Start your trip by exploring the beautiful city of Shillong. In the morning, visit the Ward's Lake, a serene and picturesque spot where you can enjoy boating and take a leisurely stroll around the lake. For lunch, head to the popular Café Shillong, known for its delicious local cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Marvel at the artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that depict the lifestyle and traditions of the indigenous people of Northeast India.
In the evening, take a walk along Police Bazaar, the main commercial hub of Shillong. Explore the local markets, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in street food like momos and jalebis.
Café Shillong: Estimated Cost - INR 500-800 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Don Bosco Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 50-100 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Police Bazaar: Estimated Cost - Varies based on shopping, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Shillong, known for its delicious breakfast options. Enjoy a hearty meal of pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Jadoh Stall and savor the traditional Khasi dish of pork rice. This local eatery offers a flavorful combination of rice cooked with pork, spices, and herbs. A meal at Jadoh Stall will cost you around Rs. 150 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at ML 05 Café, a popular restaurant in Shillong. Feast on a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental, while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a dinner here is about Rs. 500 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Cherrapunjee Day Trip
Embark on a scenic day trip to Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your morning with a visit to the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Witness the breathtaking view of water cascading down from a height of 1,100 feet.
Afterward, explore the Mawsmai Caves, a network of limestone caves, famous for its stalactites and stalagmites. Traverse through narrow passages and marvel at the natural formations inside.
In the afternoon, visit the Seven Sisters Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall formed by seven separate streams. Enjoy the panoramic view and take memorable photographs. End your day with a visit to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a unique example of bioengineering where living tree roots are intertwined to form a bridge.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Estimated Cost - Free (Guide charges extra), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Indian dishes to Western-style breakfast staples. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Jiva Spa Restaurant. This restaurant not only offers healthy and organic menu options but also provides a relaxing and rejuvenating ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Dylan's Cafe. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant serves a wide range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, October 20: Mawlynnong Village and Dawki River
On this day, explore the pristine beauty of Mawlynnong Village, known as the cleanest village in Asia. Start your morning with a visit to the Living Root Bridge, a remarkable natural bridge made from the roots of ancient trees.
Next, visit the Sky View Point, a bamboo watchtower that offers panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the tranquility and lush greenery as you soak in the scenic beauty.
In the afternoon, head to Dawki, a small town famous for its crystal-clear river, Umngot. Take a boat ride on the river to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the underwater world. You can also indulge in kayaking or enjoy a picnic by the riverside.
Living Root Bridge: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sky View Point: Estimated Cost - INR 20-30 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Boat Ride in Dawki: Estimated Cost - INR 500-800 per boat, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious and filling breakfast, head to Cafe Shillong which offers a wide range of options including traditional Khasi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Satisfy your hunger with a scrumptious lunch at City Hut Family Dhaba known for its mouthwatering Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Experience a delightful dinner at ML05 Cafe which offers a cozy ambiance and a variety of appetizing food options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls
On the final day of your trip, start with a visit to Shillong Peak, the highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and capture memorable photographs.
Next, head to the Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall nestled in the dense greenery of Shillong. Take a short hike to witness the cascading water and feel refreshed by the misty atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the Lady Hydari Park, a beautifully landscaped garden with a variety of flowers and a mini-zoo. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Shillong Peak: Estimated Cost - INR 10-20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Elephant Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 10-20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Lady Hydari Park: Estimated Cost - INR 10-20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Suji's Breakfast Corner: A popular local spot known for its hearty breakfast options like steaming hot idlis and dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Cafe Bebika: A cozy cafe offering a range of international and local lunch dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and pasta. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Polo Max Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant offering a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Indulge in delicious dinner options while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Shillong, don't miss out on visiting Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a mystical forest known for its biodiversity and sacred groves. Take a guided tour to learn about the local Khasi culture and traditions.
Another offbeat attraction is the David Scott Trail, a historic trail that stretches from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang. Embark on a trek to witness stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and ancient stone bridges.
For the adventure enthusiasts, consider trying river canyoning in the beautiful Kynshi River. This thrilling activity involves rappelling down waterfalls, swimming in natural pools, and sliding down natural rock slides.
Start planning your trip to Shillong by checking hotel and flight prices here.