Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Meghalaya - Explore the Jewel of the East

Day 1: Arriving in Shillong

Shillong, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Shillong

Start your day with some local delicacies like 'pork with bamboo shoot' or a simple sandwich.
Walk for 10 minutes from your accommodation to get to Café Shillong.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Shillong Peak

Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills atop the highest peak in Shillong.
Take a shared taxi from the city center to Shillong Peak.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at DS District Restaurant

Savor a traditional Khasi meal at this local gem; try the 'thukpa' (noodle soup).
Return to the city center by shared taxi.
INR 180, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Ward's Lake

Stroll around this charming lake and relax in the lush gardens surrounding it.
Walk from the restaurant to Ward's Lake, just 15 minutes away.
INR 20, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

Discover the rich heritage of the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya through engaging exhibits.
Take a short taxi ride to Don Bosco Centre.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel and Rest

Take some time to unwind at your accommodation before dinner.
Using the same taxi to return.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shillong Night Market

Enjoy street food specialties like momos and pitha while soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
A short walk from your hotel.
INR 150, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cherrapunji Adventure

Cherrapunji, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast of bread and tea before heading out on your day trip.
No navigation needed.
INR 100, 30 mins

8:00AM

Travel to Cherrapunji

Catch a shared taxi to Cherrapunji and enjoy the scenic views during the journey.
Shared taxi from Shillong to Cherrapunji.
INR 300, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Nohkalikai Falls

Marvel at the mesmerizing waterfall, one of the highest in India.
Local taxi to Nohkalikai Falls entrance.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Feast on some rice and fish curry or chicken curry at a local eatery.
Walk to a nearby dhaba.
INR 150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Mawsmai Caves

Venture into these fascinating limestone caves with stalactites and stalagmites.
Local taxi to Mawsmai Caves.
INR 100, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Eco Park

Enjoy the greenery and beautiful views, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Walk from the caves to Eco Park.
INR 20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Shillong

Head back to Shillong after an adventurous day in Cherrapunji.
Shared taxi back to Shillong.
INR 300, 2 hours

6:30PM

Snack and Dinner at Jadoh

Indulge in a Khasi-style meal with 'jadoh' (pork rice) that will leave you satisfied.
Short walk from your accommodation.
INR 200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Day Trip to Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast before heading out to Mawlynnong.
No navigation needed.
INR 100, 30 mins

8:00AM

Travel to Mawlynnong

Travel to the cleanest village in Asia by taking a shared taxi.
Shared taxi to Mawlynnong.
INR 300, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Mawlynnong Village

Walk through the beautiful village, interact with locals, and admire the cleanliness.
Self-guided walking tour.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Homestay

Savor a local meal prepared by the villagers, typical of their daily fare.
Enjoy this meal at a homestay.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Living Root Bridge

Take in the stunning natural beauty as you walk across this iconic bridge made of living roots.
30-minute trek from the village.
FREE, 2 hours

3:00PM

Relax at the village

Enjoy the serenity of Mawlynnong and meet friendly locals.
Free time in the village.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Shillong

Travel back to Shillong after a beautiful day in Mawlynnong.
Shared taxi back to Shillong.
INR 300, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Munchies

End the day with a comforting meal of burgers and fries to refuel your energy.
Walk back from taxi drop-off.
INR 250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Exploring Local Culture

Shillong, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shillong

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at a local café.
Visit a nearby café.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Shillong Cathedral

A beautiful and historic Anglican cathedral with stunning stained glass windows.
Walking distance from your hotel.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Shillong Market

Wander through the vibrant local market for unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Short walk from the cathedral.
FREE (shopping cost varies), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nonglait Restaurant

Sample delicious traditional food, including fish 'tawa fried' and rice.
Take a taxi to reach.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Umiam Lake

Experience the tranquil beauty of Umiam Lake; enjoy boating if budget allows.
Taxi ride to Umiam Lake.
INR 150, 2 hours

3:00PM

Head back to Shillong

Return to Shillong to end your trip or prepare for your onward journey.
Taxi back to Shillong.
INR 150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Coffee at Café Cherrapunji

Relax with a cup of coffee and reflect on your beautiful Meghalaya journey.
Visit a local café.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Cherra Restaurant

Cap your trip with a mix of Indian and Khasi cuisines, served with love.
A final short walk back to the restaurant.
INR 250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability