Start your adventure in Meghalaya by arriving in Shillong, the capital city. In the morning, explore the picturesque Ward's Lake, surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant flowers. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake and soak in the serene atmosphere. For the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich culture and heritage of the region. In the evening, head to Police Bazaar, the bustling market area, to explore local handicrafts, street food, and indulge in some shopping.
Ward's Lake: Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
Don Bosco Museum: Entrance fee: INR 100, Time spent: 3 hours
Police Bazaar: Shopping budget: INR 500+, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Aroma Cafe: A charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Trattoria: A popular Italian restaurant offering a variety of lunch options including wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
City Hut Dhaba: A local favorite, City Hut Dhaba serves delectable Indian dishes for dinner, including butter chicken and dal makhani. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Sunday, November 12: Exploring Shillong
Start your day by visiting the Shillong Peak, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills. Spend the morning enjoying the scenic beauty and taking memorable photographs. For the afternoon, head to the Elephant Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a short trek to reach different viewpoints and witness the mesmerizing cascade. In the evening, explore the vibrant Laitumkhrah Market, known for its local produce, handicrafts, and street food.
Shillong Peak: Entrance fee: INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Elephant Falls: Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Laitumkhrah Market: Shopping budget: INR 200+, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Shillong - Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Shillong. Offering a wide range of breakfast options, from traditional Khasi dishes to continental delights, this cozy cafe is a local favorite. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Tribe Restaurant - For a satisfying lunch, head to Tribe Restaurant. Known for its authentic Meghalayan cuisine, including dishes like Jadoh (pork and rice) and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry), this restaurant promises a delightful culinary experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dylan's Cafe - Indulge in a delightful dinner at Dylan's Cafe. Known for its cozy ambiance and international menu, this restaurant offers a range of options from burgers to pasta, ensuring there's something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, November 13: Exploring Cherrapunjee
Spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes of Cherrapunjee, known for its abundant rainfall and greenery. Start your morning by visiting the Seven Sisters Falls, a group of seven cascading waterfalls. Enjoy the breathtaking views and feel the mist on your face. Afterward, visit the Mawsmai Caves, a network of limestone caves with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. In the evening, witness the Living Root Bridges, marvels of bioengineering created by the local Khasi tribe.
Mawsmai Caves: Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Living Root Bridges: Entrance fee: INR 100 (guided tour), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, November 14: Kaziranga National Park
Today, embark on a journey to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your morning with an exhilarating safari through the park, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Enjoy the sights of various wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and water buffaloes. In the afternoon, visit the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park, where you can explore a wide variety of orchids and learn about the region's rich biodiversity. In the evening, relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of your accommodation in Kaziranga.
Kaziranga National Park: Safari fee: INR 2,200 (approx.), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Entrance fee: INR 100, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Accommodation in Kaziranga: Prices vary, check hotel prices
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong, located in Kaziranga. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries, omelettes, and hot beverages. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Wild Grass Restaurant in Kaziranga, where you can enjoy a delectable meal in a cozy and rustic setting. The restaurant specializes in Assamese cuisine, serving dishes like fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and fresh vegetable salads. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a memorable dining experience at Bon Habi Restaurant, situated in Kaziranga. This restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Indian and international cuisines, as well as a selection of cocktails. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Tea Gardens and River Cruise
In the morning, visit the lush tea gardens of Kaziranga and experience the process of tea production. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the scenic beauty of the plantations. In the afternoon, embark on a river cruise on the Brahmaputra River. Cruise along the river, spotting dolphins and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. In the evening, savor a traditional Assamese meal and immerse yourself in the local culture and hospitality.
River Cruise: Cost: INR 1,000 (approx.), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Dinner: Cost: INR 500+, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 16: Farewell to Meghalaya and Assam
On your last day, bid farewell to Meghalaya and Assam. Take a scenic drive back to Shillong and visit the Lady Hydari Park, a beautifully landscaped park with colorful flowers and a mini zoo. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Police Bazaar once again and pick up any last-minute souvenirs. Depart from Shillong with beautiful memories of your Meghalaya and Assam adventure.
Lady Hydari Park: Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Shopping in Police Bazaar: Budget: INR 500+, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Shillong, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest considered sacred by the local Khasi tribe. Explore the unique flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere. Another hidden gem is the Dawki River, located on the India-Bangladesh border. The crystal-clear waters of the river and the stunning Umngot River Bridge make it a must-visit destination. Locals highly recommend trying the traditional Khasi cuisine, especially Naga-style pork dishes and Jadoh, a flavorful rice and meat preparation.