Meghalaya Family-Friendly Itinerary for August 2023

1. Day 1: Elephant Falls
   20 minutes (6.4 km) from Shillong

   Marvel at the beauty of Elephant Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in Meghalaya. The falls are a three-tiered cascade that drops from a height of 30 meters. Take a dip in the natural pool or enjoy a picnic with your family amidst the lush greenery surrounding the falls.

2. Day 2: Mawlynnong Village
   3 hours 30 minutes (90 km) from Elephant Falls

   Explore the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. This picturesque village is home to living root bridges, bamboo watchtowers, and eco-friendly houses made of bamboo and thatch. Take a guided tour of the village and savor local delicacies made with fresh ingredients.

3. Day 3: Dawki River
   2 hours 30 minutes (80 km) from Mawlynnong Village

   Visit the crystal clear waters of Dawki River, known as one of the cleanest rivers in India. Take a boat ride and admire the emerald green waters of the river, which separates India and Bangladesh. Experience the beauty of the suspension bridge and limestone cliffs that surround the river.

4. Day 4: Living Root Bridge Trek
   4 hours (120 km) from Dawki River

   Take a trek to the living root bridges of Meghalaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trek involves a 3 km hike through dense forests and bamboo groves. Admire the unique bridges, which are made by weaving the roots of rubber trees. Take a dip in the natural pools en route and interact with the friendly locals.

5. Day 5: Nohkalikai Falls
   3 hours 30 minutes (110 km) from Living Root Bridge Trek

   Witness the magnificent Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, cascading from a height of 1115 feet. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush green forests and provide a stunning backdrop for photographs. Enjoy a hot cup of tea at the nearby tea stalls and indulge in local street food.

6. Day 6: Don Bosco Museum
   2 hours (70 km) from Nohkalikai Falls

   End your trip with a visit to Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. The museum has seven floors and exhibits a vast collection of artifacts, handicrafts, and paintings. Get a glimpse of the diverse customs, traditions, and lifestyles of the indigenous people of Meghalaya.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Elephant Falls (1-2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Mawlynnong Village (3-4 hours, INR 50 per person)
• Dawki River (2-3 hours, INR 500 per boat)
• Living Root Bridge Trek (5-6 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Nohkalikai Falls (1-2 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Don Bosco Museum (2-3 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1190 per person

Recommendations

Do not miss out on trying the local street food like Jadoh, Tung-rymbai, and Dohneiiong. You can also visit the Shillong peak, Laitlum Canyons, and Umiam Lake for panoramic views of Meghalaya's breathtaking landscapes. To maximize your fun, plan your itinerary according to the opening and closing times of the places you wish to visit. Additionally, carry comfortable walking shoes, light jackets, and raincoats as the weather can be unpredictable.