Family-Friendly 7-Day Meghalaya Itinerary

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Meghalaya

Welcome to Meghalaya, the abode of clouds! Arrive at Shillong Airport and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the local surroundings. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Ward's Lake, a serene spot for family bonding.

• Ward's Lake: Free, 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 23: Exploring Shillong

Start your day with a visit to Elephant Falls, a magnificent waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. In the afternoon, head to the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, an engaging museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. End the day by enjoying the panoramic views from Shillong Peak.

• Elephant Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Shillong Peak: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Trip to Cherrapunjee

Embark on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, famous for its stunning waterfalls and living root bridges. Marvel at the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and Mawsmai Cave. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the unique double-decker living root bridge in Nongriat village.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
• Seven Sisters Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Double-Decker Living Root Bridge: Free, 4-5 hours

Monday, December 25: Leisure Day in Shillong

Enjoy Christmas Day at your own pace in Shillong. Explore Police Bazar, the bustling heart of the city, and indulge in some shopping. Take a serene boat ride in Umiam Lake and enjoy a picnic amidst breathtaking surroundings.

• Police Bazar: Free, 2-3 hours
• Umiam Lake: Boat ride - INR 200 per person, Picnic - cost depends on your choices, 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Mawlynnong Village and Dawki Day Trip

Discover the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, renowned for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices. Marvel at the Living Root Bridge and enjoy the panoramic view from Sky View. In the afternoon, visit Dawki and take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River.

• Mawlynnong Village: Free, 2-3 hours
• Dawki and Umngot River Boat Ride: INR 500 per boat, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Nongkhnum Island and Shnongpdeng

Embark on a day trip to Nongkhnum Island, the largest river island in Meghalaya. Enjoy adventurous activities like camping, swimming in the crystal-clear water of the island's natural pool, and taking mesmerizing photographs. Later, head to Shnongpdeng, a picturesque riverside destination, and relax by the peaceful Umngot River.

• Nongkhnum Island: Free (camping and other activities may have additional fees), 6-8 hours
• Shnongpdeng: Free, 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 28: Mawsynram and Living Root Bridge Exploration

Explore Mawsynram, known as the wettest place on Earth. Visit the majestic Mawjymbuin Cave, where stalagmites take the form of a Shiva Lingam. Trek to the beautiful Rainbow Falls and discover more living root bridges in the vicinity.

• Mawjymbuin Cave: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Rainbow Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
• Living Root Bridge (Mawlynnong or Nongriat): Free, 3-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem is Krang Suri Falls, located in West Jaintia Hills district. This mesmerizing waterfall offers a natural pool for swimming and is an ideal spot for a family picnic. Locals also love Lumpongdeng Island, a small island in the Umngot River, where you can relax in bamboo huts and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Check here to find hotel and flight prices for your Meghalaya trip.