Start your adventure by exploring the beautiful city of Shillong. In the morning, hike to the stunning Laitlum Canyons and witness breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Ward's Lake, where you can enjoy boating and peaceful surroundings. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Police Bazaar, known for its local markets and street food stalls.
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Café Shillong, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to City Hut Dhaba, a local favorite offering mouth-watering North Indian dishes like butter chicken and dal makhani. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try out the Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Cherrapunjee
Embark on a thrilling journey to Cherrapunjee, the wettest place on Earth. In the morning, explore the fascinating Mawsmai Cave, known for its limestone formations. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Seven Sisters Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening sets in, experience the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and witness its awe-inspiring beauty.
Mawsmai Cave: INR 20, 2 hours
Seven Sisters Falls: Free, 1 hour
Nohkalikai Falls: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Cafe Cloud: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Cloud, located in Cherrapunjee. Enjoy their freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering selection of pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Serene Greens: For a satisfying lunch, head to Serene Greens, a charming restaurant overlooking the Seven Sisters Falls. Indulge in their delectable local cuisine and fresh salads. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Waterfront Terrace: End your day with a delightful dinner at Waterfront Terrace, a restaurant offering stunning views of the Nohkalikai Falls. Treat yourself to their gourmet seafood dishes and fine wines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Dawki
Embark on an exciting day trip to Dawki, a small town known for its crystal clear Umngot River. In the morning, take a boat ride on the river and marvel at its transparent waters. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the nearby Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village, and explore its living root bridges. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful sunset at the Dawki Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Umngot River Boat Ride: INR 500, 2 hours
Mawlynnong Village: Free, 3 hours
Dawki Bridge: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Cherrapunjee. This cozy restaurant offers an array of freshly baked pastries and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Jiva Café in Mawlynnong. This charming restaurant serves organic, farm-to-table dishes, including soups, salads, and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Ri Kynjai Restaurant in Umiam Lake. With its serene ambiance and delectable northeastern cuisine, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Nongriat
Go off the beaten path and hike to the hidden gem of Nongriat, a village known for its double-decker living root bridge. In the morning, trek through the lush forest to reach this unique natural wonder. Afternoon is the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the natural pools of Rainbow Falls and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the local Khasi culture by interacting with the friendly villagers.
Nongriat Trek: Free, 6 hours
Rainbow Falls: Free, 3 hours
Local Village Interaction: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Cafe Di Unico: Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Di Unico, located near Nongriat. Indulge in their signature breakfast platter, complete with eggs, bacon, sausages, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lumpongg Market: For lunch, head to Lumpongg Market, a bustling local food market in the heart of Meghalaya. Explore the various food stalls offering traditional Khasi cuisine such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat) and Dohneiiong (pork cooked with black sesame seeds). Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Cloud 9: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Cloud 9, an elegant restaurant located in a scenic spot near Nongriat. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner with a fusion of Indian and international flavors, while admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Mawphlang
Explore the mystical village of Mawphlang and its ancient sacred grove. In the morning, take a guided nature walk through the dense forest and learn about the unique flora and fauna. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the fascinating Khasi Heritage Village and experience the traditional Khasi way of life. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset at Lum Sohpetbneng, a sacred hill revered by the locals.
Mawphlang Sacred Grove: INR 100, 3 hours
Khasi Heritage Village: INR 50, 2 hours
Lum Sohpetbneng: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Cherrapunjee. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including fresh fruit bowls, sandwiches, and traditional Khasi dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Dylan's Cafe in Shillong. This trendy cafe serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and pastas, along with refreshing smoothies and shakes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at Sao Aiom, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Meghalayan cuisine. From traditional Khasi dishes to aromatic curries, Sao Aiom offers a wide range of flavors to satisfy your taste buds. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 27: Jaintia Hills
Embark on an adventurous day trip to the scenic Jaintia Hills region. In the morning, explore the fascinating Krang Suri Falls, a hidden gem tucked away in the lush greenery. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the enchanting Dawki River, where you can indulge in thrilling water activities like kayaking and boating. As the evening sets in, hike up to the beautiful Thadlaskein Lake and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Krang Suri Falls: INR 20, 3 hours
Dawki River Adventure: INR 500, 2 hours
Thadlaskein Lake: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Head to The Eatery for a delicious breakfast with stunning views of the Jaintia Hills. Average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Khasi cuisine at Café Shillong. Average cost for a meal is about 300-400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Asian Confluence, offering a fusion of diverse Asian flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500-600 INR per person.
Saturday, October 28: Shnongpdeng
Conclude your adventure with a visit to the picturesque village of Shnongpdeng. In the morning, partake in adrenaline-pumping activities like river tubing and cliff jumping in the crystal clear waters of Umngot River. Afternoon is the perfect time to relax on the pristine sandy beaches and soak in the stunning natural beauty. As the evening sets in, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset while camping by the riverside.
River Tubing and Cliff Jumping: INR 300, 3 hours
Beach Relaxation: Free, 2 hours
Camping by the Riverside: INR 500, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Cherrapunzee, located near Shnongpdeng. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to RiverSide Grill, situated right on the banks of Umngot River. Indulge in a selection of grilled seafood, traditional Meghalayan dishes, and refreshing drinks. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
End your day with an unforgettable dinner experience at Orchid Garden Restaurant. Feast on delectable Indian and Chinese cuisine surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure seekers, a visit to the remote village of Nongriat is a must. The hike to the double-decker living root bridge offers a thrilling experience amidst nature's beauty. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Krang Suri Falls in Jaintia Hills, known for its mesmerizing turquoise pools. Locals also love spending time in the tranquil village of Mawlynnong, known for its pristine cleanliness and living root bridges.