Welcome to Meghalaya! Begin your nature adventure in the picturesque city of Shillong. In the morning, explore the beautiful Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, and enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the indigenous culture of the region. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk around Police Bazar, a vibrant marketplace offering local handicrafts and delicious street food.
Don Bosco Museum: Entrance fee - INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Police Bazar: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Cafe Shillong. They offer a variety of breakfast options including traditional Khasi dishes and continental breakfast. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Jiva Grill & Lounge, a cozy restaurant known for their delicious grilled meats and vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, head to ML05 Cafe, a trendy spot offering a fusion of local and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Cherrapunjee Exploration
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. In the morning, visit the awe-inspiring Nohkalikai Falls, cascading down from a height of 1,115 feet. Afterward, explore the fascinating Mawsmai Cave, known for its unique limestone formations. In the afternoon, marvel at the living root bridges of Mawlynnong Village, a remarkable example of nature's engineering. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Nohkalikai Falls: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Café Shillong for a delightful start to your day. Enjoy their delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Dylan's Café in Cherrapunjee. They offer a variety of cuisines including Indian and Chinese. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, Sample some authentic Meghalayan dishes at The Heritage Cherrapunjee. They offer a range of local delicacies like Jadoh and Dohneiihong. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Friday, September 8: Dawki and Mawlyngbna
Embark on an adventure to Dawki and Mawlyngbna. In the morning, visit the crystal clear waters of Dawki River and experience boating on transparent boats. Afterward, head to Mawlyngbna and indulge in various activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and trekking in the beautiful surroundings. Spend the night at a campsite in Mawlyngbna to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Dawki River: Boating fee - INR 500 per boat, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mawlyngbna activities: Prices vary, Time spent - Full day
Campsite in Mawlyngbna: Accommodation cost - INR 1500 per night
Saturday, September 9: Nongriat and Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Embark on a trek to the incredible Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat. Start early in the morning and hike through the lush green forests. Reach Nongriat and descend to witness the marvel of nature. Spend the day exploring the area, bathing in natural pools, and enjoying the beauty of the living root bridges. Return to Cherrapunjee in the evening.
Trek to Nongriat: Approximate guide fee - INR 1000, Time spent - Full day
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: No entry fee, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Cherrapunjee is Cafe Cherrapunjee. They serve a variety of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For a hearty lunch, head to Greenwood Restaurant. They offer a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹400 per person.
If you're looking for a cozy dinner location, try The Honey Pot. They specialize in North Indian and Chinese cuisine, and their warm ambiance creates the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹600 per person.
Sunday, September 10: Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Shillong Peak
In the morning, visit the sacred Mawphlang Forest, a preserved ancient forest with unique flora and fauna. Take a guided walk to learn about the indigenous beliefs and rituals associated with the forest. In the afternoon, drive up to Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Explore the nearby Elephant Falls before returning to Shillong.
For breakfast, try Cafe Shillong. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Lamee Restaurant. This popular eatery serves authentic Meghalayan cuisine, including dishes like Khasi pork curry and Jadoh (rice dish with meat). The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit City Hut Family Dhaba. This family-friendly restaurant specializes in Indian and Chinese cuisine, and offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Monday, September 11: Nohsngithiang Falls and Mawphlang Village
In the morning, visit the mesmerizing Nohsngithiang Falls, also known as the Seven Sisters Falls, where seven streams cascade down the rocks. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the falls. In the afternoon, explore the quaint Mawphlang Village and learn about the local Khasi culture. Interact with the friendly villagers and savor traditional Khasi cuisine. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Nohsngithiang Falls: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mawphlang Village: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Shillong, known for its delicious continental and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to City Hut Family Dhaba and indulge in their mouthwatering North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the iconic Dylan's Café, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Italian, Chinese, and Indian. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Elephant Safari at Kaziranga National Park
Embark on a day trip to Kaziranga National Park in neighboring Assam. Experience an exciting elephant safari in the park to spot the magnificent one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park and learn about its conservation efforts. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Kaziranga National Park: Elephant safari fee - INR 1300, Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
Head to Café Shillong for a delicious breakfast. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Khasi dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Dylan's Café, known for its amazing burgers and sandwiches. This popular spot offers a relaxed atmosphere and mouthwatering food. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, visit City Hut Family Dhaba for a satisfying dinner. This local favorite serves a range of Indian and Chinese dishes, including authentic North Indian curries and flavorful Indo-Chinese specialties. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, one hidden gem is the Mawthadraishan Peak near Nongstoin. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great spot for hiking and birdwatching. Another local favorite is the Wah Kaba Falls near Mawlynnong, a serene and lesser-known waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
Remember to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak for the best deals on accommodations and flights.