Meghalaya 4 Nights Plan - S3G1

From: Guwahati To: Shillong

Stay: Banalari Pine Inn

Upon your arrival at Guwahati Airport, our representative will warmly greet you. From there, embark on a scenic drive to Shillong, often referred to as the "Scotland of the East." The journey covers approximately 100 kilometers and takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, offering picturesque views of the changing landscapes as you ascend into the hills.

En route, you will visit the following captivating attractions:

• Umiam Lake (Barapani) – A serene and expansive artificial lake surrounded by lush green hills, perfect for a refreshing stop and some photographs.

After a beautiful drive, you will arrive in Shillong. Check in to your hotel and take some time to refresh.

Later in the day, explore some of Shillong's charming spots:

• Ward's Lake – A beautiful artificial lake with boating facilities, set amidst a botanical garden, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
• Police Bazaar – The bustling commercial hub of Shillong, perfect for experiencing local life, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying street food.

The evening is at your leisure, allowing you to relax at your hotel or further explore the local market area.

From: Shillong To: Shillong

Stay: Banalari Pine Inn

After breakfast, proceed to explore Shillong, the “Scotland of the East,” covering all major city attractions.

Sightseeing in Shillong:

• Laitlum Canyon - A breathtaking, deep gorge located about 25–30 km from Shillong. Known for its panoramic, 360-degree views, the site is a popular trekking, photography, and sunrise/sunset destination, often featuring dramatic mist and deep valleys.
• Ward’s Lake – A peaceful lake ideal for short walks and paddle boating.
• Lady Hydari Park – A Japanese-style park with gardens and a small zoo.
• Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians – A beautiful church known for its stained-glass interiors.
• Golflinks Golf Course – One of India’s most scenic natural golf courses.
• Don Bosco Museum – A multi-storey museum displaying North-East India’s tribal culture and heritage.
• Shillong Skywalk (New Shillong Viewpoint) – A modern glass skywalk offering panoramic views of Shillong’s skyline.
• Ever Living Museum – A private museum featuring tribal artifacts, fossils, and traditional collections.
• Elephant Falls – A popular multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by greenery.
• Air Force Museum – Exhibits aircraft models, uniforms, and historic displays (entry may vary).
• Shillong Peak Viewpoint – The highest point in Shillong offering sweeping city views.
• Police Bazar – Main market area for shopping local handicrafts, winterwear, and souvenirs.

Return to your hotel after completing sightseeing.

Note: Any sightseeing will be visited only once during the entire travel even if it is mentioned multiple times in the itinerary. In addition, no alternative sights or compensation will be arranged for the same.

From: Shillong To: Cherrapunji

Stay: Kutmadan Resort

Embark on an exhilarating single-day adventure from Shillong to the heart of Meghalaya's living root bridges and cascading waterfalls. This journey demands an early start and a good level of fitness, but promises unforgettable natural beauty.

Begin your day with an early morning departure from Shillong, heading towards the Cherrapunji region. The drive from Shillong to Tyrna Village, the starting point for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge trek, is approximately 65 km and takes around 2.5 hours.

En route, you may catch glimpses of:

• Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge: A prominent bridge offering scenic views of the surrounding valleys.
• Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint: A popular stop for panoramic vistas of Meghalaya's lush landscape.

Upon reaching Tyrna Village, prepare for the challenging but rewarding trek down to Nongriat Village. This involves descending around 3,500 steps, a journey that typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

In Nongriat Village, you will discover:

• Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Jingkieng Nongriat): Marvel at this incredible feat of bioengineering, where Ficus Elastica tree roots have been meticulously guided to form a strong, two-tiered bridge across the stream. Spend time admiring its unique structure and the surrounding natural pools.

For the truly adventurous and if time and energy permit, continue your trek from the Double Decker Bridge to the majestic Rainbow Falls. This further trek involves another 1.5 to 2 hours (one way) of walking through dense jungle and across more root bridges, culminating in a stunning waterfall known for its vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Please be aware that adding Rainbow Falls makes for an extremely strenuous and long day trip.

After soaking in the wonders of the bridges and falls, begin the arduous climb back up the 3,500 steps to Tyrna Village, which can take 2 to 3 hours. Your vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to Shillong, concluding a long but immensely rewarding day of exploration.

From: Cherrapunji To: Guwahati

Stay: Hotel The Kalyaniz

Begin your day by ensuring any remaining sights in Cherrapunji, such as the Nohkalikai Falls or Mawsmai Cave, are completed before checking out from your hotel. Afterward, embark on a picturesque drive to Guwahati, the largest city in Assam. The journey covers approximately 150 kilometers and takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic, especially while crossing Shillong.

En route, visit the following attractions:

• Dainthlen Falls: A majestic waterfall known for its captivating legends and serene surroundings, just outside Cherrapunji.
• Elephant Falls: A three-tiered waterfall near Shillong, famous for its lush greenery and natural beauty.
• Umiam Lake (Barapani Lake): A sprawling reservoir offering stunning views and a tranquil break, perfect for photo opportunities.

Upon arrival in Guwahati, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. The afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the city's significant landmarks.

In Guwahati, explore these key sights:

• Kamakhya Temple: A revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, perched atop Nilachal Hills, offering spiritual solace and panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River.
• Assam State Museum: Delve into the rich history and culture of Assam through its extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, sculptures, and tribal exhibits.
• Umananda Island (Peacock Island): Take a short ferry ride to this small, enchanting island in the Brahmaputra River, home to the Umananda Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

As evening approaches, consider a delightful Brahmaputra River cruise for a memorable sunset view over the river, concluding your day of travel and exploration.

From: Guwahati To: Guwahati

Your memorable journey concludes today as you prepare to return to your hometown. After a delightful stay, begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel in Guwahati. Following this, complete your hotel checkout formalities, ensuring you have gathered all your belongings and cherished souvenirs.

If any of the sights are pending you can cover them. Most important attractions of Guwahati are the followings:

• Kamakhya Devi Temple (Typically Need 3-4 hours time even with VIP tickets)
• Umananda Island Temple (At most 2 hours are required)

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have a brief window for one last, quick experience in Guwahati. Consider a final visit to a local market for last-minute purchases or simply enjoy a quiet moment reflecting on your trip before heading to the airport.

Proceed to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati for your flight home. The airport is approximately 20-25 km from the city center, and the drive typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Please ensure you arrive well in advance of your scheduled departure time to allow for smooth check-in and security procedures.