5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Shillong

  1. Day 1: Shillong Peak
    20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Shillong city center

    Start your trip with a scenic view of the entire city from the Shillong Peak viewpoint. The trek to the top may be challenging for some, but the view is worth it. Don't forget to bring your camera and enjoy the cool breeze.

  2. Day 2: Elephant Falls and Ward's Lake
    20 minutes (7 miles) from Shillong Peak

    Visit the Elephant Falls for the beautiful waterfall and various viewpoints or relax and have a picnic with your family at the nearby park. Afterward, head to Ward's Lake to enjoy boating and wandering around the garden. You can also try some street food while enjoying the scenery.

  3. Day 3: Mawlynnong and Dawki
    2 hours 25 minutes (56 miles) from Ward's Lake

    Travel to the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. Walk around the village, take pictures of the living root bridge, and explore the tree houses. Afterward, head to Dawki to experience boating and clean water. Bring your swimming clothes and snorkels if you want to swim and snorkel.

  4. Day 4: Don Bosco Museum and Laitlum Canyons
    1 hour 20 minutes (25 miles) from Dawki

    Visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the various tribes in Northeast India and their culture. Afterward, head to Laitlum Canyons to experience the magnificent view of the canyons. It's a bit of a hike, so comfortable shoes are a must.

  5. Day 5: Umiam Lake
    40 minutes (15 miles) from Laitlum Canyons

    End your trip by visiting the picturesque Umiam Lake. Enjoy water sports, kayaking, zip-lining, or simply a family picnic. Head to the nearby resort afterward to taste local cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Shillong Peak (2 hours, free)
  • Elephant Falls (1 hour, ₹10 per person)
  • Ward's Lake (1 hour, ₹5 per person)
  • Mawlynnong (4 hours, ₹10 per person)
  • Dawki (4 hours, ₹20 per person)
  • Don Bosco Museum (1 hour, ₹100 per person)
  • Laitlum Canyons (3 hours, free)
  • Umiam Lake (2 hours, water sports starting from ₹500 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹645 per person

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Double Decker Root Bridge, or if you have less time, skip Dawki and Laitlum Canyons. Bring comfortable shoes and clothing as most activities require walking and hiking. Avoid overcrowded places, especially during weekends and holidays. Finally, carry enough cash as most places don't accept card payments.

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