7-Day Nature Itinerary for Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and South India

Monday, April 1: Meghalaya - The Land of Clouds

Begin your nature-filled adventure by exploring the breathtaking wonders of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the living root bridges in Cherrapunji, marveling at their unique natural construction. Afternoon brings a visit to the Mawlynnong village, renowned as the cleanest village in Asia. End the day with a serene boat ride in the Lumpongdeng Island.

• Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunji: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Mawlynnong village: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Lumpongdeng Island: Estimated Cost - INR 300, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Jiva's Café in Cherrapunji, a charming eatery known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Expect to spend around ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, try the traditional Khasi cuisine at Bamboo Hut Restaurant, located in Mawlynnong village. Their specialties include smoked pork and Jadoh rice. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Iewduh Junction, a popular street food area in Shillong. Indulge in local delights like momos, pork ribs, and jadoh. The average cost for a meal at Iewduh Junction is around ₹250 per person.

Tuesday, April 2: Maharashtra - The Sahyadri Ranges

Embark on a journey to Maharashtra's Sahyadri Ranges. Start your morning with a hike to the panoramic viewpoint of Rajmachi Fort. In the afternoon, explore the serene beauty of Lonavala and its famous caves. As the day winds down, witness the stunning sunset at Khandala Point.

• Rajmachi Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time - 4 hours
• Lonavala Caves: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Khandala Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Wednesday, April 3: Kashmir - The Heaven on Earth

Experience the ethereal beauty of Kashmir on the third day. Morning will be spent exploring the enchanting gardens of Srinagar, including the famous Mughal Gardens. In the afternoon, take a shikara boat ride on the mesmerizing Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. End the day with a peaceful stroll in the Badamwari Garden.

• Mughal Gardens in Srinagar: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Shikara Boat Ride on Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Badamwari Garden: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Thursday, April 4: Uttarakhand - The Abode of Gods

Discover the spiritual beauty of Uttarakhand on your fourth day. Start with a visit to the iconic Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar for a morning aarti ceremony. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to witness the breathtaking views from the famous Mansa Devi Temple. End the day by exploring the tranquil Rajaji National Park.

• Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 300, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Rajaji National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time - 4 hours

Friday, April 5: South India - The Land of Diversity

Experience the natural wonders of South India on your fifth day. Begin in the morning by exploring the stunning backwaters of Kerala in a traditional houseboat. In the afternoon, visit the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can witness diverse flora and fauna. End the day by rejuvenating amidst the tea plantations in Munnar.

• Backwater Houseboat in Kerala: Estimated Cost - INR 5,000, Estimated Time - 6 hours
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Tea Plantations in Munnar: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 2 hours

Saturday, April 6: South India - The Serene Beaches

Relax and unwind on the picturesque beaches of South India. Begin your day with a visit to the pristine beaches of Goa, where you can enjoy sunbathing and beach activities. In the afternoon, explore the colorful markets and sample delectable Goan cuisine. As the day comes to an end, witness the enchanting sunset at Palolem Beach.

• Goa Beaches: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 4 hours
• Explore Markets and Cuisine: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Palolem Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Sunday, April 7: South India - The Majestic Waterfalls

Conclude your nature-centric trip by visiting the majestic waterfalls of South India. Start with Jog Falls in Karnataka, one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India. In the afternoon, hike to the picturesque Dudhsagar Falls in Goa. End the day by witnessing the captivating beauty of Athirappilly Falls in Kerala.

• Jog Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 100, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 400, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Athirappilly Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Estimated Time - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang Valley, known for its pristine lakes and stunning mountain scenery. Another gem is the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, where you can witness a myriad of colorful blooms. Lastly, explore the lush greenery of Coorg in Karnataka, famous for its coffee plantations and scenic landscapes.

Find the best flight and hotel prices for your trip at Kayak.