Welcome to Shillong! Start your adventure by exploring the bustling Police Bazaar in the morning. This vibrant market offers a variety of local handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food. Afterward, head to the Ward's Lake, a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll. In the evening, visit Café Shillong, a popular local restaurant known for its fusion cuisine and live music.
Café Shillong: Estimated Cost - INR 800-1000 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Jadoh Stall for breakfast and enjoy their famous traditional Khasi dish "Jadoh" made with rice and pork. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant serving delicious pizzas and pastas. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with dinner at ML05 Café, known for its delectable Northeastern cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Cherrapunji Exploration
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, known as the "wettest place on Earth." Begin your morning by visiting the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, offering breathtaking views. Afterward, head to the Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone cave system where you can explore its intriguing formations. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khasi meal at one of the local restaurants in Cherrapunji.
Mawsmai Cave: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500-700 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Cherrapunji is Cafe Cherrapunjee, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Sohra Plaza, a local restaurant offering a variety of Khasi cuisine dishes such as Jadoh (a traditional rice and meat dish) and Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame seeds). Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, indulge in a memorable dinner at Orange Roots, a charming restaurant with a cozy ambiance. They specialize in fusion cuisine, blending traditional Khasi flavors with international culinary techniques. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, September 8: Dawki and Living Root Bridges
Set off on an adventurous day to Dawki, located near the border of Bangladesh. Start your morning by exploring the mesmerizing Umngot River, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. Enjoy a boat ride on the river and witness the stunning landscapes. Afterward, head to Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia, and hike to the enchanting living root bridges. In the evening, savor local delicacies at a traditional Khasi restaurant.
Umngot River: Estimated Cost - INR 500-700 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500-700 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Dawki is Cafe Cherrapunjee, known for its delicious assortment of freshly baked goods and refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch in Mawlynnong, try out Bamboo Hut Restaurant, offering a wide range of authentic Khasi cuisine. Indulge in local delicacies like Jadoh (a rice meat dish) and smoked pork. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In Shillong, Jiva Grill is a great choice for dinner, serving a variety of mouthwatering Indian and Continental dishes. With a cozy ambiance and live music, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, September 9: Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls
Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Shillong Peak, offering panoramic views of the entire city. Start your morning early to catch the sunrise from this viewpoint. Afterward, head to the Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the falls and enjoying a picnic in its serene surroundings. In the evening, relax at Cloud 9, a popular rooftop pub with a wide selection of drinks and live music.
Elephant Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Cloud 9: Estimated Cost - INR 800-1000 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Café Shillong, located in the heart of Shillong, offers a delightful breakfast menu with options like scrambled eggs, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
ML05 Café is a popular lunch spot known for its delicious local cuisine, including Khasi delicacies like Jadoh and Dohneiiong. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant in Shillong, serves a variety of authentic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventurous travelers seeking off the beaten path experiences, Meghalaya offers several hidden gems. Visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village for a challenging trek through dense forests and a unique bridge made from intertwined tree roots. The Krang Suri Waterfalls, located in Jaintia Hills, is another hidden gem with its turquoise pools and scenic beauty. These lesser-known attractions will satisfy your thirst for adventure and provide unforgettable memories.