Start your trip in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the beautiful Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, and enjoy boating amidst serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Laitlum Grand Canyon, a hidden gem offering breathtaking views of lush green valleys. As the evening sets in, stroll through Police Bazaar, the bustling market area, and indulge in local street food.
Cafe Shillong: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafe Shillong, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
The Heritage: For lunch, head to The Heritage, a popular restaurant offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Traffic Jam: Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Traffic Jam, a vibrant restaurant known for its live music and fusion dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Cherrapunjee
Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, known for its stunning waterfalls. Start your day by visiting the Seven Sisters Falls in the morning, where seven waterfalls cascade down the cliffs. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave system with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Wrap up your day by witnessing the majestic view of the Nohkalikai Falls during sunset.
Seven Sisters Falls: Free, 2 hours
Mawsmai Cave: INR 20, 2 hours
Nohkalikai Falls: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Cherrapunjee. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options, from pancakes to eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Orange Roots Restaurant. This cozy restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes. Don't miss their signature Khasi thali. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Jiva Spa Restaurant. Located in a tranquil setting, this restaurant offers a menu featuring Indian and continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Dawki and Mawlynnong
Head towards Dawki, a small town known for its crystal-clear river. Start your morning by experiencing a boat ride on the Umngot River and marvel at the transparent waters. Afterward, make your way to Mawlynnong, often called the cleanest village in Asia. Explore the living root bridges and take in the pristine beauty of this eco-friendly village.
Umngot River Boat Ride: INR 500 per boat, 2 hours
Mawlynnong Village: Free, 3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Cherrapunjee: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Cherrapunjee, located in Mawlynnong village. Indulge in their breakfast platters and traditional Khasi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Mama's Kitchen: For a fulfilling lunch, head to Mama's Kitchen in Mawlynnong. Treat yourself to homemade local delicacies like Jadoh (pork and rice dish), Tung Rymbai (fermented soybean curry), and Khasi thali. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Soulmate Restaurant: End your day with a delightful dinner at Soulmate Restaurant in Dawki. Relish their delicious seafood dishes and enjoy the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Monday, October 2: Nongriat
Spend a day trekking in the picturesque village of Nongriat, famous for its double-decker living root bridge. Start your hike in the morning and reach the living root bridge after approximately 3 hours. Enjoy swimming in the natural pools and indulge in the tranquility of the surrounding waterfalls and lush greenery.
Nongriat Trek: Free, 6 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Nongriat is Cafe Riwai, known for its delicious local dishes. You can enjoy a hearty breakfast here for around 200 Rupees per person.
For lunch, head to the Bamboo Hut Restaurant which offers a variety of Meghalayan and Indian cuisines. A meal for one person here would cost around 300 Rupees.
For dinner, try the Orchid Rooftop Restaurant where you can savor delectable Chinese and Tibetan dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 Rupees per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Mawphlang
Visit Mawphlang, a village known for its sacred groves and mystical atmosphere. In the morning, explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a biodiversity hotspot filled with ancient trees and unique flora. Afterward, visit the Khasi Heritage Village to learn about the local culture and traditions. End your day with a peaceful walk along the David Scott Trail.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest: INR 20, 2 hours
Khasi Heritage Village: INR 20, 1 hour
David Scott Trail: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Shillong, located in the heart of Shillong. They offer a wide variety of breakfast options, including local delicacies and international favorites. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ginger Restaurant which is known for its authentic Khasi cuisine. They serve mouthwatering dishes made from fresh local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at City Hut Family Dhaba, a popular restaurant known for its North Indian and Chinese dishes. The vibrant ambiance and delicious food make it a perfect choice for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Nartiang
Discover the historical site of Nartiang, located in the Jaintia Hills district. In the morning, explore the Nartiang Monoliths, a collection of ancient stone monoliths dating back centuries. Afterward, visit the Nartiang Durga Temple, one of the oldest temples in Meghalaya. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Nartiang Monoliths: Free, 2 hours
Nartiang Durga Temple: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Shillong, a cozy café known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Jiva Grill, a popular restaurant specializing in grilled dishes. Enjoy their mouthwatering kebabs and sizzlers. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit City Hut Family Dhaba, a local favorite known for its flavorful Indian cuisine. Indulge in their biryani and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Thursday, October 5: Shnongpdeng
End your trip with a visit to Shnongpdeng, a pristine village nestled on the banks of the Umngot River. Experience river camping and spend your morning kayaking or tubing in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, relax on the riverside beach and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Witness a mesmerizing sunset before heading back to Shillong.
Umngot River Activities: Varies, 4 hours
Riverside Beach: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Shillong Times, located in Shillong. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Khasi dishes to continental favorites. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Lounge Restaurant in Shillong. Indulge in their delectable Indian and Chinese cuisines along with a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Jiva Grill in Shillong. Relish their lip-smacking grilled delicacies and refreshing beverages amidst a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have extra time, venture off the beaten path to explore the Mawphu Cave in Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth. The cave is known for its stunning formations and underground streams. Another hidden gem is the Krang Suri Waterfall near Jowai, where you can swim in turquoise pools surrounded by lush forests. These natural wonders offer a truly immersive experience in Meghalaya's breathtaking nature.