear waters of Dawki River, offering stunning views. Afterward, visit the nearby Indo-Bangladesh Border at Tamabil and explore the picturesque Shnongpdeng Village. Enjoy an evening of camping and bonfire by the riverside.

   • Dawki River Boating: INR 500/boat, 2-3 hours
   • Indo-Bangladesh Border: Free, 1 hour
   • Shnongpdeng Village: Camping costs vary, 3-4 hours
4. Sunday, September 24: Mawphlang
   2 hours (38 miles) from Dawki

   Spend the morning exploring Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a lush forest known for its biodiversity and sacred significance to the Khasi tribe. Afterward, visit the nearby Lumpongdeng Island, an island in the middle of a river with beautiful scenery. In the evening, return to Shillong and relax.

   • Mawphlang Sacred Grove: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Lumpongdeng Island: Free, 1-2 hours
5. Monday, September 25: Nongriat
   5 hours (60 miles) from Shillong

   Embark on a trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, a marvel of nature. Enjoy the stunning scenery and take a refreshing dip in natural pools along the way. Spend the night in a homestay in Nongriat for an authentic experience.

   • Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek: Free, 6-8 hours
   • Homestay in Nongriat: Accommodation costs vary
6. Tuesday, September 26: Mawlyngot
   2 hours 30 minutes (56 miles) from Nongriat

   Start your day with a visit to Mawlyngot Sacred Forest, a pristine forest with unique flora and fauna. Afterward, explore the nearby Wah Kaba Falls and enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings. In the evening, return to Shillong and indulge in local cuisine.

   • Mawlyngot Sacred Forest: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Wah Kaba Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Local Cuisine: Varies depending on the restaurant
7. Wednesday, September 27: Shillong
   3 hours (67 miles) from Mawlyngot

   On your last day, explore the beautiful Elephant Falls near Shillong. Visit the Lady Hydari Park, a well-maintained park with gardens and a mini-zoo. In the evening, shop for local handicrafts at the Bara Bazaar and wrap up your trip with a delicious Khasi meal.

   • Elephant Falls: INR 20/person, 1-2 hours
   • Lady Hydari Park: INR 10/person, 1-2 hours
   • Bara Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours
   • Khasi Meal: Varies depending on the restaurant

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Living Root Bridge in Riwai or taking a day trip to Mawsynram, known as the wettest place on earth. To make the most of your money and have fun, try local street food, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Meghalaya.