Meghalaya Itinerary for 5 to 7 Days: Explore the Abode of Clouds in 2025
Planning a trip to the Northeast? This Meghalaya Itinerary for 5 to 7 Days is the perfect guide for first-time visitors. Known for its emerald landscapes, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and mystical root bridges, Meghalaya is truly the “Abode of Clouds.” This itinerary includes top highlights across Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, and more, making it ideal for backpackers, nature lovers, families, or anyone looking to explore Meghalaya in 2025.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya for a 5 to 7 Day Trip
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and all sightseeing spots are easily accessible. If you want to witness Meghalaya’s waterfalls at their fullest, plan your trip during the monsoon season between June and September. Make sure to pack rain gear!
Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong – Gateway to Meghalaya
- Land at Guwahati Airport (Assam)
- Drive to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya (approx. 3-4 hours)
- En route stop at Umiam Lake, one of the most scenic lakes in Northeast India
- Explore Police Bazar, Shillong’s local shopping and food hub in the evening
Stay: Hotel or homestay in Shillong
Day 2: Shillong Local Sightseeing – Culture & Nature
- Visit Shillong Peak – the highest viewpoint offering panoramic views
- Witness the beauty of Elephant Falls, a multi-tiered cascade
- Stroll around Ward’s Lake and Lady Hydari Park
- Discover tribal history at the Don Bosco Museum, one of the best in India
Stay: Shillong
Day 3: Shillong to Cherrapunji – Waterfalls & Caves Tour
- Drive to Cherrapunji (also known as Sohra) – approx. 2 hours
- Visit some of the famous waterfalls in Cherrapunji:
- Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall
- Seven Sisters Falls – best viewed during monsoon
- Dainthlen Falls – linked with Khasi folklore
- Explore natural limestone caves: Mawsmai Cave & Arwah Cave
Stay: Hotel or eco-lodge in Cherrapunji
Day 4: Root Bridge Trek – Double Decker & Rainbow Falls
- Start early for the Nongriat trek to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge
- Continue the hike to Rainbow Falls, one of the hidden waterfalls in Meghalaya
- Experience eco-tourism at its finest with local Khasi hospitality
Stay: Homestay in Nongriat or back to Cherrapunji
Day 5: Cherrapunji to Mawlynnong & Dawki – Cleanest Village & Boating
- Visit Mawlynnong, awarded as Asia’s cleanest village
- Explore the Living Root Bridge of Riwai
- Head to Dawki, home to the crystal-clear Umngot River
- Experience Dawki river boating and visit the India-Bangladesh border
Stay: Campsite or riverside homestay in Shnongpdeng
Day 6: Adventure Activities in Dawki + Return to Shillong
- Try cliff jumping, zip-lining, and kayaking at Shnongpdeng
- Return to Shillong by evening, with scenic stopovers en route
Stay: Shillong
Day 7 (Optional): Laitlum Canyon Hike / Guwahati Departure
- Visit Laitlum Grand Canyon, a stunning viewpoint often missed by tourists
- Enjoy local food and capture your final views of Meghalaya
- Drive back to Guwahati for your onward journey
Is 5 to 7 days enough for Meghalaya?
Yes, 5 to 7 days is perfect to explore Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki, and nearby hidden gems.
What are the must-visit places in a Meghalaya itinerary?
Key spots include Nohkalikai Falls, Double Decker Root Bridge, Mawlynnong village, Dawki river boating, and Laitlum Canyon.
Can I explore Meghalaya solo or with a group?
Absolutely. Meghalaya is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, and families, with great road connectivity and safe homestays.
When is the best time to do Dawki river boating?
The best time is November to April, when the Umngot River is crystal clear and perfect for boating.
Are 5 to 7 day Meghalaya tour packages available?
Yes, there are many customizable Meghalaya tour packages designed for 5 to 7 days that cover all major destinations and activities.
