Morning: Arrive at Shillong Airport and transfer to your hotel to check-in. Start your journey by visiting Ward's Lake, a serene man-made lake perfect for a morning walk surrounded by lush gardens. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Lady Hydari Park, known for its beautiful flowers and mini zoo. In the evening, explore the vibrant Police Bazar, a bustling market offering local handicrafts and street food.
Ward's Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Lady Hydari Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Police Bazar: Variable, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong, known for its cozy atmosphere and variety of baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Jadoh Kitchen, a popular spot for traditional Khasi cuisine. Try their signature Jadoh rice dish with pork or chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at Sao Aiom, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of Shillong. Enjoy a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes along with live music performances. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Cherrapunjee Excursion
Morning: Depart for Cherrapunjee, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Explore the Seven Sisters Falls, a cluster of magnificent waterfalls cascading down the hills. Afternoon: Visit the Mawsmai Caves, limestone caves with stunning formations and natural passages. Evening: Witness the beauty of the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and enjoy the sunset at the Eco Park overlooking the hills.
Seven Sisters Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
Mawsmai Caves: INR 20, 1-2 hours
Nohkalikai Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
Eco Park: INR 30, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a traditional Khasi breakfast at Café Shillong. Enjoy a hearty meal of steaming hot momos and delicious pork curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dylan's Café in Cherrapunjee. Indulge in their signature Thukpa, a flavorful Tibetan noodle soup, along with a refreshing glass of ginger lemonade. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a splendid dinner at Orange Roots, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of Cherrapunjee. Feast on their mouthwatering Chicken Roast served with sticky rice and a side of fresh salad. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Mawlynnong Village and Dawki
Morning: Visit Mawlynnong Village, known as the cleanest village in Asia. Explore the living root bridge, a unique natural bridge formed by intertwining the roots of rubber trees. Afternoon: Head to Dawki, located on the border of India and Bangladesh, and take a boat ride on the crystal-clear Umngot River, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic by the riverside. Evening: Return to Shillong.
Mawlynnong Village: Free, 2-3 hours
Dawki Boat Ride: INR 500 (shared boat), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
To start your day, head to Café Shillong, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Munchies, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Their mouthwatering biryanis and sizzlers are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Dylan's Café, a charming restaurant known for its warm ambiance and live music. Indulge in their delectable pasta dishes or mouthwatering burgers. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Nongriat Trek and Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Morning: Embark on a trek to Nongriat Village, home to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Enjoy the picturesque trail through thick forests and quaint villages. Afternoon: Reach the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a marvel of bioengineering, and spend some time exploring the area. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools of Rainbow Falls. Evening: Trek back to Tyrna and return to Shillong.
Nongriat Trek: Free, 5-6 hours
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Rainbow Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot is Cafe Shillong, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Lamee Restaurant which offers a wide variety of local and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try out Dylan's Cafe, a vibrant eatery that serves mouthwatering burgers and pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Mawphlang Sacred Grove and Departure
Morning: Visit the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest considered sacred by the local Khasi tribe. Take a guided walk through the grove while learning about its significance and unique flora. Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Khasi meal at a local restaurant in Shillong. Evening: Depart from Shillong Airport.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Shillong. Enjoy a wide range of options from American classics to local favorites. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Jadoh. This popular restaurant specializes in Khasi cuisine, offering a variety of dishes prepared with local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at City Hut Family Dhaba. This restaurant serves an array of Indian dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path attractions, a visit to the Krang Suri Waterfall is highly recommended. Located in the West Jaintia Hills district, this hidden gem offers a stunning turquoise pool surrounded by lush greenery. Additionally, the village of Nartiang is a historical and natural treasure with its ancient monoliths and panoramic views of the Khasi Hills. These lesser-known destinations will provide a unique and immersive experience of Meghalaya's natural beauty.