Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: Guwahati, Shillong, Cherapunji, Meghalaya

Saturday, December 23: Guwahati Arrival

Arrive in Guwahati and check into your hotel. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. Enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the local markets and try traditional Assamese cuisine.

• Kamakhya Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
• Brahmaputra River Boat Ride: INR 500 per person, 2 hours
• Local Market and Food: Variable cost, 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 24: Shillong City Tour

Drive to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Start your day with a visit to the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the rich culture and heritage of Northeast India. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Ward's Lake and enjoy boating. End the day by visiting the Elephant Falls for a mesmerizing waterfall experience.

• Don Bosco Museum: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Ward's Lake: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
• Elephant Falls: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Shillong Bakes & Beans, known for its delicious baked goods and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, try out Sao Aiom, a local restaurant serving authentic Khasi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For dinner, dine at Dylan's Café, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Monday, December 25: Cherrapunji Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunji, known as the wettest place on earth. Visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and enjoy the stunning views from the Mawsmai Cave. Don't miss the living root bridges in the village of Mawlynnong, known for its cleanliness and eco-tourism initiatives.

• Nohkalikai Falls: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Mawlynnong Village: Variable cost, 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Shillong Peak and Golf Course

Start your day by visiting Shillong Peak, offering panoramic views of the city and the Himalayas. Explore the sprawling greenery of the Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in India. In the evening, stroll along Police Bazar, the main commercial hub, and indulge in local street food.

• Shillong Peak: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
• Shillong Golf Course: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
• Police Bazar: Variable cost, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Explore Umiam Lake

Visit Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, and enjoy water activities like boating and kayaking. Explore the Orchid Lake Resort and take a leisurely walk along the lakeside. In the afternoon, visit the Lumpongdeng Island, a small island in the middle of the lake that offers a peaceful retreat.

• Umiam Lake: INR 20 per person, 3-4 hours
• Lumpongdeng Island: INR 100 per boat, 2-3 hours
• Water Activities: Variable cost, 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 28: Mawphlang Sacred Grove and Mawsynram

Visit the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest known for its biodiversity and religious significance. Take a guided nature walk and learn about the unique flora and fauna. Proceed to Mawsynram, another rain-soaked village, to visit the Mawsmai Cave and the Seven Sisters Falls.

• Mawphlang Sacred Grove: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Seven Sisters Falls: Free entry, 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Guwahati Departure

Return to Guwahati for your departure. Visit the Umananda Temple, located on the Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River. Explore the Assam State Museum to delve into the history and culture of Assam. End your trip with a sunset river cruise on the Brahmaputra River before heading to the airport.

• Umananda Temple: INR 10 per person, 2-3 hours
• Assam State Museum: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
• Sunset River Cruise: INR 500 per person, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly offbeat experience, consider visiting the Mawlyngbna village, where you can explore the beautiful David Scott Trail and enjoy activities like kayaking and camping. Another hidden gem is the Mawphlang village, known for its sacred forest and the unique Khasi culture. Don't miss trying the local delicacy, Jadoh, a flavorful rice dish with meat or vegetables.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.