Best Plan to Visit Meghalaya in 5 Days: A Scenic Journey through Clouds

Meghalaya, famously known as the “Abode of Clouds,” offers an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and serene lakes. This blog covers the best 5-day plan to visit Meghalaya, starting from Guwahati, and explores the must-visit places like Shillong, Mawlynnong, Cherrapunji, and more. Here’s how to make the most of your Meghalaya adventure.

Day 1: Journey from Guwahati to Shillong, Mawphlang Village, Elephant Falls, and Cherrapunji

 

Start your journey by booking a car from Guwahati for a scenic drive towards Shillong.

The drive takes about 3 hours, offering panoramic views of rolling hills and lush green valleys.

• Depart from Guwahati: Early in the morning, begin your journey.
• Shillong Peak: As you reach Shillong, make a stop at Shillong Peak for a mesmerizing view of the city.

• Wards Lake: A peaceful lake in the middle of Shillong, perfect for a quick boat ride or a leisurely walk.

 

 

• Elephant Falls: On your way to Cherrapunji, take a break at Elephant Falls. This multi-tiered waterfall offers stunning views and is a great spot for nature photography.

• Mawphlang Sacred Grove: Visit the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a place deeply rooted in local culture. The forest is known for its rich biodiversity and is considered sacred by the Khasi tribe. It offers an enchanting experience with its flora and ancient trees.

 

Depending on the time you give to a place , the number of spots you visit will vary . plan accordingly. if possible stay overnight in Shillong.

• Drive to Cherrapunji: After visiting Elephant Falls, head directly to Cherrapunji, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Meghalaya. Stay overnight in one of Cherrapunji’s hotels or guesthouses.

 

 

Pro tip:

The time you dedicate to a place can dramatically shift how many spots you uncover. Plan wisely! If you can, consider spending a night in Shillong to truly soak in its charm. Wake up early the next morning and venture to Cherrapunji—or if you’re enchanted by Shillong’s allure, extend your stay for another day to fully savor the experience.

Day 2: Exploring Cherrapunji and Its Natural Wonders

On the second day, dive into the breathtaking landscapes that make Cherrapunji a must-visit destination.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Start your day with a visit to India’s tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai Falls, known for its dramatic drop and lush surroundings.

Sometimes, due to cloud cover, you might need to wait for a while until the waterfall becomes visible.

• Seven Sisters Falls: Marvel at the beauty of Seven Sisters Falls, especially during the monsoon season when all seven streams are in full flow.

• Mawsmai Caves: Head to Mawsmai Caves for an adventurous exploration of natural limestone formations.

• Double Decker Root Bridge Trek: For the more adventurous, embark on the famous trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a marvel of local ingenuity.

The Double Decker Root Bridge Trek takes about a day to complete and has around 3,500 stairs. It is ideal for adventure lovers and may not be suitable for older adults due to the challenging terrain and physical demands.

• Stay in Cherrapunji: After a day of exploration, rest in your Cherrapunji hotel or homestay.

Day 3: Further Exploration of Cherrapunji

Continue your exploration of Cherrapunji, discovering more of its hidden gems.

• Dainthlen Falls: Visit Dainthlen Falls, a beautiful spot with fascinating local legends attached to it.

• Arwah Caves: Explore the ancient fossils embedded in the walls of Arwah Caves, making for a truly unique experience.

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying the local Khasi food, including rice, pork, and a variety of flavorful vegetarian dishes.

Tip: Make sure your Meghalaya car booking covers all your destinations to ensure a smooth ride between these stunning locations.

Day 4: Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village & Dawki

On day 4, embark on a trip to Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, located about 2 hours from Cherrapunji, and then head to Dawki, a beautiful town known for its crystal-clear river.

Mawlynnong Village:

• Enjoy the tranquility and charm of this clean and peaceful village. Walk around the bamboo bridges and explore the eco-friendly lifestyle of the locals.

Living Root Bridge:

• Take a short trek to the nearby living root bridge, an iconic example of nature and human ingenuity working together.

Dawki:

• After visiting Mawlynnong, travel to Dawki, which is about 30 minutes away. Dawki is famous for the Umngot River, with water so clear that boats appear to float in the air. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on this stunning river.
• Visit the India-Bangladesh border nearby for a quick look at the international boundary between the two countries.

Weather:

• The weather in Dawki will be a bit hot, so it’s advisable to carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable clothing.

Night Stay:

• Return to Mawlynnong for the night, staying in a local guesthouse or homestay, where you can experience traditional Khasi hospitality.

Day 5: Return to Shillong and Guwahati

On the final day, wrap up your trip by heading back to Shillong for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping, then return to Guwahati.

• Police Bazaar: Explore Shillong’s famous Police Bazaar, known for its handicrafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs.
• Drive Back to Guwahati: In the afternoon, begin your return journey to Guwahati, enjoying the scenic beauty of Meghalaya one last time.

Meghalaya Travel Cost and Tips

• Car Rental Cost: A standard car booking from Guwahati to Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong for 5 days can range from INR 10,000 to 15,000 depending on the vehicle.
• Accommodation: Budget hotels and guesthouses start at INR 1,500 per night, while more premium options can go up to INR 5,000.
• Meals: Local meals in homestays or roadside eateries cost around INR 300 to 500 per person per meal.
• Permits and Fees: No special permits are needed, but some sites may charge entry fees (around INR 30 to 50).

Conclusion

Meghalaya’s blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and eco-tourism offers an unforgettable experience. From the stunning waterfalls of Cherrapunji to the serene villages of Mawphlang and Mawlynnong, this 5-day itinerary will ensure you enjoy the best that this magical region has to offer.

 

If you’re looking to explore more, there are additional options depending on your preferences:

• Trekking on Bamboo Bridges: For adventure seekers, you can trek across bamboo bridges that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and rivers, providing an immersive experience in the lush greenery of the region.
• Stay in Unexplored Villages: For a more unique experience, spend a night in one of the lesser-known villages nestled in the mountains. These villages offer serene environments and an authentic glimpse into local life, perfect for those seeking tranquility and cultural immersion.

Both options provide a deeper connection with nature and the local Khasi culture.

Plan your trip soon and let the “Abode of Clouds” captivate your soul!