Welcome to Guwahati, the gateway to the northeast! After arriving at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, start your adventure by heading to the Kamakhya Temple. The morning is the best time to visit this ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Museum to learn about the region's rich culture and history. In the evening, take a serene sunset cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River. Estimated cost: Entrance fees to Kamakhya Temple: £3 per person, Assam State Museum: £2 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning - Kamakhya Temple (2 hours), Afternoon - Assam State Museum (2 hours), Evening - Brahmaputra River cruise (2 hours).
Start your morning with an adrenaline-filled adventure by visiting the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari to spot the famous one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife species. Afterward, head to the Umananda Temple, a picturesque island temple located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, visit the Navagraha Temple, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of Hindu astrology. End your day at the Guwahati Planetarium, where you can indulge in stargazing and fascinating space shows. Estimated cost: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary jeep safari: £20 per person, Umananda Temple boat ride: £5 per person, Guwahati Planetarium: £3 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning - Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours), Afternoon - Umananda Temple and Navagraha Temple (3 hours), Evening - Guwahati Planetarium (2 hours).
Leave Guwahati and embark on a scenic drive to Shillong, known as the "Scotland of the East." Marvel at the breathtaking views of Umiam Lake during the journey. After reaching Shillong, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the northeast tribes. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Police Bazaar, a popular shopping district in Shillong. Spend the evening at the Ward's Lake, enjoying a peaceful boat ride amidst the picturesque surroundings. Estimated cost: Fuel expenses for the journey: £30, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: £5 per person, Ward's Lake boat ride: £3 per person. Estimated time spent: Full-day journey to Shillong (6 hours), Afternoon - Police Bazaar (3 hours), Evening - Ward's Lake (2 hours).
Start your morning with an exhilarating trek to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridges in the nearby village of Nongriat. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and natural beauty of the Khasi Hills. In the afternoon, visit the Elephant Falls, a series of three waterfalls cascading down the rocks. Capture memorable photos at Shillong Peak, the highest point in Meghalaya, offering panoramic views of the city. Spend the evening experiencing the vibrant Shillong nightlife at popular music cafes like Cloud 9 or Tango. Estimated cost: Guide charges for trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridges: £15 per person, Entrance fee to Elephant Falls: £2 per person. Estimated time spent: Full-day trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridges (8 hours), Afternoon - Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak (3 hours), Evening - Music cafes (3 hours).
Embark on an exciting day trip from Shillong to Cherrapunji, famous for its record-breaking rainfall and mesmerizing landscapes. Start your day by witnessing the stunning Seven Sisters Falls. Trek to the root bridge at Mawsynram, another unique natural wonder of the region. In the afternoon, visit the Mawsmai Cave, known for its stalactites and stalagmites formations. Experience the thrill of standing beneath the pouring water at the Nohkalikai Falls, the highest plunge waterfall in India. Estimated cost: Transport for day trip to Cherrapunji: £50 (shared by four people), Guide charges for the trek to root bridge: £15 per person. Estimated time spent: Full-day trip to Cherrapunji (8 hours).
Say goodbye to the scenic beauty of Meghalaya as you journey back to Guwahati. On the way, make a stop at the Kamakhya Temple, if you wish to seek blessings again. Reach Guwahati and spend the rest of the day exploring the local markets, such as Fancy Bazaar, where you can buy authentic Assamese handicrafts and souvenirs. End your adventure by savoring a traditional Assamese meal at a local restaurant in Guwahati. Estimated cost: Fuel expenses for the return journey: £30, Shopping at Fancy Bazaar: As per individual purchases, Dinner at local restaurant: £10 per person. Estimated time spent: Morning - Travel from Cherrapunji to Guwahati (6 hours), Afternoon - Shopping at Fancy Bazaar (3 hours), Evening - Dinner at local restaurant (2 hours).
If you are seeking off the beaten path adventure, head to Mawlynnong, known as the "Cleanest Village in Asia." Explore the living root bridge at Riwai and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature. For thrill-seekers, try river-rafting in the mighty Brahmaputra River or opt for hiking in the Nokrek National Park, home to elusive and endangered species. Adventure enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the hidden caves in Cherrapunji and camping amidst the picturesque landscapes of Shillong. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, including Jadoh (rice and meat delicacy) and Tung-rymbai (fermented soybean dish) for an authentic culinary adventure.
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