5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Meghalaya

  1. Day 1: Shillong
    Arrive at Shillong Airport
    Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
    Drive time: 30 minutes (10 miles) from airport

    The Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures is a great place to immerse in the history, culture, and traditions of North East India. It has seven floors of exhibits of sculptures, paintings, and tribal artifacts including baskets, weapons, tools, and clothing.

  2. Day 2: Cherrapunji (Sohra)
    Nohkalikai Falls
    Drive time: 2 hours (36 miles) from Shillong

    The Nohkalikai Falls is the highest plunge waterfall in India. From the viewing platform, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the falls and the surrounding lush green hills. It's a perfect spot for a family picnic.

  3. Day 3: Mawlynnong and Dawki
    Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong
    Drive time: 3 hours (82 miles) from Cherrapunji

    The Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong is a natural wonder, created by the local Khasi tribe. They use the roots of the Ficus elastica tree to build bridges across streams. The bridge is sturdy enough to carry the weight of fifty people.

  4. Day 4: Jowai
    Tyrshi Falls
    Drive time: 3 hours (57 miles) from Dawki

    The Tyrshi Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Meghalaya. It cascades from a height of about 70 feet into a deep pool of water, surrounded by huge boulders and greenery, making it a perfect picnic spot.

  5. Day 5: Shillong
    Elephant Falls
    Drive time: 2 hours (46 miles) from Jowai

    The Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall situated in a very scenic location. It was named by the British after an elephant-shaped rock near the falls. It's a popular tourist spot and a great place to relax and take some memorable pictures.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Nohkalikai Falls (1 hour, free)
  • Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong (2 hours, INR 50)
  • Tyrshi Falls (2 hours, free)
  • Elephant Falls (1 hour, INR 20)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 170 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Umiam Lake or the Mawsmai Caves. If you have less time, you can skip the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures and visit the Butterfly Museum in Mawlynnong. Don't forget to carry comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a raincoat or umbrella as Meghalaya receives heavy rainfall throughout the year.

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