Explore Meghalaya and Assam: A Family-Friendly 4-Day Itinerary

Thursday, November 16: Arrival in Meghalaya

Arrive at Guwahati Airport and embark on a scenic drive to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the picturesque Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, where you can enjoy boating and take in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the vibrant culture and heritage of Northeast India. End the day at Police Bazaar, a bustling marketplace, where you can indulge in local street food and shop for traditional handicrafts.

• Umiam Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Don Bosco Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100 (Entrance fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Police Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Shillong, head to Cafe Shillong, known for its freshly brewed coffee and a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, sandwiches, and omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Lamee! Meghalaya's Kitchen. This charming restaurant offers a menu of traditional Meghalayan dishes like Jadoh (pork and rice dish) and Nakham Bitchi (fermented fish chutney). The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, dine at Delicieux, a popular restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Thai Green Curry Pasta and Tandoori Chicken Pizza. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Friday, November 17: Exploring Cherrapunjee

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. In the morning, visit the famous Seven Sisters Falls, cascading down in seven tiers, offering a breathtaking sight. Head to the Mawsmai Caves in the afternoon, where you can explore the intriguing limestone formations. Conclude the day at the Living Root Bridges, unique natural wonders crafted by locals using the roots of the Ficus elastica tree.

• Seven Sisters Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mawsmai Caves: Estimated cost - INR 20 (Entrance fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Living Root Bridges: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Cherrapunjee is Café Cloud 9, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Seven Sisters Restaurant, offering a variety of local dishes including momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Dine at Sohra Café for dinner, where you can enjoy a wide range of Indian and international cuisines, with a beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Saturday, November 18: Discovering Guwahati

Return to Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India. Start the day with a visit to the Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts and artworks. Take a serene sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River in the evening, and admire the magnificent views of the city's skyline.

• Kamakhya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Assam State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 (Entrance fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500-700, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Heritage located in Guwahati. Start your day with their fluffy pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Satisfy your lunch cravings with a visit to Spice Route. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Assamese dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Paradise Restaurant. Indulge in their delectable seafood specialties while enjoying the beautiful view of the Brahmaputra River. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday, November 19: Nature's Delight in Mawlynnong

Embark on a day trip to Mawlynnong, often referred to as "Asia's Cleanest Village." In the morning, explore the Living Root Bridge at Riwai Village, a testament to the indigenous practices of the Khasi tribe. Visit the Sky View, a bamboo structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding lush landscapes. Engage with the local community and experience their warm hospitality. Head back to Shillong in the evening.

• Living Root Bridge at Riwai Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sky View: Estimated cost - INR 20 (Entrance fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Interacting with the local community: Estimated cost - Varies based on interactions, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, visit Cafe Shillong. They offer a variety of delicious dishes, including a tasty breakfast platter. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, check out City Hut Dhaba. They serve authentic Indian cuisine with a wide range of options. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a great dinner spot, head to ML 05 Cafe. They offer a cozy ambience and a menu featuring both Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Meghalaya and Assam, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunjee, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India. For a unique experience, visit the Mawsynram village, known as the wettest place on Earth, and witness the mesmerizing beauty of its rainfall. In Guwahati, venture to the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, where you can encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. Finally, take a leisurely walk along the Ward's Lake in Shillong, a beautiful man-made lake surrounded by lush gardens.

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