A Week in Guwahati and Cherrapunji

Saturday, October 14, 2023: Arrival in Guwahati

Welcome to Guwahati! Start your trip by visiting the Kamakhya Temple in the morning. This ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya is a popular pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride on the Brahmaputra River to Umananda Island, known for its Shiva temple. In the evening, explore the local markets and enjoy some delicious Assamese cuisine.

• Kamakhya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Umananda Island: Estimated cost - Ferry ride costs around INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, October 15, 2023: Guwahati Sightseeing

Start the day by visiting the Assam State Museum, which houses artifacts showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, home to diverse flora and fauna. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River for breathtaking views.

• Assam State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 5 entry fee, Time spent - 2 hours
• Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30 entry fee, Time spent - 3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, October 16, 2023: Journey to Cherrapunji

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunji, known as the wettest place on earth. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Meghalaya hills and stop at viewpoints like Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls along the way. After reaching Cherrapunji, visit the Seven Sisters Falls and Mawsmai Cave, and marvel at the beauty of nature around you.

• Shillong Peak: Estimated cost - INR 30 entry fee, Time spent - 1 hour
• Elephant Falls: Estimated cost - INR 10 entry fee, Time spent - 1 hour
• Seven Sisters Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - INR 20 entry fee, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, October 17, 2023: Cherrapunji Adventure

Embark on an adventurous day in Cherrapunji. Start with a visit to the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, followed by a trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in the village of Nongriat. Spend the day exploring the natural wonders and immersing yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Estimated cost - INR 500 for guide (optional), Time spent - 4-5 hours

Wednesday, October 18, 2023: Exploring Cherrapunji

Today, visit the picturesque Mawlynnong Village, known as Asia's cleanest village. Explore the clean streets, visit the Living Root Bridge, and admire the unique traditions and practices of the locals. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Dawki River at the Indo-Bangladesh border.

• Mawlynnong Village: Estimated cost - INR 50 entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dawki River: Estimated cost - Boat ride costs around INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 19, 2023: Return to Guwahati

It's time to bid farewell to Cherrapunji and head back to Guwahati. On the way, stop at the Don Bosco Museum in Shillong to learn about the indigenous cultures of Northeast India. Once you reach Guwahati, take a leisurely evening cruise on the Brahmaputra River and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

• Don Bosco Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 entry fee, Time spent - 2 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Guwahati, make sure to visit the Sualkuchi Village, famous for its silk weaving traditions. Witness the skilled artisans at work and even buy some beautiful silk products as souvenirs. In Cherrapunji, spend some time exploring the village of Mawsynram, known for being the wettest place on earth. Enjoy the tranquility and experience the local way of life.

Looking for flight and hotel deals in Guwahati and Cherrapunji? Check out Kayak for the best prices!