5 day itinerary for Meghalaya

Itinerary

Meghalaya is a stunning destination with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. Here’s a relaxed, family-friendly 5-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty without feeling rushed. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Shillong

Morning:

• Arrive in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Depending on your arrival time, check into a cozy family-friendly hotel or homestay.
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café. Try some local delicacies like pukhlein (a sweet rice cake) or jadoh (a rice dish with meat).

Afternoon:

• Head to Ward’s Lake for a peaceful stroll. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and you can even rent a paddleboat for some family fun!
• Visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to learn about the rich heritage of the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya. It’s educational and engaging for the whole family.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Khasi cuisine, like Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame) or Bai (a vegetable dish).
• If you’re up for it, take a short walk around the local market to soak in the evening vibes.

## Day 2: Shillong to Cherrapunji

Morning:

• After breakfast, set off for Cherrapunji (Sohra), which is about a 2-hour drive from Shillong. The drive is scenic, so keep your cameras ready!
• Stop at Elephant Falls on the way. It’s a beautiful spot, and the kids will love exploring the area.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Cherrapunji and check into your accommodation.
• Visit the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. There’s a viewpoint that’s perfect for family photos!

Evening:

• Head to Mawsmai Cave for a short exploration. The caves are well-lit and safe for families, and the kids will love the adventure!
• Have dinner at your hotel or a local eatery. Don’t forget to try some local fish dishes!

## Day 3: Living Root Bridges and Local Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, embark on a family-friendly trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat. It’s about a 30-minute trek down, and the views are absolutely worth it!
• Spend some time exploring the area and take in the unique beauty of the living root bridges.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch by the bridge or at a local eatery in Nongriat.
• After lunch, you can either relax by the river or take a short trek to the nearby Rainbow Falls if the family is up for it.

Evening:

• Head back to Cherrapunji and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Share stories about your day’s adventures!

## Day 4: Cherrapunji to Mawlynnong

Morning:

• After breakfast, check out and head to Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village (about a 2-hour drive).
• Explore the village and interact with the locals. The kids will love the cleanliness and the beautiful gardens!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong. It’s a shorter trek and very family-friendly.
• Have lunch at a local homestay or restaurant, enjoying traditional Khasi food.

Evening:

• Spend some time at the Sky View point for panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains. It’s a great spot for family photos!
• Return to your accommodation for dinner and a cozy evening.

## Day 5: Mawlynnong to Shillong and Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely drive back to Shillong. You can stop at Dawki on the way, famous for its crystal-clear river. If time permits, you can enjoy a boat ride!

Afternoon:

• Once back in Shillong, have lunch at a local café.
• If time allows, visit the Shillong Peak for a final panoramic view of the city and surrounding hills.

Evening:

• Depending on your departure time, you can do some last-minute shopping for local handicrafts or souvenirs.
• Head to the airport or your next destination, filled with wonderful memories of Meghalaya!

Tips for a Relaxed Trip:

• Keep your travel times flexible; it’s all about enjoying the journey!
• Make sure to carry water and snacks, especially for the treks.
• Engage with the locals; they have fascinating stories and insights about their culture.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to Meghalaya! Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and the warm hospitality of the locals! 🌄✨