3 day itinerary for Shillong Meghalaya

Itinerary

Shillong, often referred to as the "Scotland of the East," is a beautiful hill station in Meghalaya, and you’re in for a treat! Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant local life. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring Shillong City

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Shillong: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Shillong. Try their local dishes or a classic English breakfast to fuel up for the day.
• Ward’s Lake: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around Ward’s Lake. The serene surroundings and beautiful gardens make it a perfect spot for a morning walk.

Midday:

• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Head over to this fascinating museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes of Northeast India. It’s both educational and visually stunning!
• Lunch at the Centre: Enjoy a local meal at the café inside the centre, where you can try some traditional Khasi dishes.

Afternoon:

• Shillong Peak: After lunch, make your way to Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. It’s a great spot for photography and to appreciate the natural beauty.
• Elephant Falls: Just a short drive away, visit the picturesque Elephant Falls. The cascading water and lush greenery make it a perfect spot for some relaxation and photos.

Evening:

• Local Market Exploration: Head to Police Bazaar, the bustling market area. You can shop for local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some street food!
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: End your day with dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Khasi cuisine, like Jadoh (rice with meat) or Tungrymbai (fermented soybean).

## Day 2: Day Trip to Cherrapunji

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Have an early breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Drive to Cherrapunji: Set off for Cherrapunji, which is about a 2-hour drive from Shillong. The scenic route is filled with lush greenery and beautiful landscapes.

Midday:

• Nohkalikai Falls: Your first stop in Cherrapunji should be the stunning Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The view is breathtaking, and there are viewpoints for some great photos.
• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Cherrapunji. Try some local dishes and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Afternoon:

• Mawsmai Cave: Explore the fascinating Mawsmai Cave, known for its limestone formations. It’s an adventurous experience, so wear comfortable shoes!
• Living Root Bridges: If time permits, visit the famous living root bridges in the nearby village of Nongriat. It’s a bit of a trek, but the experience is worth it!

Evening:

• Return to Shillong: Head back to Shillong in the evening.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant in Shillong, perhaps trying some more local delicacies.

## Day 3: Nature and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Hotel: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
• Laitlum Canyons: After breakfast, take a trip to Laitlum Canyons. The views from the top are absolutely stunning, and it’s a great spot for some quiet time in nature.

Midday:

• Visit the Khasi Heritage Village: Head to the Khasi Heritage Village to learn more about the local culture and traditions. You can also enjoy a traditional meal here.
• Lunch at the Village: Savor a traditional Khasi meal while enjoying the cultural ambiance.

Afternoon:

• Umiam Lake: Spend your afternoon at Umiam Lake, a beautiful reservoir surrounded by hills. You can enjoy boating or simply relax by the lakeside.
• Local Handicraft Shopping: On your way back, stop by some local handicraft shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

Evening:

• Final Dinner in Shillong: For your last evening, treat yourself to a nice dinner at a popular restaurant. Reflect on your trip and enjoy the local music scene if you can find a place with live performances!

Tips:

• Weather: Shillong can be quite cool, so pack accordingly!
• Transport: Consider hiring a local taxi for day trips, as public transport can be limited.
• Local Etiquette: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting villages.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Shillong! Enjoy the breathtaking views, delicious food, and warm hospitality of the locals. Safe travels! 🌄✨