Exploring the Natural Beauty of Shilong

Friday August 11: Arrival in Shilong

Welcome to Shilong! On your first day, take some time to settle into your hotel and relax after the journey. In the evening, head to Ward's Lake, a serene spot in the heart of the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, surrounded by beautiful flowers and lush greenery. This is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Shilong.

• Ward's Lake: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday August 12: Exploring Umiam Lake and Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Start your day by visiting Umiam Lake, located about 15 kilometers from Shilong. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake, surrounded by hills and forests. Afterward, head towards Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a sacred grove preserved by the local Khasi tribe. Take a guided nature walk through the forest, marveling at the ancient trees, diverse flora, and the peaceful ambiance.

• Umiam Lake: Cost estimate - Boat ride: INR 200-300, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Cost estimate - Entry fee: INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday August 13: Trekking in David Scott Trail

Embark on an exciting trek along the David Scott Trail, a historic trail that stretches from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys as you hike through lush forests and quaint villages. Along the way, you'll pass by beautiful waterfalls, such as the Wei Sawdong Falls, where you can take a refreshing break and enjoy the natural splendor.

• David Scott Trail: Cost estimate - Guide fee: INR 800-1000, Time spent - 6-8 hours
• Wei Sawdong Falls: Cost estimate - Entry fee: INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday August 14: Exploring Laitlum Canyons and Elephant Falls

Start your day by visiting the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons, located about 25 kilometers from Shilong. Enjoy panoramic views of the deep gorges, lush valleys, and mist-covered hills. Afterward, head towards Elephant Falls, a mesmerizing three-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense forests. Take a leisurely walk around the falls and feel the soothing spray of water on your face.

• Laitlum Canyons: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Elephant Falls: Cost estimate - Entry fee: INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday August 15: Visit Shillong Peak and Don Bosco Museum

On your last day in Shilong, make your way to Shillong Peak, the highest point in the city. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire town and the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, visit the Don Bosco Museum, known for its vast collection of artifacts showcasing the culture and heritage of the Northeast region. Explore the various galleries and learn about the rich history of the area.

• Shillong Peak: Cost estimate - Entry fee: INR 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Cost estimate - Entry fee: INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to ML05 Café. This popular eatery serves a range of local and international dishes, such as momos, pasta, and burgers. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Indulge in a flavorful dinner at City Hut Family Dhaba. This restaurant specializes in North Indian cuisine, offering dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and naan. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the David Scott Trail and the Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a must. These places offer an immersive experience in the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region. Additionally, if you have extra time, consider exploring the living root bridges in Cherrapunji, which are a marvel of sustainable engineering created by the local Khasi tribe. These hidden gems showcase the unique bond between nature and the local communities in Meghalaya.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices here.