North East India Tour -5N/6D with Shillong-Cherrapunji-Guwahati

Northeast India which comprises the seven sister states is definitely a place which is must visit the region of the country. The exceptional scenic views and unique culture of the regions are something not worth missing for anything. One place to cover definitely is Shillong. Shillong is an outstanding hill station amongst the Himalayas and called Scotland of the East. The capital of Meghalaya, it offers picturesque waterfalls and panoramic views.

​

North East India - Umngot River at Dawki,Meghalaya

I and my friends reached Guwahati from Kolkata by flight for North East Tour Package. The Cab was waiting for us at the airport and we reached Shillong around 4:30 in the evening. On the way, we halted twice for some quick snacks and also viewed pristine Umium Lake. The lake called Borapani Lake locally. The greenery of Meghalaya was so amazing, that led us to the beautiful Shillong. After reaching the hotel the evening was for leisure so we had a walk-in local and explore food junctions. The northeast has a different culture and flavor. The bazaar has various types of street food stalls which one can enjoy. Overnight stay at Shillong.

Some places or sightseeing of Shillong are-

· Shillong Peak

· Elephant Falls

· Golf Course

· Cathedral Catholic Church.

The next day morning, we started our journey for Mawlynnong-Dawki. The weather was chilly outside. First, we visited the Living root bridge and Mawlynnong village. We had our lunch in a hotel there and then headed for the Dawki border. The bridge on the river Dawki and the boats on the green water are worth visiting. It doesn’t look like a border. After the day excursion, we spend the night at Cherrapunji. Equally, Cherrapunji is much more beautiful. It’s known as the wettest place on the earth and Capital of Rains. This town is definitely worth spending time in, surrounded by hills. The journey to Cherrapunji was one of the most memorable experiences in my life. We crossed the deep nature view, clouds, and sunny clear sky. Roads were good and wide.

We started our journey and visited the famous waterfalls one by one. Fortunately, the weather was clear, so we could see all the waterfalls and enjoyed it. Some famous places to visit for the day are:

Seven Sisters falls — It is located just 1 kilometer south of Mawsmai village in East Khasi Hills. The Seven Sisters Falls are the fourth highest waterfalls in India. The view is breath-taking. If you are a nature lover, it is a must-visit place when you are in Meghalaya.

Nohkalikai Falls — This waterfall is the tallest in the plunge waterfall category in India. Its height is 1115 feet, making it the highest waterfall in India.

​

Nohkalikai Falls, In Cherrapunji,Meghalaya

Mawsmai Caves are narrow limestone caves — they’re well maintained. But the caves are narrow and low, so it’s difficult for heavier people to traverse. They’re about 1km from the Seven Sisters Inn.

Eco-park — About 1km from Mawsmai Caves the Eco-park is situated. The scenic beauty from the edge is inspiring and breathtaking.

All these places are nearby and can see in about 2–3 hrs. After spending the complete day in Cherrapunjee, we reached our hotel in the evening. We left early for Shillong the next morning. Shillong is around 1.5 hrs, away from Cherrapunji. We set off early once again. Shillong looks beautiful in the morning. We went to Elephanta waterfalls and then went to Mawphlang Sacred Forest. Then we went back to Shillong and did all the local site seeing.

Also, a quick visit to Guwahati cannot leave the region. The roads are good since it’s a national highway. Then we headed to see the Kamakhya Temple, which is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. On the way to Kamakhya, the Guwahati city was visible on one side and the mighty Brahmaputra view on the other side which was very soothing to watch. One can watch it and enjoy the entire day.

That was the last day of the trip, so we enjoyed the evening roaming around the city. We visited Assamese handicrafts shops, had Assamese Thali, and bought gifts for the family from there.

The next morning we left with splendid memories.

​

Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunji,Meghalaya

Top Attractions of North East Tour with Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Guwahati

· Seven Sister Falls, Cherrapunji

· Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunji

· Umngot River, Cherrapunji

· Mawsmai Caves, Cherrapunji

· Shillong Peak, Shillong

· Elephanta Falls, Shillong

· Umium Lake, Shillong

· Kamakshya Temple,Guwahati

· Brahmaputra Cruise, Guwahati

Festivals in Assam and Meghalaya

Bihu Festival, Assam

It is one of the famous and renowned all over the festival in Assam which is held every year 14th April. It is celebrated to welcome the Assamese New year called Bohag Bihu. In this festival the small villages also enjoy with sound, light, and music and nice local pithas or local beer and meats in wide served and entire Assam and other neighboring states like Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh celebrates in the big grounds or parks or in the banquet

Ambubachi Mela, Assam

It is one of the major festivals of North East India held in the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati. It is held every year in the month of June. Thousands of devotees from all over India and abroad visit the temple thus this mela is called “Mahakhubh of the East”. It is a myth and common belief that during this time Goddess Kamakhya going through her annual Menstrual cycle. The temple remains closed for 03 days and is considered unclean, however, the devotees visit the temple’s premises to seek Goddess blessing even though the doors are closed. In 2019, the date was 22nd to 25th June but in 2020, Mela hasn’t held due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Wangala Festival, Meghalaya

Also known as “Hundred drums festival”. It is one of the most believable festivals in Meghalaya. This festival is celebrated during the second week of November each year in Asanang village near Tura in the Garo Hills. It is a post-harvest festival which is celebrated to mark the end of agriculture. It believes the most and shows their gratitude as a “Thanksgiving” festival to the god of fertility.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Shillong Safe for travelers?

Yes, Shillong is a safe place to travel for all kinds of travelers, including solo female travelers.

1. Is Monsoons a good time to visit Shillong?

Monsoons are a wonderful time to visit; you can witness the waterfall in full force. The rainy season brings out the beauty in Shillong.

1. Which is the best local cuisine we can try in Meghalaya Tour

Bamboo shoot is widely eaten through all the North Eastern States because of its delicate flavor. The delicious bamboo shoots are used in the dishes of boiled vegetables, cooked meat, pickles, and chutneys.