Explore the Enchanting Land of Meghalaya

Saturday, July 6: Arrival in Shillong

Begin your Meghalaya adventure by arriving in Shillong, the capital city. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Ward's Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Police Bazaar, known for local handicrafts and delicious street food. End your day by visiting the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Ward's Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, July 7: Cherrapunjee and Living Root Bridges

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your day by exploring the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall. In the afternoon, hike to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridges in the village of Nongriat, marveling at the unique natural formations. Spend the evening experiencing the tranquility of Mawsmai Cave, known for its stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Double Decker Living Root Bridges: Estimated Cost - Free (local guide recommended), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Asharir Restaurant: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Asharir Restaurant, known for its delicious local cuisine. Start your day with a traditional Khasi breakfast consisting of jadoh (rice cooked with pork), tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish), and black sesame porridge. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• David's Kitchen: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at David's Kitchen, a popular eatery offering a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Try their mouthwatering chicken curry or vegetable biryani, accompanied by freshly baked garlic naan. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Café Shillong: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Café Shillong, a cozy restaurant that serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian. Savor their signature dish, the Meghalaya-style pork curry, paired with steamed rice and a refreshing lime soda. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Monday, July 8: Dawki and Mawlynnong

Head towards the border town of Dawki, known for its crystal-clear Umngot River. Start your day by taking a boat ride on the river, witnessing the mesmerizing underwater world. In the afternoon, visit the pristine village of Mawlynnong, often referred to as the cleanest village in Asia. Explore the living root bridge and enjoy the panoramic view from the Sky View Point. Spend the evening soaking in the tranquility of this well-preserved village.

• Umngot River Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per boat, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Mawlynnong Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Sky View Point: Estimated Cost - INR 10, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, July 9: Jowai and Krang Suri Falls

Explore the scenic town of Jowai, known for its serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage. Start your day by visiting the Durga Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, take a short trip to Krang Suri Falls, a hidden gem with turquoise blue waters. Enjoy a refreshing swim and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and indulging in traditional Khasi cuisine.

• Durga Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Krang Suri Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 50, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, July 10: Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Shillong Peak

Experience the mystical atmosphere of the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, an ancient forest with unique flora and fauna. Take a guided walk through the forest to learn about its cultural and ecological significance. In the afternoon, visit the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Enjoy the cool breeze and capture stunning photographs. Spend the evening exploring the lively cafes and cultural events in Shillong.

• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Shillong Peak: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring Cafes and Cultural Events: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, July 11: Nongkhnum Island and Elephant Falls

Embark on a day trip to Nongkhnum Island, the largest river island in Meghalaya. Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the riverside and soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the majestic Elephant Falls, named after a rock resembling an elephant. Explore the different tiers of the waterfall and capture beautiful photographs. Spend the evening relaxing by the riverside and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

• Nongkhnum Island: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Elephant Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Riverside Relaxation: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, July 12: Mawsynram and Shnongpdeng

Visit Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth, and witness the enchanting beauty of the region. Explore the fascinating limestone caves and marvel at the stunning stalactite formations. In the afternoon, make your way to Shnongpdeng, a pristine village located on the banks of the Umngot River. Enjoy various water activities like swimming, kayaking, and river boarding. Spend the evening camping by the riverside and stargazing.

• Mawsynram Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Water Activities in Shnongpdeng: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Riverside Camping: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per tent, Time Spent - Overnight

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

In addition to the popular tourist attractions, Meghalaya has numerous hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Visit the peaceful village of Mawphanlur, surrounded by beautiful lakes and rolling hills. Explore the sacred Mawjymbuin Cave, known for its massive stalagmites. Experience the unique living root bridges in the village of Riwai. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies like Jadoh (rice with meat) and Nakham Bitchi (fermented soybean curry) for an authentic culinary experience.

Check this link to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Meghalaya.