Exploring the Beauty of Darjeeling, Shillong, and Guwahati: A 5-Day Itinerary

Thursday, September 28: Darjeeling

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Darjeeling. In the morning, visit the Tiger Hill viewpoint to witness the sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga Mountain. Enjoy a steaming cup of Darjeeling tea at a local tea estate during the afternoon. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road and explore the vibrant local markets.

• Tiger Hill: Cost: INR 100, Time spent: 2 hours
• Darjeeling Tea Estate: Cost: INR 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, September 29: Darjeeling to Shillong

Embark on a scenic journey from Darjeeling to Shillong. In the morning, visit the beautiful Rock Garden and witness the mesmerizing waterfalls. Continue your journey to Shillong and explore the Laitlum Canyons in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, visit Ward's Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride.

• Rock Garden: Cost: INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Laitlum Canyons: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ward's Lake: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Shillong

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Shillong. In the morning, visit the famous Elephant Falls and explore the picturesque Shillong Peak. Indulge in the local cuisine during your lunch break. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Spend the evening exploring the lively Police Bazar and its bustling markets.

• Elephant Falls: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
• Shillong Peak: Cost: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Cost: INR 100, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Police Bazar: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Shillong to Guwahati

Head towards Guwahati, a city filled with historical and cultural significance. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Explore the Umananda Island during the afternoon and enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River. As the evening sets in, visit the Guwahati War Cemetery, a serene place dedicated to the memory of soldiers.

• Kamakhya Temple: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Umananda Island: Cost: INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Guwahati War Cemetery: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Guwahati

Discover the vibrant city of Guwahati. Start your day by visiting the Assam State Museum to admire the rich cultural artifacts. Explore the serene Nabagraha Temple and the picturesque Assam State Zoo during the afternoon. As the evening approaches, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

• Assam State Museum: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Nabagraha Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Assam State Zoo: Cost: INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Cost: INR 500, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Darjeeling, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Peace Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In Shillong, make sure to visit the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a mystical forest with ancient trees and unique flora. In Guwahati, venture out to the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and witness the majestic Indian one-horned rhinoceros in its natural habitat.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the latest prices on KAYAK.