Exploring Shillong, Meghalaya, and Guwahati: 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, January 1: Arrival in Shillong

Welcome to Shillong, the Scotland of the East! In the morning, explore the picturesque Ward's Lake and stroll through the beautiful Lady Hydari Park. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the rich culture and history of the region. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk down Police Bazaar, the bustling commercial hub of Shillong.

• Ward's Lake: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 2 hours
• Lady Hydari Park: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
• Don Bosco Museum: Entrance fee - INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Police Bazaar: Shopping and dining costs vary, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Exploring Shillong's Natural Wonders

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Elephant Falls, renowned for its cascading beauty. In the afternoon, head to the Shillong Peak for breathtaking panoramic views. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant local market of Bara Bazaar, known for its unique handicrafts and local produce.

• Elephant Falls: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shillong Peak: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1 hour
• Bara Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, January 3: Day Trip to Cherrapunjee

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Witness the majestic Nohkalikai Falls, visit the Mawsmai Caves, and take in the panoramic views from the Seven Sisters Falls viewpoint. Return to Shillong in the evening.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mawsmai Caves: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Seven Sisters Falls: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, January 4: Journey to Mawlynnong and Dawki

Explore the pristine village of Mawlynnong, renowned as Asia's cleanest village. Marvel at the panoramic views from the Sky Walk, visit the living root bridge, and experience the local culture. In the afternoon, journey to the enchanting Dawki village and take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River.

• Mawlynnong Sky Walk: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
• Living Root Bridge: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat ride in Dawki: Price per boat - INR 500-800, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Café Shillong, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable English breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Savor a delicious lunch at Jadoh, a popular local eatery famous for its traditional Khasi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at City Hut Dhaba, a local favorite for its mouthwatering North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Friday, January 5: Visit the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati

Start your day with a drive to Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India. Visit the sacred Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kamakhya. Explore the Navagraha Temple and enjoy a serene boat ride on the mighty Brahmaputra River in the evening.

• Kamakhya Temple: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Navagraha Temple: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Brahmaputra River Boat Ride: Price per boat - INR 500-800, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, January 6: Exploring Guwahati's Heritage Sites

Discover the rich heritage of Guwahati by visiting the Assam State Museum, showcasing artifacts from the region's history. Explore the Ugro Tara Temple and enjoy the serene ambiance of the Assam Rajyik State Museum. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Sukreswar Ghat on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.

• Assam State Museum: Entrance fee - INR 10-20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ugro Tara Temple: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Assam Rajyik State Museum: Entrance fee - INR 10-20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sukreswar Ghat: Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, January 7: Departure from Guwahati

After a wonderful journey through Shillong, Meghalaya, and Guwahati, it's time to bid farewell. Departure from Guwahati and have safe travels back home!

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Shillong, don't miss out on visiting the scenic Laitlum Canyons for breathtaking views of the valley. Another hidden gem is the Mawjymbuin Cave, famous for its naturally formed religious sculptures. Locals also love to spend their leisure time at the peaceful Umiam Lake, enjoying boating and picnicking.

In Guwahati, the Madan Kamdev archaeological site is a hidden gem known for its ancient ruins and sculptures. Locals also highly recommend visiting the Saraighat Bridge during sunset to witness the stunning view and experience the vibrant ambiance.