Start your trip by arriving in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, explore the bustling Police Bazar, known for its local markets and street food. Enjoy a traditional Khasi lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures, showcasing the art, traditions, and history of the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk around Ward's Lake, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation.
Police Bazar: Local Markets & Street Food | Cost: Varies | Time: 2-3 hours
Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures: Cultural Exhibition | Cost: INR 100 per person | Time: 2 hours
Meghalaya Breakfast Delight: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this cozy restaurant, offering a delicious spread of local breakfast favorites such as steamed momos and jadoh (a rice and meat dish). Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Riverside Lunch Haven: Enjoy a scrumptious lunch by the riverside at this picturesque restaurant, serving a variety of dishes including fresh fish curry, bamboo shoot delicacies, and local thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Evening Dinner Delight: End your day with a delightful dinner at this rooftop restaurant, offering a panoramic view of the river. Feast on delectable local specialties like smoked pork, chicken curry, and black sesame pudding. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Restaurants
A quaint cafe called "The Coffee Bean" is a perfect spot for breakfast, serving freshly brewed coffee and a variety of pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to "The Bamboo Hut" which offers a wide range of local Meghalayan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Indulge in a gourmet dinner experience at "The Cloud 9 Restaurant" offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Restaurants
A good option for breakfast is Cafe Shillong, which offers a wide range of delicious breakfast dishes. Their average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try out the Jiva Grill, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering grilled specialties. The average cost for a meal here is around Rs. 500 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to the Bamboo Hut restaurant, where you can indulge in authentic Khasi cuisine amidst a cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal at Bamboo Hut is approximately Rs. 700 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day at Mawlynnong Cafe, a cozy breakfast spot offering a variety of delicious local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Mawlynnong Food Court, a charming outdoor eatery serving authentic Khasi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
In the evening, indulge in a delectable dinner at Mawlynnong Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
Head to Cafe Shillong for a delicious breakfast spread, offering a variety of continental and local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, visit the Orchid Restaurant, known for its authentic Meghalayan cuisine, including Khasi delicacies and fresh seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Jiva Restaurant, a cozy establishment known for its fusion of Indian and international flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
A perfect place to start your day with a hearty breakfast is Café Cherrapunjee. This charming café offers a variety of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Jiva Veg Restaurant. This vegetarian restaurant serves a range of delectable Indian and Continental dishes, including thalis, biryanis, and wraps. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit the Spice Heritage Restaurant. Known for its flavorsome North Indian and Chinese cuisine, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and live music. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Shillong Times. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast dishes, from classic omelettes to local favorites like jadoh. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Trattoria, a charming Italian restaurant known for its delicious pizzas and pasta dishes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with options like Margherita pizza or spaghetti carbonara. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Jiva Grill & Cafe. This rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the city along with a delectable menu of grilled meats and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 14: Cherrapunjee Excursion
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. Start your morning by visiting the Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and waterfalls. Afterward, explore the mesmerizing Seven Sisters Falls and the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. In the evening, visit the Mawsmai Caves, a network of limestone caves with impressive stalactite formations.
Mawsmai Caves: Limestone Caves | Cost: INR 50 per person | Time: 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 15: Dawki and Mawlynnong
Head towards the border town of Dawki, known for its crystal clear Umngot River. In the morning, take a boat ride on the pristine river and marvel at its transparent waters. Afterward, proceed to Mawlynnong, dubbed the cleanest village in Asia. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting the Living Root Bridge and the Sky Walk for stunning views. Enjoy a traditional Khasi dinner at a local homestay in Mawlynnong.
Mawlynnong Village: Living Root Bridge, Sky Walk | Cost: Varies | Time: 2-3 hours
Traditional Khasi Dinner: Local Homestay | Cost: Varies | Time: 2 hours
Monday, October 16: Nongriat Trek
Embark on an adventurous trek to Nongriat Village, located deep within the dense forests of Meghalaya. In the morning, start the trek from Tyrna Village and descend around 3,500 steps to reach the Double-Decker Living Root Bridges, a natural wonder unique to Meghalaya. Spend the day exploring the pristine surroundings and taking a refreshing dip in natural pools and waterfalls. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Nongriat.
Nongriat Trek: Adventurous Trek | Cost: Varies | Time: Full Day
Double-Decker Living Root Bridges: Natural Wonder | Cost: Varies | Time: Full Day
Natural Pools and Waterfalls: Swimming | Cost: Varies | Time: Full Day
Embark on an exciting adventure in Shnongpdeng, a small village by the Umngot River. In the morning, indulge in various water activities such as kayaking, boating, and river tubing. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside. In the afternoon, go for a short hike to the nearby Pangong Falls and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the river in the evening.
Explore the picturesque town of Jowai, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. In the morning, visit the Thadlaskein Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. Afterward, proceed to Krang Suri Falls, a hidden gem tucked away in the forest. Spend the afternoon swimming in the turquoise blue pools and taking in the breathtaking waterfall. Return to Shillong in the evening.
Return to Shillong | Cost: Varies | Time: 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 19: Shillong Sightseeing
Spend your last day exploring the enchanting city of Shillong. In the morning, visit the Elephant Falls, a beautiful waterfall cascading amidst lush greenery. Explore the Shillong Peak, offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture at the Don Bosco Museum. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant, savoring traditional Khasi delicacies.
Elephant Falls: Waterfall | Cost: INR 10 per person | Time: 1-2 hours
While exploring Meghalaya, don't miss the hidden gem of Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest with ancient sacred trees. Witness the unique rituals and traditions of the indigenous people. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Bara Bazaar in Shillong, famous for its traditional handicrafts, clothing, and local produce. Enjoy a cup of locally grown Meghalaya tea at one of the hillside tea estates for an authentic taste of the region.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak.com.