7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Shillong, Bomdilla, Tawang, Dirang, and Guwahati

Saturday, December 16: Arrival in Shillong

Start your trip by arriving in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, explore the beautiful Ward's Lake, where you can enjoy boating and walking around the lush gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Police Bazar, a popular shopping and dining area.

• Ward's Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Police Bazar: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Café Shillong - A cozy cafe serving delicious breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• Polo Orchid Restaurant - Enjoy a hearty lunch at this restaurant known for its North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
• Triple 8 Restaurant - Savor traditional Khasi and continental dishes for dinner at this family-friendly restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.

Sunday, December 17: Bomdilla Exploration

Embark on a scenic drive to Bomdilla, located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the Bomdila Monastery, a serene Buddhist monastery offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. In the afternoon, explore Dirang Dzong, an ancient fortress that showcases the architectural heritage of the region. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local market.

• Bomdila Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dirang Dzong: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, December 18: Journey to Tawang

Embark on a scenic drive to Tawang, nestled in the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the beautiful Sela Pass, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes. In the afternoon, explore the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. In the evening, take a stroll around the local market and indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

• Sela Pass: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tawang Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 19: Dirang Delights

Head towards Dirang, a picturesque hill station in Arunachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the Sangti Valley, known for its lush green landscapes and migratory birds. In the afternoon, explore the Dirang Hot Springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate amidst natural beauty. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Dirang River and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Sangti Valley: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dirang Hot Springs: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dirang River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 20: Guwahati Exploration - Part 1

Travel to Guwahati, the largest city in Assam. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Museum, which showcases the art, culture, and history of the region. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River.

• Kamakhya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Assam State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 5 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 21: Guwahati Exploration - Part 2

Continue exploring Guwahati. In the morning, visit the Umananda Temple, located on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of animals and plants. In the evening, visit the Guwahati Planetarium and marvel at the wonders of the universe.

• Umananda Temple: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person (ferry charges), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Guwahati Planetarium: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, December 22: Departure from Guwahati

Conclude your trip with a departure from Guwahati. Spend the morning exploring the local markets for some last-minute shopping. In the afternoon, bid farewell to the beautiful northeastern region and head back home with unforgettable memories.

• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Shillong, make sure to explore the picturesque Mawlynnong Village, known as the cleanest village in Asia. In Bomdilla, don't miss the opportunity to visit the apple orchards and taste delicious apples. In Tawang, take a detour to the beautiful P.T. Tso Lake for a peaceful picnic. In Dirang, visit the Dirang Buddhist Monastery for a serene experience. In Guwahati, venture to the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

To check hotel and flight prices for your itinerary, click here.