6-Day Meghalaya Itinerary

1. Day 1: Shillong
   From Shillong Airport to Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (5.8 miles, 35 minutes)

   Start your trip by visiting the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, the largest cultural museum in Asia. You can learn about the various tribes and cultures of the northeast region of India. After that, head to the State Museum of Meghalaya to learn more about the history of the state. End your day by visiting the picturesque Ward's Lake in the heart of Shillong.

2. Day 2: Cherrapunjee and Mawlynnong
   From Shillong to Cherrapunjee (33.5 miles, 2 hours)

   Start your day early and visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. After that, head to the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave known for its natural rock formations. Next, drive to Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, and spend some time exploring the beautiful surroundings. On your way back to Shillong, stop at Eco Park in Cherrapunjee to witness the stunning landscape from a bird's eye view.

3. Day 3: Dawki and Shnongpdeng
   From Shillong to Dawki (50.6 miles, 2 hours)

   Visit the border town of Dawki, located on the border of India and Bangladesh. You can take a boat ride on the crystal clear waters of the Umngot River and admire the scenic beauty. After that, head towards Shnongpdeng, a small village located on the banks of the River Umngot. It's an ideal place for adventure enthusiasts to go for kayaking, cliff jumping, and camping.

4. Day 4: Jaintia Hills
   From Shillong to Jowai (36.1 miles, 2 hours)

   Visit Jowai, also known as the cultural capital of Jaintia Hills. Here you can visit the famous stone bridge called Longest Living Root Bridge located in Nohwet village, adorned with pine trees. After that, head to Tyrshi Falls, a beautiful waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery.

5. Day 5: Bhoi Hills and Mawphlang
   From Shillong to Mawphlang (16.1 miles, 1 hour)

   Visit Mawphlang and take a walk on the Sacred Grove, an ancient forest where many rare and medicinal plants are found. Next, head towards Bhoi Hills and visit the beautiful Umkhrah Waterfall, nestled deep in the hills. You can also visit the David Scott Trail taking you through beautiful forests, numerous waterfalls and streams.

6. Day 6: Mawsynram and Mawlyngot
   From Shillong to Mawsynram (34.7 miles, 2 hours)

   Visit the Mawsynram Village, known for having the highest average rainfall in the world. You can visit the Mawjymbuin Cave, a popular tourist spot, holding great cultural and religious significance. After that, head towards Mawlyngot, known for its extensive and mesmerising collection of orchids in the Orchid Garden.

Time and Cost Estimates:

• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (2 hours, INR 200)
• State Museum of Meghalaya (2 hours, INR 50)
• Ward's Lake (1 hour, INR 10)
• Nohkalikai Falls (1 hour, INR 20)
• Mawsmai Cave (1 hour, INR 20)
• Mawlynnong Village (2 hours, INR 100)
• Dawki (2 hours, INR 100)
• Umngot River (2 hours, INR 450)
• Shnongpdeng (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Longest Living Root Bridge (1 hour, INR 20)
• Tyrshi Falls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Sacred Grove (1 hour, INR 50)
• Umkhrah Waterfall (1 hour, INR 20)
• David Scott Trail (5 hours, INR 50)
• Mawsynram Village (2 hours, INR 50)
• Mawjymbuin Cave (1 hour, INR 10)
• Orchid Garden in Mawlyngot (1 hour, INR 20)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 2210

Useful Tips:

If you have additional days, you can visit the Laitlum Canyons for a stunning view of the valley, the Elephant Falls for a bit of history and a beautiful cascade of water, and the Nongriat Village to trek down to the living root bridges and experience the beauty of nature. If you have less time, you can skip the less popular tourist destinations. Some points of interest, like the Umkhrah Waterfall, may be closed during the monsoon season. It's always best to check the opening and closing times before visiting.