Arrive in Guwahati and check into your hotel. In the morning, take a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River to enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying Assamese cuisine.
Boat ride on Brahmaputra River: Cost - INR 500, Time - 2 hours
Kamakhya Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Exploring local markets and trying Assamese cuisine: Cost - Varies, Time - 2 hours
Restaurants
Brahmaputra Bhoj: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this riverside restaurant overlooking the Brahmaputra River. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Assamika: Treat yourself to authentic Assamese cuisine for lunch at this popular restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Piya's Cuisines of India: Indulge in a romantic dinner with a panoramic view of Guwahati city at this rooftop restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 11: Journey to Meghalaya
Start your journey to Meghalaya. Stop at Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, for a peaceful morning walk. In the afternoon, visit the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a sacred forest with unique biodiversity. In the evening, reach Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, and settle into your hotel.
A popular breakfast spot in Guwahati is Cafe Hendrix, serving a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out the Bamboo Hut Restaurant in Shillong, known for its authentic local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Relish a romantic candlelit dinner at the stunning Azure Rooftop Lounge & Restaurant in Cherrapunji, offering a panoramic view of the mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Exploring Shillong
Start your day with a visit to the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Lady Hydari Park and Ward's Lake. In the evening, witness the vibrant local music scene at one of Shillong's popular cafes.
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Cost - INR 50, Time - 2 hours
Lady Hydari Park: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Ward's Lake: Cost - INR 10, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Cloud 9 Cafe, known for its delicious breakfast platters and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Café Shillong, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
When it comes to dinner, Jiva Grill is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in grilled dishes and offers a picturesque view of Shillong. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Cherrapunji Adventure
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, known as the wettest place on Earth. Visit the iconic Nohkalikai Falls, the Seven Sisters Falls, and the living root bridges in Mawlynnong. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the lush green landscapes and misty mountains. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Nohkalikai Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Seven Sisters Falls: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Living root bridges in Mawlynnong: Cost - Free, Time - 3 hours
Travel to Shillong: Cost - Varies, Time - 2 hours
Thursday, December 14: Nature and Wildlife
Visit the Elephant Falls, a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city. If time permits, you can also visit the Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in Asia. Spend the evening at leisure.
Friday, December 15: Dawki River and Mawlynnong Village
Embark on a day trip to Dawki, known for its crystal-clear river. Enjoy a boat ride on the Umngot River and marvel at the transparent waters. In the afternoon, visit the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, known for its beautiful gardens and cleanliness. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Boat ride on Umngot River in Dawki: Cost - INR 500, Time - 2 hours
Visit Mawlynnong Village: Cost - Free, Time - 3 hours
Travel to Shillong: Cost - Varies, Time - 3 hours
Saturday, December 16: Farewell to Meghalaya
Visit the Laitlum Grand Canyon, a hidden gem near Shillong, for stunning views of the valleys and forests. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Police Bazaar, known for its shops, cafes, and local handicrafts. Bid farewell to Meghalaya and catch your flight back home.
Laitlum Grand Canyon: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Police Bazaar: Cost - Varies, Time - 2 hours
Travel back to Guwahati: Cost - Varies, Time - 3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique honeymoon experience, consider visiting Mawlyngot, a serene village near Shillong, where you can stay in traditional cottages amidst nature. Another offbeat attraction is the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, where you can take a guided walk and learn about the local Khasi culture. Locals also recommend trying the traditional Khasi cuisine, which includes dishes like Jadoh (rice and meat) and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean paste).