A Week in Northeast India: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Sunday, November 12: Gauhati

Start your trip in Gauhati, the gateway to Northeast India. Explore the Kamakhya Temple in the morning, a sacred site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. Afterward, visit the Assam State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. In the evening, take a relaxing sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

• Kamakhya Temple: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Assam State Museum: Entry fee: INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: INR 500 per person, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• The Breakfast Place: A cozy café offering a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• The Lunch Bistro: A popular restaurant serving delicious local dishes such as Assamese thali and traditional curries. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• The Dinner Spot: A waterfront restaurant known for its scenic views and delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.

Monday, November 13: Kaziranga National Park

Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Go on an early morning jeep safari to spot majestic Indian rhinos, tigers, and various bird species. In the afternoon, visit the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park to see a stunning display of indigenous flora.

• Kaziranga National Park Safari: INR 1,500 per person, 4-5 hours
• Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Entry fee: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in the Kaziranga National Park area, head to Forest Greens Restaurant. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options including hot and tasty omelettes, fluffy pancakes, and crispy toast. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
• When it's time for lunch, visit Bonfire Grill and Barbeque. Indulge in mouthwatering grilled kebabs, juicy burgers, and flavorful vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, make your way to Wildgrass Restaurant. This restaurant offers a menu featuring traditional Assamese cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy dishes like smoked pork, fish curry, and bamboo shoot stir-fry. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹600 per person.

Tuesday, November 14: Shillong

Travel to Shillong, the "Scotland of the East." Begin your day with a visit to Ward's Lake, a picturesque spot perfect for a morning stroll. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. Wrap up your day by admiring the sunset from the Shillong Peak viewpoint.

• Ward's Lake: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Entry fee: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Shillong Peak: Entry fee: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 15: Cherrapunji

Head to Cherrapunji, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your day by visiting the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Afterward, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave system with impressive stalactite formations. Conclude your day with a visit to the Dawki River, famous for its crystal-clear waters.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Entry fee: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Dawki River: Free entry, 2-3 hours

Thursday, November 16: Dawki

Continue your exploration of Dawki and its surrounding areas. Start your morning with a boat ride on the Umngot River, known for its stunning emerald-green waters. Afterward, visit the Living Root Bridges in Mawlynnong, a unique marvel of bioengineering. Take a leisurely walk through the cleanest village in Asia and immerse yourself in its charm.

• Umngot River Boat Ride: INR 500 per boat, 2-3 hours
• Living Root Bridges in Mawlynnong: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Exploring Mawlynnong: Free entry, 2-3 hours

Friday, November 17: Shillong

Return to Shillong to explore more of its attractions. Begin your day with a visit to Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in India. End your day by shopping for local handicrafts at the vibrant Police Bazaar.

• Elephant Falls: Entry fee: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Shillong Golf Course: Entry fee: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Police Bazaar: Shopping expenses vary, 2-3 hours

Saturday, November 18: Gauhati

Conclude your trip with a return to Gauhati. Spend your last day exploring the Umananda Island, located on the Brahmaputra River. Visit the Umananda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, take a stroll along the riverfront and savor some delicious Assamese cuisine.

• Umananda Island: Ferry fee: INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
• Umananda Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Assamese Cuisine: Dining expenses vary, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider exploring the Mawphlang Sacred Forest near Shillong, where you can learn about the Khasi tribal culture and walk through the mystical forest. Another offbeat attraction is the Dawki Suspension Bridge, offering stunning views of the Umngot River. Locals also recommend trying the traditional Assamese bamboo shoot curry, a delicacy in the region.

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