Planning a journey from Guwahati, the Northeast entryway, to Meghalaya will take you through some of India’s most picturesque scenery and provide you with an adventure full of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and life-changing events.
The “Abode of Clouds,” Meghalaya, is renowned for its rolling hills, dense forests, majestic waterfalls, and living root bridges, which are a marvel of bioengineering. Trekking, exploring caves, and immersing yourself in the local Khasi and Jaintia cultures are just a few of the adventure and relaxation options available.
The capital city, Shillong, is a vibrant hub with a mix of colonial architecture, local markets, and serene lakes. Two must-visit locations that highlight the pristine beauty and distinctive way of life in Meghalaya are Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, and Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village.
This 7-day Meghalaya itinerary is the ideal escape from the chaos of the fast-paced cities, whether you want to slow down or want to peek under the daily lives of the Khasis, the local tribes of Meghalaya, or just go sightseeing in this beautiful abode of clouds called Meghalaya.
Team NRI brings for you a relaxed one-week itinerary for Meghalaya where you experience something new every day. From a capital city that is fondly known as Scotland of the East to the world’s rainiest place, this 6-day Meghalaya itinerary is of great help to tourists and adventurers alike.
6-Day Guwahati to Meghalaya Trip Itinerary
Here’s a quick itinerary to explore the best places in Meghalaya in under one week.
- Day 1 – Guwahati to Shillong
- Day 2 – Shillong To Cherrapunjee
- Day 3 – Things to See Around Cherrapunjee
- Day 4 – Cherrapunjee to Mawlynnong
- Day 5 – Mawlynnog to Shillong
- Day 6 – Shillong To Guwahati
Day 1 – Guwahati to Shillong
Visit Umium Lake to take in the tranquility and beauty of this area beneath dazzling skies. If you want, you can also go speed boating there. Take time to relax and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Meghalaya.
By evening, check into a stunning and spotless homestay nestled on a hill away from the city center, or a Khasi mansion in the colonial style. Reserve your evening for leisure and exploration. Enjoy a traditional Khasi meal at your homestay or in Police Bazar to cap off your day.
Day 2 – Shillong To Cherrapunjee (Sohra)
Today we will head deeper into the Khasi highlands & into the most picturesque regions of Meghalaya. Today’s journey is packed with sights to visit. You will have seen the most well-known tourist destinations by the end of the day, including Elephant Falls, Mawkdok Viewpoint, Wha Kaba Falls, and Arwah Caves.
It is an interesting idea to check into a simple and hospitable Khasi homestay/guest house for the night.
Day 3 – Things to See Around Cherrapunjee
Today, you can explore the top locations near Cherrapunjee, including Eco Park, Dainthlen Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls (also known as Seven Sisters Falls), and Mawsmai Caves.
Alternatively, you could hike to Nongriat’s double-decker living root bridges. It’s an unparalleled experience. If you are a swimmer, don’t forget to pack swimwear; you’ll need it when that inner child of yours can’t resist diving into the clear, turquoise natural pools.
Day 4 – Cherrapunjee to Mawlynnong
We set off for Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, today. But first, you can visit the India-Bangladesh border at Dawki and see the Umngkot River’s crystal-clear waters. If you’d like, you can take a boat ride on the Umngot River’s pristine waters or drive to the Tamabil BOP to meet and greet the Bangladesh Rifles jawans.
The cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, is the next best tourist spot to visit, which can be reached by car. Driving between ridges and taking in the views of verdant hills and deep valleys shrouded in clouds is a breathtaking experience.
It will indeed be a pleasant experience to check out into a guesthouse close to the village’s scenic beauty over the Bangladesh plains that lie below a valley.
Day 5 – Mawlynnong to Shillong
Get up early and stroll through the picturesque village with its century-old Church. Tourists are amazed to witness the efforts of people of all ages to keep even the smallest piece of trash off the streets.
Return to your Khasi homestay for a last check-out and to freshen up.
You can always visit the Riwai village’s one-decker live root bridge after breakfast.
On your journey, you might also wish to stop by the balancing rock.
When you return to Shillong, spend the evening exploring Police Bazar and savoring the variety of street foods available there.
Day 6 – Shillong To Guwahati
Enjoy a leisurely start to your final day of travel. After checking out at around ten, if you haven’t already, go shopping in Shillong for any last-minute purchases.
Feel free to make another stop at Umiam Lake or the Umiam Lake Viewpoint on your way back to Guwahati before continuing directly to the airport.
Take off with a lifetime’s worth of memories.
Wrapping Up
A tour from Guwahati to Meghalaya provides the ideal fusion of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty. You’ll have enduring memories of the trip thanks to the stunning scenery, dynamic local cultures, and friendly locals.
Meghalaya offers something for everyone, whether you’re exploring the verdant hills, taking in the amazing living root bridges, or just taking in the tranquil surroundings. You’ll have a profound appreciation for the scenic beauty and cultural diversity of this captivating area when you return to Guwahati.
It takes approximately 3-4 hours to travel from Guwahati to Shillong by road, covering a distance of around 100 kilometers.
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April. This is also the period when the weather is pleasant and the region’s natural beauty is at its peak.
No, there are no direct flights. The nearest airport to Meghalaya is Shillong. However, most travelers prefer road travel from Guwahati.
Some must-visit places include Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki, and the living root bridges of Nongriat.
Pack comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for trekking. You also need to carryrain gear, warm clothing for cooler evenings, and essential medicines.
Yes, Meghalaya is considered a safe destination for travelers. The region is known for its low crime rate.