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

1. Day 1: Guwahati
   Arrive at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
   30 minutes (12 miles) from airport to Kamakhya Temple

   In the morning, visit Kamakhya Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. In the afternoon, head to the Assam State Museum to learn about the state's rich cultural heritage. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

2. Day 2: Shillong
   2.5 hours (70.6 miles) from Guwahati to Shillong

   Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, a beautiful Catholic church. In the afternoon, explore the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which showcases the rich and diverse cultures of Northeast India. In the evening, stroll along Police Bazaar and try some local street food.

3. Day 3: Shillong
   1 hour (12.7 miles) from Shillong to Elephant Falls

   Visit Elephant Falls in the morning, a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, head to the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. In the evening, relax at Umiam Lake and enjoy the natural surroundings.

4. Day 4: Cherapunji
   2 hours (35.6 miles) from Shillong to Cherapunji

   In the morning, visit the Nohkalikai Falls, which is the highest plunge waterfall in India. In the afternoon, explore the Mawsmai Cave, a beautiful limestone cave system. In the evening, visit the Seven Sisters Falls, a group of seven waterfalls that are a breathtaking sight.

5. Day 5: Cherapunji

   In the morning, visit the Living Root Bridges, a unique natural wonder that is created by the roots of trees. In the afternoon, explore the Dainthlen Falls, which is known for its natural beauty and legends. In the evening, visit the Ramakrishna Mission, an ashram that offers spiritual retreats and meditation.

6. Day 6: Mawlynnong
   2.5 hours (55.9 miles) from Cherapunji to Mawlynnong

   Start your day with a visit to the Mawlynnong Village, which is known as the "Cleanest Village in Asia." In the afternoon, explore the Living Root Bridges in the nearby Riwai Village. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khasi dinner and cultural performance.

7. Day 7: Guwahati
   4.5 hours (110 miles) from Mawlynnong to Guwahati

   On your last day, visit the Umananda Temple, which is located on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, shop for souvenirs at Fancy Bazaar. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner and cultural show.

Recommendations

You might also consider visiting the Kaziranga National Park, which is known for its one-horned rhinoceroses. You could also take a side trip to the Dawki River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters. To maximize your fun, be sure to try local street food and interact with the friendly locals. Finally, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kamakhya Temple (2 hours, free)
• Assam State Museum (2 hours, INR 10)
• Brahmaputra River Cruise (2 hours, INR 500)
• Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians (1 hour, free)
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (2 hours, INR 100)
• Elephant Falls (2 hours, INR 10)
• Shillong Peak (2 hours, INR 30)
• Umiam Lake (2 hours, free)
• Nohkalikai Falls (1 hour, free)
• Mawsmai Cave (1 hour, INR 20)
• Seven Sisters Falls (1 hour, free)
• Living Root Bridges (2 hours, INR 20)
• Dainthlen Falls (2 hours, free)
• Ramakrishna Mission (2 hours, free)
• Mawlynnong Village (2 hours, free)
• Riwai Village (2 hours, INR 20)
• Umananda Temple (2 hours, free)
• Fancy Bazaar (2 hours, varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 730