7-Day Family Friendly Meghalaya Itinerary

Tuesday, October 31:

Start your journey in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Ward's Lake, a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by gardens. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and marvel at the colorful flowers. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a museum showcasing the rich tribal heritage of the region. End your day with a visit to Police Bazar, a bustling market known for its local handicrafts and street food.

• Ward's Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Police Bazar: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, November 1:

Embark on a scenic drive to Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. In the morning, visit the impressive Nohkalikai Falls, plunging from a height of 1,100 feet. Afterward, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a mesmerizing limestone cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. In the evening, witness the living root bridges in Mawlynnong, a village known for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Mawlynnong – Living Root Bridges: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours

Thursday, November 2:

Explore the beautiful landscapes of Dawki and Shnongpdeng. In the morning, take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River in Dawki, known for its transparent visibility. Afterward, head to Shnongpdeng and indulge in various water activities like kayaking, river tubing, and cliff jumping. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.

• Boat Ride on Umngot River in Dawki: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per boat, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Water Activities in Shnongpdeng: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 4 hours

Friday, November 3:

Visit the mesmerizing Laitlum Canyon in Shillong. In the morning, marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the steep canyon and lush green valleys. Spend your afternoon exploring the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a dense forest with a sacred grove and diverse flora and fauna. In the evening, experience the local culture by attending a traditional dance performance at the Shillong Cultural and Heritage Center.

• Laitlum Canyon: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Shillong Cultural and Heritage Center: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday, November 4:

Discover the unique natural wonders of Mawlynnong. In the morning, visit the iconic Living Root Bridge, a marvelous bioengineering feat created by intertwining the roots of rubber trees. Explore the cleanest village in Asia and experience the local Khasi culture. In the afternoon, hike to the picturesque Balancing Rock, a huge boulder balanced precariously on a small rock. Enjoy the peacefulness and serenity of this hidden gem.

• Living Root Bridge: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Mawlynnong Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
• Balancing Rock: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday, November 5:

Head to Jowai, the cultural capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Thadlaskein Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat ride and appreciate the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, explore the Nartiang Monoliths, a collection of ancient monoliths dating back to the Jaintia Kingdom. End your day with a visit to Tyrshi Falls, a beautiful waterfall hidden amidst the hills.

• Thadlaskein Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Nartiang Monoliths: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Tyrshi Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday, November 6:

Conclude your trip with a visit to the enchanting Elephant Falls near Shillong. In the morning, admire the three-tiered waterfall cascading amidst the dense green forest. Explore the surrounding nature trails and capture memorable photographs. In the afternoon, wrap up your journey by discovering the charming cafes and handicraft markets in Shillong's Laitumkhrah area.

• Elephant Falls: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Laitumkhrah: Cost varies based on purchases, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One of the hidden gems in Meghalaya is Mawphlang Village. This picturesque village is known for its sacred grove and ancient megaliths. Take a trek through the mystical forest and feel the spiritual energy surrounding you. Another local favorite is Dawki's Suspension Bridge, located near the Bangladesh border. Walk across the transparent bridge and marvel at the stunning views of the Umngot River flowing below. These off the beaten path attractions offer unique experiences for families to enjoy.

For hotel and flight bookings, check prices on Kayak.com.