7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Guwahati, Shillong, and Cherrapunji
Monday, October 2: Guwahati Arrival
Start your trip by arriving in Guwahati and checking into your hotel. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site known for its unique architecture and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River and enjoy the beautiful views.
Assam State Museum: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunset cruise on Brahmaputra River: Cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Café Heritage: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Heritage, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable menu. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Lunch: Paradise Restaurant: Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Paradise Restaurant, popular for its authentic Assamese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Dinner: The Woking Mama: Savor a delightful dinner at The Woking Mama, a Chinese and Thai restaurant offering a wide range of flavorsome dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Shillong Exploration
After breakfast, start your journey to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Elephant Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Ward's Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Coffee House: A cozy café located near Elephant Falls, serving a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Khasi Kitchen: A popular restaurant in Shillong offering traditional Khasi cuisine for lunch, including dishes like Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohkyi (pork curry), and Nakham Bitchi (banana stem salad). Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
City Hut Family Dhaba: A family-friendly restaurant known for its delicious Indian and Chinese dishes. Enjoy a flavorful dinner with dishes like Butter Chicken, Veg Manchurian, and Fried Rice. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Shillong's Natural Beauty
Embark on a full-day excursion to explore the natural beauty of Shillong. In the morning, visit the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a preserved forest area with unique biodiversity. In the afternoon, explore the Shillong Peak, which offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, visit the vibrant Police Bazaar and indulge in shopping and local cuisine.
Police Bazaar: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 5: Cherrapunji Adventure
Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunji, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave with stunning rock formations. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sunset at the Seven Sisters Falls viewpoint.
Explore more of Cherrapunji's natural wonders. In the morning, visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, an incredible example of bioengineering. In the afternoon, hike to the Rainbow Falls and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. In the evening, visit the Eco Park and take in the panoramic views of the lush landscape.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Entrance fee - INR 500, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Return to Guwahati and explore the city's cultural and historical sites. In the morning, visit the Umananda Temple, situated on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, explore the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, a cultural complex showcasing Assamese art and culture. In the evening, take a stroll along the riverfront at the Fancy Bazaar.
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to the airport for your departure.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Off the beaten path, you can explore the scenic Mawsynram village near Cherrapunji, known as the wettest inhabited place on Earth. Take a guided tour to learn about the local way of life and marvel at the natural beauty. For adventure enthusiasts, try river rafting in the Umngot River near Dawki, a thrilling experience amidst breathtaking landscapes.