8-Day Adventure in Meghalaya: A Budget-Friendly Foodie and Cultural Immersion Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Culture

Shillong, India on October 24, 2024

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Shillong and settle into your budget-friendly accommodation with local charm.
Walk or taxi from the airport to your hotel, around 30 mins depending on traffic.
INR2500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Lamee Restaurant

Indulge in local Khasi cuisine, particularly the 'Dohneiiong' (black sesame pork) at this affordable eatery.
15 mins walk from the hotel.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Take a guided tour of this revered forest, known for its rich biodiversity and vibrant folklore.
Hire a local taxi to Mawphlang, about 30 mins drive.
INR200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Shillong Peak

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills at sunset.
Taxi from Mawphlang to the peak, around 30 mins.
INR50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria

Relish Italian and local dishes without breaking the bank; try the home-made pasta.
Taxi back to Shillong center, around 30 mins.
INR500, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Nature Retreat

Shillong, India on October 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Shillong

Start your day with a hearty breakfast; the pancakes and local Meghalaya tea are a must-try.
5 mins walk from the hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Umiam Lake Exploration

Head to Umiam Lake for boating or a leisurely walk along the banks while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Taxi from Shillong, about 30 mins.
INR350 (boating fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Qila Restaurant

Enjoy traditional North Eastern fare, especially the 'Khar' (alkaline dish with raw papaya).
Taxi 30 mins back to Shillong.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Don Bosco Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes of Northeast India presented through informative exhibits.
15 mins walk from the restaurant.
INR100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Local Shopping at Police Bazaar

Explore the vibrant market, ideal for souvenirs like handmade crafts and traditional attire.
15 mins walk from the museum.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Diners

Try their famous local fish curry; the ambiance is casual and budget-friendly.
10 mins walk from the market.
INR400, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Exploring Cherrapunjee

Cherrapunjee, India on October 26, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel, preparing for a day filled with adventures.
In-house.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Cherrapunjee

Travel to one of the wettest places on Earth, renowned for its stunning landscapes.
Taxi from Shillong, around 2 hours.
INR1500, 2 hours

10:00AM

Nohkalikai Falls Visit

Witness the majestic Nohkalikai Falls, renowned as a breathtaking natural sight.
Taxi from Cherrapunjee center, 30 mins.
INR50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort

Taste the famous local vegetarian thali while enjoying views of the hills.
On-site.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mawsmai Cave Exploration

Explore these natural limestone caves and marvel at the geological formations.
Taxi from the resort, around 20 mins.
INR100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk to Living Root Bridges

Embark on a trek to see the fascinating Living Root Bridges, a stunning display of nature and engineering.
Hire a local guide for the trek.
INR200 (guide fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Relish on the local favorites with a warm inviting atmosphere; Bunga Dhokra is highly recommended.
Head back to Cherrapunjee town center.
INR300, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Continued Adventure in Cherrapunjee

Cherrapunjee, India on October 27, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast buffet at your hotel.
In-house.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Trek to David Scott Trail

Join a guided trek along this historical trail with stunning views of the landscape.
Taxi to the starting point, around 30 mins.
INR300 (guide fee), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cherrapunjee Resort

Refuel with local cuisine at the resort, known for their wholesome meals.
Taxi back from the trek, around 30 mins.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Eco Park

Enjoy leisurely walks and beautiful flower gardens at this serene location.
Short walk from the restaurant.
INR100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Handicrafts

Visit local craftspeople and try your hand at making some traditional handicrafts.
Local transportation can be arranged.
Free (craft price varies), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Orange Roots

Enjoy a fusion of local and continental dishes; the ambiance is cozy.
Short walk from the local handicrafts center.
INR500, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Eco-village Experience

Mawlynnong, India on October 28, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a local breakfast consisting of rice and lentils before heading to Mawlynnong.
In-house.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Mawlynnong

Venture to Asia's cleanest village, known for its eco-tourism initiatives.
Taxi from Cherrapunjee, around 2 hours.
INR1500, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Mawlynnong Village

Stroll through the village and marvel at its cleanliness and well-maintained gardens.
On foot around the village.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mawlynnong Village Restaurant

Savor authentic Khasi cuisine in a rustic setting; the fish thali is a crowd favorite.
Nearby, short walk.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Living Root Bridges

Marvel at these natural wonders and learn about their cultural significance.
Hire a local guide for navigation.
INR200 (guide fee), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Sky Viewpoint

Catch a spectacular view of the surrounding hills from the viewpoint.
Taxi for a quick trip.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Family Home

Experience warm hospitality and a home-cooked meal with a local family.
Short walk to the family home.
INR400, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Water Adventure at Dawki

Dawki, India on October 29, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Mawlynnong

Enjoy a packed breakfast of local delicacies before heading towards Dawki.
In-house.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Dawki

Set off for Dawki, famous for its clear waters and beautiful scenery.
Taxi from Mawlynnong, around 1 hour.
INR800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat Ride on Umngot River

Experience the crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings on this scenic boat ride.
On-site payment for boat rental.
INR500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Shnongpdeng Beach

Enjoy relaxation or partake in adventurous activities like zip-lining along the river.
Walk from the river, around 10 mins.
Free (activity fees vary), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Dawki Restaurant

Savor mouthwatering local cuisine, try the bamboo shoot curry for an authentic taste.
Nearby local eateries.
INR350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax by the Riverbank

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Free access area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Mawlynnong

Travel back to Mawlynnong for overnight stay.
Taxi back, around 1 hour.
INR800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Mawlynnong Host

Enjoy dinner with the local hosts, sharing experiences and culinary delights.
Short walk.
INR400, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Cultural Discovery in Jowai

Jowai, India on October 30, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Mawlynnong

Enjoy a traditional breakfast before departing for Jowai.
In-house.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Jowai

Journey to Jowai, enrich with natural beauty and local culture.
Taxi from Mawlynnong, around 2 hours.
INR1500, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Nartiang Durga Temple

Visit one of the oldest temples in Meghalaya, set against a backdrop of beautiful hills.
Taxi to the temple, around 20 mins.
INR50, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Tyrshi Falls

Marvel at the beauty of these enchanting waterfalls and take plenty of pictures.
Taxi from the temple, around 30 mins.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Jowai Restaurant

Experience local delicacies such as 'Sohmynkhlaw' (fermented fish).
20 mins back to the city center.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cycling Around Jowai

Rent a bicycle and explore the town while getting acquainted with the local lifestyle.
Bike rental nearby.
INR200 (rental fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Shillong

Head back to Shillong for dinner and rest.
Taxi back, around 2 hours.
INR1500, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Café Shillong

Conclude your trip with a last dinner at this cozy café, reminiscing about your adventures.
Taxi nearby, 10 mins.
INR500, 1.5 hours

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Day 8: Departure

Shillong, India on October 31, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Shillong

Enjoy a farewell breakfast filled with local flavors and finally make those last-minute preparations for your departure.
Taxi to the café, 10 mins.
INR300, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-Minute Exploration

Take a final stroll around Shillong to shop for memorabilia or indulge in some local snacks.
On foot around the area.
Free (shopping costs vary), 1 hour

12:00PM

Check-out and Depart

Check out from your accommodation and head to the airport for your departure.
Taxi to the airport.
INR1000, 1 hour

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