7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Guwahati, Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong

1. Day 1: Guwahati
   25 minutes (12.1 km) from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

   In the morning, visit Kamakhya Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, head to the Assam State Museum to learn about the state's rich history and culture. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

2. Day 2: Shillong
   3 hours 30 minutes (100 km) from Guwahati

   Start the day with a visit to Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to learn about the diverse ethnic groups in the region. In the evening, stroll around Police Bazar for shopping and dining.

3. Day 3: Cherrapunji
   2 hours (56.4 km) from Shillong

   In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a natural wonder with stunning limestone formations. In the evening, catch the sunset at Eco Park and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

4. Day 4: Cherrapunji

   Start the day with a visit to the Living Root Bridges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a unique example of bioengineering. In the afternoon, explore the Khasi Heritage Village to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi people. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy the cool mountain air.

5. Day 5: Mawlynnong
   2 hours 30 minutes (85 km) from Cherrapunji

   In the morning, visit the Dawki River and take a boat ride to see the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, explore Mawlynnong Village, known as "Asia's cleanest village" for its eco-friendly practices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khasi dinner with a local family.

6. Day 6: Mawlynnong

   Start the day with a visit to the Living Root Bridge in Riwai Village, another stunning example of bioengineering. In the afternoon, hike to the nearby Balancing Rock, a unique geological formation. In the evening, attend a cultural program to experience the music and dance of the Khasi people.

7. Day 7: Guwahati
   4 hours (170 km) from Mawlynnong

   Return to Guwahati and spend the morning at the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. In the afternoon, visit the Umananda Temple on a river island in the Brahmaputra River. In the evening, explore the Fancy Bazar area for shopping and street food.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, for water sports and scenic views. Side trips to the nearby Kaziranga National Park and the Tawang Monastery are also highly recommended. To maximize your fun, try local cuisine like bamboo shoot pickle and smoked pork. Be sure to carry comfortable shoes and warm clothing as the weather is unpredictable in the hilly region.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kamakhya Temple (2 hours, free)
• Assam State Museum (2 hours, INR 10)
• Brahmaputra River Cruise (2 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Shillong Peak (2 hours, INR 30)
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (2 hours, INR 100)
• Police Bazar (2 hours, cost varies)
• Nohkalikai Falls (2 hours, free)
• Mawsmai Cave (1 hour, INR 20)
• Eco Park (1 hour, INR 10)
• Living Root Bridges (2 hours, INR 10)
• Khasi Heritage Village (2 hours, INR 10)
• Dawki River (2 hours, boat ride INR 800 for four people)
• Mawlynnong Village (2 hours, free)
• Traditional Khasi Dinner (2 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Living Root Bridge in Riwai Village (2 hours, INR 10)
• Balancing Rock (2 hours, free)
• Cultural Program (2 hours, INR 200)
• Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, INR 500)
• Umananda Temple (2 hours, ferry INR 30)
• Fancy Bazar (2 hours, cost varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,240 per person