Exploring Meghalaya: A Family Friendly 6-Day Itinerary
Tuesday, November 14: Arrival in Shillong
Welcome to Meghalaya! Start your trip by arriving in Shillong, the capital city. In the morning, visit the Don Bosco Museum, a unique cultural center showcasing the rich heritage of the Northeast region. Afternoon can be spent exploring Lady Hydari Park, a beautiful garden with a mini zoo. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Police Bazaar, the central market area, and indulge in some local shopping.
Don Bosco Museum: Entrance Fee - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Lady Hydari Park: Entrance Fee - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Police Bazaar: Shopping Costs Vary, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Café Shillong: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Shillong, known for its cozy ambiance and variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
City Hut Dhaba: For a traditional and affordable Indian lunch, head to City Hut Dhaba. They serve a variety of North Indian dishes including tandoori rotis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Trattoria: Enjoy a delightful Italian dinner at Trattoria, a popular restaurant known for its authentic pizzas and pasta. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Cherrapunjee
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes. In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Afterward, explore the Mawsmai Caves, a network of limestone caves with fascinating rock formations. In the evening, enjoy a breathtaking sunset viewpoint at the Seven Sisters Falls.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café By The Way. This cozy café offers a variety of options including freshly baked pastries, pancakes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Orange Roots, a charming restaurant known for its organic, farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with options like salads, sandwiches, and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Nongriat Restaurant, famous for its authentic Khasi cuisine. Savour traditional dishes like Jadoh (rice and meat) and Tungtap (fermented fish). Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Thursday, November 16: Dawki and Mawlynnong
Head to the border town of Dawki and visit the famous Umngot River. Take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, continue to Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia. Explore the living root bridge and marvel at the well-maintained surroundings. End the day with a visit to the Sky View, a bamboo watchtower offering panoramic views of the village.
Umngot River Boat Ride: Cost - INR 500 per boat, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Living Root Bridge: Entrance Fee - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sky View: Entrance Fee - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Cafe Cherrapunjee offers a delicious breakfast with Indian and continental options. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Silk Route Restaurant in Dawki serves a variety of local and Chinese dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Ri Kynjai Resort in Mawphlang is a fine dining restaurant serving traditional Khasi cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, November 17: Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls
Start the day by visiting Shillong Peak, the highest point in the city offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Spend some time embracing the natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic by the waterfall and immerse yourself in nature. In the evening, explore the local markets and try some delicious street food.
Shillong Peak: Entrance Fee - INR 30 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Elephant Falls: Entrance Fee - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Market: Food Costs Vary, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Shillong is Café Shillong. Known for its cozy ambiance and delicious breakfast options, such as pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Jiva- Healthy Kitchen & Café. This vegetarian restaurant offers a wide range of healthy and flavorful dishes, including salads, wraps, and smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at ML 05 Café, a charming restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. They serve a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Saturday, November 18: Mawphlang and Sacred Forest
Visit Mawphlang, a village known for its sacred grove and rich biodiversity. Take a guided nature walk through the Khasi Hills and learn about the local flora and fauna. Explore the Sacred Forest, a protected area believed to be inhabited by spirits. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. Head back to Shillong in the evening and relax at your hotel.
Mawphlang Nature Walk: Entrance Fee - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Sacred Forest: Entrance Fee - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Shillong: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Shillong, located in the heart of Shillong. Enjoy their delicious pancakes and eggs benedict, and savor a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
City Hut Dhaba: For a satisfying lunch, head to City Hut Dhaba, a popular eatery known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Indulge in their delicious biryanis and curries, and don't miss their butter naan. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹400 per person.
Trattoria: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant in Shillong. Enjoy their mouthwatering pizzas, pasta dishes, and delectable desserts. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, November 19: Laitlum Canyons and Wards Lake
Visit the Laitlum Canyons, located near Shillong, and be mesmerized by the captivating views of steep gorges and deep valleys. Spend the morning exploring the scenic beauty and capturing memorable photographs. In the afternoon, unwind at Wards Lake, a picturesque man-made lake surrounded by lush gardens. Enjoy a boat ride and relax in the serene atmosphere. End your trip with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Wards Lake: Entrance Fee - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Dinner at Local Restaurant: Cost Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Laitlum Canyons is Cafe Shillong, known for their delicious local dishes such as jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices). Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to City Hut Family Dhaba, a nearby restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine including biryani and curry dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
To end your day with a delightful dinner, visit ML 05 Cafe in Shillong which offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting Krang Suri Falls near Jowai. This hidden gem boasts turquoise blue water and is perfect for a family picnic. Another local favorite is the Kyllang Rock in Mairang, a huge granite dome offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Don't forget to try the authentic Khasi cuisine, such as Jadoh (rice dish), Dohneiiong (pork curry), and Pumaloi (steamed rice cake). These off the beaten path attractions and local delights will surely make your trip to Meghalaya memorable.