Meghalaya Nature Adventure

Saturday, December 23: Shillong

Start your trip by arriving in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the picturesque Ward's Lake and enjoy a peaceful stroll around its beautiful gardens. Afterward, head to Shillong Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Police Bazar, where you can shop for local handicrafts and taste delicious street food. In the evening, visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

  • Ward's Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Shillong Peak: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Police Bazar: Varies, 2-3 hours
  • Don Bosco Museum: INR 100 (USD 1.35), 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Cherrapunji

Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and marvel at its magnificent beauty. Afterward, explore the Mawsmai Caves, a network of limestone caves adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, hike to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat Village and witness the extraordinary natural engineering. In the evening, return to Shillong.

  • Nohkalikai Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Mawsmai Caves: INR 20 (USD 0.27), 1-2 hours
  • Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Free, 4-5 hours
Monday, December 25: Mawlynnong

On Christmas Day, visit the charming village of Mawlynnong, renowned as the cleanest village in Asia. In the morning, explore the Living Root Bridge, an awe-inspiring example of nature's architecture. Afterward, wander around the village to admire its well-maintained streets and picturesque houses. In the afternoon, take a short hike to the Sky View, a bamboo viewing platform offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and Bangladesh plains. Enjoy a peaceful evening in Mawlynnong before heading back to Shillong.

  • Living Root Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Mawlynnong Village: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Sky View: INR 20 (USD 0.27), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Dawki and Mawphlang

Embark on a scenic drive to Dawki, a small border town famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River. In the morning, take a boat ride on the river to witness its mesmerizing turquoise waters and the underwater beauty. Afterward, visit the nearby village of Mawphlang, known for its sacred grove and ancient monoliths. In the afternoon, explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest and learn about the Khasi tribal culture. In the evening, return to Shillong.

  • Dawki Boat Ride: INR 500-800 (USD 6.75-10.80), 2-3 hours
  • Mawphlang Sacred Forest: INR 20 (USD 0.27), 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Nongriat

Embark on an adventurous trek to the hidden gem of Nongriat, famous for its living root bridges and breathtaking waterfalls. In the morning, start your hike from Tyrna village and make your way to Nongriat. Along the way, you'll encounter the iconic Double Decker Living Root Bridge and the mesmerizing Rainbow Falls. Spend the day exploring this natural paradise, refreshing yourself in the natural pools. In the evening, rest and enjoy the tranquility of Nongriat.

  • Nongriat Trek: Free, 6-8 hours
Thursday, December 28: Mawsynram

Visit Mawsynram, officially the wettest place on Earth, and immerse yourself in its stunning natural landscapes. In the morning, explore the impressive Mawjymbuin Cave with its unique stalagmite formations. Afterward, visit the Seven Sisters Falls, a magnificent waterfall consisting of seven cascades. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the village and marvel at the picturesque scenery. In the evening, return to Shillong.

  • Mawjymbuin Cave: INR 10 (USD 0.14), 1-2 hours
  • Seven Sisters Falls: INR 10 (USD 0.14), 1-2 hours
Friday, December 29: Elephant Falls and Lady Hydari Park

On your last day, explore the natural beauty of Elephant Falls and the serene Lady Hydari Park in Shillong. In the morning, visit Elephant Falls, a magnificent three-tiered waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Afterward, head to Lady Hydari Park, a tranquil garden perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the afternoon, explore the local cafes and markets in Shillong to indulge in the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. In the evening, bid farewell to Meghalaya.

  • Elephant Falls: INR 20 (USD 0.27), 1-2 hours
  • Lady Hydari Park: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Local Cafes and Markets: Varies, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path attractions in Meghalaya, consider visiting Mawlyngot, a lesser-known village with serene landscapes and beautiful waterfalls. Another hidden gem is Siju Cave, located in the Garo Hills, which offers an enchanting experience through its limestone formations and underground rivers. Lastly, head to Nartiang to explore the ancient monoliths and the Durga Temple, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Jaintia tribe.

For hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.

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