Mesmerizing Meghalaya: A 7-Day Family-Friendly Adventure
Friday, November 24: Guwahati to Shillong
Embark on your journey to Meghalaya by flying into Guwahati, the gateway to the Northeast. From Guwahati, drive to Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu shrine perched atop the Nilachal Hill. Afternoon delights await at the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, where you can explore the rich heritage of the region. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll around Ward's Lake, a picturesque waterbody surrounded by lush gardens.
Kamakhya Temple: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated Cost: INR 100 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Ward's Lake: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Cafe Shillong, known for its delicious local and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Dylan's Cafe, a cozy eatery famous for its delectable burgers and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For dinner, indulge in traditional Khasi cuisine at Munchies, a local favorite. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Saturday, November 25: Cherrapunji Exploration
Head to Cherrapunji, renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your day amidst nature's wonders at the Seven Sisters Falls, a spectacular cascade that plunges from the cliffs. In the afternoon, visit the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave known for its unique formations. Conclude your day by witnessing the living root bridges, marvels of bioengineering created by the Khasi tribe.
Seven Sisters Falls: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Mawsmai Cave: Estimated Cost: INR 20 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Living Root Bridges: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Savor a hearty breakfast at Cafe Cherrapunjee, offering a range of continental and Indian dishes with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in traditional Khasi cuisine at Kong's Pier, a rustic restaurant overlooking the lush valleys. Try their signature dishes like Jadoh and Tungrymbai. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at ORA Eatery, known for its fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Continental flavors. Enjoy their specialty grilled dishes and delicious cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, November 26: Nongriat Village Trek
Embark on an adventurous trek to the hidden gem of Nongriat Village. Begin your day with a trek through lush forests and picturesque landscapes to reach the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Spend your afternoon swimming in the natural pools of the Rainbow Falls. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature and experience the local way of life in this remote village.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 4-6 hours
Rainbow Falls: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Cherrapunji. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Garden Restaurant. Located amidst lush greenery, this restaurant serves scrumptious local dishes like Jadoh and Tungrymbai. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, visit ML 05 Cafe in Shillong. This trendy cafe offers a fusion of flavors with dishes like Momos Pizza and Chicken Sizzler. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Monday, November 27: Dawki and Mawlynnong
Explore the pristine beauty of Dawki and Mawlynnong, known as Asia's cleanest village. Begin your day by visiting the crystal clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki, where you can enjoy boating and witness the stunning riverbed. In Mawlynnong, experience the village's eco-friendly practices and marvel at the living root bridges. Enjoy panoramic views from the Sky View viewpoint and stroll through the flower-filled gardens.
Umngot River, Dawki: Estimated Cost: INR 500 per boat, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Mawlynnong Village: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Sky View viewpoint: Estimated Cost: INR 10 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Cherrapunjee, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out the delicious local cuisine at Sohra Plaza Restaurant. This restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes such as Jadoh (red rice with meat), and the average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit The Orange Roots, a popular restaurant that serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Enjoy their flavorful curries and pasta dishes, while the average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Tuesday, November 28: Elephant Falls and Mawphlang
Discover the natural wonders of Meghalaya at Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Spend your afternoon exploring Mawphlang, a village known for its sacred grove and ancient Khasi heritage. Take a guided walk through the sacred forest, where you can learn about local traditions, spot rare flora, and encounter ancient monoliths.
Elephant Falls: Estimated Cost: INR 20 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated Cost: INR 100 per person (guide fee), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Meghalaya, head to Cafe Shillong. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Jiva Veg Restaurant. They offer a variety of vegetarian dishes made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, make your way to Lamee Restaurant. This cozy eatery serves mouthwatering local cuisine, including traditional Khasi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, November 29: Shillong Peak and Don Bosco Museum
Rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Shillong Peak, offering panoramic views of the entire city. Afterward, visit the Don Bosco Museum, a fascinating museum showcasing the culture, traditions, and indigenous artifacts of the Northeast. Spend your evening exploring the bustling markets of Police Bazar, where you can shop for local handicrafts and taste delicious street food.
Shillong Peak: Estimated Cost: INR 30 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Don Bosco Museum: Estimated Cost: INR 50 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Police Bazar: Estimated Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Shillong: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Shillong, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
City Hut Family Dhaba: For lunch, head to City Hut Family Dhaba and savor their mouthwatering North Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Delicious Delights: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Delicious Delights, offering a wide range of cuisines including Chinese, Indian, and Continental. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 30: Shillong to Guwahati
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes of Meghalaya and make your way back to Guwahati. Before leaving Shillong, visit the picturesque Lady Hydari Park, known for its blooming flowers and peaceful ambiance. After reaching Guwahati, explore the Umananda Island, situated in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, and enjoy a boat ride to this serene island.
Lady Hydari Park: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Umananda Island: Estimated Cost: INR 50 per person (boat ride), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast is Cafe Shillong, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious breakfast platters. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Dylan's Cafe, a charming restaurant that offers a wide range of cuisines including Indian, Continental, and Asian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at The Heritage Club - Tripura Castle, a beautiful restaurant located in a colonial-style building with a serene atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, don't miss out on visiting Mawphlang Sacred Forest, where you can immerse yourself in the mystical ambiance and witness the ancient traditions of the Khasi people. Another hidden gem is the Mawjymbuin Cave, located near Mawsynram, which is adorned with unique stalactite formations. These lesser-known attractions offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and natural heritage.