7-Day Northeast India Itinerary: Meghalaya + Kaziranga
Updated · Nomadic Travel team
One week, two states, zero rushing: our tried-and-tested route from Guwahati through Meghalaya's hills to Kaziranga's rhinos.
If you have one week, this 7-day Northeast India itinerary gives you the region's two most loved experiences — the waterfalls, root bridges and clear rivers of Meghalaya and the rhino safaris of Kaziranga — with realistic drive times. It's the same route as our Assam & Meghalaya tour package.
Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong (3 h)
Land in Guwahati and drive up to Shillong, stopping at Umiam Lake. Evening walk around Ward's Lake and Police Bazaar, and dinner of Khasi jadoh.
Day 2: Cherrapunji (1.5 h)
Drive south via the Mawkdok valley to Sohra. See Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave and Seven Sisters Falls. Overnight in Sohra.
Day 3: Mawlynnong and Dawki
Drive to Mawlynnong and the Riwai root bridge, then take a boat on the Umngot at Dawki. Return to Shillong (a long but beautiful day).
Day 4: Shillong to Kaziranga (6 h)
Descend to the plains and drive east along the Brahmaputra to Kaziranga. Evening at the Orchid Park.
Day 5: Kaziranga safaris
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris in different ranges — read Kaziranga Safari Zones Explained to choose. Walk through a tea garden between safaris.
Day 6: Back to Guwahati (5 h)
Drive to Guwahati and end the day with a Brahmaputra sunset cruise.
Day 7: Kamakhya and departure
Visit Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill before your flight.
Practical tips
- Best months: November to April (Kaziranga open, Dawki clear)
- No permits needed for Assam or Meghalaya
- Hire a private car with driver — public transport is slow on this route
- Carry a light rain jacket for Meghalaya, even in winter
