7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Shilong and Guwahati
Friday, October 27: Arrival in Shilong
Welcome to Shilong! Start your trip by exploring the beautiful Ward's Lake in the morning. Take a relaxing boat ride and soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to learn about the rich tribal heritage of the region. End the day with a visit to the vibrant Police Bazaar, a bustling market offering a variety of local products.
Ward's Lake: INR 50, 2 hours
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: INR 100, 3 hours
Police Bazaar: Free entry, 2 hours
Saturday, October 28: Exploring Shilong
Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Elephant Falls, known for its stunning cascades. Spend the afternoon exploring the Shillong Peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the lively Laitumkhrah Market, known for its local food stalls and handicrafts.
Elephant Falls: INR 20, 2 hours
Shillong Peak: INR 30, 3 hours
Laitumkhrah Market: Free entry, 2 hours
Sunday, October 29: Day Trip to Cherrapunji
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, the wettest place on Earth. Discover the mesmerizing Nohkalikai Falls in the morning and marvel at its sheer beauty. After lunch, visit the Living Root Bridges, a unique natural wonder created by the locals. End the day with a visit to the Mawsmai Cave, known for its impressive limestone formations.
Nohkalikai Falls: INR 10, 3 hours
Living Root Bridges: INR 100, 4 hours
Mawsmai Cave: INR 20, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Shillong, a cozy cafe known for its delicious waffles and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try out Trattoria, a popular Italian restaurant offering a variety of pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
For dinner, indulge in the culinary delights of Paradise Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Assamese and North Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Monday, October 30: Journey to Guwahati
Travel from Shilong to Guwahati, the gateway to the northeast. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. Explore the Assam State Museum in the afternoon, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the region. In the evening, take a serene sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.
Kamakhya Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
Assam State Museum: INR 20, 3 hours
Brahmaputra River Cruise: INR 500, 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Shillong: Start your day at this cozy cafe offering a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Paradise Restaurant: For lunch, head to this popular eatery serving delicious Assamese dishes like thali meals, fish curry, and traditional sweets. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Gam's Delicacy: Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at this renowned restaurant known for its authentic Assamese cuisine, including dishes like pork curry, bamboo shoot fry, and sticky rice pudding. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, October 31: Guwahati City Tour
Spend the morning exploring the Kamakhya Umananda Temple, situated on an island in the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, visit the Umananda Island and enjoy a peaceful boat ride to reach the temple. End the day with a visit to the Nehru Park, a beautiful recreational spot with a scenic lake.
Kamakhya Umananda Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
Umananda Island: INR 50 (boat ride), 3 hours
Nehru Park: INR 10, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Shillong, a cozy cafe known for its delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Assamese cuisine at Paradise Restaurant. They serve a variety of authentic dishes at an average cost of 300 INR per person.
For dinner, head to The Wishing Table, a popular restaurant in Guwahati offering a diverse menu with options for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 1: Wildlife Safari at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Explore the sanctuary in the morning and spot various wildlife species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Mayong Village, known for its rich history and association with magic and witchcraft.
The Breakfast Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Cafe, known for its wide variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Green Leaf Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Green Leaf Restaurant where you can indulge in a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Don't miss their specialty thali meals and refreshing lassi. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Riverfront Diner: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Riverfront Diner, offering stunning views of the river and a menu featuring a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday, November 2: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to Guwahati. Take a morning visit to the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, housing a variety of animal and plant species. End your trip with some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Fancy Bazaar, known for its vibrant local market.
Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden: INR 30, 3 hours
Fancy Bazaar: Free entry, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Treehouse Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this quaint cafe nestled in the heart of Guwahati. Indulge in a variety of freshly baked pastries and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Ponaam: For a satisfying lunch, head to Ponaam, a popular restaurant serving authentic Assamese cuisine. Try their mouthwatering thali, which includes a variety of traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
The River King: Treat yourself to a sumptuous dinner at The River King, located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Relish their delectable seafood specialties while enjoying breathtaking views. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Shillong, don't miss the picturesque Umiam Lake, perfect for a family picnic and water activities. In Guwahati, visit the Sualkuchi Village, known as the "Manchester of the East," famous for its silk weaving traditions. Experience the local lifestyle by attending a traditional Bihu dance performance, showcasing Assam's vibrant cultural heritage.
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