Mystical Meghalaya: A 7-Day Adventure

Wednesday, August 30: Arrival in Guwahati, Assam

Welcome to Meghalaya! Start your journey by flying into Guwahati, Assam's largest city and gateway to the Northeast. After landing, make your way to the beautiful Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani. Enjoy a scenic boat ride and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, head to the Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. Complete your day with a visit to the bustling Paltan Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional Assamese handicrafts.

• Umiam Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kamakhya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Paltan Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Hendrix, located near Umiam Lake. Indulge in a variety of delicious sandwiches, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• For lunch, try out Khasi Kitchen, a delightful restaurant that serves authentic Khasi cuisine. Feast on traditional delicacies like Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohneiiong (pork curry), and Pumaloi (sticky rice). Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
• For dinner, visit Paradise Restaurant in Paltan Bazaar. Enjoy a wide range of North Indian and Chinese dishes in a cozy setting. Don't miss their mouthwatering butter chicken and chili chicken. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Thursday, August 31: Shillong - The Scotland of the East

Today, make your way to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Start your morning with a visit to the breathtaking Elephant Falls, where you can admire the cascading water and lush green surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll along Police Bazaar, the heart of Shillong, and indulge in delicious local street food.

• Elephant Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Don Bosco Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, September 1: Dawki and Mawlynnong

Embark on a day trip to Dawki and Mawlynnong, known for their natural beauty and cleanliness. In the morning, visit the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River in Dawki. Take a boat ride or simply soak in the serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village. Explore the picturesque living root bridge and marvel at the village's eco-friendly practices. Enjoy a traditional Khasi meal prepared by the locals before returning to Shillong.

• Umngot River, Dawki: Estimated cost - Boat ride INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mawlynnong: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Saturday, September 2: Cherrapunjee - The Wettest Place on Earth

Today, venture into the lush landscapes of Cherrapunjee, famous for its abundant rainfall. Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent Seven Sisters Falls, where seven cascading waterfalls merge into one. Explore the Mawsmai Caves, known for their unique limestone formations, in the afternoon. As evening approaches, experience the thrill of standing atop the Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint, offering awe-inspiring views of the tallest plunge waterfall in India.

• Seven Sisters Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Mawsmai Caves: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, September 3: Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Laitlum Canyons

Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a dense forest revered by the indigenous Khasi people. Take a guided walk through the forest and learn about its rich biodiversity and cultural significance. In the afternoon, make your way to the enchanting Laitlum Canyons, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Capture the beauty of the sunset before heading back to Shillong.

• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Laitlum Canyons: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Monday, September 4: Nongriat and Double Decker Living Root Bridges

Embark on an adventurous trek to Nongriat village, home to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridges. Start your morning by descending around 3,500 steps to reach the village. Explore the mesmerizing natural wonders of the root bridges and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools beneath them. Afterward, hike back up and return to Shillong for a well-deserved rest.

• Nongriat Village: Estimated cost - Guide fee INR 500, Estimated time spent - 6-8 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Mawlynnong and Riwai Living Root Bridges

Conclude your Meghalaya adventure with a visit to Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, and the nearby Riwai Village, known for its living root bridges. Spend your morning exploring Mawlynnong, strolling through its well-manicured gardens and witnessing the unique architecture of the living root bridge. In the afternoon, visit Riwai Village to marvel at its living root bridge and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Return to Shillong in the evening.

• Mawlynnong: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Riwai Village: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Meghalaya, don't miss the opportunity to visit the village of Mawlyngot, located near Shillong. It offers a serene environment, picturesque landscapes, and an opportunity to interact with the friendly locals. Another hidden gem is the Krang Suri Waterfall, located near Jowai. Its pristine turquoise water and surrounding lush greenery make it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.