7-Day Itinerary: Guwahati Shillong - City Experiences

Friday, September 29: Guwahati

Start your trip in Guwahati by exploring the Kamakhya Temple in the morning. This ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya offers breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Assam State Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. End your day with a relaxing cruise on the Brahmaputra River, enjoying the scenic beauty as the sun sets.

• Kamakhya Temple: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Assam State Museum: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Guwahati

Embark on a morning safari at the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located just a few hours away from Guwahati. Get an up-close encounter with the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and various other wildlife species. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Umananda Island, home to the Umananda Temple, situated on the Brahmaputra River. Enjoy the serene surroundings and panoramic views from the island.

• Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Safari cost INR 500-1000, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Umananda Island: Ferry cost INR 50, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Shillong

Head to Shillong, the "Scotland of the East," in the morning. Start your day by visiting the Shillong Peak for a stunning panoramic view of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. End your day by strolling through Police Bazaar, a bustling market offering local handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food.

• Shillong Peak: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Entry fee INR 100, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Police Bazaar: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, October 2: Shillong

Start your day with a visit to the Elephant Falls, a majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a mystical forest with ancient trees and unique plant species. Complete your day by experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Shillong with live music performances at popular venues like Cloud 9 or Tango.

• Elephant Falls: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Evening music performances: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Shillong

Explore the beauty of nature by visiting the Laitlum Canyons in the morning. Marvel at the breathtaking views of deep gorges and lush valleys. In the afternoon, take a boat ride in Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani. Enjoy the tranquility and picturesque surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the indigenous cultures of the region.

• Laitlum Canyons: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Umiam Lake: Boat ride cost INR 200, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Entry fee INR 100, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Shillong

Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, known as the wettest place on earth. Explore the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and the Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone cave. Experience the living root bridges of Meghalaya in the village of Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia. Return to Shillong in the evening.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Entry fee INR 10, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mawlynnong Village: Entry fee INR 20, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 5: Guwahati

Travel back to Guwahati in the morning. Visit the Navagraha Temple, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of Hindu astrology. In the afternoon, explore the Nehru Park and enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the man-made lake. End your trip by shopping for souvenirs at Fancy Bazaar, known for its local handicrafts and textiles.

• Navagraha Temple: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Nehru Park: Entry fee INR 10, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Fancy Bazaar: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Guwahati, make sure to visit the serene Ugratara Temple and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. In Shillong, don't miss a visit to the Mawjymbuin Cave, adorned with natural rock formations and stunning stalactites. Locals also love exploring the picturesque village of Mawphanlur, known for its pristine lakes and lush green landscapes.

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