5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Meghalaya and Shillong, India
Tuesday, September 5: Arrival and Exploring Shillong
Start your adventure in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the picturesque Ward's Lake, a popular spot for boating and picnicking. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Police Bazaar in the afternoon, known for its shops, restaurants, and local handicrafts. As the evening approaches, head to the iconic Shillong Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Dylan's Café which offers a variety of delicious breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Café ML05, known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Cloud 9, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. The menu offers a range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Cherrapunji Excursion
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your day by exploring the mesmerizing Nohkalikai Falls in the morning, followed by a visit to the living root bridges of Mawsynram in the afternoon. End your day by witnessing the stunning Seven Sisters Falls during sunset.
Café Shillong: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong, known for its cozy ambiance and wide range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Meghalaya Food Corner: Have a scrumptious lunch at Meghalaya Food Corner, a popular eatery serving authentic local delicacies such as Jadoh and Tungtab. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Trattoria: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Trattoria, a charming Italian restaurant offering a variety of pizza and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Caving Adventure in Mawsmai
Gear up for an exciting caving adventure in Mawsmai. Explore the mystical Mawsmai Cave in the morning, marveling at its fascinating rock formations. Afterward, visit the beautiful Elephant Falls for a refreshing break amidst nature. In the evening, indulge in local delicacies at one of Shillong's popular restaurants.
Local Restaurant: Estimated cost - varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Friday, September 8: Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Embark on a thrilling trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat Village. Start early in the morning to make the most of your day. The trek takes approximately 4-5 hours and rewards you with breathtaking views of the lush green forest and the unique root bridge. Enjoy a picnic near the bridge before heading back to Shillong.
Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Estimated cost - free, Time spent - 8-10 hours
Saturday, September 9: Dawki River and Shnongpdeng
On your last day, venture to Dawki, a small border town known for its crystal-clear river. Take a boat ride on the Umngot River in the morning, marveling at the transparent waters and picturesque surroundings. Afterward, visit the scenic village of Shnongpdeng, where you can indulge in adventure activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and cliff jumping. Bid farewell to Meghalaya with unforgettable memories.
Boat ride on Umngot River: Estimated cost - varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Adventure activities in Shnongpdeng: Estimated cost - varies, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to explore the thrilling Mawphlang Sacred Forest, known for its mystical ambiance and unique flora. Another hidden gem is the village of Mawlynnong, often referred to as "Asia's Cleanest Village," where you can experience the local Khasi culture and witness the fascinating living root bridges. These off the beaten path attractions offer a deeper insight into Meghalaya's natural wonders and cultural heritage.