Exploring the Natural Beauty of Meghalaya: 7-Day Itinerary
Sunday, August 13: Shillong - Scotland of the East
Begin your journey in the picturesque city of Shillong, also known as the "Scotland of the East." Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Umiam Lake, where you can enjoy boating and soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Police Bazar and indulge in local delicacies. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along Ward's Lake, surrounded by lush gardens and colorful flowers.
Umiam Lake: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Police Bazar: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Ward's Lake: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A highly recommended breakfast spot in Shillong is Cafe Shillong. This cozy cafe offers delicious and freshly brewed coffee, along with a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to City Hut Family Dhaba. This popular restaurant serves authentic North Indian and Chinese dishes, including biryani, butter chicken, and noodles. With generous portions and affordable prices, the average cost for a meal at City Hut Family Dhaba is about ₹250 per person.
In the evening, head to Dejavu Restaurant for a delightful dinner experience. Known for its cozy ambiance and live music, this restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines including Italian, Continental, and Indian. The average cost for a meal at Dejavu Restaurant is about ₹700 per person.
Monday, August 14: Cherrapunji - Land of Living Root Bridges
Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunji, renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your day by witnessing the mesmerizing beauty of Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. In the afternoon, explore the living root bridges of Mawlynnong Village, a unique marvel of nature. As the sun sets, visit the Seven Sisters Falls and enjoy the ethereal view of the cascading waterfalls.
Nohkalikai Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Mawlynnong Village: Cost - Free, Time - 3-4 hours
Seven Sisters Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Dylan Cafe which offers a cozy atmosphere and a delicious range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, dine at the Machan Restaurant where you can enjoy a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit the Cloud 9 Restaurant and indulge in their mouthwatering local Meghalayan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Dawki - Crystal Clear Waters
Discover the crystal clear waters of Dawki on the border of India and Bangladesh. Begin your day with a boat ride on the emerald-green Umngot River, known for its transparent waters. In the afternoon, visit the nearby village of Mawlynnong, often called "Asia's Cleanest Village," and witness its pristine natural beauty. During the evening, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Dawki Bridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Umngot River Boat Ride: Cost - INR 500 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Mawlynnong Village: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Dawki Bridge: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Dawki is Café Cherrapunjee. They serve delicious local dishes like jadoh and putharo, with an average cost of about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Sohra Plaza. This restaurant specializes in Khasi cuisine and offers a variety of dishes like tungtab (pork), smoked beef, and bamboo shoot curry. The average cost for a meal here is around ₹300 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at the Orange Roots Resto Café. This restaurant offers a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines, with mouth-watering options like butter chicken and momos. The average cost for a meal at Orange Roots is approximately ₹400 per person.
Wednesday, August 16: Mawsynram - Wettest Place on Earth
Experience the wonders of Mawsynram, officially the wettest place on Earth. Begin your morning by exploring the fascinating Mawjymbuin Cave, adorned with unique stalactite formations. In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Mawsmai Cave, known for its limestone formations and impressive stalagmites. As the day ends, enjoy the panoramic view of the lush green landscapes from the mesmerizing Nongsawlia viewpoint.
Mawjymbuin Cave: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Mawsmai Cave: Cost - INR 20 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Nongsawlia Viewpoint: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Cherrapunjee. Offering a wide variety of breakfast options, this cozy café is known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Orange Roots. Indulge in their sumptuous local cuisine, including delectable Khasi dishes, amidst a warm and vibrant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Finish off your day with a memorable dinner at Jiva Grill & Bistro. This restaurant serves an array of mouthwatering grilled delicacies, including exotic meats like venison and wild boar. Average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.
Thursday, August 17: Mawlyngbna - Nature's Paradise
Immerse yourself in the natural paradise of Mawlyngbna. Start your day with a trek to the enchanting Kyllang Rock, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains. In the afternoon, indulge in adventurous activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and rock climbing at Mawlyngbna Adventure Village. As the evening unfolds, witness the mesmerizing beauty of Wah Rymben Falls, cascading down from the lush green hills.
Kyllang Rock: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Mawlyngbna Adventure Village: Cost - Varies, Time - 3-4 hours
Wah Rymben Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Friday, August 18: Jaintia Hills - Exploring Caves and Waterfalls
Head towards the captivating Jaintia Hills, known for its mystical caves and majestic waterfalls. Begin your day by visiting the enchanting Krem Liat Prah, one of the longest sandstone caves in the world. In the afternoon, explore the mesmerizing Krang Suri Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. As the day comes to an end, witness the beauty of Thlumuwi Falls, surrounded by lush greenery.
Krem Liat Prah: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Krang Suri Falls: Cost - INR 20 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Thlumuwi Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Saturday, August 19: Mawphlang - Exploring Sacred Forests
Conclude your Meghalaya adventure with a visit to the sacred forests of Mawphlang. Start your morning by exploring the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. In the afternoon, hike to the awe-inspiring David Scott Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the local Khasi culture by witnessing a traditional dance performance.
Mawphlang Sacred Grove: Cost - INR 50 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
David Scott Trail: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Traditional Dance Performance: Cost - Varies, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Cherrapunjee - Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy café, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lunch: Dylan's Café - Savor a delightful meal at this charming eatery, offering a mix of local and international cuisines. Don't miss their delectable Meghalaya-style thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Dinner: Jiva Grill and Café - Indulge in a culinary feast at this rooftop restaurant, serving mouthwatering grilled dishes and a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, don't miss the hidden gem of Mawthadraishan Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Meghalayan plateau. Locals also love the serene beauty of Laitlum Canyons, a hidden paradise nestled amidst the hills. These off the beaten path attractions will provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience with nature in Meghalaya.