Unique 2-Day Offbeat Itinerary in Shillong for Authentic Local Experiences

Day 1: Local Gems Discovery

Shillong, India on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Shillong

Enjoy a locally inspired breakfast with freshly brewed tea and traditional Khasi dishes like Jadoh to start your day right in a cosy atmosphere. Opens 7:30am.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

Explore this unique museum showcasing Northeast India's indigenous heritage with authentic artefacts and multimedia exhibits, offering a deep cultural insight beyond common tourist spots. Open 9:30am–4:30pm.
INR50, 2h

12:00pm

Walk around Laitumkhrah Local Market

Experience a vibrant local market frequented by residents rather than tourists, perfect for tasting street snacks and buying handicrafts with an authentic Shillong vibe.
Free, Shopping extra, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria

Savour a fusion of Khasi and Italian flavours in a charming garden setting, perfect for relaxed lunch with local produce and distinct flavours. Open 12pm to 3pm.
INR700, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Take a guided walk through this mystical sacred grove preserved by local Khasi tribes, featuring rare flora and spiritual significance, an immersive eco-cultural experience about 25km from Shillong. Open until 5:30pm, permits arranged locally.
INR150, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Dylan's Café

Unwind with hearty local and continental food accompanied by live traditional Khasi music in the evening, a local favourite spot. Opens 6pm to 10pm.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 2: Villages & Nature

Around Shillong, India on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or Nearby Bakery

Grab a quick homemade Khasi bread and local tea to fuel your day heading out towards village explorations.
INR150, 30m

8:30am

Visit Mawlynnong Village

Known as Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong offers refreshing natural beauty, unique living root bridges, and warm local cultural experiences. Best visited early to avoid the afternoon crowd. 70km from Shillong.
INR200 for guide and donations, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at a Local Homestay in Mawlynnong

Enjoy authentic Khasi cuisine prepared home-style by villagers, providing a genuine taste of rural life and hospitality.
INR350, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Dawki and Umngot River Boat Ride

Head to Dawki to enjoy crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River with a tranquil boat ride, a scenic and less touristy natural retreat. Opens 9am to 5pm.
INR300, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Shnongpdeng Village

Explore this calm riverside village near Dawki, ideal for short nature trails and absorbing local village life away from usual tourist crowds.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Return to Shillong and Dinner at Café Bwkyndur

Relax with fresh local dishes and coffee in a rustic setting, wrapping up your trip with a final touch of authentic local flavours. Open until 9pm.
INR550, 1h30m
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