Start your trip by arriving in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. In the morning, explore the Enchey Monastery, a beautiful Buddhist shrine surrounded by serene landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along MG Marg, the main street of Gangtok, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Enchey Monastery: Cost: Entry is free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
MG Marg: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Explore Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La
Start your day early and head to Tsomgo Lake, a stunning glacial lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Spend the morning enjoying the pristine beauty of the lake and take a yak ride if desired. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Nathu La, a mountain pass on the Indo-China border. Explore the area and soak in the breathtaking views. Return to Gangtok in the evening.
Tsomgo Lake: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Yak ride costs around INR 200-300, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Nathu La: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Live & Loud: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Parivar Restaurant: Indulge in a traditional Indian lunch at this family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
The Square Restaurant: Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at this cozy eatery serving a wide range of dishes from Indian to Chinese cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Visit the Rumtek Monastery and Banjhakri Falls
Start your day by visiting the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. Explore the intricately designed interiors and enjoy the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, head to Banjhakri Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Rumtek Monastery: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Banjhakri Falls: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 14: Travel to Shillong
Leave Gangtok and travel to Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Elephant Falls, a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Explore the well-maintained trails and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along Police Bazaar, the bustling market area of Shillong.
Elephant Falls: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Don Bosco Museum: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Police Bazaar: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Shillong, a cozy cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, waffles, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, visit Jadoh, a popular restaurant in Shillong serving traditional Khasi food. Try their signature dish, Jadoh, a flavorful combination of rice, pork, and spices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Wild Ginger, a classy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Asian-style grilled chicken and risotto with a Northeastern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, December 15: Explore Cherrapunjee
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, known for its stunning waterfalls and living root bridges. In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Enjoy the breathtaking views and capture memorable photographs. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone cave with impressive formations. End your day by visiting the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nohkalikai Falls: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mawsmai Cave: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 16: Experience the Living Root Bridges
Travel to Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, and explore the living root bridges. In the morning, visit the Riwai Living Root Bridge and marvel at its unique construction. Take a leisurely walk through the village and soak in the pristine beauty. In the afternoon, head to Dawki and experience the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River on a boating tour. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Riwai Living Root Bridge: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Umngot River Boating: Cost: Boating charges vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 17: Discover Shillong's Nature and Culture
In the morning, visit the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. Take a short trek to the top and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, explore the Lady Hydari Park, a well-maintained park with beautiful gardens. Visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, a magnificent church dating back to the colonial era. End your trip by indulging in delicious local cuisine.
Shillong Peak: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Lady Hydari Park: Cost: Entry fee is around INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Shillong which offers a great selection of pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out the local delicacies at Khasi Jadoh, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Meghalayan cuisine. Don't miss the pork dishes and bamboo shoot preparations. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit City Hut Family Dhaba, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of North Indian dishes and local favorites like momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While visiting Sikkim and Meghalaya, don't miss the opportunity to explore the hidden gems and local favorites. In Sikkim, consider taking a day trip to the picturesque town of Lachung and experience the beauty of Yumthang Valley. In Meghalaya, venture to the clean and serene village of Mawphlang, known for its sacred groves and nature trails. These off the beaten path attractions offer unique experiences and a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.