Meghalaya Motorcycle Adventure

Friday December 1: Shillong

Start your motorcycle adventure in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, explore the picturesque Ward's Lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails. Afterward, ride to the Elephant Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading down amidst lush greenery. In the evening, visit Police Bazaar, the bustling market area known for local handicrafts and street food.

• Ward's Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Elephant Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday December 2: Cherrapunjee

Ride to Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Morning ride to Living Root Bridges, unique bio-engineering marvels formed by intertwining the roots of trees. In the afternoon, visit Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave system with fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations. Enjoy sunset views at the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India.

• Living Root Bridges: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - Entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday December 3: Dawki

Embark on a ride to Dawki, a town known for its crystal-clear Umngot River. Morning ride to Dawki Bridge, a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the river. Spend the afternoon boating on the river, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing turquoise waters and explore the nearby Shnongpdeng village. In the evening, camp by the riverside and witness the starry night sky.

• Dawki Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Boating on Umngot River: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Camping in Shnongpdeng: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - Overnight

Monday December 4: Mawlynnong and Dawki

Ride to Mawlynnong, a pristine village known as the "Cleanest Village in Asia." Explore the living root bridge and enjoy a leisurely walk around the village. Afterward, ride back to Dawki and spend the afternoon relaxing by the Umngot River, indulging in peaceful surroundings. Take an evening ride to Shnongpdeng and enjoy a bonfire night with local music and dance.

• Mawlynnong Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Leisurely time at Dawki: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Bonfire night in Shnongpdeng: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Cherrapunji. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Mawsynram Dhaba, a local favorite serving authentic Meghalayan cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Jadoh (meat and rice), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry), and Nakham Bitchi (smoked pork salad). Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For dinner, experience the flavors of Meghalaya at Laitlum Grand Dhaba. This restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the hills while you savor delicious Khasi delicacies such as Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), Dohkhleh (pork salad), and Jhur Spong (spicy chicken curry). Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Tuesday December 5: Jowai

Set off to Jowai, a scenic town nestled amidst hills and valleys. In the morning, ride to Tyrshi Falls, a hidden gem known for its pristine beauty. Continue your ride to Thadlaskein Lake, a serene lake surrounded by lush green hills. Spend the evening exploring the local market and trying traditional Khasi cuisine.

• Tyrshi Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Thadlaskein Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local market and Khasi cuisine: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday December 6: Mawsynram

Ride to Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth. Start your day with a visit to Mawsmai Cave, similar to the one in Cherrapunjee but with its own unique features. Ride to Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest considered sacred by the locals. Explore the rich biodiversity and peaceful surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a cup of local tea overlooking the scenic landscapes.

• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - Entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mawphlang Sacred Grove: Estimated cost - Entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Enjoy local tea: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday December 7: Shillong

Conclude your motorcycle adventure with a day in Shillong. Visit the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. Explore the Lady Hydari Park, a beautiful garden with a mini-zoo and play area. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Shillong, known for its live music scene and bustling cafes.

• Don Bosco Museum: Estimated cost - Entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lady Hydari Park: Estimated cost - Entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Explore Shillong's nightlife: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For motorcycle riders seeking off the beaten path attractions, head to Nongriat Village, where you can trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, an architectural wonder hidden in the dense forests. The scenic ride to Dawki via Pynursla offers breathtaking views, passing through quaint villages and lush landscapes. Don't miss out on tasting local delicacies like Jadoh (Khasi rice dish) and Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame) at authentic Khasi restaurants along the way.