4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Meghalaya

  1. Day 1: Shillong
    0 minutes (0 miles) from Shillong

    Start your day in the charming city of Shillong and explore its landmarks. Begin with the Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the ethnic communities of the Northeast. See the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the Shillong Peak and take a stroll in the picturesque Wards Lake. End your day with a visit to the bustling Police Bazaar for local shopping and street food.

  2. Day 2: Mawlynnong and Dawki
    2.5 hours (80 miles) from Shillong

    Drive to the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, and witness the community's commitment to keeping their village clean and green. Visit the Living Root Bridge, an incredible example of bioengineering, and take a leisurely walk through the village. After lunch, drive to Dawki and enjoy a boat ride in the crystal clear waters of the Umngot River. Don't forget to take a dip in the river's cool water!

  3. Day 3: Cherrapunjee
    2 hours (37 miles) from Dawki

    Drive to the scenic town of Cherrapunjee, known for being one of the wettest places on earth. Explore the Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. After lunch, visit the Nohkalikai Waterfall, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Take a guided hike to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, another incredible example of bioengineering.

  4. Day 4: Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak
    1 hour (11 miles) from Cherrapunjee

    Drive back to Shillong and visit the Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall with stunning views. After lunch, return to the Shillong Peak and watch the sunset from the highest point in the city. End your trip with a delicious dinner at Café Shillong, known for its fusion cuisine and live music performances.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures (1-2 hours, INR 150-200)
  • Shillong Peak (1 hour, INR 30-50)
  • Wards Lake (30 minutes - 1 hour, free)
  • Police Bazaar (1-2 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Mawlynnong Living Root Bridge (1-2 hours, INR 50-100)
  • Boat ride at Dawki (1-2 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Mawsmai Cave (1-2 hours, INR 20-50)
  • Nohkalikai Waterfall (1-2 hours, INR 50-100)
  • Double Decker Living Root Bridge (2-3 hours, INR 50-100)
  • Elephant Falls (30 minutes - 1 hour, INR 20-50)
  • Café Shillong (1-2 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1890-3650

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Mawphlang Sacred Forest and the Dainthlen Waterfall. If you have less time, skip the boat ride at Dawki and spend more time in Shillong. Be aware of weather conditions as certain activities may be canceled during monsoon season. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, and insect repellent. Lastly, respect the local culture and do not litter.

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