7-Day Nature Adventure in Meghalaya

Thursday, September 21: Shillong

Start your nature adventure in Meghalaya by exploring the charming city of Shillong. In the morning, visit the Ward's Lake, a picturesque spot surrounded by gardens and beautiful flowers. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake and soak in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, hike to the Elephant Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading down amidst lush greenery. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, such as Police Bazaar, where you can buy traditional handicrafts and taste local delicacies.

• Ward's Lake: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Elephant Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, September 22: Cherrapunjee

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, famous for its lush green landscapes and abundant waterfalls. Start your day by visiting the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the cascading water and surrounding cliffs. In the afternoon, explore Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone cave known for its unique formations. End the day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset at the Seven Sisters Falls viewpoint.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Seven Sisters Falls viewpoint: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, September 23: Dawki

Travel to Dawki, a small town known for its crystal-clear Umngot River. Start your morning with a boat ride on the river, where you can see the riverbed through the transparent water. Afterward, visit the nearby Shnongpdeng Village and indulge in adventure activities like kayaking or zip-lining. In the evening, relax by the riverbank and savor a picnic amidst the scenic beauty.

• Boat ride on Umngot River: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Adventure activities in Shnongpdeng Village: Cost varies based on activities, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Picnic by the riverbank: Personal expenses, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, September 24: Mawlynnong

Visit Mawlynnong, renowned as the cleanest village in Asia. In the morning, explore the Living Root Bridge, a unique natural bridge made of interwoven roots of ancient trees. Marvel at the engineering marvel and immerse yourself in the lush surroundings. Spend the afternoon wandering through the village, admiring the well-maintained gardens and bamboo structures. Don't miss climbing the Sky View, a bamboo watchtower offering panoramic views of the village and the distant plains of Bangladesh.

• Living Root Bridge: Estimated cost - INR 30, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Mawlynnong Village: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Sky View: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, September 25: Mawphlang

Head to Mawphlang, a village known for its sacred grove and cultural heritage. Start your day with a visit to the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a dense forest believed to be protected by deities. Take a guided nature walk and learn about the unique flora and fauna. In the afternoon, explore the Khasi heritage village and interact with the locals to understand their traditional way of life. Complete the day by participating in a traditional Khasi music and dance performance.

• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Khasi heritage village: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Traditional music and dance performance: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, September 26: Nongriat

Embark on an adventurous trek to Nongriat, a hidden gem known for its Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Start early in the morning and hike through the picturesque trails, crossing suspension bridges and enjoying the scenic beauty. Reach Nongriat and witness the magnificent Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. Spend the day exploring the surrounding waterfalls, such as Rainbow Falls and Nohkalikai Falls.

• Trek to Nongriat: Estimated cost - None, Estimated time spent - 6-7 hours
• Double Decker Living Root Bridge: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring surrounding waterfalls: No entry fee, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Wednesday, September 27: Shillong Peak

Conclude your nature adventure by visiting Shillong Peak, the highest point in Shillong. Start your morning with a visit to this viewpoint and enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Observe the mesmerizing sunrise and capture stunning photographs. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. Wrap up your trip by savoring a delicious Khasi meal at a local restaurant.

• Shillong Peak: Estimated cost - INR 30, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Khasi meal at a local restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 300, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path attractions in Meghalaya, don't miss the hidden gem of Laitlum Canyons. Located near Shillong, these majestic canyons offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Another local favorite is the Krang Suri Waterfall in Jowai, a mesmerizing natural waterfall with crystal-clear blue water. These lesser-known attractions provide tranquil and awe-inspiring experiences for those seeking the beauty of nature in Meghalaya.