Exploring Meghalaya: A 4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary
Monday, November 27: Exploring Shillong
Start your Meghalaya adventure by exploring the charming city of Shillong. In the morning, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Afterward, head to Ward's Lake, a picturesque man-made lake perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll. In the evening, visit Police Bazar, the lively market area, lined with shops and eateries, offering a taste of local cuisine and souvenirs.
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Ward's Lake: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Police Bazar: Cost varies based on activities, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Shillong, located in the heart of Shillong, offers a wide range of breakfast options including pancakes, eggs, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Lunch: Lamee Restaurant is a popular choice for lunch in Shillong, serving delicious local dishes such as Jadoh, a traditional Khasi rice and meat dish. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Dinner: ML05 Café is a cozy restaurant known for its mouthwatering Tibetan and Burmese cuisine. Their momos and thukpa are highly recommended. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Tuesday, November 28: Cherrapunjee's Natural Wonders
Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, known for its breathtaking natural attractions. Start your day by visiting the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India, offering stunning views. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a mystical limestone cave with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. End the day by visiting the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a marvel of bioengineering and a perfect spot for a family picnic.
Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person (guide fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Cherrapunjee which offers a wide range of freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Seven Sisters Restaurant which serves delicious North-Eastern cuisine including local delicacies like Jadoh (rice and meat dish) and Tungtap (smoked pork with bamboo shoots). The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Orange Roots, a cozy restaurant known for its Indian and international dishes. Don't miss out on their signature dish, the Meghalaya special Thali. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 29: Explore Mawlynnong Village
Discover the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. Start your day by exploring the picturesque Living Root Bridge, an incredible example of sustainable engineering. Afterward, visit the Sky Walk, a bamboo platform offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, interacting with the locals, and experiencing the warm hospitality. Don't miss trying traditional Khasi cuisine at a local family-run eatery.
Living Root Bridge: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sky Walk: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Mawlynnong Village: Free entry, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast option is Cafe Cherrapunji, known for their delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Bamboo Hut Restaurant, where you can savor authentic Khasi cuisine like Jadoh (Khasi Pulao) and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry). The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at The Polo Orchid Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, November 30: Soothing Nature of Mawphlang
Immerse yourself in the serene nature of Mawphlang. Start your day by hiking through the Sacred Grove, a dense forest area, sacred to the local Khasi people, known for its biodiversity. Afterward, visit the Khasi Heritage Village, where you can learn about the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Khasi tribe. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful picnic at the David Scott Trail, surrounded by the lush greenery of Meghalaya.
Sacred Grove: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person (guide fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Khasi Heritage Village: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
David Scott Trail: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Shillong, a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, sandwiches, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try out ML 05 Cafe, a popular spot for authentic Khasi cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohneiiong (pork curry), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry). Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For dinner, visit Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant offering a variety of dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. Indulge in their homemade desserts like Tiramisu and Panna Cotta. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Meghalaya, make sure to visit Mawphlang Sacred Forest for a unique spiritual experience. This ancient forest is believed to have supernatural powers and is an ideal place for a family outing. Another offbeat attraction is the Laitlum Canyons near Shillong, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. These hidden gems will provide a memorable and enriching experience for both kids and adults.