5-Day Meghalaya Travel Itinerary

  • Day 1: Shillong Peak
    20 minutes (7 km) from Shillong

    Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong, standing at an altitude of 1,965 meters. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Himalayas from the top. There is also a cafe and souvenir shop at the peak.

  • Day 2: Mawlynnong Village
    3 hours (90 km) from Shillong Peak

    Mawlynnong Village is a picturesque village known as the cleanest village in Asia. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets lined with colorful flowers and bamboo houses. Don’t miss the living root bridges that are unique to this region.

  • Day 3: Dawki River
    2 hours 30 minutes (85 km) from Mawlynnong Village

    Dawki River is a popular spot for boating and camping. The river is crystal clear and visitors can kayak or boat to explore the surrounding areas. The nearby Nokhalikai Falls is also a must-see attraction.

  • Day 4: Cherrapunji
    1 hour 30 minutes (57 km) from Dawki River

    Cherrapunji is known as the wettest place on earth and visitors can witness the beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery that surrounds the area. Take a guided trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge or visit the Mawsmai Caves.

  • Day 5: Elephant Falls
    1 hour (12 km) from Cherrapunji

    Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall that is a must-see attraction in Meghalaya. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and trek up to the top of the waterfall. Nearby, there is also a botanical garden with various rare flora species.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Shillong Peak (1-2 hours, $5)
  • Mawlynnong Village (4-5 hours, $20)
  • Dawki River (3-4 hours, $15)
  • Cherrapunji (5-6 hours, $30)
  • Elephant Falls (2-3 hours, $5)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $75

Transportation

Transportation in Meghalaya can be tricky, as many attractions are in remote locations. Hiring a car with a driver is recommended for ease of travel. Expect to pay around $50 per day for a car rental. Public transportation is also available but not as convenient.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat or going on a camping trip to Mawsynram. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip Cherrapunji and head to Umiam Lake for a relaxing boating excursion instead.

Airports

The nearest airport to Meghalaya is Shillong Airport (SHL), located in Umroi about 25 km away from Shillong. However, the airport has limited flights and visitors may need to fly into Guwahati Airport (GAU), which is about 125 km away from Shillong.

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