Itinerary for Meghalaya is your ultimate 7-day travel plan to explore misty waterfalls, living root bridges, cleanest villages, and the vibrant Khasi culture of Northeast India — an unforgettable journey through nature’s paradise.
If there’s one place that feels straight out of a dream, it’s Meghalaya — “the abode of clouds.” Misty hills, cascading waterfalls, and emerald valleys make it a paradise for nature lovers. This itinerary for Meghalaya is designed to help you experience the best of the state in seven incredible days, covering iconic spots like Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, and the sacred Khasi forests.
Imagine walking through a forest where the bridges are made of living roots, sailing over a crystal-clear river where boats seem to float in the air, or standing on cliffs where clouds roll at your feet — that’s the Meghalaya you’ll explore on this journey.
Start your itinerary for Meghalaya by landing in Shillong, the charming capital that blends colonial charm with tribal vibrancy. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong welcomes you with pine-scented air, rolling hills, and warm smiles.
Spend your first day exploring Ward’s Lake, a beautiful man-made lake surrounded by blooming gardens, and visit Don Bosco Museum to understand the region’s rich heritage. As the sun sets, drive to Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city shimmering below.
Don’t miss:
Ward’s Lake boat ride
Police Bazaar for local snacks and souvenirs
Khasi delicacies like Jadoh and Dohneiiong
No itinerary for Meghalaya is complete without a trip to Cherrapunji — the land that once held the record for the highest rainfall on earth. The drive from Shillong to Sohra is scenic, with valleys blanketed in clouds and waterfalls tumbling down cliffs.
Your second day is all about chasing waterfalls:
Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall.
Seven Sisters Falls – cascading curtains of water in monsoon glory.
Mawsmai Cave – an easy adventure through limestone formations.
As dusk falls, enjoy tea overlooking the mist-laden hills. Overnight in a cozy guesthouse as rain softly patters on the roof — a quintessential Cherrapunji moment.
This is the highlight of your itinerary for Meghalaya. Early morning, trek from Tyrna village to Nongriat, home to the iconic Double Decker Living Root Bridge — a masterpiece crafted by nature and the Khasi tribes over centuries.
The trek involves nearly 3,000 steps down stone pathways surrounded by dense rainforests, crystal streams, and butterflies fluttering around you. Once you reach the bridge, you’ll stand in awe of how human ingenuity and nature coexist in harmony.
For adventure lovers, hike a little further to Rainbow Falls, where sunlight filters through mist creating a colorful spectacle.
Continue your itinerary for Meghalaya by visiting Mawsynram, a village that receives the highest rainfall in the world. Here, nature rules supreme. Visit Mawjymbuin Cave, known for its natural Shiva Linga formation, and admire the rolling hills blanketed with mist.
Enjoy local hospitality in a Khasi homestay — simple yet heartwarming, wi
th meals cooked over wood fires. As evening approaches, drive to Laitlum Canyon near Shillong for a jaw-dropping view of the valley that feels like standing at the edge of the world.
Must-visit highlights:
Mawjymbuin Cave
Laitlum Canyon sunset point
Wei Sawdong three-tiered waterfall
Your itinerary for Meghalaya now takes you to Dawki, famous for the Umngot River, whose glass-clear water reflects the sky. A boat ride here is like gliding through air — you can see fish and stones beneath your boat as if you’re floating on nothingness.
Next, drive to Mawlynnong, honored as Asia’s cleanest village. Bamboo walkways, neat cottages, and flower-filled gardens create an atmosphere of serenity. Visit the nearby single-root living bridge and climb the Sky View Tower for sweeping vistas of the Bangladesh plains.
No itinerary for Meghalaya is complete without experiencing its rich Khasi heritage. Drive to Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a biodiversity hotspot protected by Khasi clans for centuries. Walking through this ancient forest feels mystical — every tree, stone, and plant is considered sacred.
Later, visit the Khasi Heritage Village, where you’ll learn about traditional architecture, clan systems, and folklore. End your day with a warm dinner in Shillong, relishing pukhlein (sweet rice bread) with tea.
Cultural highlights:
Mawphlang Sacred Forest trail
Khasi Heritage Village
Local homestay dinner experience
Your final day in this itinerary for Meghalaya is all about soaking in Shillong’s laid-back vibe. Wander through Police Bazaar for local handicrafts, explore Laitumkhrah’s cafés, and visit Lady Hydari Park for a quiet morning stroll.
If time allows, drop by Umiam Lake (Barapani) on your way out — a vast reservoir surrounded by pine hills, perfect for a final photo before you say goodbye to this mesmerizing land.
As you leave, you’ll realize Meghalaya isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling that stays long after you’ve returned home.
Best Time to Visit:
November to April for pleasant weather and clear skies. For waterfall lovers, the monsoon (June–September) is breathtaking.
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Guwahati (Assam). From there, Shillong is about 3 hours by road.
Transport:
Hire a cab for your entire trip; local transport is limited in remote villages.
Where to Stay:
Shillong: Café Shillong or Ri Kynjai Resort
Cherrapunji: Sohra Plaza Homestay
Mawlynnong: Local homestay experience
What to Eat:
Try Khasi specialties like Dohneiiong, Jadoh, and local pineapple desserts. Vegetarian travelers will find options in Shillong and Mawlynnong.
Permits:
Indian citizens don’t need special permits, but carry ID proof. Foreign tourists require an ILP (Inner Line Permit).
Budget Estimate (per person for 7 days):
₹25,000–₹35,000 including transport, accommodation, food, and guides.
This itinerary for Meghalaya isn’t just a list of places — it’s a journey through emotions. You’ll watch clouds swirl beneath your feet, hear waterfalls roar like thunder, and share laughter with locals who welcome you like family. Meghalaya touches the soul in unexpected ways — through the earthy aroma of rain-soaked soil, the taste of local tea, and the sight of rainbow-lit canyons.
If you crave authenticity, tranquility, and adventure all in one trip, this itinerary for Meghalaya delivers an experience that truly defines “Hidden Northeast.”
By the end of your seven days, you’ll find yourself replaying moments — the shimmer of Umngot River, the echo inside Mawsmai Cave, the laughter of Khasi children running through rain. Meghalaya is a living poem written in green, and every traveler becomes a line in it.
So pack your rain jacket, lace up your shoes, and follow this itinerary for Meghalaya you shouldn’t miss — a journey that promises beauty, peace, and stories you’ll tell for a lifetime.
