Volunteering in Meghalaya: A 4-Day Adventure

Sunday, November 12: Arrival in Meghalaya

Arrive in Meghalaya and check into your accommodation. Take the morning to settle in and get acquainted with the local area. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, and enjoy a scenic boat ride. In the evening, explore the lively Police Bazaar, a bustling market known for its shopping and street food.

• Umiam Lake: Boat ride - Cost: INR 300 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Street food and shopping - Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, November 13: Volunteering at a Local School

Start your day with a visit to a local school where you can volunteer and engage with the students. This can include assisting with teaching, organizing activities, or supporting ongoing projects. In the afternoon, visit the Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunji, marvel at these unique natural wonders, and take a short trek to explore the surrounding areas. End the day with a visit to the Seven Sisters Falls for a breathtaking view.

• Volunteering at a Local School: Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Living Root Bridges: Trekking - Cost: INR 250 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Seven Sisters Falls: Sightseeing - Cost: INR 10 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 14: Exploring Mawlynnong - Asia's Cleanest Village

Start your day early and travel to Mawlynnong, known as Asia's Cleanest Village. Spend the morning volunteering with local initiatives that focus on sustainable development and maintaining cleanliness. Afterward, explore the village and its unique attractions, such as the Living Root Bridge and Sky View Point. In the afternoon, visit Dawki, a beautiful town known for its crystal-clear Umngot River. Enjoy a boat ride on the river and take in the stunning views. Return to Shillong in the evening.

• Volunteering at Mawlynnong: Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Mawlynnong attractions: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dawki boat ride: Cost: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 15: Assam and Meghalaya Border Exploration

Embark on a tour to explore the Assam and Meghalaya border. Visit the stunning Balpakram National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy bird watching and wildlife spotting in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the nearby village of Dawki and immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Umling viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Return to Shillong in the evening and bid farewell to Meghalaya.

• Balpakram National Park: Cost: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Dawki Village and Umling viewpoint: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those interested in volunteering, Meghalaya offers numerous opportunities to make a positive impact. Consider reaching out to local NGOs or organizations working in education, healthcare, or environmental conservation to learn how you can contribute during your visit. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local community, understand the challenges they face, and make meaningful connections. The genuine warmth and hospitality of the people of Meghalaya will make your volunteering experience unforgettable.