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Top 25 Places to Visit in Shillong

Away from the mainland, Northeast India is a hidden treasure of unparalleled beauty waiting to be explored. Shillong, a quaint hill station in Meghalaya, is definitely one of its brightest jewels. Famously known as the Scotland of East , Shillong is not merely the Capital of Meghalaya but also the Rock Capital of India . An abode of tranquil and serene valleys, waterfalls, parks, caves, and awe-inspiring landscapes, it also grooves to the loudest and most happening musical festivals in the nation.

Away from the scorching heat and chaos prevalent in the cities, Shillong, with its misty drizzles and pleasant gashes of wind, will wake your senses to hidden life. Brimming with modernity and a house of some of the oldest tribes at the same time, Shillong is a rare amalgamation of the past and the present. Come and experience what paradise on earth feels like in the “ Abode of Clouds ”.

Shillong is a celebration of culture, history, nature, and life; a celebration that you just cannot miss being a part of. There is no dearth of heart-capturing places to visit in Shillong. If you are waiting for a sign to take that leap of faith, cancel all your deadlines, and treat yourself with a rejuvenating and soulful retreat in the valleys, this is it.

Shillong is not just a place but rather a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will make you have a long and silent conversation with your solitude. Shillong tourist places definitely need to be on the top of your bucket list!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Shillong: March to June

Shillong in summer.

The pleasant and moderate climate of summers (18-22 degrees Celsius) makes the months of March to June the best time to visit Shillong. You can enjoy the lush greenery of the blossoming valleys in this season. From boating to trekking to Shillong sightseeing, there is perhaps no better climate to explore Shillong tourist places than the summer season. You can also enjoy the summer annual tribal thanksgiving festival, Shad Suk Mynsiem , by visiting this gem of place between the months of March to June.

Shillong in Winter

While the chilly weather and unpredictable winter showers make winters an off-season in the town, adventurers and nature lovers find their way to explore this beautiful place even in the biting cold. Months from October to February stand as the best time to visit Shillong if you want to enjoy Wangala , Autumn , as well as Nongrem Dance Festivals . The frosty valleys and trekking trails bring out a unique glory when it comes to Shillong sightseeing.

Shillong in Monsoon

The gods of rain are a bit too generous on Shillong. The area receives around 3300 mm of rainfall every year. While this makes the down prone to floods and blocked roads, the monsoon might be the best time to visit Shillong for you if you are a lover of rains. Brimming with greenery and serenity, Shillong is a romantic spectacle to treasure during the months of July to September . It brings out an unseen sight of picturesque Shillong tourist places.

From a plethora of mesmerizing Shillong tourist places, HikerWolf has chosen 25 best places to visit in Shillong for you:

1. Elephant Falls

Situated 12 km away from Shillong, Elephant Falls, one of the most alluring Shillong tourist places, will leave you spellbound by its astoundingly beautiful sight. It is named after an elephant-shaped rock at the foot of the fall. The rock, however, eroded and withered out of shape after an earthquake occurred in 1897.

It is popularly known in the Khasi tribe as the ‘ Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ , translating to ‘ The Three Step Waterfalls’ . With three consecutive crystal waterfalls in the backdrop of earthy rocks, the falls stand as a renowned Shillong tourist spot.

The first layer of falls, nestled between evergreen trees, mark a wide area by its flow. The second waterfalls are rather bleak and trace a narrow stream, especially during winters. The third waterfalls, with its unhindered flow of pristine water from the mouth of dark rocks, become the central attraction of the place. All three layers of waterfalls join together to form a stellar sight of refreshing and blossoming beauty. A natural delight tucked in emerald greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Highlights:

The three-tier falls in fern rocks

INR 20 per person

10 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week except on Sunday)

Best Time to Visit:

July to September

3. Umiam Lake

A gorgeous by-product of the construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Umiam River, Umiam Lake is a serene man-made reservoir that forms the perfect picnic spot for tourists from across all geographies. This makes it one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Spreading across 222 square kilometres of land, the lake is surrounded by lush green Gulmohar trees and is nestled amidst lofty valleys. Bustling with exquisite flora and fauna as well as indigenous locals, the lake will give you a kaleidoscopic view of the natural beauty and rural and tribal lifestyle of the region.

An absolute paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts, it is a delight when it comes to Shillong sightseeing. The sunset and sunrise views on the periphery of this lake are sights to behold. Along with its picturesque setting, it also offers tourists an array of water sports and adventures. This makes it one of the most prominent Shillong tourist places.

Kayaking, cruising, boating, and other water activities.

INR 20 for Kayak/ Pedal Boat/ Canoe

INR 50 for Scooter

INR 50 for River Bus

INR 100 for Yachting

INR 200 for Skiing

9 A.M. to 5 A.M. for water sports

March to June

3. Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum Canyons, nestled in the East Khali Valleys, is a well-kept secret of the town and is thus amongst the treasured Shillong tourist places brimming with tranquillity and peace. Literally translating to ‘ The End of Hills’ , Laitlum Canyons gives a panoramic view of the hills. Away from the mayhem of city life, this unexplored hilltop in lush green meadows will be the perfect spot to dwell into the deepest parts of your solitude. It is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. The bird view of the beautiful city will make you forget all your problems and will make them appear so small in front of the majestic valleys. Come and lose yourself in the silences of nature, perhaps you’ll hear them talking back to you!

The bird view of Khasi Valleys- a cherished Shillong tourist spot

No entry fee

Remains open throughout the day

4. Don Bosco Museum

Shillong is an abode of indigenous culture and traditions practiced by many diverse ancient tribes. If there is a place that captures the majestic history and heritage of Shillong, it is the renowned Don Bosco Museum, one of the most famous Shillong tourist places. Famously known as the largest museum of indigenous culture in Asia, it stores important relics and artifacts that tell a tale of the cultural history of Northeastern India.

Constructed in a hexagonal style with seven floors and over 17 art galleries, this museum has been visited by eminent personalities such as the princess of Thailand as well as notaries from the Rajya Sabha. Adorned with sculptures, paintings weapons, figures, as well as other artifacts and relics, it also hosts various recreational events and competitions inviting historians, scholars, writers, lyricists, as well as musicians from across the world. One of the most prominent places to visit in Shillong, it is a renowned Shillong tourist spot.

Snippets of north-eastern communities

INR 100 for an Indian Adult and INR 200 for a Foreign Adult

INR 50 for an Indian Student and INR 150 for a Foreign Student

9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. in summers and 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. in winters (remains open throughout the week except for Sundays and national holidays)

Throughout the year

5. Shillong Peak

If you want to get a kaleidoscopic bird view of the beauty that Shillong entails, perhaps there is no better hilltop than the majestic Shillong Peak to serve your needs. Perched at an altitude of 1965 meters above sea level, Shillong Peak stands as the highest point in Shillong. Covered with misty fog, it definitely is a major reason behind the naming of Shillong as an abode of clouds and is thus amongst the best Shillong places to visit.

According to a popular legend, the peak is said to be the home of ‘ Leishyllong ‘, the supreme patron deity revered in Shillong. It is believed that the deity overlooks and protects the city from the hill peak. Attracting devotees, spiritualists, as well as nature lovers, Shillong Peak is a slice of heaven that will give you an unparalleled experience of serene divinity. It thus is a prominent stop for Shillong sightseeing. Located at the Air force base, it also hosts the radar station of the Indian Air force. Undeniably, it bags a position in the list of Shillong tourist places.

The radar station of the Indian Airforce- a renowned Shillong tourist spot

9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

6. Ward’s Lake

Named after Sir William Ward, the chief commissioner of Assam who played a central role in commencing its construction, Ward’s Lake is a renowned Shillong tourist spot. Famously known as the Pollock’s Lake by the locals, Ward’s Lake is adorned by rich flora and vibrant flowerbeds. Constructed in 1894, this 100-year-old lake still stands as the unblemished and untouched jewel of Shillong.

Boating in this horseshoe-shaped lake will bring you in the close proximity of diverse fishes that make this lake beam with life. From feeding the colorful fishes to taking a stroll around this crystal mirror-sheet lake, Ward’s lake is a perfect retreat into the prime bounty of nature. A prominent destination for Shillong sightseeing, Ward’s Lake is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Paddle boating in the lake

INR 10 per person

8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (November to February) and 8:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. (March to October).  It remains open throughout the week.

June and July

7. Air Force Museum

Shillong is a hub of eminent museums that bear testimony to the rich culture, heritage, history, as well as technologies that the country possesses. One such exquisite museum that tells the brave tale of India’s defense history is the Air Force Museum located in the Upper Shillong region.

From the snapshots of Indo-China and Indo-Park Wars to uniforms of air force pilots to microscopic models of air crafts to rockets, missiles, and other items, the Air Force Museum will educate you about the Indian Air force and its brave flying warriors and glorious history. Also encapsulating a souvenir shop and a cafeteria, the air force museum complex is amongst the renowned places to visit in Shillong.

The python skin on display

9:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

8. Shillong Golf Course

Perched in the East Khali district at a height of 5200 feet above sea level, Shillong Golf Course stands as the largest, finest, as well as a most ancient golf course in the whole wide world! It was constructed in 1898 as a 9-hole golf course and was later transformed into an 18-hole golf course in 1924 by Captain Jackson and C.K. Rhodes. Ever since 1924, this golf course is renowned with the title – Gleneagles of the East.

Adorned with dense rhododendron and pine trees, it is not just a haven for golf enthusiasts but also for nature and peace lovers. Its picturesque and enormous sight is one to treasure and thus it stands as the pride of Meghalaya. A delight for a playful, fun, and sporty retreat, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Flowering Pine and Rhododendron trees

8 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

9. Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

Located between Dhanketi and Laitunkhrah, Mary Help for Christian Cathedral is one of the most picturesque churches in the city and is also amongst the most sacred Shillong tourist places. Constructed on a steep plateau to be earthquake resistant, it is decorated with grand glass windows and towering arches.

Established in 1980, it stores the grave of Hubert D’ Rosario, the first Archbishop of Shillong. An affirmation of Gothic revival architecture, the church is adorned with Holy Scriptures and artworks that depict biblical tales as well as the lives of renowned holy saints.

Glimmering with spirituality and serenity, the church is named after Holy Mary, the mother of Lord Jesus Christ. Standing as a divine abode in the backdrop of grandiose snow-covered mountains and pious Brahmaputra River, it is a treasured spot for Shillong Sightseeing and thus is one of the best places to visit in Shillong for a divine and spiritual retreat.

The grave of Hubert D’ Rosario

7 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

10. Police Bazar

If you want to get a vivid view of the bustling life in Shillong, there is no better place than Police Bazar for you. One of the liveliest market centers in Shillong, Police Bazar has got something for everyone. From modern stores to ethnic, traditional, and classic handicraft stores to a flea market, Police Bazar captures the soul of Shillong with all its varied diversities.

Built around the main circle, it is connected to the city by 7 roads that branch out from the central chowk. The flea market is renowned to be a pocket friendly experience if you want to treasure traditional handicrafts and ethnic junk jewelry of Meghalaya.A colourful, vibrant, and lively market, it is not just a popular destination for shopaholics but also foodies as it is an abode of some of the most delicious local cuisines and delicacies of Meghalaya. Come and get lost in the fervour of tradition, culture, and life beaming in this market of Shillong. Without a doubt, it is one of the most stellar places to visit in Shillong.

The flea market- a favorite Shillong tourist spot

8 A.M. to 7 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Also, read about the 15 Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

11. Sweet Falls

Imagine the musical sound of thrashing water amidst dense green forests reverberating with the mellifluous chirping of birds. Sweet falls is an ethereal destination for nature lovers and enthusiasts and is thus amongst renowned Shillong tourist places. One of the most stellar waterfalls with astounding beauty, it also is one of the most dangerous and accident-prone waterfalls in Shillong. Situated at a height of 96 meters, it has been a witness to a number of tragic deaths and suicides. It thus stands unfit for directly bathing under its fast rushing water.

To add to its mystery, it is also believed to be a haunted place by the locals. According to a popular legend, groups visiting in odd numbers are often found to return with lesser members in even numbers. A picturesque and sublime site, it is located in the close earshot of Butterfly Museum and mini zoo. With its haunted reputation and dangerous eventualities, it is less visited. With a scarce crowd, however, you can make the most of the serene greenery and sublime beauty that envelops this place. As suggested by its name, it is a sweet and refreshing getaway and thus, is bags its name in the list of eminent Shillong places to visit.

The cloudy view of majestic falls

INR 70- Vehicle Entry Fee

10 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

12. All Saints Cathedral

In the close proximity of Police Bazaar (a prominent Shillong tourist spot) and opposite to the Central Library in Shillong, All Saints Cathedral stands as one of the most ancient and yet one of the most beautiful and well-maintained churches in the city of Shillong.

Constructed around 1902, it was built by the British Empire and thus bears testimony to Victorian architecture and designs. With its wooden architecture and intricately carved religious symbolisms, it holds great value for history and beauty lovers as well as devotees from across all geographies. All Saints Cathedral is a treasured stop for Shillong sightseeing. Shimmering with tranquil spirituality, this quaint abode of unparalleled divinity is one of the best Shillong tourist places.

The wooden architecture and religious carvings

8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Throughout the Year

13. Wankhar Entomological Museum

Owned and maintained by the members of the Wankhar family, Wankhar Entomological Museum is also famously known as the Butterfly Museum. One of the most renowned Shillong tourist places, it is located on Riatsamthiah Jaiaw and in close proximity to the Christian Academy School.

Housing more than 1600 species of butterflies, moths, beetles, and other insects, it is a colorful sight to behold and is a unique destination for Shillong sightseeing. To promote the awareness for conservation of exotic and endemic insects, Wankhar Entomological Museum also hosts recurrent special breeding programs for the conservation of the insects. A one of its kind traveling destination, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

exotic specimens of moths, beetles, butterflies, tarantulas, and millipedes from different countries.

INR 50 per adult (national), INR 30 per student (national), and INR 100 per foreigner

11 A.M. to 4 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Sunday)

14. Lady Hydari Park

Brimming with ducks and wishes, Lady Hydari Lake is an exceptionally picturesque lake that stands as the favorite picnic spot for nature lovers and as a renowned name amongst Shillong places to visit. It gets its name from Lady Hydari, the wife of the Governor of Assam and thus famously revered as the first lady of the state.

Built-in Japanese style, it is dotted with orchid, willow trees, as well as rhododendrons trees. With beautiful ponds, enamoring lawns, and a mini zoo and museum, it is an ideal recreational destination to enjoy with family. Boating in the ponds of this park will give you an astoundingly beautiful view of greenery blossoming with life. A treasured place for Shillong sightseeing, it is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Shillong.

Boating and other recreational activities

INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child below 5 years of age, and INR 5 per senior citizen

8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Monday)

15. Bishop Falls

The highest waterfall in Shillong and the 22 nd highest waterfall in India, Bishop Falls flows from a height of 443 feet. This three-tier waterfall merges into the pristine Umiam River making its way through the dense valleys. With a hydroelectric powerhouse at its base, it is a beautiful sight with foamy water streams traversing through dark rocks.

The twin brother of Beadon Falls, Bishop Falls is the second of two waterfalls falling into the same water base.  Stranded away into prime remoteness of nature, it is not connected to any motorable road and can only be viewed from the Beadon-Bishop View Point. A refreshing getaway from the chaos of city life, it will make you experience the sublimity of nature like never before. A door into your spirituality, Bishop Falls is a charming destination for Shillong Sightseeing and is one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Beadon-Bishop ViewPoint- a favorite Shillong tourist spot

8 A.M. to 6 P.M.

16. Rhino Heritage Museum

Rhino Heritage Museum is a renowned war museum that tells the stories of wars fought by the brave soldiers of the nation as well as of the highly developed defense weapons that the nation has employed in the past wars.

From the relics of uniforms of martyred soldiers to their medals to the weapons produced by Japan in World War II, it houses various historical and war artifacts. First constructed in 1928, it is said to have been a prison for Japanese prisoners of war. It was transformed later into a war museum by the director-general of Assam Rifles, Lt. Gen Shokin Chauhan.

Its galleries house displays of not just war relics but also local and tribal heritage and culture. The central attractions of the museum are the multiple photographs of soldiers and army personnel, weapons employed by the Japanese army during the Second World War, rifles made in Iraq and China, as well as the great Caribou fighter plane employed in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Encapsulating tales of gory wars, grand weapons, and brave soldiers, it attracts history lovers, students, as well as tourists from across all geographies. A profound conversation with the past, it stands amongst the most famous Shillong places to visit.

The weaponry of the Japanese Army- a central attraction for Shillong sightseeing

Paid for all visitors. Special discount for senior citizens, students, as well as retired army men.

9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Thursday)

17. Mawjymbuin Cave

Imagine walking through a dark cave marked with a quiet flow of bleak water streams and wonders of sandstones and geological formations. Mawjymbuin Cave will enrapture you in the beauty of natural wonders and unseen treasures. Located in Mawsynram (the wettest place on earth), Mawjymbuin Cave is an alluring sight that holds great significance to religious devotees, geologists, as well as nature lovers.

The cave contains a rock structure resembling Shiva Linga that arose from the earth. The Shiva Linga is worshipped by devotees from all geographies who revere this cave as a holy abode of a great deity and thus consider it a pilgrim. With a height of 209 meters, it has many entrances and passages, some of which are very narrow and bleak. Adorned with sandstones and multiple stalagmites, it is a sought-out destination for geologists and researchers from across the world.

With a quiet and tranquil aura, this quaint cave will take you into the depths of your spirituality and thus will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A marvelous site for Shillong sightseeing, it also is one of the most stellar tourist places in Shillong.

The rock shaped like Shiv Linga

Entry Fee :

8 A.M. to 8 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Post monsoon as the passage of the cave is prone to get blocked in heavy rains.

18. Spread Eagle Falls

A waterfall that looks like a mighty eagle spreading its wings? Spread Eagle Falls is a delightful wonder of nature and thus is a scenic sight to devour. The widest waterfall in the city and also amongst prominent Shillong tourist places, Spread Eagle Falls is also known as Urkaliar or Sati Falls. It is nestled in the steep hills of the East Khali District. According to a popular legend, Ka Liar slipped and fell into this waterfall and thus it got its name as Urkaliar falls. With water gushing out of the crystal rocks and the thunderous flow breaking the profound silence of the hills, Spread Eagle falls is a paradise for nature lovers as well as photography enthusiasts as a quintessential Shillong sightseeing destination. Beaming with beauty and fervor, it is one of the most pristine places to visit in Shillong for a soulful retreat into nature.

The eagle-shaped waterfalls- One of the most majestic Shillong tourist places

10 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

May and June

19. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Imagine wandering through the wilderness of a tropical, evergreen, dense, and unexplored forest. The crunch of autumn leaves crushing beneath your feet and the echoing silence of the majestic distant valleys. Mawphlang is one of the most beautiful forests in Meghalaya and also one of the most mysterious Shillong places to visit. It is a forest enveloped with sacred beliefs. It holds great religious value to the Khasi Tribe. They bury the dead members of their tribe in this forest.

One can spot monoliths and stones in the forest used to offer animal sacrifices to holy deities. Labasa is revered as the prime deity of the village and tribal people belonging to the Khasi Tribe offer the sacrifice of roosters and goats as a ritual to worship the deity. They believe that the deity can appear in the form of a tiger. It is also not allowed for visitors to not take anything out from this village.

According to a famous legend, the attempt made by the Indian Army to take logs out of the forest for construction work despite repeated warnings from the tribal villagers was turned futile by some invisible force. Despite multiple attempts, the Indian Army was unable to take the logs out from the village and thus the age-old legend has continued and no one dares to move anything in this primitive and sacred forest. Adorned with rich flora and fauna and biodiversity, it is also a picturesque spectacle. One of the best tourist places in Shillong, it is a fascinating adventure to entail!

The Mystic Forest Trail- An eminent Shillong tourist spot

9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

September and October

20. Mawphlang Village

Situated 26 kilometers away from Shillong, Mawphlang Village, one of the most primitive Shillong places to visit, is an unexplored jewel that holds the rich rural heritage of Meghalaya. Nestled in the East Khali Hills, it literally translates to “grassy stone” used by the tribal people for animalistic sacrifices and rituals. It was a famous center for medical activities and dispensaries and was also the abode of Presbyterian Church of Wales missionary during the 1890s.

Marked by rivers, valleys, forests, and ponds, Mawphlang Dam and the sacred forest groves remain the central attractions of this village. It is an eminent destination for Shillong Sightseeing to get an insight into the unknown rural culture of Meghalaya. It thus stands as one of the best tourist places in Shillong.

Mawphlang Dam and Mawphlang Sacred Forest- Cherished places to visit in Shillong

9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M

October to April

21. State Museum

Perched in the state Library Complex at Laichumiere, the Meghalaya State Museum, also famously known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, is a reservoir of the rich tribal and ethnic culture of the nation. Established in 1975, the museum gives a detailed account of the age old civilizations as well as their unique cultures from both western and eastern parts of India.

Galleries containing traditional musical instruments, jewelry, traditional tools, weapons, and other antique artifacts adorn the museum. This ethnographic museum gives a unique insight into the exquisite cultures and traditions of the Jaintia, Garo, and Khasi tribes. It also encapsulates the dinosaur’s model acquired from the Geological Survey of India, Kolkata to the replica of Ashok Pillars and anthropological life-size model acquired from National Museum, Delhi, and Gauhati respectively.

Beaming with socio-cultural ethnicity, it is a favorite Shillong tourist spot for anthropologists, researchers, historians, students, as well as other visitors. A perfect site for Shillong sightseeing, it will acquaint you with the hidden and unknown lives of the ancient tribes and their sentiments. A hub of culture and profound stories, it is one of the best Shillong Places to visit.

Dinosaurs model

INR 5 per person

10 A.M. to 4 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

22. David Scott Trail

A breath-taking trek through forest covers, rushing rivers, steep rocks, emerald green meadows, mountains, woods, and expansive grasslands, David Scott Trail is a dream for every trekker and thus is amongst the best Shillong places to visit.

Getting its name from David Scott, a British officer of the region, this 16 kilometers long trek connects two villages brimming with an unparalleled culture and unique ways of life. Wandering through this trek will make you stroll through the tribal culture and heritage embedded in the soul of Shillong.

Stretching from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang, David Scott Trail is one of the oldest trekking trails in Meghalaya. It was established in the 19 th century as a pathway connecting Assam and Bangladesh. From the ancient Khasi Villages to the dangling bridge at River Umain to the tomb of Camilla to the Ka Kor Ka Shonmai resting spot, the trek entails alluring places and experiences and is thus quintessential for Shillong sightseeing in order to explore its hidden beauty and culture. A relaxing retreat in the natural meadows, it is one of the best tourist places in Shillong.

Ka Kor Ka Shonmai point- Eminent Shillong tourist spot

6 A.M. to 6 P.M.

23. Sohpetbneng Peak

On the outskirts of Shillong and at an altitude of 1343 meters above sea level, there lies one of the most auspicious peaks in the city as well as one of the best Shillong tourist places, Sohpetbeng Peak. It gives an alluring bird view of a city covered in dense forests. Revered as the “ Navel to Heaven ” in the Khasi mythology and Folklore, it holds great religious and sacred value for the people belonging to the Hinniewtrep Tribe.

With sublime and breath-taking views of the city as well as the profound divinity, the peak is a favorable location for both tourists as well as locals. A perfect spot for Shillong sightseeing, it will make you experience the grandiose city among the clouds. It thus attracts nature lovers as well as photographers from across the world. One of the best places to visit in Shillong, it is a sight to behold.

The panoramic view of the city

24. Mawsynram

Your trip to Shillong cannot possibly be complete without visiting the wettest place on the earth! Mawsynram, located 61 kilometres away from Shillong, is a tropical town marked by generous and wondrous showers. Cuddled in East Khali Hills, at a height of 1400 meters above sea level, it gets its name from the Khasi word “Maw” meaning stone. Dotted with stalagmite formations and earthy stone structures, it is one of the most prominent Shillong tourist spots. Most famous for a rock resembling Shiv Linga in Mawjymbuin Cave , it houses various wonders of nature. The village houses in Mawsynram are covered with thick grass shields in order to protect the inhabitants from the noisy and thunderous rains. A spectacle to treasure, this quaint little town encapsulates the hidden beauty of northeast India and thus deserves to be on your travel list! Undeniably, it is one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Mawjymbuin Cave- One of the most renowned Shillong tourist places

Remains open throughout the week

September to November

25. Lewduh Bara Bazar

Famously renowned as the largest traditional and ethnic market in Northeast India, Lewduh Bara Bazar captures the soul of the city of Shillong and is thus a bustling Shillong tourist spot. Beaming with the culture of the Khasi tribe, one of the most prominent tribes inhabiting Shillong, the market sells Khasi weapons such as Khasi knives and Khasi bow and arrows.

From handicraft items to bamboo artifacts to Scottish Check and handwoven shawls, the market is a hub of exquisite heritage. It also witnesses religious rituals and ceremonies conducted to worship U Blei Shillong , the revered deity of Shillong. Owing to a strong lineage of matrilineal culture, most of the shops are run by women.

Along with housing ethnic, religious, and tribal culture, it also bustles with stores of modern brands. Thus, a perfect amalgamation of modernity with culture, it captures the soul of a society in flux, leaning towards the new ways of the world, yet rooted beautifully in the indigenous life. From traditional souvenirs to lip-smacking delicacies, it has got something for everyone. Bustling with life and a diverse crowd, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Khasi knives, bows, and arrows

8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

North East India still remains an unexplored mystery. Cut off from the mainland, it houses various well-kept secrets of unseen beauty. One such lesser-known jewel of North East India is the charming hill station of Shillong. From primitive forests, mountains, lakes, caves, and waterfalls to lively music festivals, Shillong is a profound story of the union between nature and culture. Come and listen to the ancient fables of primitive tribes and the modern tales of renowned rock bands at the same time in this mesmerizing town. Some stories, after all, are worth hearing!

1. What is the best time to visit Shillong?

   The pleasant months from September to May are considered the best time to visit Shillong. Monsoons are generally avoided to travel to Shillong as the heavy rains in Shillong often lead to blocked roads and floods.

2. Where is Shillong located?

  Shillong is located at a height of 4,990 meters above sea level in the east-central region of Meghalaya.

3. How to reach Shillong?

  You can reach Shillong both via air and road. If you are traveling by air, you can easily reach Shillong airport which is well-connected with other major cities. You can also avail of bus services available for travel from Guwahati to Shillong.

4. Is Shillong a safe place to visit for tourists?

  Shillong has a low crime rate when compared to other major cities in India and is a safe place for tourists.

5. What are the various tribes situated in Shillong?

  The most prominent tribes in Shillong are the Khasi tribe, Garo tribe, and Jaintia tribe.

6. Does one require any special permits to visit Shillong?

  Everyone, except the natives, needs to obtain a special permit to visit the northeastern states of India. You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Shillong. The permit is issued by the state government.

7. What are the most famous hotels to stay in Shillong?

  Some of the most famous and luxurious hotels to stay in Shillong are Ri Kynjai, Hotel Polo Towers, The Heritage Club, The Pear Tree, and Hotel Alpine Continental.

8. What is Shillong famous for?

  Shillong, prominently known as the Scotland of East, is one of the most beautiful hill stations in north-eastern India. It is known for its picturesque waterfalls, caves, valleys, and lush green grasslands. There is no dearth of tranquil places to visit in Shillong. Away from the mainland, Shillong offers a pleasant cultural retreat as it is inhabited by the indigenous Khasi tribe.

9. How is the internet facility in Shillong?

  You can easily get a fairly stable internet connection in Shillong. Places such as Mawphlang Village, however, have a low internet connection.

10. What are the best mobile networks that provide stable connectivity in Shillong?

  Jio, Vodafone, as well as BSNL are known to provide stable connectivity in Shillong.

11. What is the famous food of the region?

  Khasi food is the most prominent cuisine of Shillong. Pork and rice are considered the staple food of the region. Jadoh is a lip-smacking Khasi delicacy that is a must-try dish for all food enthusiasts.

12. Can I get vegetarian food in Shillong?

  While vegetarian food is not common in Shillong, it has been recently made available at various food joints due to the growth of the tourism industry.

13. Is liquor readily available in the region?

  While there are 10 liquor-free zones in Shillong, there are several government shops and wine shops where you can buy alcohol.

14. How are the medical facilities in Shillong tourist places?

  The largest and most well-equipped hospital in Shillong with over 400 beds is the Shillong Civil Hospital. Many primary health care centers are also located in different parts of the city.

15. What is the type of clothing recommended in Shillong?

  If you are traveling during summers, you must carry light clothes made of cotton material to provide you relief from the scorching heat of Shillong. For winters, you must carry woolen clothes to keep yourself warm in the biting cold. The rains are quite unpredictable in the region, hence, you should also carry umbrellas and rainwear for your Shillong trip.

16. What are the essential things to pack for the Shillong trip?

  You must carry your identity cards, documentation required to obtain the ILP, light clothes, medications, and basic first aid, as well as an umbrella and rainwear.

17. What are the famous markets in Shillong?

  Some of the most famous and busy markets in Shillong are the Police Bazaar, Bara Bazaar, Khasi Emporium, Bhutia Market, and Polo Bazaar.

18. What are the famous souvenirs to buy from Shillong?

  Shillong is famous for its Khasi products, organic fruits and produce, as well as traditional fabrics, shawls, and jewelry.

19. What is the most famous music festival organized in Shillong?

  NH7 Weekender Shillong is India’s most happening music festival organized annually in Shillong. Shillong is popularly known as the Rock Capital of India.

20. Why is Mawjymbuin Cave so famous amongst Shillong tourist places?

  Mawjymbuin Caves are naturally formed caves dotted with stalagmite formations. The natural rock formation shaped like Shiv Linga attracts devotees from across geographies and thus forms the central attraction of the caves.

21. How is the availability of electricity in Shillong tourist places?

   Shillong receives 492.47 MW units of electricity 24*7. The power supply is provided by both the state government as well as CGS.

22. Is Shillong clean?

  Shillong is one of the cleanest cities in India. Following the guidelines of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Shillong has maintained strict no pollution policies prohibiting plastic waste in the state.

23. Is India’s first 18-hole golf course located in Shillong?

  Yes, the Shillong golf course is the nation’s first 18-hole golf course renovated in 1924. Located at a height of 5200 feet above sea level, it is one of the most picturesque and scenic golf courses in the world and is thus sought out by golf enthusiasts from across geographies.

24. What is the amount of annual rainfall received in Shillong?

  Shillong receives an average rainfall of about 88.60 inches every year. Located near Cherrapunji, Shillong is considered one of the wettest places in the world.

25. What are the most famous museums to visit in Shillong?

  Shillong is known for its exquisite museums that provide an insight into the indigenous tribal lives, cultures, as well as their unique histories.  This quaint hill station in Meghalaya has interesting stories to tell for all history enthusiasts, researchers, and anthropologists. Some of the most famous historical places to visit in Shillong are the Don Bosco Museum, Air Force Museum, Butterfly Museum, Rhino Heritage Museum, as well as the Forest Museum.

26. What is the nearest airport to Shillong?

  The Umroi airport is the nearest airport to Shillong city. It is located 25 km away from the Shillong city center. You can book a taxi or cab ride to reach Shillong from Umroi.

27. What currency is in use in Shillong?

  Indian currency, both in cash and card, is in use in Shillong.

28. What are the famous festivals celebrated in Shillong?

  Shillong beams with enthusiasm and zeal as it hosts various cultural, religious, tribal, as well as music festivals throughout the year. The Wangala Festival, Nongkrem Dance, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Behdienkhlam, and the Shillong Autumn Festival are some of the most famous festivals celebrated in Shillong. Famously known as the Rock Capital of India, Shillong also hosts NH7 Weekender Shillong, India’s most happening music festival, every year.

29. What are the prominent languages spoken in Shillong?

  The prominent languages spoken in Shillong are Khasi, Pnar, Garo, as well as the English language. Dominated by the Khasi tribe, Khasi is the most prominently spoken language in the region.

30. What is the condition of roads in Shillong?

  Shillong is marked by unruly roads in various parts of the state. Often blocked by debris and floods during monsoon, the roads become slippery for tourists to travel and thus require careful and steady driving. The Guwahati Shillong road of NH 40 (also known as the G.S. Road) has been recently upgraded to avoid accidents in the region.

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Home » Destinations » Shillong

EAST KHASI HILLS

From Guwahati – 100 kms south on the NH6

TRANSPORT Guwahati Airport: 119 kms Shilong Airport: 31 kms Guwahati Railway station: 96 kms

Founded in the second half of the nineteenth century by the British, Shillong town has enjoyed a cosmopolitan core since its beginnings. This reflects in the unique culture of Meghalaya’s scenic capital – a place where every festival is celebrated with zest and travellers will stumble across cuisines from across the country and the world. Shillong’s modern reputation is built on its love for music and there have been many legendary musicians who call this home. There are many faces to Shillong – the quiet neighbourhoods with whistling pine still thrive but there is also a vibrant downtown area. Shillong is also known for its emerging café culture. Attractions here include the pleasant, tree-lined Ward’s Lake and the sprawling Golf Links – a favourite outdoor recreational space for the residents. Shillong has plenty of hotels, guesthouses and homestays spread across the landscape especially in the centrally located Police Bazaar. If you want to chart the colonial history of the place, we would recommend the Shillong Heritage Walk.

Attractions and Activities in Shillong

• Shillong Heritage Walk

• Phan Nonglait Park

• Ward’s Lake

• Don Bosco Museum

• Elephant Falls

Directorate of Tourism 3rd Secretariat Nokrek Building, Lower Lachumiere, Shillong 793001, Meghalaya, India Tel Fax : +91-364-2502580 Phone No : +91 76400 03050 E-mail : [email protected]

USEFUL LINKS

• SAATHI – Ministry of Tourism
• NIDHI – Ministry of Tourism
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Important Updates

• Applicants selected for the interview of the ‘Meghalaya Luxury Tourism’ Vehicle Scheme
• Meghalaya Draft Tourism Policy 2022
• Empanelment of professional firm for supply and setting up of Prefabricated containers/structures around the state

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"Scotland of the East"

Shillong tourism.

Nestled amidst the pine-clad hills, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, unfolds like a picturesque canvas at an elevation of 1496 meters. Revered as the 'Scotland of the East,' the city offers a delightful blend of captivating landscapes, pleasant weather, and rich traditions. Shillong derives its name from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak, and is home to diverse tribal communities like Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim, each contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry.

One of the city's prominent attractions is Umiam Lake , a sprawling reservoir surrounded by hills that offer a serene escape. The tranquility of the Elephant Falls , cascading gracefully amidst lush greenery, adds to Shillong's natural allure. For those seeking adventure, the Laitlum Canyons unveil breathtaking panoramic views, making it a must-visit for trekking enthusiasts. Shillong is not just a haven for nature lovers; it boasts museums and cultural gems like the Don Bosco Museum , showcasing the indigenous cultures of the Northeast. The Meghalaya State Museum is another treasure trove, delving into the state's heritage through artifacts and exhibits. The bustling Police Bazar , a vibrant market, captures the pulse of Shillong with its lively atmosphere and diverse shopping experiences. Venturing beyond the city limits, Mawphlang stands as a testament to Meghalaya's cultural heritage, known for its sacred groves and traditional rituals. On the other hand, Mawlynnong , acclaimed as the cleanest village in Asia, beckons with its living root bridges and pristine landscapes. Shillong's musical heartbeat resonates through its title as the "music capital of India." The city's westernized culture and youthful vibe contribute to its dynamic music scene. Throughout the year, music events and festivals celebrate Shillong's rich musical heritage. The city's charm lies not just in its natural beauty but also in the warmth of its people, making it a destination that lingers in the hearts of those who explore its scenic wonders and cultural richness.

Must Visit Places in Shillong

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Shillong Peak

Don Bosco Museum

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7 Day Shillong Itinerary -the must-visit attractions and hidden gems of Shillong

Planning a trip to Shillong? Look no further! In this 7day Shillong itinerary, we have curated a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your journey. From breathtaking waterfalls to serene lakes, from exploring local markets to experiencing the vibrant culture, this itinerary has it all. So get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as we take you through the must-visit attractions and hidden gems of Shillong, ensuring that every day is filled with new discoveries and unforgettable memories.

• 1.1 Arrival in Shillong
• 1.2 Visit Ward’s Lake
• 1.3 Explore Don Bosco Museum
• 1.4 Savor Local Cuisine
• 1.5 Experience Shillong’s Nightlife
• 2.1 Drive to Cherrapunjee
• 2.2 Explore Mawsmai Cave
• 2.3 Visit Nohkalikai Falls
• 2.4 Admire Seven Sisters Falls
• 2.5 Discover Living Root Bridges
• 2.6 Enjoy Sohra Market
• 3.1 Visit Mawlynnong Village
• 3.2 Witness Asia’s Cleanest Village
• 3.3 Explore Root Bridge
• 3.4 Experience Local Village Life
• 3.5 Boat Ride in Umngot River
• 3.6 Explore Dawki Town
• 4.1 Visit Shillong Peak
• 4.2 Enjoy Panoramic Views
• 4.3 Explore Elephant Falls
• 4.4 Admire Natural Beauty
• 4.5 Visit Lady Hydari Park
• 5.1 Stroll along Golf Course Road
• 5.2 Enjoy Scenic Beauty
• 5.3 Visit Don Bosco Cathedral
• 5.4 Marvel at Architectural Beauty
• 5.5 Explore Police Bazaar
• 6.1 Visit Wards Lake
• 6.2 Take a Boat Ride
• 6.3 Explore Botanical Garden
• 6.4 Enjoy Picnic Lunch
• 6.5 Play Golf at Shillong Golf Course
• 7.1 Visit Sacred Grove in Mawphlang
• 7.2 Explore Biodiversity
• 7.3 Learn about Khasi Culture
• 7.4 Visit Air Force Museum
• 7.5 Get insights into Air Force History
• 8.1 Recap of 7-day Itinerary
• 8.2 Encouragement to Explore Shillong’s Beauty
• 8.3 Tips for Traveling in Shillong
• 8.4 Like this:
• 8.5 Related

Day 1: Exploring Shillong -7 Day Shillong Itinerary

Arrival in shillong.

Welcome to Shillong! Your adventure begins as you arrive in this charming hill station. With its lush greenery, pristine waterfalls, and vibrant culture, Shillong has much to offer. Take a deep breath and soak in the fresh mountain air as you set foot in this picturesque destination.

Visit Ward’s Lake

After checking into your accommodation and freshening up, make your way to Ward’s Lake. This serene oasis located in the heart of the city is the perfect place to begin your exploration. Take a leisurely stroll along the well-manicured pathways, admire the colorful flowers in bloom, and perhaps even indulge in a boat ride on the calm waters of the lake.

Explore Don Bosco Museum

Next, head to the Don Bosco Museum, a treasure trove of information about the indigenous cultures of Northeast India. With its impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the rich heritage and traditions of the region. Spend some time immersing yourself in the diverse cultures that make up Shillong’s vibrant tapestry.

Savor Local Cuisine

No trip to Shillong is complete without trying the delectable local cuisine. From flavorful pork dishes like Jadoh and Dohneiiong to the famous Khasi cuisine, you’ll have plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. Don’t forget to try the popular street food such as Momos and Chowmein as well. Treat yourself to a gastronomic adventure and indulge in the flavors of Shillong.

Experience Shillong’s Nightlife

As dusk falls, embrace the lively nightlife of Shillong. The city comes alive with music and dance, and you’ll find numerous bars and clubs where you can enjoy live performances by local bands. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and dance the night away to the tunes of the region’s famous rock and reggae music. End your first day in Shillong with unforgettable memories and a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Cherrapunjee Excursion

Drive to cherrapunjee.

Today, embark on an exciting excursion to Cherrapunjee, known for being one of the wettest places on Earth. Enjoy the scenic drive through winding roads surrounded by lush green valleys and mist-covered mountains. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the beauty of the landscape.

Explore Mawsmai Cave

Kickstart your exploration of Cherrapunjee by visiting the enchanting Mawsmai Cave. Marvel at the intricate limestone formations, illuminated by the soft glow of the lights installed within the cave. As you walk through the narrow passages, let your imagination run wild and feel like an adventurer discovering hidden treasures.

Visit Nohkalikai Falls

Next on your itinerary is a visit to the majestic Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of water cascading down from great heights, surrounded by dense forests and mist-filled canyons. Take a moment to absorb the grandeur of nature and capture some breathtaking photographs.

Admire Seven Sisters Falls

Continue your journey to witness the mesmerizing Seven Sisters Falls. As the name suggests, this waterfall is actually a collection of seven individual falls, creating a stunning panorama of cascading water. Marvel at the sheer beauty and power of nature as you witness this captivating sight.

Discover Living Root Bridges

One of the highlights of your Cherrapunjee excursion is the discovery of the living root bridges. These architectural wonders are created by training tree roots to grow in a specific direction, forming sturdy bridges over rivers and streams. Take a leisurely walk across these unique structures and marvel at the ingenious engineering of the local tribes.

Enjoy Sohra Market

Before heading back to Shillong, take some time to explore the bustling Sohra Market. Indulge in some shopping and find unique handicrafts, traditional garments, and local produce. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and interact with the friendly locals. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and take home some souvenirs to cherish.

Day 3: Mawlynnong Village and Dawki

Visit mawlynnong village.

Today, set off on a journey to Mawlynnong Village, often referred to as “Asia’s Cleanest Village”. As you reach this picturesque village, you’ll be amazed by the cleanliness and eco-consciousness of the locals. Take a leisurely walk through the village, admire the well-maintained gardens, and enjoy the peace and tranquility that envelops the entire place.

Witness Asia’s Cleanest Village

Mawlynnong Village is a shining example of sustainable living and community-driven initiatives. Witness the locals’ commitment to cleanliness and environmental conservation as you explore the village. Take inspiration from their efforts and appreciate the significance of responsible tourism.

Explore Root Bridge

Venture into the nearby forest and discover another marvel of nature – a living root bridge. These intricate natural structures are a result of years of careful cultivation by the locals. Cross over the bridge, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of flowing water, and be captivated by the beauty of this unique creation.

Experience Local Village Life

Immerse yourself in the daily life of the villagers by interacting with the locals and engaging in activities such as learning traditional crafts or participating in a community event. Gain a deeper understanding of their culture, traditions, and way of life. This immersive experience will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of rural living.

Boat Ride in Umngot River

After exploring Mawlynnong Village, travel to the nearby town of Dawki and embark on a serene boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River. As you glide through the emerald green river, surrounded by stunning landscapes, you’ll be mesmerized by the purity and tranquility of the surroundings. Take in the breathtaking views and revel in the serenity of this hidden gem.

Explore Dawki Town

Before heading back to Shillong, make sure to explore Dawki Town. Stroll through the bustling local market, interact with the friendly residents, and sample some delicious local delicacies. The town offers a glimpse into the daily life of the people residing in this scenic corner of Meghalaya. Take some time to soak in the beauty of the town and create unforgettable memories.

Day 4: Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls

Visit shillong peak.

Start your day by heading to Shillong Peak, the highest point in the city. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire cityscape from this vantage point, with its rolling hills and lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you and feel a sense of tranquility wash over you.

Enjoy Panoramic Views

As you soak in the panoramic views from Shillong Peak, you’ll be captivated by the serene beauty of the landscape. Let the cool mountain breeze caress your face and allow yourself to be transported to a world of tranquility. The scenic beauty of Shillong is truly unparalleled, and this viewpoint offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate it in all its glory.

Explore Elephant Falls

Next, make your way to Elephant Falls, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shillong. As you approach the falls, you’ll be greeted by the thundering sound of water crashing against rocks. Follow the well-maintained pathways and descend to the base of the falls, where you can witness the raw power and beauty of nature up close. Capture the moment in your memory as you connect with the energy of these magnificent falls.

Admire Natural Beauty

Surrounded by lush green forests and fern-covered cliffs, Elephant Falls offers a picturesque setting for nature lovers. Take your time to explore the area, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, and feel a sense of calm wash over you. The pristine beauty of this waterfall is a testament to the wonders of mother nature.

Visit Lady Hydari Park

While in the vicinity, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Lady Hydari Park. Named after the first lady of the province, this well-maintained park offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the colorful flowers and manicured lawns, and let the peaceful ambiance rejuvenate your soul. The park is also home to a mini zoo, housing various indigenous animals and birds, adding to the charm of the place.

Day 5: Golf Course Road and Don Bosco Cathedral

Stroll along golf course road.

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along Golf Course Road, a scenic pathway that meanders through the beautiful landscapes surrounding the city. Admire the lush green golf course on one side and the rolling hills on the other. This road offers breathtaking views at every turn and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Shillong.

Enjoy Scenic Beauty

As you walk along Golf Course Road, take a moment to appreciate the serenity and tranquility of the surroundings. The fresh mountain air, the chirping of birds, and the picturesque landscapes create a soothing environment that rejuvenates both the body and soul. Lose yourself in the beauty of nature and let the worries of everyday life melt away.

Visit Don Bosco Cathedral

As you near the end of Golf Course Road, you’ll come across the magnificent Don Bosco Cathedral. Marvel at the architectural beauty of this grand church, with its tall spires and intricate stained glass windows. Step inside and feel a sense of peace wash over you as you take in the serene ambiance and exquisite craftsmanship. Take some time for quiet reflection and appreciate the spiritual significance of this sacred place.

Marvel at Architectural Beauty

The Don Bosco Cathedral is not just a place of worship, but also a testament to the architectural prowess of the region. Admire the intricate details and the grandeur of the structure, and let yourself be transported to a world of beauty and spirituality. The cathedral is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and anyone seeking a moment of solace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Explore Police Bazaar

Conclude your day with a visit to Police Bazaar, the heart of Shillong’s shopping and commercial district. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere and a plethora of shops and stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to fashionable clothing. Take your time to explore the market, indulge in some retail therapy, and interact with the friendly locals. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or simply want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Police Bazaar has something for everyone.

Day 6: Wards Lake and Shillong Golf Course

Visit wards lake.

Start your day by revisiting the picturesque Wards Lake for a different experience. This time, take a boat ride on the tranquil waters and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. As you glide through the lake, feel a sense of calm wash over you, surrounded by the lush greenery and the gentle breeze. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and find inner peace.

Take a Boat Ride

There’s something magical about floating on the calm waters of Wards Lake. Rent a paddleboat and navigate through the lake at your own pace, allowing yourself to be lost in the tranquility of the surroundings. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the lake and allows you to appreciate its beauty from a different angle.

Explore Botanical Garden

Adjacent to Wards Lake is the captivating Botanical Garden, a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained gardens, marvel at the variety of flora on display, and learn about the local plant species. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the colors, scents, and textures of the garden, and let nature soothe your senses.

Enjoy Picnic Lunch

After exploring the Botanical Garden, find a serene spot amidst nature and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch. Spread out a blanket, savor the delicious local delicacies you’ve picked up along the way, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. The peaceful ambiance and the company of loved ones make this experience even more memorable.

Play Golf at Shillong Golf Course

Conclude your day with a round of golf at the renowned Shillong Golf Course, often referred to as “The Gleneagles of the East”. This picturesque golf course is set amidst rolling hills and offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a beginner, the breathtaking views and the well-maintained course promise a memorable day on the greens.

Day 7: Shillong to Mawphlang and Air Force Museum

Visit sacred grove in mawphlang.

On your final day, venture to Mawphlang and explore its famous Sacred Grove. This ancient forest is considered sacred by the locals and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a guided tour through the grove and learn about the cultural and ecological significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings as you reconnect with nature in its purest form.

Explore Biodiversity

As you walk through the Sacred Grove, marvel at the biodiversity that thrives within its boundaries. The dense canopy of trees, the vibrant colors of the flowers, and the chirping of birds create a symphony of life. Take your time to discover hidden corners, encounter unique plant species, and appreciate the delicate balance of nature.

Learn about Khasi Culture

The Sacred Grove is not only a sanctuary for biodiversity but also an important cultural landmark. Interact with the knowledgeable guides and learn about the Khasi people and their customs and traditions. Gain insights into their harmonious relationship with nature and understand the efforts taken to preserve this precious ecosystem.

Visit Air Force Museum

On your way back to Shillong, stop by the Air Force Museum and delve into the history of the Indian Air Force. Explore the various exhibits, including vintage aircraft, uniforms, and photographs, and gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role played by the Air Force in the defense of the nation. Immerse yourself in the stories of courage and valor and pay tribute to the brave men and women who serve the country.

Get insights into Air Force History

The Air Force Museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and evolution of aerial warfare. From the early days of aviation to the modern-day advancements, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the Indian Air Force’s journey. Take your time to read the informative displays, watch the documentaries, and appreciate the technological marvels that have shaped the nation’s defense.

Recap of 7-day Itinerary

After a week of exploring the charming hill station of Shillong and its surrounding areas, it’s time to bid farewell. Let’s recap the highlights of your 7-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Shillong, Visit Ward’s Lake, Explore Don Bosco Museum, Savor Local Cuisine, Experience Shillong’s Nightlife
• Day 2: Cherrapunjee Excursion, Explore Mawsmai Cave, Visit Nohkalikai Falls, Admire Seven Sisters Falls, Discover Living Root Bridges, Enjoy Sohra Market
• Day 3: Mawlynnong Village and Dawki, Visit Mawlynnong Village, Witness Asia’s Cleanest Village, Explore Root Bridge, Experience Local Village Life, Boat Ride in Umngot River, Explore Dawki Town
• Day 4: Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls, Visit Shillong Peak, Enjoy Panoramic Views, Explore Elephant Falls, Admire Natural Beauty, Visit Lady Hydari Park
• Day 5: Golf Course Road and Don Bosco Cathedral, Stroll along Golf Course Road, Enjoy Scenic Beauty, Visit Don Bosco Cathedral, Marvel at Architectural Beauty, Explore Police Bazaar
• Day 6: Wards Lake and Shillong Golf Course, Visit Wards Lake, Take a Boat Ride, Explore Botanical Garden, Enjoy Picnic Lunch, Play Golf at Shillong Golf Course
• Day 7: Shillong to Mawphlang and Air Force Museum, Visit Sacred Grove in Mawphlang, Explore Biodiversity, Learn about Khasi Culture, Visit Air Force Museum, Get insights into Air Force History

Encouragement to Explore Shillong’s Beauty

Throughout your journey, you have experienced the beauty, culture, and warmth that Shillong has to offer. From the serene lakes to the breathtaking waterfalls, from the vibrant markets to the tranquil golf courses, Shillong has something for everyone. We hope that this 7-day itinerary has allowed you to enjoy the best of what Shillong and its surroundings have to offer.

Tips for Traveling in Shillong

Before you embark on your adventure, here are some tips to make your trip to Shillong even more enjoyable:

• Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Shillong can be unpredictable. Carry both warm and light clothing to ensure your comfort throughout your trip.
• Be prepared for some uphill walking and carry comfortable walking shoes to explore the hilly terrain.
• Try to sample the local cuisine, as Shillong offers a variety of delicious dishes that are unique to the region. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Meghalaya.
• Respect the local customs and traditions. Be mindful of the conservative nature of the region and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
• Plan your itinerary in advance and make necessary reservations to avoid any last-minute hassles.
• Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle with you at all times, especially during day trips to ensure you stay refreshed and energized.
• Finally, don’t forget to take plenty of photographs to capture the memories of your trip. Shillong offers numerous picturesque spots that are perfect for creating lasting memories.

With these tips in mind, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Shillong. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and captivated by the charm and beauty that await you in this enchanting hill station. Safe travels!

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Shillong: The Most Vibrant City Of North East India

• Post last modified: UPDATED ON: June 3, 2020

Shillong wasn’t introduced to me as Scotland of The East. For me, it was just a popular hill station in Meghalaya and also the state capital. When I was in the college, one of my schoolmate was enrolled at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Shillong. He used to tell us the stories from a fashionable city and its gorgeous girls. Since then I wanted to visit the most beautiful hill station in North East India.

इस पोस्ट को हिंदी भाषा में यहाँ पढ़ सकते हैं:  पूर्वोत्तर भारत का ख़ूबसूरत शहर शिलाँग 

Years later, I get an opportunity to visit Guwahati on a four-days official trip. Since Shillong is only 100 km away from Guwahati, it was a natural temptation to be there for a day. However, the things didn’t move as planned and I couldn’t reach Shillong. It was extremely disappointing.

Fortunately, that was not an end. The destiny brought me back to Guwahati. It was not an official trip for few days only but for three years at least. It was opening of another chapter in life. I was relocating to Guwahati, the gateway to the North East India. I was sure about one thing while relocationg- in the next three years, explore each and every corner of the untouched North East India. However, Shillong was still a priority.

Then it happened. I reached Shillong, roamed in the street, enjoyed the local cuisines (but I don’t eat Pork) and visited its tourist attractions. It was a big disappointment at all. There was nothing extraordinary. I planned four days stay, but returned in two days only. A big question was still in the mind; why does Shillong consider as Scotland of The East? What is so special about it? I haven’t been to Scotland. But, I kept visiting Shillong. It took me at least eight to ten visits to get the answers.

1. First Impression of Shillong: A Big Disappointment

2. in love with shillong, 3. places to visit in shillong, elephant falls, shillong peak, ward’s lake, lady hydari park, police bazaar, state museum, butterfly museum, other tourist attractions, 4. how to reach shillong, 5. public transport in shillong, 6. accommodation in shillong.

It had been a month since my arrival (since May) in Guwahati. There was a continuos urge to visit Shillong as soon as possible. But there was a small problem. My family was yet to join me and I couldn’t dare to enter in Shillong without the home minister (my wife). However, the urge to visit Meghalaya was so stronger I couldn’t resist it more. I negotiated a peaceful agreement with my wife and went to Jowai in the Jaintia Hills. I dropped Shillong for another time. What the irony it was! I couldn’t visit Shillong during my maiden trip to Guwahati three years back despite a deep desire. Three years later, when I got a chance to visit Meghalaya, I started with Jowai instead of the customary Shillong-Sohra circuit. After two months, my family united with me in the month of July, and a plan was set for the trip.

One day, in the month of August, we commenced our journey from Guwahati. We reached ISBT in Guwahati to travel by a bus to Shillong and found there was no direct bus available. We waited for one hour and finally boarded a bus going to Agartala. It was supposed to drop us in Shillong. We learnt our lesson that from the next time onwards while going to Shillong, it is better to board a shared vehicle at Khanapara or Paltan Bazar rather than ISBT Guwahati.

Since, it was the monsoon season, a pleasant green cover was everywhere along the Guwahati-Shillong Road. The hilly road was soaked in the rain, mist was rising in the valleys and clouds were hanging over the hills. The smooth well maintained National Highway offered a great picture opportunity at every twist and turn. I didn’t enjoy my motorcycle trip on the same highway two months ago during the dry season, when there is a pale cover everywhere on the landscape.

About four hours after starting our bus journey from Guwahati, we were passing by the Umiam Lake. How many cities in India can boast of such a big and magnificent lake? I think there would be hardly 8-10 cities in the country where a lake spreads its beauty with full grandeur. I have seen such lakes in Srinagar, Udaipur, Hyderabad and Bhopal.

From the beginning of the lake towards the city, our bus moved gradually on an upward slope. The road was covered with pine trees from both the sides. The scenic vista of Umiam Lake and rolling hills was filled with a beautiful sea of clouds. It was raining heavily on the road, and the bus was chugging towards the city. The entire atmosphere was mystic and soothing. Shillong was so refreshing.

Most of the cars, jeeps and buses plying from Guwahati to Shillong unload their passengers at Police Bazaar in the heart of the city. Long-distance buses transport their passengers to Dhankheti. Our bus was also going to Agartala, so we left that bus at Dhankheti. Fortunately, our guest house was also in Dhankheti, so we did not find any difficulty.

For the next two days, we strolled around different tourist places in Shillong. We kept us entertained with many activities like walking in the Lady Hydari Park, boating in the Ward’s Lake and shopping at the Police Bazaar. We visited Elephanta Falls, Golf Links and Umiam Lake. However, we couldn’t admire the panoramic view of the city from the Shillong Peak as the sky was completely obscured by the clouds.

After roaming for two days in the city, we found Shillong very disappointing. The city was definitely fashionable, and the local people were charming, but it was not like a vibrant one. The true ethos of a hill station was nowhere, and it was highly commercialized. We cancelled the rest of our bookings and returned to Guwahati. I waited for three years to reach Shillong and its first look did not impress me at all.

Boring experiences of my first visit and the expensive hotel prices kept me away from Shillong for the next few months. After settling down a little in Guwahati, I started visiting Shillong repeatedly. I didn’t follow the typical tourist routes and never planned anything. Sometimes I only went up to Umiam Lake and then took a diversion towards Barapani Airport. I approached the city from the airport side passing through the various villages where tourists don’t go normally.

Sometimes, I started in the early morning from Guwahati to quietly pass through the city while admiring the beauty of Umiam Lake. Sometimes, I approached the city from Tura Highway, while reaching Mairang through a less travelled road from Guwahati. After various visits, I realised that yes, I missed many amusing activities in Shillong during the first trip. That was the reason for my initial disappointment.

The day also arrived when I started appreciating the changing colours of Umiam Lake from dusk to dawn, the panoramic view of the city from Shillong Peak, Sunday walk through Police Bazaar without honking traffic, the beauty of Golf Links etc. Jalebi and Ice Cream from Police Bazaar became a routine delight. The chronicles of World War II, the stories of vintage Willy Jeeps and the history of a significant military base, Shillong felt absolutely seductive. As I got to know the city more closely, I keep admiring the way a tribal area turned into the fashionable city. It was amusing to experience the passion for Western Music in the local youths.

Ladakh is in your mind? Check out this travel guide for Ladakh: Ladakh Travel Guide With Tips to Travel Responsibly 

Gradually, I recognized it as the most vibrant city in North East India. Now, there is no doubt that I embrace this city, the charming crowd, the refreshing breeze of Ward’s Lake, the birds chirping in Lady Hydari Park, the colours of Umiam Lake and the fashionable youths rocking the musical arena. Shillong is just a fascination.

I acknowledge that the beauty of Shillong lies in its crowd, the disciplined traffic lining up in the streets, the excitement of the young men and women while boating in the Wards Lake, the people roaming around and enjoying the window shopping, the small children jumping with the joy in the Lady Hyadri Park; fashion, music and history are other supplementary ingredients. I understand that the beauty of Shillong lies in the everlasting charm of Umiam Lake, the engulfing mist over the hills and the sudden downpour in the city. Shillong, Scotland of The East, the most vibrant city of North East India.

Elephant Falls is the most prominent attraction of Shillong. It is located on the outskirts of Shillong Cantt, about 12 km from the city centre, on the way to Cherrapunji. Being close to the city, it stays cramped with the tourists. It is a three-steps waterfall cascading down at three levels. The first level is visible soon after descending few steps from the parking area. I find it more charming than the rest of the levels. After descending few more steps, the second level of the waterfall appears, which does not look exciting.

Further down on the steps, you reach to the base of the waterfall. This is the third level of the waterfall and simply mesmerizing. You can step inside the pool in front of the waterfall. Bathing is not allowed anywhere. It is believed that there was a massive rock at the base of the waterfall looked like an elephant, the reason behind the name Elephant Falls. The rock was disintegrated in the earthquake of 1897.

There are lot of shops outside the ticket window, where you can buy local stuffs, handcrafts, souvenirs etc. Many shops are also there selling food items and beverages. You can rent traditional Khasi Attire from one shop adjacent to the ticket counter and get your photos clicked by your camera.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 06.00 PM daily (There is no use to go after 05.00 PM in Winter).

Entry Fee: Rs 20 per person, Rs 20 for mobile or digital camera.

Parking Facility: Available on the payment basis. Rs 20 per vehicle.

Public Transport: Taxis running from Shillong towards Mylliem drop 300-400 m away from Elephant Falls on the main road. After visiting the waterfall, you can again get a shared taxi from the main road.

Shillong Peak is the highest peak of Meghalaya at the height of 1525 m. It offers a spectacular panoramic view of Shillong City. The photography is allowed near the view point, but other than that photography is strictly prohibited in Shillong Peak area.

There are a few shops located near the view point which sell snacks and beverages. Also, there is a shop in which you can rent traditional Khasi attire for Rs 50 per person and get your photos clicked by your own camera.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrzQJlenC4P/

Apart from the view point, all other areas of the peak is highly restrictive. Shillong is the headquarter of Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force. Air force maintains highly sensitive radars and equipment in the area around Shillong Peak to keep our sky safe from the potential intruders.

There is a security check post about 2 km before the view point. You have to get a permission from the security personnel by showing your driving license and the registration certificate of your car. The security staff deposits the driving license while providing you the clearance. You can get back your driving license after returning from the view point.

If you travel by a public transport, expect to walk for one and half km to reach the view point after getting the security clearance. Also, a foggy weather or low clouds may ruin your trip and you may not appreciate the obscured view of the city. Therefore, it is advisable to visit Shillong Peak only during a clear sunny day.

Opening Hours: 09.00 AM to 03.30 PM

Entry Fee: Free.

Parking Facility: Available Free of Cost.

Public Transport: The shared taxis from Shillong to Mylliem drop off on the main road leading to Shillong Peak, about 7 km before the peak. During the tourist season, you may get a shared taxi from the starting point of the Shillong Peak Road. During the off-season, the frequency of shared vehicles may get decrease. A shared vehicle would drop you at the security check post, and you are supposed to walk for one and half km from that post to reach the view point.

You may also walk on the Rhododendron Trekking Trail to reach Shillong Peak in two hours from the main road. While proceeding on the main road towards Shillong Cantt, you will notice the big sign board indicating starting point of the Rhododendron Trek.

Note: If you check on the Google Map, you may find another route to Shillong Peak starting from Laitkor. Please note that the ordinary citizens are not allowed to enter in Air Force area and the view point, if they approach from Laitkor side. It’s better to proceed from the main road (Shillong-Mylliem Road).

This magnificent lake is located along the main road from Shillong to Guwahati, about 12-13 km from Police Bazaar. This is equally famous as Barapani Lake. For the proper view of the lake, you may go to any of the view-points stretch in an area of about 5 km along the main road. There are at least five view points, but one near the Toyota or Mahindra Showroom and another one at Orchid Lake Resort is good to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Many shops are there at the view points selling noodles, biscuits, chips, tea, coffees, corn etc.

Orchid Lake Resort is a nice place to admire the beauty of Umiam Lake while enjoying the lunch.Boating facility is also available once you descend from the Orchid Lake Resort towards the edge of the lake.

Opening hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entry Fee: Free

Public Transport: Many shared taxis and buses run from the city to the lower part of Umiam Lake. Since it is located on the main road from Shillong to Guwahati, therefore public transport is easily available.

This beautiful lake situated just one km away from the Police Bazaar. The entire area is covered with the lawns, the gardens, a restaurant and the lake itself. It is a very nice place to enjoy boating followed by a decent meal at the lake restaurant. A wooden bridge over the lake makes it more spectacular.

Opening Hours: 08.30 AM to 06.30 PM in Summer (March to October). 08.30 AM to 04.30 PM in Winter (November to February). On Saturday and Sunday, the entrance of the lake is closed half an hour late in the evening. Entry is closed on Tuesdays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 10 per person and children Rs 5. Divyang Rs 5 and senior citizens Rs 5 per person. Rs 20 for digital camera. Handycam Rs 100 and professional video camera Rs 200. Boating 25 minutes (2-seater boat Rs 50 and 4-seater boat Rs 100). Boating 45 minutes (2 seater boat Rs 80 and 4 seater boat Rs 160).

Parking Facility: Available outside on a narrow road. Better to avoid. Leave your vehicle at your hotel and use public/hired transport.

Named after the wife of the first British Governor of undivided Assam, the park is spread over a vast area behind the Civil Hospital in Shillong. There are many species of flowers in this park. A children play area is also there with many swings, merry go rounds, slides, scramblers, etc. In another corner, you can observe many birds playing in the water. It is an enjoyable place to spend quality time in a peaceful manner with family and children away from the congestion of the city.

Opening Hours: 08.00 AM to 05.00 PM. The park remains closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 10 per person and children Rs 5. Divyang Rs 5 and senior citizens Rs 5 per person. Rs 10 for digital camera. Rs 50 for handycam and Rs 100 for professional video camera.

Parking Facility: Available but highly congested area. Better to avoid. Leave your vehicle at your hotel and use public/hired transport.

On the outskirts of the city, it doesn’t look like a part of the congested city like Shillong. It is quiet, clean and well-maintained area with lush-green surroundings. You can just walk through the beautiful golf course or try your hand on a golf stick. It is frequently used by the local people for the picnic, yoga and jogging activities.

Entry Fee: Free unless you want to try Golf.

Police Bazaar is considered as the heart of Shillong. It’s a bustling marketplace with heavy rush of the people and vehicles cramming with each other. Most of the hotels are also located in this area. It is the best market in Shillong for the shopping of local stuffs, souvenirs, cloths and electronics items. Many restaurants and road-side food stalls are also there to suppress your appetite.

The Government Museum of Meghalaya is now known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum. Built in the year 1975, the museum has an excellent collection of handicrafts, art, customs, domestic items, furnishing ornaments, traditional utensils, clothing and conventional weapons of the local tribes. There is also a branch of the State Museum at Tura.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 04.00 PM. The museum is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 5 per person and children Rs 2. Student Rs 3. Mobile camera Rs 10. Video camera Rs 100.

There is also a Butterfly Museum in Shillong, which has a unique collection of colorful butterflies, moths, beetles, etc. This unique collection of butterflies boasts colorful species from all over the world, although most of the species are from Meghalaya.The Butterfly Museum is also known as the Wankhar Entomology Museum. Shortly after crossing the tri-junction of Mawprem on the road from Shillong to Guwahati, there is a board place by of Meghalaya Tourism to show the way to the Butterfly Museum. Located inside a private property, this museum is actually a personal collection made by the family members.

Since this is a private property, there is no formality like a museum. You are supposed to ring the bell, and it depends on the mood of the landlord or the landlady whether they would like to show you the collection or not.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 04.30 PM Monday to Friday. 10.30 AM to 01.00 PM on Saturday. The museum is closed on Sundays.

Entry Fee: Indian citizen Rs 50 per person. Foreign citizens Rs 100 per person. Rs 10 rupees for every photo captured with mobile or digital camera.

Parking Facility: Available nearby. Free of cost.

Rhino Museum of the Indian Army, Lush-green campus of the North-Eastern Hill University, Don Bosco Museum, All Saints Church, Air Force Museum, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Sweet Falls, etc. are the other tourist places in Shillong. Apart from all this, there are few more attractions like Laitlum Canyon and Mawphlang Sacred Grooves, located at a reasonable distance from the city of Shillong.

Cherrapunji (Sohra) , the major tourist destination of Meghalaya, is just 53 km from Shillong. Dawki, another significant tourist destination, is just 80 km away. The David Scott Trail Trek can be done in one day from Shillong, and the Bamboo Trail Trek is possible half a day time. I will write about all these destinations in detail one by one in the separate posts.

The best way to reach Shillong is to travel via Guwahati, the capital of Assam. There is one airport in Shillong, approx 30 km away. Air India and IndiGo each operate a flight from Kolkata.

For detail information about the various modes of transportation available to reach Shillong, please read this post:

How to Reach Shillong from Guwahati?

An efficient network of public transport exists in Shillong in the form of the public buses and the shared taxis. Urban buses are available for almost every tourist spot. They are easily available to major areas of Shillong like Iewduh, Police Bazaar, Dhankheti, Laitkor, Golf Link, NEHU etc.

It is more convenient to use shared cars than the buses to move around Shillong. Painted in black and yellow, these cars run frequently in Shillong. You can halt any black-yellow car from the roadside by waiving your hands. They typically charge Rs 10-20 per person to travel within the city limits. You can also hire them to travel independently.

Note: Most of the shops in Shillong stay closed on Sundays. There may be very few vehicles on the road. But the city doesn’t stop at all, at least not like Aizawl in Mizoram or Kohima in Nagaland. Many shops stay closed in the Police Bazaar on Sundays, but food joints and restaurants stay alive. A sizeable crowd of vendors dominate the street selling jackets, clothes, shoes and footwear on the Sundays.

Shillong has a sufficient number of hotels, guest houses and home-stays for night stay. Their rental rates are marginally higher in comparison to the other parts of India. Most of the hotels are located in the vicinity of Police Bazaar and Bada Bazaar. These are the busiest area of the ​city, so living in a populous place may look like a terrible choice. But, if you stay at a hotel in the Police Bazaar area, you may get easy transport to any other place.

There are many hotels and home-stays in Mylliem located on the outskirts of the city on the way to Cherrapunji. Similarly, hotels and home-stays are also based in Laitkor, en route to Laitlum Canyon. It would be better to stay in Mylliem or Laitkor only if you travel by your own vehicle, otherwise you have to come to the city to get a transport every time to visit other places of interest.

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If you want to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Umiam Lake, Orchid Lake Resort is an excellent option to stay. Since Shillong Peak is a sensitive area, there is no option to stay there. Elephanta Falls does not have the option of for night stay but Mylliem is just two km beyond Elephana Falls where you can get plenty of options.

Apart from all this, there are many hostels (Youth Hostels, Isabella Hostels, Aurobindo Hostels etc.) in Shillong, most of which are located around Police Bazaar. Dormitory facility is available in such hostels at the rate of Rs 250 – 500 per night. They can be an attractive option for the solo travellers.

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This Post Has 3 Comments

I just had to leave a comment after reading your captivating photo story on Shillong! The images you’ve shared are absolutely breathtaking, and they truly capture the essence and beauty of this enchanting place. It’s evident that you had an incredible journey exploring Shillong, and your blog serves as a fantastic guide for anyone planning to visit.

The lush landscapes, serene waterfalls, and vibrant culture of Shillong come alive through your lens. Your detailed descriptions and travel tips are incredibly helpful for those of us who are eager to embark on our own adventure there. After reading your blog and viewing these stunning photos, Shillong has quickly climbed to the top of my travel bucket list.

Your insights on the local cuisine and recommendations for places to visit are invaluable. I appreciate the way you’ve covered both the well-known attractions and hidden gems, making it a comprehensive resource for all types of travelers.

Your blog has not only inspired me but also provided me with a wealth of information to plan my own Shillong adventure. I can’t wait to explore the Living Root Bridges, wander through the picturesque villages, and savor the local delicacies. Your passion for travel and storytelling truly shines through your work, and it’s left me with a strong desire to experience Shillong’s beauty firsthand. Thank you for sharing your incredible experience and inspiring others to explore this hidden gem in India!

Thank you very much. Shillong has some magical vibes. You will definitely love this place. 🙂

Very helpful article

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10 Most Famous Places to Visit in Shillong

Shillong is the abode of clouds. If you want to flee away from the hustle-bustle of your hectic daily schedule, Shillong will be the ultimate destination for you. This breathtaking hill station is the gateway to Meghalaya . When you visit Shillong, you can explore the tallest waterfalls, caves, beautiful landscapes, and the amazing local people and their culture. Shillong is situated amidst the Garo and Khasi hills.

The incredible beauty and the excellent weather of this place drag visitors all across India. This post will discuss the best places to visit in Shillong that will drag you more towards this place.

Table of Contents

List of the Top 10 Best Places to See in Shillong:

1. elephant falls.

The Elephant Falls is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Here, you can explore three layers of the falls. All these three layers of this waterfall are accessible from various vantage points.

The Britishers named this waterfall. This waterfall got its name as it has an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. In 1987, this stone was washed away due to an earthquake. Here you can spend some excellent time amidst nature. Here, you can capture some excellent pictures.

• Things to Do : Enjoy the scenic beauty, photography, and picnics.
• Best Time to Visit : March to October.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 10 AM to 6 PM and INR 20 per person.
• How to Reach : Located 12 km from Shillong, the falls are accessible by taxi or local transport.
• 3 Nights 4 Days Meghalaya Tour Package
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2. Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum Canyons is a less explored but one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in Shillong. Also, it is one of the best trekking destinations in Shillong. The Laitlum Canyons are situated almost 21 km south of Shillong. From Shillong, it takes almost 30 minutes to reach this place.

Here, you can enjoy some exotic views. The panoramic views of the majestic hills and valleys truly captivate all the tourists. To enjoy the best view of this place, you should visit this canyon during sunrise or sunset. You want to plan this trip with your friends or family.

• Things to Do : Trekking, panoramic views, photography.
• Best Time to Visit : Throughout the year, but best during the dry season.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 6 AM to 5 PM.
• How to Reach : Around 21 km from Shillong, best reached by car or taxi.

3. Don Bosco Museum

Don Bosco Museum is the home of North East India’s magnificent history and culture. This museum is the largest museum of Indigenous Cultures. It presents a cinematic experience for visitors and provides a glimpse into the livelihood of the inhabitants of the North-East. Scholars, authors, musicians, and lyricists from all across the country participate in competitive activities hosted on the museum’s premises regularly.

Another notable feature of the Don Bosco Museum is its hexagon design. It towers seven floors into Shillong’s skyline, with 16 well-designed galleries showcasing items, artworks, and characters vital to Northeastern culture. Therefore, it is known as Shillong’s architectural pride.

• Things to Do : Explore North-Eastern culture, history, and artifacts.
• Best Time to Visit : All year.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM (Monday-Saturday) and INR 50 per person.
• How to Reach : Located in the city, easily accessible by local transport.

4. Mawphlang

Mawphlang (Maw Phlang) is a land of legends, tributes, and distinct cultures. The town is noted for its beautiful woods and is located in the East Khasi Hills area. It is the Sacred Forest of Meghalaya, a lovely town 25 kilometers from Shillong.

Mawphlang is a town in the Khasi Hills named after one of the Khasi Hills’ monoliths. Mawphlang lets you enjoy a glimpse of the Khasi tradition, culture, and way of life.

• Things to Do : Sacred forest, Khasi heritage, trekking.
• Best Time to Visit : March to June.
• Timings and Fees : Open during daylight hours; nominal entry fee for the sacred forest.
• How to Reach : About 25 km from Shillong, accessible by taxi or local transport.
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5. Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is considered the highest point in Shillong, rising to a height of 1965 meters above sea level. If you want a multicoloured bird’s eye view of Shillong’s splendour, the towering Shillong Peak may be the best place to explore. Wrapped in dense fog, it is undoubtedly a key reason for Shillong’s moniker of “City of Clouds” and is thus one of the top Shillong tourist attractions.

Shillong Peak is a sliver of heaven that will give you a unique feeling of quiet holiness, appealing to believers, spiritualists, and nature enthusiasts. Therefore, it is a popular tourist destination in Shillong. The summit is considered the residence of ‘Leishyllong,’ Shillong’s supreme guardian deity, as per local folklore. The divinity is said to watch over and defend the city from the hill peak. Also, it houses the Indian Air Force’s radar station, which is situated on the Air Force installation.

• Things to Do : Viewpoints, photography, local stalls.
• Best Time to Visit : Throughout the year.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 9 AM to 5 PM and INR 30 per person.
• How to Reach : Located 10 km from Shillong, accessible by taxi.
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6. Sweet Falls

Sweet Falls is a magical site for outdoor enthusiasts. At this place, you can enjoy the sound of rushing water rippling through deep green trees, accompanied by the melodic chirping of birds. It is one of Shillong’s most spectacular and beautiful streams. But it is also one of the most dangerous and accident-prone. It has witnessed a lot of terrible deaths and suicides from its 96-meter vantage point. As a result, bathing in its fast-flowing water is not recommended.

It is a beautiful and serene location that is adjacent to the Butterfly Museum and Mini Zoo. It is less frequented due to its spooky history and potentially unsafe circumstances. Locals think it is also a haunted location, adding to the mystery. With a smaller throng, you can take advantage of the quiet foliage and magnificent splendour surrounding this location.

• Things to Do : Sightseeing, photography.
• Best Time to Visit : October to March.
• Timings and Fees : Open during daylight hours and INR 70 for vehicle parking.
• How to Reach : Located 5 km from Shillong, best reached by taxi.

7. Air Force Museum

Shillong is home to many prestigious museums that showcase the state’s history, legacy, diverse culture, and innovations. The Air Force Museum, situated in the Upper Shillong, is one such wonderful museum that depicts the brave storey of India’s defence history.

The Air Force Museum complex, which includes a gift shop and a café, is Shillong’s most popular tourist attraction. This museum will enlighten you about the Indian Air Force and its courageous flying warriors and illustrious history.

• Things to Do : Explore aviation history and aircraft displays.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 9 AM to 5 PM (closed on Wednesdays and Sundays)
• How to Reach : To reach the Air Force Museum in Shillong, take a taxi or drive from the city center (like Police Bazar) towards Upper Shillong, approximately 10-12 km away.
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• Meghalaya National Parks
• Historical Places in Meghalaya
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• Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival

8. Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake that is a popular picnic site for nature lovers. It is a well-known tourist attraction in Shillong. It is designed in a Japanese style and is surrounded by willow, orchid, and rhododendron plants.

It is a wonderful amusement site to visit with family, lovely ponds, enticing grass, and a little zoo and museum. This lake overflows with ducks and wishes. It was named after Lady Hydari, the Governor of Assam’s wife and hence its first lady. Boating on the park’s ponds will provide you with a breathtakingly magnificent vista of foliage bursting with life.

• Things to Do : Gardens, zoo, children’s play area.
• Best Time to Visit : All year, especially in spring.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 8 AM to 5 PM
• How to Reach : Located in the heart of Shillong, easily accessible.

9. Police Bazar

Police Bazaar, also renowned as Khyndailad, is Shillong’s main retail district and the best spot to rent a hotel if you’re visiting the city. Shillong’s main market, Police Bazar, is a famous shopping destination for both residents and visitors. The bazaar is a mix of the conventional and the contemporary, the elegant and the classic. It contains a flea market portion that is pocket-friendly and attracts the most number of visitors due to its unique handicraft stores. Here, you can explore local clothing and accessories, junk jewelry, and fine Meghalaya items. Also, here you can enjoy big-brand stores, an assortment of eateries, and motels.

Shopping lovers and foodies alike go to the vibrant market. Many of the lanes in Police Bazaar are car-free zones, making them ideal for street shopping. The markets are well-designed, forming a large circle (chowk) amid the police bazaar, complete with trees and plants, and encircled by seven roads leading to other parts of the city.

• Things to Do : Shopping, local food, souvenirs.
• Best Time to Visit : All year, especially evenings.
• Timings and Fees : Open from 8 AM to 10 PM
• How to Reach : Centrally located in Shillong, easily reachable by foot or local transport.
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10. Wankhar Entomological Museum

Wankhar Entomological Museum is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Shillong. It is situated on Riatsamthiah Jaiaw, next to the Christian Academy School. It is a colourful, spectacular sight and a unique sightseeing attraction. The Wankhar Entomological Museum, commonly called the Butterfly Museum, is owned or operated by members of the Wankhar family.

This museum shelters over 1600 species of beetles, butterflies, moths, and other insects. Wankhar Entomological Museum regularly holds special breeding programmes to protect unusual and unique insects by making people aware of their preservation.

• Things to Do : View insect collections, and learn about entomology.
• Timings and Fees : Open on weekdays during business hours.
• How to Reach : Located in Shillong, accessible by local transport.

How to reach Shillong:

By Air : The nearest airport is Umroi Airport near Shillong, about 30 km away. However, more commonly used is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is about 120 km away. From Guwahati , you can take a taxi or a bus to Shillong.

By Road : Shillong is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby cities like Guwahati. The journey from Guwahati to Shillong by road, through the picturesque NH-40, takes about 3-4 hours.

By Rail : The nearest railway station is in Guwahati. From there, you can continue your journey to Shillong by road.

So, these are the best tourist places in Shillong. Hopefully, the information mentioned above will be helpful for you while you plan a trip to Shillong . Come to Shillong and lose yourself in the incredible natural beauty of this place.

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10 best places to visit in shillong meghalaya for a memorable trip.

Shillong, the quaint hamlet in Northeast India, is the capital of Meghalaya , which is also called “The Abode of Clouds.” It is also the district administrative centre for East Khasi Hills. The town’s surrounding hills are claimed to have given the British a Scottish impression. As a result, they would also call it the “Scotland of the East.” During the British occupation and later till the formation of the independent State of Meghalaya, Shillong served as the capital of composite Assam. Shillong is about 100 kilometres from Guwahati, which can be reached by car along NH 40. The drive takes around two and a half hours and passes through verdant hills and the Umiam lake.

Shillong is an important part of any North East India tour which includes the best tourist destinations to explore in Meghalaya. In this blog, we will discuss the places on the Shillong itinerary, which will help you in making a perfect Shillong tour plan. Treat this article as a Shillong travel guide and start planning a trip to this wonderful hill station. Let’s read now.

Summary of the 10 Most Famous Places to Visit in Shillong

Popular Shillong Meghalaya North East India Tour Packages

• Best of Meghalaya Tour Package
• Meghalaya Tour with Kaziranga
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Umiam Lake – Places for Water Activities

Umiam Lake is one of the most picturesque locations and the top tourist destination to visit in Shillong. It is surrounded by dense coniferous trees and the East Khasi Hills. This huge man-made lake body, also known as Badapani, was created by damming the Umiam River. A few little islands dot the lake, and Lum Nehru Park, which is nearby, is a great area to wander and have a picnic. Umiam Lake is a key stop on the sightseeing tour of Shillong since it offers exhilarating water sports and entertaining activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, and scooting in addition to its natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in & around

• Water Scootering

Distance from Shillong City: 17 Km

Laitlum Canyons – Deep Gorges with Stunning Views

The Laitlum Canyons, located in Shillong’s East Khasi Hills, may be the most amazing and enjoyable tourist destination. It represents “The End of Hills” or “The End of the World” symbolically. The Laitlum Canyons, which are nestled in the embrace of majestic slopes and valleys, are one such location from which the vast, verdant, and alluring show of Meghalaya could be seen and admired. For lovers of hiking, the countryside, and those looking for peace, Laitlum Canyon is the perfect location. Enjoy breathtaking views of gorges, far-off hills, valleys, and winding mountain roads when you visit this high viewpoint. This is undoubtedly one of the best places to explore in Shillong because of the natural beauty and peace of the area.

Top Things to Do in & Around

• Village Walk
• Sightseeing
• Watching sunrise and sunset

Distance from Shillong City: 21 Km

Elephant Falls – Crystal Clear Cascading Water

Elephant Falls, the city’s most impressive waterfall, is a three-tiered cascading beauty and one of the best places to visit in Shillong throughout the year. Because of a large nearby rock that bears an uncanny resemblance to an elephant, the British gave it the moniker “elephant rock.” The rock was demolished in an earthquake, thus it can no longer be seen. The Elephant Falls are actually “three step waterfalls,” with the first one being a big one tucked away among the lush greenery, the second one being thin water threads, and the third one being the most stunning and clear falls rushing against the background of a dark colour.

Top Things to Do in and Around

• Photography
• Village walk

Distance from Shillong City: 11 Km

Shillong Peak – Witness The Stunning Views of Shillong City

Visit Shillong Peak, the highest viewpoint and one of the top tourism sightseeing places in Shillong for a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding hills and valleys. At 1,961 metres above sea level, this summit provides amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. You must present identification documents at the gate because the IAF is responsible for managing the area. Given that the air can become hazy, you should always have a good camera with you. To gain close-up views of the town, a telescope has been set up. Shillong Peak, one of the top tourist attractions in Shillong sightseeing tour offers views of Bangladeshi lowlands, waterfalls, and Himalayan ranges nearby.

• Birdwatching

Distance from Shillong City: 4 Km

Don Bosco Museum – Extensive Collection of Indigenous Tribal Culture

The Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures is one of the top tourism places in Shillong and extends a warm invitation to all visitors, art lovers, and history buffs. One may see panoramic views of the entire Northeast India in addition to art galleries and large collections of handicrafts, artefacts, clothing, decorations, and weapons utilised by diverse tribes in North-East India. The museum is a seven-story structure with seventeen separate galleries that is housed on the grounds of Sacred Heart Church. This is unquestionably one of Shillong’s top tourist destinations. This museum has 17 galleries spread over its seven levels, including the Agriculture Gallery, the Basketry Gallery, the Ornaments and Jewellery Gallery, the Fishing and Hunting Gallery, and others. These exhibit relics, paintings, and sculptures that provide you with a deeper understanding of the past.

• Museum tour
• Exploring artefacts

Distance from Shillong City: 3.3 Km

Phan Nonglait Park – Japanese Style Park with Flora and Fauna

Phan Nonglait Park, one of the top Shillong tourist places, is situated in the very centre of the city. Every day, thousands of locals and visitors go to the lovely park, which is built in Japanese style. There is a zoo inside the park where you may see creatures like the Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, and Leopard, among others. You will be charmed by the park’s abundantly beautiful ponds and diverse, lush flora and wildlife. Even boating in the lake is enjoyable when the beautiful landscape is around. As Phan Nonglait Park is located in the city it can be reached by cab. It has an entry fee of Rs. 10 which is doubled if carrying a camera.

• Witnessing Flora and Fauna
• Museum Visit
• Exploring Butterfly Park

Distance from Shillong City: 2 Km

Sweet Falls – Birdwatching and Haunted Lore

Sweet Falls is the ideal destination to escape the rush of hectic city life because of its tranquil setting. This location offers you beautiful views of nature and is one of the top tourist places in Shillong. Although there are some dangerous sections and slick stones on the trail leading to these falls, the effort is well worth it. These falls are the subject of a ghostly lore. The locals think the odd-numbered groups always come back in even-numbered groups! A peaceful setting for a picnic is frequently produced by the sounds of birds chirping, fresh water running, and the tranquillity emanating from the lush greenery. Many Shillong residents go to Sweet Falls, which is 94 metres high and known for its lush flora.

Distance from Shillong City: 12 Km

Spread Eagle Falls – Ultimate Place for Photographers in Shillong

One of the best things to do in Shillong is to see Spread Eagle Falls, one of the city’s many captivating waterfalls. It is a perfect location where water babies and nature enthusiasts can go to relax and spend some time in the great outdoors. The only therapy you will require to quiet the restlessness in your thoughts is the sound of flowing water. It is a fantastic location for photographers and is also known as Sati Falls. The falling waterfall’s wing-like design is not only amazing, but also a superb illustration of nature’s artistry. When searching for the popular points of interest in Shillong, take this one into consideration.

• Water activities
• Nature Walks

Distance from Shillong City: 3 Km

Rhino Heritage Museum – Historical Artefacts and Their History

One of the most well-known war museums in North East India is the Rhino Heritage Museum. It is rumoured that Japanese World War II captives were held here. One of the best places to visit with family in Shillong hill station, the Rhino Heritage Museum was founded in 1928. Lt. Gen. Shokin Chauhan, director general of the Assam Rifles inaugurated the renovated building of the museum. Both military-related historical images and items relating to the local culture are shown in the museum. The rich history of the HQ 101 area and its units will be on display at the recently refurbished Rhino Heritage Museum. Additionally, it will give audiences insight into Headquarters 101’s involvement in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. The museum remains open throughout the week except on Thursdays.

• Museum Tour
• Nature Walk
• Exploring historical artefacts

Meghalaya State Museum – Best Place for History Buffs

One of the top things to do for history lovers is to make a trip to Meghalaya State Museum, Shillong, one of the best visiting places. The museum houses a large collection of tribal-era items as well as a significant collection of ancient writings. Visitors can learn more about the tribes of Meghalaya at this cultural museum. The museum, also known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, is housed within the State Central Library complex at Lachumiere and is run by the state government. Visit the museum, which is one of the top-rated places of interest in Shillong to see antique tools, jewels, instruments of music, and dinosaur replicas.

• Learning about tribal tools

Distance from Shillong City: 2.7 Km

Hope this article will serve you the best knowledge in knowing how to plan a perfect trip to Shillong. We also included the details of activities you can do in each place, so that you can spend your holidays in Meghalaya as per your wish to visit places. However, we also have customised Shillong tour packages/Meghalaya tourism packages that you can take into consideration. Lastly, we want to suggest that you not miss any of these places in Shillong if you are willing to exploring North East India from Meghalaya. Every place is worth visiting.

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Disclaimer: This content is written by our team of expert Travel Writers with deep research. In case you find any incorrect information or missing information, please do send your valuable inputs at [email protected]. We will update the content as soon as possible with respect to your inputs.

We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which month is best for a shillong holiday trip.

March to June is the best time to visit Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Tourists can enjoy visiting the places in summer as the weather remains pleasant and rainfall is minimal.

What is Shillong famous for?

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya is famous for its natural beauty, waterfalls, lakes, natural caves, heavy rainfall, sacred forests, living root bridges, indigenous tribes, culture and breathtaking landscapes all around.

What is the famous food of Shillong?

Jadoh, is the famous food of Shillong, as well as Meghalaya. It’s a dish of rice cooked in a flavourful mix of spicy and sour along with ginger flower, mint leaves and mixed with pork and meat.

What is the name of the statue?

The statue is referred to as 'Viswas Swaroopam,' which means ‘Statue of Belief.’

How many days are required to explore the best of Shillong tourism sightseeing tours?

Minimum five days are required to explore the best of Shillong tourism sightseeing tours.

What are the best places to visit for couples in Shillong?

Some of the best places to visit for couples in Shillong are:

• Elephant Falls
• Laitlum Canyons
• Ward’s Lake

What are the top places to visit near Shillong?

Some of the top places to visit near Shillong are:

• David Scott Trail
• Nohkalikai Falls
• Cherrapunjee

Published: 08 Nov, 2022

About the author

Nandini Bhattacharya

From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.

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Shillong Tourist Places

We have curated a list of the most exciting places to visit in shillong:, quick navigation.

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls is a sight to behold and can be visited with family on a picnic or with friends for a weekend outing. The waterfall got its name from a rock at its bottom that appears like an elephant. Three separate cascades from these wonderful waterfalls enveloped in lush greenery that the surrounding area features.  While the soothing sound of the crystal clear water brushing through the rocks calms your senses, the spectacular site of the falls is a treat to your eyes. If you are on a quest to unravel the best of the natural wonders in the region, Elephant Falls is easily among the best places to visit in Shillong . Location: Upper Shillong, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 12 km Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: INR 20 per person Explore the tranquil beauty by booking   Day Excursion To Dawki From Shillong

Shillong Peak & View Point

Laitlum Canyons

Police Bazar

Don Bosco Museum

One of the best places to learn about the tribal culture and cultural history of Meghalaya is the Don Bosco Museum. The museum features an impressive collection of indigenous articles and artefacts that depict the cultural richness of the region which gives overlook to the whole of  North East India. The museum has seven floors and encompasses a total of 17 galleries that have artefacts, paintings, figures, sculptures, and much more on display. Don Bosco Museum is believed to be Asia’s largest museum of indigenous cultures of its kind and is one of the best tourist places in Shillong for Indian and foreign tourists. Location : MawlaiPhudmuri Distance from Shillong Bus stand : 2.8 km Timings : 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed on Sundays. Entry Fee : INR 50 per person To experience the best of northeast India in best deals and offer, check out our Northeast holiday packages now.  Explore this unexplored land and discover breath-taking beauty. Book Now:  Sikkim Family Tour Packages                      Sikkim Group Tour Package

Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

Founded in the year 1936, this cathedral is a prominent religious place in Shillong, famous for its unique and striking architecture. The church is an exemplifying example of Gothic Revival Architecture, and thus a great choice for the patrons of architecture. Perched atop a hill, this church delivers a feeling of serenity along with spirituality. The tall arches, stained glasses, and artwork portraying the scenes from the holy scriptures enhance the overall appearance of the cathedral, making it one of the most stunning tourist places in Shillong. Location : Laitumkhrah, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 4 km Timings: 7 AM to 6:30 PM Entry Fee: Entry is free You May Also Like:  Meghalaya Tour                                    Meghalaya Honeymoon Package

Ward’s Lake

Phan Nonglait Park

Air Force Museum

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All Saints Cathedral

Sweet Falls

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Sohpetbneng Peak

Spread Eagle Falls

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State Museum

One of the best tourist places in Shillong to experience the cultural diversity of the region, State Museum, more commonly known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum is a must visit a place. The museum has a wide collection of traditional tools, traditional music instruments, dinosaur models, antiques, jewelry,  etc. are on display here. The museum is an important center for the studies of culture and history in the region. If you are a patron of history and culture, you will have a great time at the museum since it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Location: Secretariat Hills, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 3.2 km Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM Entry Fee: INR 5 per person Check This Out:  Sikkim Packages From Mumbai                               North Sikkim Tour Package From Gangtok

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

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Mawjymbuin Cave

Rhino Heritage Museum

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Botanical Garden

Bishop Falls

Bishop Falls is the 22nd highest waterfall in the country, plummeting from a whopping height of 443 feet. The waterfall is three-tiered and is accompanied by another majestic fall named Beadon Falls. The streams from both the falls contribute to the waters of Umiam River. Rugged terrain and lush jungles surround the fall, making it a sight worth freezing in frames. Due to its proximity to the main city area of Shillong, Bishop Falls is a popular picnic spot and is visited by locals on weekends for a respite from the city life. Location: Mawprem, Shillong

Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 5 km

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

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Sightseeing in shillong, trekking in shillong.

• Cherrapunji

Shillong Top Attractions

Laitlum Canyon, located near Shillong, Meghalaya, is a hidden gem and a nature lover's paradise. The name "Laitlum" translates to "end of hills," and the canyon lives up to its name with its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing views. This scenic destination offers a stunning panorama of deep gorges, lush green valleys, and mist-covered hills that stretch as far as the eye can see.Laitlum Canyon is a relatively lesser-known tourist spot, which adds to its charm as it remains unspoiled and serene. Trekking enthusiasts can indulge in exciting trails that lead to the canyon, allowing them to witness the natural beauty up close. The experience of standing atop the cliffs, surrounded by the serene ambiance and awe-inspiring vistas, is truly unforgettable.Visitors can also soak in the local Khasi culture as they interact with the friendly villagers who reside in the nearby villages. Laitlum Canyon is a perfect escape from the bustling city life, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and experience tranquility in the lap of Meghalaya's pristine landscapes.

The Don Bosco Museum, located in Shillong, Meghalaya, is an exceptional cultural and educational institution that offers visitors a fascinating insight into the rich and diverse heritage of Northeast India. Named after Saint John Bosco, an Italian saint known for his dedication to youth and education, the museum is a sprawling seven-story building that houses an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and information about the indigenous tribes and communities of the region.The museum showcases the traditions, customs, art, and lifestyle of the various tribes through well-curated galleries, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. It covers a wide range of subjects, including ethnography, archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. Visitors can explore the unique architectural design of the museum, which resembles a cone-shaped traditional house of the local Khasi tribe. As they ascend the levels, they delve deeper into the cultural tapestry of Northeast India.The Don Bosco Museum is not only a repository of cultural knowledge but also a platform for research and academic activities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the vibrant heritage of Northeast India.

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Best Of Shillong: Must Visit Places For The Authentic Meghalayan Experience

Often referred to as the “Scotland of the East”, Shillong is one of the most picturesque hill stations in the Northeast. With some of the best things to do in Shillong , this hill station offers a myriad of experiences to its tourists. From soaking in the natural beauty to exploring the colonial heritage, the best places to visit in Shillong will definitely captivate you. 

The influences of the British Era are clearly visible in the colonial architectural buildings in Shillong like the parks, museums, manmade lakes and the churches in Shillong . These Shillong tourist places, allow you to soak in vistas and immerse in the heritage of this hill station.

Surrounded by some of the most picturesque valleys of Meghalaya, the cool and pleasant climate with some of the best natural Shillong tourist places makes it a perfect place to go for a natural retreat. With some of the best trekking trails , scenic waterfalls and glittering lakes, Shillong provides ample opportunities to spend some time connecting with nature. 

The tourist infrastructure of Shillong is pretty developed offering a number of stay options for tourists to relax after a day full of sightseeing and fun. Most of the hotels in Shillong are located in the heart of the city, making the sightseeing places easily accessible to its visitors.

Many restaurants in Shillong , offer a variety of cuisines to relish your taste buds with. From international cuisines to the delicious local food of Meghalaya , there are plenty of options for you to try. 

With all this, Shillong truly is a gateway to the Northeastern region of India by providing a window to the diverse culture and natural beauty of North East. So let’s explore some of the Top Places to Visit in Shillong.

Index For Best Shillong tourist places

Top 10 Places to Visit in Shillong 

• Shillong Peak
• Elephant Falls
• Lady Hydari Park
• Mary Help Cathedral
• Don Bosco Museum
• Police Bazaar
• Meghalaya State Museum and Art Gallery
• Khasi Heritage Village
• Sweet Falls
• Spread Eagle’s Falls

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Other Places to visit in Shillong for couples

• Laitlum Canyon
• Bishop Falls

Other Places to visit in Shillong with kids 

• Ward’s Lake
• Air Force Museum

Top 10 places to visit in Shillong

1. shillong peak & sunset view point .

Shillong Peak is at the top of the list of tourist places to visit in Shillong because of its scenic outlook of the beautiful city. You will have to walk for about an hour to reach the summit where a lookout point has been built. Those who love hills and trekking will find this place a paradise with incredible panoramic views of nature.

The distance of Shillong Peak from the main bus stand is approximately 10 km, which means you hardly have to go to any remote location. The locals believe this peak to be the abode of their deity protecting the village which makes it one of the most unique places to visit in Shillong.

Visiting Shillong Peak is one of those moments which you will cherish for your life.

What to Do Here: 

• Some adventurous and fun outdoor activities like mountain biking, trekking, etc.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the hill-scape.

Also Read: Krem Puri: World’s Longest Sandstone Cave in Meghalaya

2. Elephant Falls

The falls are named after the shape and size of the surrounding rocks. The water flows on all sides of the rock to dwindle in drops of water in little streams. People who live near this place call it the “Elephant Waterfalls,” which is a beautiful sight to watch. This waterfall is not very far from Shillong but has been hiding from tourists for quite some. Once you look at it, you will instantly fall in love with this place, and would want to explore more with Shillong sightseeing.

It has become one of the best places to visit in Shillong , offering spectacular views of Umiam Lake. The most suitable time to visit and explore it is around sunset, when visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake and some breathtaking sunsets.

What to Do Here:

• Watch local boatmen rowing and fishing from boats; 
• Hire anyone of the boatmen for a ride through the lake; 
• Take a stroll on the promenade around this lake. 

3. Lady Hydari Park

The children’s play area is one of the highlights of the park. Children can play in the play area while parents can relax in the park. The park also has a small zoo where you can see several regional animals as well as birds. There are plenty of opportunities for photographers and nature lovers to take pictures in the park. 

Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, have a picnic, or just want to appreciate nature’s beauty, Lady Hydari Park is definitely one of the best places to visit in Shillong!

• Take a Nature walk through the well-manicured gardens
• Go for a small picnic with your loved ones
• Click some pictures of the flora and fauna in the park

4. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians

The Cathedral is dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary and is one of India’s largest churches. Its grandeur is enhanced by its tall spires and beautiful stained glass windows. The design of the church combines European and local elements.

The church serves as a focal point for the Christian community of Shillong and has a large seating capacity. The atmosphere of the church is tranquil and peaceful, and it is a popular place for people to pray and meditate.

The cathedral often hosts religious functions and festivals and attracts devotees as well as tourists. It is perched atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a religious traveler or an architecture lover, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Cathedral.

• Capture the neo-gothic architecture of this church with your camera
• Marvel at the surrounding views
• Learn about the history of this place at the information center here

5. Don Bosco Museum

Inside, you’ll find lots of exhibits and artifacts that tell the stories of the people who live there. It’s a great place to learn about the different languages and customs that make Northeast India so special. The Don Bosco Museum has three floors and each floor is dedicated to a different part of Northeast Indian culture. 

You can check out galleries with textiles, crafts, weapons, photography, and so much more. Plus, there are sections that explain the history of Northeast India and the geography of the region. It’s a great way to learn and get a better understanding of Northeast India’s rich heritage, thus making it one of the top places to visit in Shillong.

• Learn about the linguistic diversity of North East
• Shop some unique souvenirs
• Relax in the cafe after exploring the galleries

Also Read: Top 10 Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya for Natural Retreat

6. Sweet Falls

Tourists recognize Sweet Falls as the best place to visit in Shillong around sunset, as you can witness some spectacular sights against the backdrop of Shillong. However, you will also have to watch out for some small forest fires along the way.

The recommended route to view these beautiful waterfalls stretches through 3 km of jungle trail, where you will have to climb up and down a steep path. Many locals visit this place to indulge in activities like hiking, trekking, rock climbing and other adventure activities. You can easily find people willing to hire bikes or trekkers to see this gem of all the places to visit in Shillong.

• Trek through the jungle trails or hire a guide to apprise you of more places to see in Shillong;
• Rock climbing if you are into adventure activities. ( Note that only experienced climbers should attempt rock climbing here.)

7. Khasi Heritage Village

The key objective behind this project is to bring people closer to Khasi history, culture, and tradition, so you can get a closer look at all the daily activities of tribal people and see their artefacts, storehouses, kitchen, tools, and other items of everyday use. This village’s heart lies in a local market surrounded by shops selling traditional Khasi handicrafts like silver jewellery and blankets.

There are also some live demonstrations of Khasi crafts by the locals which are fascinating to watch. Visiting Khasi Heritage Village is an excellent idea if you want to feel the Khasi’s local culture, tradition, values and get some insight into their way of life. What makes this one of the most lov ed tourist places to visit in Shillong is the Monolith Festival of the Khasi tribe.

• Watch traditional culture, dance and other activities; 
• Participate in local activities and learn tribal dance.
• Visit the amphitheatre to watch some notable documentaries on the Khasi tribe; 

Also Read: Resorts In Meghalaya

8. Meghalaya State Museum & Art Gallery

This is a tourists’ favourite among all tourist places in Shillong where you can learn more about the culture of the locals, region’s rich history and traditions. Some significant exhibits include prehistoric artefacts like stone axes and rubbing tools, ancient Khasi sculptures, tribal jewellery made from glass beads and many more exciting collections.

• Explore some rare collections and learn more about their history, craftsmanship and creation process; 
• Witness an interesting collection of Khasi artworks and sculptures; 
• Have a look at the well-maintained artefacts that tell a lot about the culture of Meghalaya. 

9. Spread Eagle Falls

The water glimmers in the sunlight as it falls. The waterfall gets its name from the fact that the water spreads like eagle wings as it descends. There is more to visiting Spread Eagle Falls than a scenic view. It is an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in Meghalaya and the surrounding forests and foliage. It is also a great place for photography and picnics. The lush greenery creates a tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, there are plenty of trails nearby that will take you to the falls. As you make your way through the lush greenery, you’ll get more and more excited to see the untouched beauty of the falls. Make sure to add Spread Eagle Falls to your tour in Shillong to experience the beauty of nature in Meghalaya.

• Hike around the trails to get the best views of the waterfalls
• Enjoy a nice picnic amidst the peaceful ambience
• Go bird watching and bird photography in the surrounding forest

10. Police Bazar 

The most suitable time to visit this place is around sunset, when you can watch some breathtaking sunsets against the backdrop of Shillong. You will find many beautiful and artistic souvenirs during you r Meghalaya road trip in this m arket. It is quite a large market where you can find handicrafts, local outfits and other traditional items.

• Enjoy local food with tasty flavours
• Take away souvenirs and local handicrafts; 
• Watch breathtaking sunset against the backdrop of Shillong.

1. Umiam Lake

The artificial lake was created after constructing a dam under a hydroelectric power project. With the magnificent East Khasi Hills surrounding it, you can enjoy boating and other fun watersports or sit quietly by the lakeside to cherish the stunning sunset. It is located on the banks of Sohra Dam, one of the biggest in northeastern India.

You can indulge in a fishing session or take a quick dip in the cool water. The number of tourists visiting this place is increasing rapidly because of its beauty, and its proximity to Shillong city. The Umiam lake is also surrounded by some of the best resorts in Shillong which makes this one of the top Places to visit in Shillong for honeymoon.

• Boating, swimming, and several other watersports for adventure lovers; 
• Camping/Rent a place to stay overnight; 
• Enjoy the view of the surrounding hills, forests, and waterfalls; 
• Kayak/Canoeing, or hire one and enjoy the calm water of this beautiful lake.

2. Laitlum Canyons

Couples can spend a romantic day in this captivating tourist spot, indulging in a variety of activities while admiring the stunning scenery around them. The sound of the water cascading through the expansive canyons creates an enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for romantic moments.

As you explore this lovers’ paradise, the river will take you by the hand and take you to the top of the hill, where you’ll be able to share some intimate moments while taking in the stunning views of the Meghalayan countryside. You’ll also be able to explore the mysterious rock formations and black lines that add to the intrigue of your journey. It’s sure to be an amazing honeymoon adventure where nature and love come together to create amazing memories!

• Kayaking, rock climbing, and trekking tours through the canyons; 
• Visit this place and watch the breathtaking sunset.
• Enjoy delicious meals on the way back

3. Bishop Falls

When you arrive at the falls, you will be welcomed by the soft sound of the water cascading down from a high point. Couples will be able to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the falls while taking pictures. 

With the lush environment and the light playing on the water, there is no better place to take pictures than at Bishop Falls. Bishop Falls is a testimony to the beauty of nature in Shillong. It is a place for couples to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.

• Marvel at the surrounding valley views
• Capture some beautiful pictures of this waterfall

Other Places to visit in Shillong with kids

1. ward’s lake.

Pedal boating is a popular activity for children and adults, and is a great way to explore the crystal clear waters while taking in the lush greenery. Fish feeding is also a great activity for children, as it introduces them to the wonders of the water. The beautifully maintained gardens and walking trails around the lake are ideal for picnicking, allowing families to spend quality time together and take in the beauty of the natural surroundings. 

With its picturesque wooden bridges and colorful flora, the lake is an ideal place for photographers to take pictures of its beauty. Furthermore, the playgrounds and play equipment ensure that children have an enjoyable and memorable visit to this tranquil oasis.

• Go Paddle Boating in the Lake
• Feed the fishes in the lake
• Children can have fun in the play area

2. Air Force Museum

Children can marvel at the immense size and power of the aircraft while learning about their importance. Additionally, the museum features a variety of informative exhibits, displays, and historical artifacts associated with the Indian Air Force, allowing children to gain a greater understanding of the armed forces and technology that protects India. 

This museum serves as a perfect combination of an educational and recreational experience for families, allowing them to explore together while gaining an appreciation for India’s military aviation legacy.

• Take a Guided Tour of the Museum
• Attend the educational workshops organized by the museum
• Purchase aviation-related souvenirs, books, and toys from the gift shop

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: 1. what are the top tourist attractions in shillong, q: 2. what is the best time to visit shillong, q: 3. what type of accommodation is available in shillong, q: 4. do i need any special permits to visit certain places in shillong.

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Shillong Tourism and Travel Guide

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Best Places To Visit In Shillong

Itineraries For Shillong

Best Luxury Hotels In Shillong

Best Mid-Range Hotels In Shillong

Best Budget Hotels In Shillong

Best Hostels And Homestays In Shillong

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Places To Visit Near Shillong

Best Time To Visit Shillong

With stunning views of the Himalayan peaks covered in snow, making for gorgeous backdrops, Shillong is a great place to enjoy a holiday. However, it is imperative that you refer to the Shillong travel guide so that you know climatic conditions the best time to visit Shillong. The weather in Shillong usually remains cool and pleasant for the most part, but if you want to experience the best of Shillong tourism, then it’s best to find out the best time to visit Shillong.

The best time to travel to Shillong is between September and April as this is when Shillong’s weather is at its friendliest. The temperatures are pleasant and rains are very moderate. This is the time when most tourists experience Shillong tourism and enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities. Tourists can also visit during the monsoons when the beauty of this place is at its peak, but travelling would be difficult in such conditions. However, during the monsoon, even though waterfalls and rivers are at their full glory, it’s very risky to visit Shillong. This is one of the wettest places in the world and heavy incessant rains during monsoon can make travelling a little more dangerous than adventurous.

Top Attractions In Shillong

Who needs to travel to Scotland to see nature at its best when we have Shillong in India? Also known as Scotland of East, Shillong is home to some of the most stunning tourist places in India, both manmade and natural. No wonder Shillong is one of the top tourist destinations in India when it comes to experiencing natural beauty. Let’s check out top tourist attractions in Shillong.

Umiam Lake  

It’s a beautiful lake located north of Shillong city resembling the 'Lochs', or lakes of Scotland. This man-made lake is also known as 'Barapani' (big water) because of its sheer size. It was created by building a dam on Umiam river in the early 1960s. You can relax at the Lum Nehru Park which is close to the lake. The lake also offers numerous water sports such as kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating for those seeking adventure in Shillong.

Located below Raj Bhavan (Governor’s Residence), Wards Lake is a horseshoe-shaped artificial lake where boating facilities are also available. The lake is surrounded by a huge garden and also has a wooden bridge that adds to its charm. The winding paved path on undulating grounds around the lake offers an enchanting experience of witnessing rare flora and the fairyland-like lighting.

Shillong Peak

What’s the experience of Shillong tourism without getting to the highest point in the state? Hike up to the Shillong Peak, the highest point in Meghalaya (1,965 meters above sea level). Enjoy breathtaking views of the Shillong city from several viewpoints on the way. You can reach Shillong Peak from the Upper Shillong or Jowai Road. The peak is also home to a radar station for the Indian Air force and all tourists are advised to declare their cameras while reaching the viewpoint.

Elephant Falls

It is in the Upper Shillong area which also houses the Eastern Air Command of Indian Airforce. The scenic fall is not continuous but a collection of smaller falls. It has a footpath leading to the bottom of the fall where it reaches a small lake. Its name elephant falls was given by the British because there was a rock by the side of fall which resembled an elephant. The rock was destroyed in an earthquake.

Sweet Falls

Another waterfall located in Happy Valley that’s steep, beautiful and pristine. However, it is recommended that visitors remain cautious as there are no barricades and rocks are too slippery.

Butterfly Museum

Love butterflies? You must visit the Butterfly Museum which has a huge collection of different types of butterflies, some of which belong to the rarest species.

Lady Hydari Park

Named after Lady Hydari, the first lady of the state and the wife of the Governor of Assam, it’s a major attraction among kids and families park holidaying in Shillong. This park has a variety of local flowers and has a small zoo within as well. It is a famous picnic spot for the locals and tourists alike.

Activities And Things To Do In Shillong

Go boating in Umiam Lake: 

Umiam Lake is one of the most popular attractions of Shillong and always finds mention in almost all Shillong travel guides. It is a scenic place surrounded by lush greenery with a pretty lake sitting in the middle where tourists can enjoy boating far from the city’s hustle-bustle. Quite a place to be with your loved ones.

Visit the State Central Library

The ancient library was established at the time of the British Raj and holds many rare books and almanacs. It’s a gold mine for history lovers in the city.

Go shopping

Enjoy shopping for traditional items of art and craft usually made of wood in Lewduh, the largest open street market in northeast India. You can also buy the handmade woollen shawls and the items of bamboo furniture.

Enjoy the nightlife

Shillong tourism is an opportunity for tourists to be a part of the dazzling nightlife of this otherwise quiet and peaceful capital town. Visit the famous nightclubs and bars in Shillong including Piccadilly, Cloud 9, Rooftop Lounge Bar, Platinum, Hotel Alpine Continental Bar, Tango, Hotel Pinewood Bar, Fusion Bar, Astoria Bar and more.

Indulge in adventure activities

You can’t exclude adventure while trying to explore the best of Shillong tourism, can you? This hilltown boasts lush green forests that are home to many hiking and trekking routes and the most famous of all is the one that leads to Shillong Peak. Set out for an adventure in the wild as these forests are known to be home to a wide variety of rare and exotic plants including orchids, pines, and the famous insect-eating pitcher plant. Besides, Shillong tourism is also a great choice if you love caves. Go caving and satiate the adventure lover in you.

Relish the local food

You just can’t enjoy the charm of Shillong tourism until you have tried various local foods of the capital city. Apart from the obvious momos which are very popular snacks not just among the northeasterners but also the tourists, other traditional Khasi and Tibetan foods like jadoh, doh jem, doh khleh, and doh snam are some of the must-try foods for everyone who wishes to indulge in the culinary delights offered by Shillong tourism.

Where To Stay In Shillong

Shillong tourism is very popular among the travellers not just from within the country from all over the world as well. It’s no surprise that Shillong tourism has some luxurious resorts, high-end hotels, comfy homestays, and pocket-friendly hostels too. This suggests that Shillong tourism has everything for almost every kind of tourist. And even though the budget can depend on how and when you plan to experience Shillong tourism, we all know how important it is to know about the appropriate places of accommodation available before planning a itinerary for Shillong tourism so that you don’t end up blowing your budget. So, let's take a look at some handpicked accommodation options that are part of Shillong tourism:

Luxurious hotels in Shillong:

If you are looking forward to getting luxury treatment from your Shillong tourism experience, you will be surprised with the number of high-end hotels and resorts this quaint little hill town is home to. These super-comfy accommodations include Shillong tourism hotels that are specially designed for luxury-seeking tourists. Here are some of the best luxury resorts and hotels that are part of Shillong tourism.  

• Ri Kynjai Serenity by The Lake
• The Heritage Club - Tripura Castle
• M crown Hotel
• Hotel Grace
• Hotel Polo Towers

Mid-budget hotels in Shillong

Mid-budget is the range which accounts for maximum Shillong tourism and that is why one can find a number of mid-range accommodation options on offer by Shillong tourism. This category of hotels and resorts in Shillong allow tourists to enjoy comfort without burning a hole in their pockets. If you are staying at one such accommodation in Shillong, you are more than likely to get the best of Shillong sightseeing within your set budget. Check out these mid-budget hotels that are part of Shillong tourism.

• Hotel Barbareek Inn
• Hotel Alpine Continental
• Travellers Bed & Breakfast
• Hotel Yalana
• Ladybird Hotel
• The Loft - Executive Inn

Budget hotels and hostels in Shillong

Not everyone is inclined towards spending a huge amount of money while holidaying these days. As the trend of backpacking and budget travel becomes more and more popular, Shillong tourism has gone on to mould its facilities for the travellers who love staying at low-budget accommodations and the most famous of these are the hostels where travellers from different parts of the world can stay together, gel with each other, enjoy more than basic facilities at a very budget-friendly cost. Therefore, Shillong tourism happens to be that option which welcomes budget travellers and backpackers with open arms. There are ample budget-friendly hotels and hostels that provide good accommodation facilities at very nominal prices. And don’t forget to check out the following budget accommodations in Shillong:

• The Majestic Hotel
• Shillong Club Guesthouse
• White Orchid Guesthouse
• Hotel Knight Inn Shillong
• Hotel Rainbow Shillong

Some of the best hostels that are part of Shillong tourism are:

• Youth Hostel
• Shillong Dormitory Hostel
• Silverbrook Hostel
• Rockski Boutique Bed and Breakfast

Cuisine & Best Places to Eat In Shillong

Being the capital city of one of the Seven Sister States, Meghalaya, Shillong is well and truly famous among tourists. And it’s not just about the natural beauty, the breathtaking views, and the humble and warm locals, Shillong tourism also offers mouth-watering cuisine which attracts tourists, especially the foodies, from all parts of India and the world. The rich heritage of Shillong tourism is very well reflected in the dishes served at the restaurants and cafes in Shillong. Shillong tourism lets you enjoy the culinary delights which are bound to make anyone fall in love.

Besides, Shillong tourism is also known for exotic tea and coffee flavours, lip-smacking soups, and their own local alcoholic beverages, most popular of which is Kiad by the Pnar tribe of Jaintia Hills. And even though the list of must-try local foods in Shillong is quite long, here we are with some unmissable ones that will complete your Shillong tourism experience :

You might have had momos innumerable times in different parts of India, but you’ve got to try the authentic taste of these offered by Shillong tourism. Popular in the almost whole northeast region of India, momos taste best when eaten with spicy chutneys.

Such is the popularity of momos that you will simply have no problem in finding them as they are sold everywhere; streetside stalls, local eateries, and even high-end restaurants in Shillong. Even though pork and chicken momos are very popular among the locals, Shillong tourism cafes and restaurants serve vegetarian momos as well.

Just in case you find long queues of locals and tourists near a street stall in Shillong, it’s most likely to get their daily dose of tungrymbai . One of the most popular dishes offered by Shillong tourism, tungrymbai is prepared using fermented soybeans that are grown in Shillong. And just in case you think you have it somewhere else in India, like the momos, then you are mistaken. You’re unlikely to find tungrymbai anywhere else in the country other than northeast India. So why miss the most exclusive dish of Shillong tourism when you have the chance to relish it!

It is meat-based, usually pork, Khasi delicacy which also happens to be one of the specialities  of Shillong tourism. Jadoh is prepared by drenching rice in a flavoured blend of sour and spicy, topped with various kinds of herbs like mint leaves and ginger flower, which is eventually mixed with pork meat, for pork is the major ingredient of jadoh. It can be found easily at the roadside stalls and local eateries. 

This is another famous cuisine of Shillong tourism you shouldn’t miss out on when holidaying in Shillong. It is basically pork cooked with black sesame seeds and soya sauceand when had with putharo, tastes even better.

It’s a popular pork dish prepared by boiling and frying the chopped viscera which is then mixed with fried ginger, garlic, chilli, onion, black pepper, and turmeric paste in mustard oil.

You might have had many salads, but how about a pork salad which is everyone’s favourite here in Shillong tourism? Dohkhleh is made by mixing chopped onion, green chilli, and salt with small pieces of boiled pork. Later, beans, tomatoes, and carrots are added to it.

Tungtap is a famous fermented fish product offered by Shillong tourism. It is commonly prepared and consumed by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes of Meghalaya. Their practice of fermenting fish is similar to the traditional methods of preservation of fish in Southeast Asia. Tungtap is generally consumed as a pickle and also as a taste enhancer.

Well, for all the vegetarians who thought that Shillong tourism might just not have anything on offer for them in terms of local food, Putharo is your saviour. Putharo is a cake made from steamed rice, powdered jaggery, and grated coconut, and is quite similar to the famous south Indian dish called idli. An earthen pot is used to mould the rice and then it is steamed and baked. Usually putharo is served with doh-nei-iong or dohjem.

Best places to eat in Shillong

Whether or not you have carefully gone through this Shillong travel guide, it is understood that food plays an extremely important role in making Shillong tourism what it is. Such is the popularity of Shillong foods that you will often find tourists bee lining outside most of the street-side stalls in the city. And if you are a foodie who loves to travel places to relish various kinds of food, all you need to do is go through a Shillong travel guide that can give you a detailed idea of some of the best restaurants and cafes serving all kinds of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes to the travellers who come here to witness and experience the best of Shillong tourism. So here’s the list of some of the best places to eat in and around Shillong to get the best culinary experience offered by Shillong tourism

• Chef's Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
• Madras Cafe
• Bombay Bites
• Lamee Restaurant
• Cinnamon Kitchen
• Matter of Taste
• Dylan’s Cafe

How To Travel In Shillong

Like any other hilltown, the best way to go around in Shillong is by walking to the nearby tourist attractions. However, for those of you who would prefer more  convenient ways of witnessing the best of Shillong tourism, there are ample options, including buses and the local taxis.

For places within Shillong city, city buses are the best options. There are two types of buses that ply to and from Shillong: city bus and bazaar bus. It’s recommended that tourists use the city bus as the bazaar buses are for local villagers travelling to Shillong to sell their products. And while city buses are very cheap, they can be extremely slow and crowded and you might end up spending a lot of time travelling in those buses.

This is where taxis help you save time and see more of Shillong tourism with more comfort and, of course, more money. The un-metered taxis plying in the city are faster and are always shared. Their fares may vary from Rs10 to Rs 100. However, you can hire a taxi exclusively for yourself by negotiating with the driver for a certain amount of fare, which is usually a little higher than the shared fare. If you wish to visit various Shillong tourist spots, it is a good idea to hire a taxi cab for a full day. Besides, there are also bikes available for rent by local agencies in Shillong which allow you to explore the best of Shillong tourism in your own way.

Typical Costs In Shillong

Shillong tourism is the kind of holiday choice that never leaves any tourist disappointed, no matter the budget. The fact that Shillong tourism welcomes all kinds of travellers is the reason why this beautiful capital city is frequented by hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, which include families, luxury travellers, backpackers, and even solo travellers. But wouldn’t it be great if you knew the general daily costs per person before you plan a holiday in Shillong? Well, that’s exactly what this Shillong travel guide intends to do. So let's take a look at per day costs for all kinds of travellers in Shillong:

If you are a luxury traveller, you can expect to spend around Rs 4,000-6,000 per person per day while exploring Shillong tourism. This usually includes accommodation at a luxury hotel which may cost you around Rs 3,500 and more. If you eat out at upscale restaurants and bars, it will cost you approx. Rs 700 or upwards. Local sightseeing in private taxis and guided tours can cost around Rs 2,000.

According to this Shillong travel guide, mid-range budget travellers can end up spending around Rs 2,000 - 2,500 per person per day while exploring the Shillong tourism. This includes accommodation in mid-range hotels, which may cost you around Rs 1,500-1,800. If you wish to eat out, food in mid-range restaurants in Shillong typically costs about Rs 250-500.

Things are quite simple and basic If you are strictly a budget traveller wanting to explore more of Shillong tourism and expect a little less luxury. It starts with choosing cheap hotels and hostels over luxury resorts, travelling in shared taxis, walking to nearby places of attraction, and eating often at street-side stalls. For such a traveller, the daily cost of travel in Shillong tourism can be around Rs 800 -1000. Having food at street-side restaurants costs around Rs 100-200, while public transport or shared jeeps will only cost you around Rs 20-70.

Written by Anshul Sharma. He often suffers from extreme cases of FOMO whenever he doesn’t travel and write about his journeys for more than three weeks. On a normal day, he consumes cricket for breakfast, psycho thrillers for lunch, and air crash investigation videos for dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideally, you might need around 3-5 days to get the best experience of Shillong tourism. But it also depends on the kind of experiences you are looking for and the budget.

Raincoat/umbrella, good quality shoes for moderate walking and hiking, cold cream, woollens as per the season and adequate cash are some of the must-pack items that are mentioned in almost every Shillong travel guide.

Planning a holiday to experience the best of Shillong tourism might get tricky, especially considering the terrain and weather conditions of the region. Here are a few tips that will help you a great deal:

• Be ready for a lot of road journeys during your trip as Shillong tourism doesn’t offer rail or air travel. The nearby areas are only connected majorly by serpentine roads which turn bumpy during monsoons
• Carry an adequate amount of cash.
• Shillong tourism has a lot on offer for tourists and planning a suitable itinerary as per your budget and duration can be a bit tricky. That’s why it’s recommended that you book a suitable tour itinerary and get the best out of Shillong tourism.

Shillong tourism has a number of offbeat places that offer unique experiences. Some of the best offbeat places in Shillong are Laitlum Canyons, Phan Nonglait Park, Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Spread Eagle Falls, Mawsynram, Jakrem and more.

Except for a few blind spots, just like in any other hill station, mobile and internet connectivity in Shillong is good. However, landslides and weather conditions may hamper the routine services, especially when it rains.

Shillong best time to visit extends from mid-September to late March as per the Shillong travel guide. This is the time when the weather remains pleasant and favourable for most of the outdoor activities.

There are no direct trains to Shillong. However, if you only wish to travel by train, you can travel to Guwahati Railway Station which is about 100 km from Shillong.

4-day Shillong Travel Itinerary for First Time Travellers

traveller Sounak

Shillong travel itinerary is going to come in handy if you are planning to visit this beautiful capital of the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Meghalaya is a place where you need to be if you h ave ever desired to get close to nature and greenery fascinates you.

A well-defined Shillong travel itinerary will help you explore the best of what this place has to offer. The lush green mountains, lakes, waterfalls, valleys and picturesque villages embellish this place and make it a perfect destination for travellers.

Although many places in India’s northeast are surreal, some of them are quite harsh and inaccessible. Shillong is a place where people of all ages can easily travel and spend quality time. In my current blog, I will share with you a four-day Shillong travel itinerary based on my extensive visits to the region.

The map has been made using Google Maps. These are the places that I covered on my 3 nights,  4 days Shillong Trip Itinerary

Shillong Travel Itinerary

The beauty of Meghalaya needs no introduction. Meghalaya meaning the abode of the clouds is an interesting as well as enriching place to explore. It is the wettest region in India, and Cherrapunjee ( another visitor attraction around 50 km distance from Shillong ) holds the record for the highest rainfall on the planet.

The beauty of Shillong was noticed by early European settlers who named it “Scotland of the East” . Shillong travel itinerary can give you a gist of the flavour that you might experience in the whole state. One can also think of it as the start of exploring the North-Eastern part of India

Although, you can spend countless days in Shillong amidst nature, here I will provide you with a 4-day Shillong travel itinerary. Below is a brief overview of my day wise Shillong trip itinerary.

The Complete Itinerary for Traveling to Shillong

In the following paragraphs, I will introduce you to the places to visit on your Shillong travel itinerary. This will benefit you and you won’t waste time charting a plan on where to go next.

Day 1 of My 4-Day Shillong travel itinerary

It is a good idea to start early in the morning from Guwahati. I travelled to Shillong from Guwahati, so I am taking that as my starting point. If you are starting an afresh trip, it will depend on your flight or train timings. In that case, I would suggest booking a transport option that reaches Guwahati in the morning. The approximate distance from Guwahati to Shillong is 100 km and it would take more or less 2.5-3 hrs.

Before entering Shillong, you will come across Umiam lake. The lake is also known as Borapani Lake locally. It is a man-made lake in the lap of the hills with a mesmerizing backdrop. The size of the lake will leave you awestruck.

There are opportunities for boating on the lake. There are also different water sports for adventure lovers like water skiing, high-speed boat and yachting. A Pedal boat ride on the lake is absolutely worth it if you want to enjoy the ambience in a leisurely way.

The rates of several water sports at Umiam Lake are given below. Note that these are approximate charges and can change with the season.

After the break at Umiam lake , continue on your onward journey to Shillong. After checking-in, to the hotel (or hostel) the rest of the day can be spent exploring the locale and hiring a car (taxi fares given ahead) for the next few days.

I suggest you head out and explore the food junctions at Shillong. Food is something that connects you to the place and gives you a true feel of its roots. Wherever you travel, it becomes an important part of the travel experience and builds up a connection between you and the place.

As I had already mentioned, the North East has a different culture and flavour.  As you enter Shillong, you will surely feel it. The bazaar areas have innumerable stalls of street foods, that sell local delicacies at a reasonable price. If you are a meat-lover, this is the place to be.

Also, there are a number of restaurants, where you can go for a more conventional meal system. Use of bamboo shoots in cooking is a characteristic in this part of the country. You can try the commonly found Chicken with bamboo shoots. There are also several other conventional and vegetarian-friendly places available.

The entire road from Guwahati to Shillong is beautiful. I took this picture in Borapani, a border town between Assam and Meghalaya.

Day 2 of My 4-Day Shillong Travel Itinerary

On day 2 of your trip, you can go sightseeing in and around Shillong. I started my day by visiting Shillong Peak . While most of it is motorable, the last few steps have to be walked through. It is not a difficult walk and people from all age groups can reach the place easily

Morning is the best time is best to visit Shillong peak. It is the highest point in and around Shillong and from this point, you can see the city from a distance. It is around 1900 metres from sea level and people go there to get a panoramic view of the place. You can also see the Bangladesh plains from up here. Sometimes you might find heavy fog at times, but I highly recommend this.

If you are a passionate photographer like me, you are in for a treat. Look for beautiful Himalayan birds on your way.

There are beautiful parks and waterfalls in Shillong which can be visited during the day. Lady Hydari Park, Golf course and Wards Lake are a few you can visit. One important fall around Shillong is the Elephant falls . It is a beautiful waterfall and it continues in several tiers. This is one of the most popular places around Shillong and you might find a number of tourists posing for a photograph in front of the falls.

The afternoon can be spent exploring the local museum and churches of Shillong. There are a number of museums in Shillong. Arunachal State Museum, Meghalaya State Museum and Wankhar Entomology museum are a few you can visit. There is also a beautiful church very near to the city centre, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians. The gothic style architecture along with lush green lawns particularly caught my attention.

The best time to visit Shillong peak is early morning. This is the highest point in Shillong. You can see the entire town from up here.

Day 3 of My 4-Day Shillong Travel itinerary

On the third day, we headed to the David Scotts trail near Shillong. It is an easy trek only a few km away from the city, with amazing views of lush green nature. The hike, although easy, is quite a long one. It is a 16 km stretch with a gentle slope. Guides will be available from the hotel if you need one.

There is a stream which needs to be crossed in between, so you need to be careful. Wear good shoes for the trek .  Since I’d had a bad experience with shoes earlier, this time I carried along with trekking shoes that I got at a great deal. Luckily they turned out well too.

Also, be careful of undulating roads and leeches (more common in rainy seasons). Since the rainy season will make the stones and boulders slippery, it is better to avoid this time. Again, if you are an experienced trekker, you can opt for the same.

A n Alternate Option for Day 3 of Shillong Trip Itinerary: Mawlynnong

An alternate option would be visiting Mawlynnong. Mawlynnong is a beautiful small village around 80 km from Shillong. Dubbed as the cleanest village in Asia, the striking aspect of the village is its women-centric society. The village thrives on the harvesting of betel nuts and almost all work is performed by women. While most tourists skip it due to lack of time, this can be an interesting activity on the Shillong travel itinerary.

Just before reaching Mawlynnong, there is a small village called Riwai. A small trek in Riwai can lead you to a wonder of nature, the Root Bridge . This is the only place in India where you will find living root bridges. It is the phenomenon of the roots of trees acting like bridges across the stream. The trek although not a very easy one, can be completed by people of all ages. (If you are going to Cherrapunjee as a next stop, you will also find root bridges there as well.)

When I saw the movie “Avatar” recently, I was reminded of the root bridges of the North East. Never in my wildest imagination, had I thought that only roots can make routes across a stream. To me, it signifies the flow of life, the flow of spontaneity. It denotes the spiritual connection that runs across all of Nature and within all its creatures.

Mawlynnong has several homestays and if you would like, you can spend a night here. One of the guesthouses (Llajong Guest House) also has a treehouse as accommodation which is a fascinating place and is worthy of spending some time.

Mawlynnong has been awarded Asia’s cleanest village. On the way to the village make sure to see the natural root bridges at Riwai.

Day 4 of the 4-Day Shillong Travel Itinerary

This was my last day at Shillong. We checked out of the hotel with a packed lunch and headed towards the Cherrapunji . There are going to be a few pit stops along the way. The first one can be a viewpoint for the valleys of Khasi hills. As far as you can see, there are overlapping green valleys. It is one point not to be missed and after returning from the trip, this one will be a treasured photograph.

Make your second stop at a famous waterfall – the Nohkalikai Falls . The falls have made it to the cover of many travel magazines. Although there is a conventional gate to enter the viewing point (for which you have to pay), the waterfall can be seen from quite a distance. It also has an interesting but unfortunate story associated with it.

After spending an hour at the place with a small snack, you can head to another place close by which is the Nohsngithiang or Seven Sisters falls. Although the name is ‘Seven Sisters’ you will not be able to actually find seven falls, unless you are visiting during the monsoons. If you want to see these waterfalls at their full roar, visit during monsoons.

As you enjoy the wondrous Khasi hills and the beauty of nature, evening approaches. Watch the sunset across the fields and crimson light enlightens the sky across the hills. It is time to enter Cherrapunjee.

Many people just visit Cherrapunjee like a sight-seeing on a to-and-fro basis from Shillong. It is actually possible, however, that the essence of Cherrapunjee will be better absorbed if you stay at the calm of Cherrapunjee  Holiday Resort for a couple of nights.

I highly recommend that travellers should couple a 2-day stay at Cherrapunjee along with Shillong 4-day trip. You can also travel to Dawki if you have time- In case you can don’t know much about this place, check out this 2-minute video of what to expect in Dawki .

The Nohkalikai Falls have a celebrity status of their own. These splendid falls have made it to the cover of several travel magazines.

Places that couldn’t make it to this Shillong Travel Itinerary

There are certain other places, which couldn’t make it to this Shillong trip itinerary but are definitely worth a visit. If you have a couple of days more, you can add these to your Shillong itinerary as well.

Approximate Shillong Trip Budget (for 2 people)

If I had to rate the budget aspect of my trip to Shillong, I would say that it was moderate. The important thing to remember when travelling in the hilly regions is that the costs of transportation are typically going to be high, owing to the difficult terrain and inadequate public transport.

I realized that we could have cut down on the costs way more if we were travelling in a group of four or five . Below is the breakdown of the costs we incurred on the trip.

The landscape around Shillong is truly stunning. The best way to observe and enjoy this beauty is to hire a full day Taxi. The taxi will take you to different points of interest in and around Shillong. You can hire one easily from Shillong and bargaining does help. 

Frequently Asked Questions about travelling in/to Shillong

Now that I have discussed the detailed Shillong travel itinerary and budget, here are a few other frequently asked questions about travelling to Shillong.

How much time to spend in Shillong?

It would be best to have a plan of a 3-4 day Shillong travel itinerary. Places to visit in Shillong are easily accessible by car. For a few places, you might have to hike a bit. So, depending on your taste, you can choose to drop a few places from the list. Shillong also has the typical ‘laid-back’ ambience which makes it a wonderful travel-friendly spot. Whatever you choose, spending some quality time in the lap of Nature will make it worth the visit.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

There is no particular “best” time to visit Shillong because the place has a high altitude with lovely weather. Winters can be a bit on the harsh side (from an Indian perspective) and summers are cool. It is best to avoid the holiday season when you might find each spot crowded and hotels running full. October-November (before the winters) and February-May (after the winters) can be a good times to make a Shillong travel itinerary. Having said this, one can plan to visit Shillong and adjacent regions in monsoons when the waterfalls are at their roaring best and lakes in their mesmerizing natural shades.

How to reach Shillong?

The best way to reach Shillong is through Guwahati, which is in Assam. Guwahati is a major city in Assam with good railway and flight connectivity. You can reach Guwahati through either of these transportation options. You can explore a bit of Guwahati and/or other places of Assam before ascending to the hills of Shillong. 

There are several options for reaching Shillong from Guwahati. I have elaborated on each one of them below.

The government also provides a 30-minute helicopter ride to Shillong from Guwahati. The Guwahati to Shillong helicopter fare is about 1500 INR per person. The first ride starts as early as 9 am and goes up till 1.30 pm. 

I also spotted several shared taxis (including Tata Sumo), which charged between 300- 400 INR per seat. There are also government and private buses travelling from Guwahati to Shillong but I heard that they took a lot of time. The tickets can be booked at Meghalaya Tourism Information Centre, Guwahati Airport/ Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Borjhar. You should call the office beforehand to check the availability. Contact number- 0361 284 1909

I suggest starting from Guwahati (either as a fresh trip or as a continuation trip from Guwahati) early in a taxi. A small car would charge a price of 1800 INR while a Guwahati to Shillong Tata Sumo fare would be around 2000 INR. SUVs generally cost double. Depending on your nature of comfort level and the number of people you will be able to book a cab. There are several online portals for booking such cars.

I would suggest choosing a taxi option. It would be much more convenient if you wish to make stops in between like I did at the lake

Should I take the Guwahati-Shillong Tour Packages?

You will find several travel agents advertising customized trips to Shillong from Guwahati. Since these are part of packages, these will always be a bit expensive. So, if you are on a budget, best avoid these. You can easily explore Shillong and places nearby on your own.

Where to stay in Shillong?

Shillong is one of the top tourist spots that attract visitors all the year-round. It accommodates a number of hotels which range from budget to luxury. Common booking websites will show you a number of options.

I would suggest you book before reaching Shillong, especially between October to March, when the number of travellers increases manifold. It is also a good idea to stay in the city centre so that transportation is not a problem.

Based on my own experience, I would suggest these two places to stay:

What are Transportation options in and around Shillong?

While in Shillong, you will need to have a car along with you if you want to enjoy the places in their true sense (that of course if you are not bound by a budget). Hiring cabs or small cars for the whole day is a good way to deal with it. There are a number of taxi rentals available. The best option is to just walk to the taxi stand and bargain for a few quotes.

This table below will give you a brief idea of the taxi fares in and around Shillong:

How much will a 4-day trip to Shillong cost?

On average, a Shillong trip for 4 days (from Guwahati) will cost you around 8000-10000 INR. I have given a breakdown of my costs above. Also, as I said, you can cut down on the costs if you travel in a group.

Is Shillong safe for travellers?

Yes, Shillong is a safe place to travel for all kinds of travellers including solo female travellers. The main reason for this is that their society is matriarchal. However, I would advise you not to be late out at night. This is because the majority of places are deserted by 9 pm and you won’t find most places open.

Is Monsoons a good time to visit Shillong?

Monsoons are a wonderful time to visit Shillong. During monsoons, you can witness the waterfalls in their full force. The rainy season brings out the best in Shillong.

Here is a quick look at the essentials of travelling to Shillong for the first time. Pin it your board on Pinterest for later reference.

Few Interesting Facts about Meghalaya

Before I end this blog, here are a few things I found pretty interesting about Meghalaya. I couldn’t resist adding them here.

Shillong is a place that embraces you with all its natural affections. The lush green mountains, the running waterfalls and the lovely weather all symbolize the celebration of life. As in Khasi tradition, people express a lot of respect for womanhood giving her an important role in family and society. By the same tradition perhaps, they respect Mother Nature. It is very easy to fall in love with this quintessential hilly ambience; however, it is difficult to get rid of the addictive affection of Shillong.

Happy Wayfaring 🙂

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

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29 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Shillong

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#5 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 17 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Umiam Lake is a vast and serene reservoir located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Also known as Barapani Lake, it is one of the beautiful lakes in Meghalaya and among the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Umiam Lake was formed by damming the Umiam River by Assam State Electricity Board in the early 1960s. The main purpose of the dam was to store water for hydroelectric power generation. Spread over 220 sq. km, the lake is encompassed by sprawling meadows and undulating hills that are carpeted with lush greenery. Apart from being a source of power generation, potable water, fishing and irrigation, Umiam Lake is a popular tourist destination of the region. Umiam literally means 'water of tears' in local Khasi language, and there's a fascinating story around it. According to the legend, two sisters in the heaven decided to visit Meghalaya. To shape up their plan, they left together to reach the destination. During the journey, one .....

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Mawphlang Sacred Grove

#6 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 27 km from Shillong, Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a reserved forest located at Mawphlang village near Shillong, Meghalaya. Also known as Lawkyntang, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and among the best places to experience Shillong Tourism. Situated in the East Khasi Hills, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is preserved by the natives since ancient times as a part of their religious beliefs, in which forests are considered as a sacred entity. Covering over an area 80 hectares, the Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a treasure trove of rare medicinal trees and plants like the English yew, the Chinese su�mac, chinquapin, etc. It is also home to several species of trees that work as climate indicators like Japanese blue oak and graffiti. In total, there are about 450 species of trees and plants in this forest as well as rare species of animals and birds. According to the locals, the sacred forest is protected by the Lyngdoh clan, who believe that the deity Labasa resided .....

Don Bosco Museum

#7 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures is a well-known museum situated within the Sacred Heart Church premises in Shillong. Also known as Don Bosco Museum, it is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the must visit Tourist Places in Shillong. Opened in 2003, Don Bosco Museum is a privately owned museum under the control of Salesian order of the Catholic Church which enlightens the history and culture of the north eastern states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. It is a three-in-one institution that combines a museum with a research and publication center. With its vast collection of artifacts spreading over several galleries, the museum acts as the cultural and historical treasure trove of North-East India. The Museum is a hexagonal shaped seven-storey building brimming with art & culture. It houses 17 well-laid out galleries of the international standard containing .....

#8 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 1 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Ward's Lake is an artificial lake located in the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. Also called as Pollock's Lake, it is one of the beautiful lakes in Shillong and among the popular Shillong Tourist Places. The lake is named after Sir William Ward, the then Chief Commissioner of Assam, who initiated the plan for the construction of this lake. Later, the lake was built in the year 1894 by Colonel Hopkins. The lake was designed by Fitzwilliam Thomas Pollock, a famous engineer in the pre-independence era. The history of the lake says that a Khasi prisoner made special efforts to beautify the lake surroundings and his role is remembered even today by the locals. The horse shoe shaped artificial water body is surrounded by lush green gardens. There is a cobblestone pathway along the periphery of the lake making it an idle place for walking. In the middle of the lake is a wooden bridge from where one can enjoy a lovely view of the lake .....

Elephant Falls

#9 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 12 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Elephant Falls is a stunning waterfalls located in the outskirts of Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. It is one of the prominent waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the prime places to visit in Shillong. The waterfall is located in Upper Shillong area within the Eastern Air Command of Indian Air Force. The Khasi tribe named it Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew, meaning Three Steps Waterfalls. Britishers named it Elephant Falls during their regime owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. However, the rock was destroyed due to an earthquake in 1897. Located quite close to Shillong Peak, the Elephant Falls is a 3 tier waterfall. The first fall is very broad and is hidden among the trees. The second fall is quite domesticated and in the winters (and drier months) it looks inconsequential. The third fall is the tallest and most spectacular with crystal clear water falling over sharp rocks of myriad .....

Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians

#10 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3.5 km from Shillong Bus Terminal, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is a Roman Catholic Church located in the Laitumkhrah locality of Shillong. Also known as the Cathedral Catholic Church, it is the principal place of worship in Shillong and among the most famous places to visit in Shillong. Dedicated to mother Mary, the Cathedral Church of Mary Help of Christians was built by the Germans in 1913. According to history, the construction of the present shrine was built after the first church got destroyed due to a fire accident in 1936. It got the status of a shrine in 1980, on completion of the Catholic Church's 100 years in North East India. This church falls under Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong and is the principal place of worship of about 300,000 strong Catholics of Ri Bhoi and East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. Situated atop an emerald-colored hill, the church was constructed in Gothic style of architecture. The church is quiet a big .....

Shillong Peak & Viewpoint

#11 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Shillong Peak is an enchanting vantage point located at Laitkor area of Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated in the outskirts of the Shillong, it is one of the popular viewpoints in Meghalaya and among the prominent places to experience Shillong Tourism. Placed at an altitude of 1,965 m (6,446 feet), Shillong Peak is the highest peak in Meghalaya. According to historians, Shillong is named after this hill. As per the locals, the patron deity 'Leishyllong' resided at the hill and protects the city against all evils. Besides, the top of the Shillong Peak has a sacred spot that is dedicated to U Shulong and special rituals are organised here in each spring to honour the spirit of U Shulong. The peak offers an enchanting 360 degree view of the entire Shillong city, surrounding waterfalls, the Himalayan Range, Bangladesh Plains and the lush greenery nearby. At the peak there is a high tower with a telescope. An ideal retreat for visitors, .....

Air Force Museum

#12 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Air Force Museum is a museum located in Upper-Shillong of Meghalaya. Situated near Elephant Falls, it is one of the popular museums in Meghalaya and among the top places to visit in Shillong. The Air Force Museum forms a part of the Indian Air Force's Eastern Command in Shillong. This museum is a tribute to the glorious past of the defense of our nation. It hosts aircraft models, actual machines and technology demonstrations used by the IAF Eastern Command. The museum displays the uniforms worn by the air force pilots, missiles, rockets, pictures of Indo-China War and Indo-Pakistan War, medals and miniature models of air crafts. The huge MI 4 helicopter, played a central role in the 1971 war, is displayed in the museum lawn and makes for a remarkable sight. Another attraction is the Streak Shadow Microlight that's a part of the famous Microlight series. This splendid aircraft took its first flight in 1988. Caribou DHC 4, the .....

Wankhar Entomology Museum / Butterfly Museum

#13 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Wankhar Entomology Museum is a specialized museum located in Riatsamthiah area of Shillong. Also known as Butterfly Museum, it is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the top places to visit in Shillong. Established during 1930s, it is a private museum owned by the famous Wankhar family of Shillong. Legend says that, MR. Siddhartha Kumar Sarkar, a Bengali entomologist from Kolkata went to Shillong and married a Khasi lady with surname Wankhar. They took initiative to collect various species of insects and butterflies. Now, the granddaughter of Sarkar namely Ms. Rozalin has been taking care of this museum. Being the only known museum in India devoted to moths and butterflies, it has a rich collection of 1600 types of butterflies and moths from all over the world. Colourful insects and similar endemic species found in nearby regions can also be seen at the museum. Wankhar Entomology Museum has also played an important .....

Meghalaya State Museum

#14 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Meghalaya State Museum is a well preserved museum located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated in the State Central Library complex, it is one of the most popular museums in Meghalaya and among the popular Shillong Tourist Places. Functioning under the Art and Culture Department of Meghalaya, the Museum was established in the year 1975 and was renamed as Williamson Sangma Museum in 1999 as a mark of respect to the Father of Meghalaya. The Museum displays lifestyle and cultural diversity of various tribes of Meghalaya. The museum is divided into two galleries, which are dedicated to different tribal groups of Meghalaya. Visitors can see wooden crafts, tribal dresses, exquisite ornaments, traditional weapons, utensils, pottery items and musical instruments of Jaintia and Khasi tribes in the first gallery. The specialties of this gallery are the Muga cloth, hand-woven baskets and Wein pottery. The second gallery belongs to Garos has .....

Beadon-Bishop Waterfalls

#15 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Bishop and Beadon Falls are twin waterfalls located at Suna Valley of Shillong in Meghalaya. Situated on NH-40 at Mawprem, these are the best waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong. With a height of 135 meters (443 feet), Bishop Waterfalls is a three tiered fall formed by the river Umshyrphi. The Bishop Falls is quite popular as the cascading water looks like a white ribbon, flowing down from the hill. It is regarded as one of the highest waterfalls in India. The Beadon Falls is called the twin brother of the Bishop Falls as both rush down the same steep slope along Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills within a short distance from each other and can be viewed from the viewpoint across a deep ravine at Mawlai. Unlike other waterfalls in Shillong, the Beadon falls is long and narrow, falling from a height of about 100 feet into Umiam River. Its flow is obstructed by dark coloured rocks and heavy green .....

Mahadev Khola Dham

#16 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Mahadev Khola Dham is an ancient Hindu temple located in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the oldest temples in Meghalaya and among the famous places of pilgrimage in Shillong. Believed to be about 150 years old, the Mahadev Khola Dham is a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, the temple is built at the spot where Lakhiya Baba, a sage was decided to stay and meditate. A subedar-major of 8th Gorkha Regiment dreamt of the sage mediating with a trishul (trident) in his hand and a rudraksh' necklace around his neck. The very next day, the man searched for the sage and found him at the place where the mandir' stands today. During the course of excavation for construction of the temple, the subedar-major found a huge shivling and thus the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The present temple was built by several persons after independence, but the earlier one was built with the permission of the then British government. .....

Ever Living Museum

#17 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 10 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Ever Living Museum is a private museum located in Mawshbuit area of Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Established in 2015, the Ever Living Museum is a living testimony of one's love for nature, culture, tradition, and history. The Museum is owned and operated by retired Meghalaya government engineer Kyntiewbor War. It has three components - the main museum, stone museum and a garden. Set in a beautiful orchid garden, the Ever Living Museum is an ethnographic museum that houses objects of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. The main museum, which is made of concrete, houses both ancient and contemporary weapons used by the tribes of Meghalaya. Besides, there is the joyous scope to discover musical instruments, which include drums, gongs, pipes, bamboo and iron mouth organs, concertina, and other string and bamboo instruments of Meghalaya. There .....

#1 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 8 km from Dispur, 95 km from Shillong, 110 km from Nagaon, 159 km from Tezpur, 360 km from Agartala, 414 km from Dibrugarh, 452 km from Imphal, 467 km from Darjeeling, 504 km from Gangtok, 786 km from Darbhanga and 923 km from Patna, Guwahati, also known as the 'City of Eastern Light', is the largest city in the Indian state of Assam. Situated on the banks of Brahmaputra River, Guwahati is one of the fastest growing cities in India and among the popular places to experience Assam Tourism. Considered to be the gateway to north east India, Guwahati is situated between the southern bank of Brahmaputra River and the foothills of the Shillong plateau. Dispur, a part of Guwahati, serves as the capital of Assam. The city derives its name from two Assamese words 'Guwa' meaning betel nut and 'Haat' meaning market. The city is regarded as the cultural hub of North Eastern India and is also the second largest metropolis in eastern India after Kolkata. There have been ..... Distance (From Shillong): 98 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Cherrapunji

#2 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 54 km from Shillong, 80 km from Mawsynram, 84 km from Dawki, 146 km from Guwahati, 292 km from Tezpur, Cherrapunji or Cherrapunjee is a small sub divisional town in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is one of the wettest places on the earth and among the must visit places in Meghalaya as part of honeymoon tour packages . The original name for this town was Sohra, which was pronounced 'Churra' by the British. This name eventually evolved into the current name, Cherrapunji, which means the 'land of oranges'. According to the history, Cherrapunji is the traditional capital of a Nongkhlaw hima, an independent Khasi state. Between 16th and 18th centuries, the local residents were ruled by their tribal Syiems (chiefs) of Khyriem in the Khasi Hills. Tirot Sing was the last important Syiem of this area, who later admitted to the British in 1883 and ruled this place till independence. Receiving an annual ..... Distance (From Shillong): 54 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#3 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 30 km from Mawlynnong, 57 km from Jowai, 71 km from Nongkrem, 80 km from Shillong, 84 km from Cherrapunjee, 95 km from Mairang, 172 km from Guwahati, 205 km from Kamrup, 223 km from Morigaon, 265 km from Barpeta, Dawki or Dauki is a small town in West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. Situated on the banks of Umngot River, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya. Sandwiched between India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a border town in Jaintia Hills. It is also a major center of trade between India and Bangladesh. Dawki-Tamabil is one of the few road border crossings between India and Bangladesh which is mainly used for coal transportation to Bangladesh and also other places of India. The crystal clear Umngot River of Dawki is a major attraction that marks the natural separation between the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Besides being a trade hub, this small town is known for its immense natural beauty. Umngot River, Umngot Bridge, Jaflong Zero Point ..... Distance (From Shillong Bus Stand): 80 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong Bus Stand - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#4 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 60 km from Shillong, 63 km from Nongkrem, 81 km from Cherrapunjee, 104 km from Mawlynnong, 107 km from Dawki, and 152 km from Guwahati, Mawsynram is a scenic village located in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is the wettest place on the earth and among the best places to visit in Meghalaya. Situated at an altitude of 1400 m, Mawsynram is the rain lover's paradise as it receives the highest rainfalls in India. With 11,872 mm of rainfall received annually, Mawsynram beats Cherrapunji by a slender margin. Cherrapunji receives 11,777 mm of rainfall. The rains are so intense in Mawsynram that the villagers use thick grass to sound-proof their homes from the thunderous rain. The 'Maw' in Mawsynram is a Khasi word meaning 'stone'. It symbolizes the unique megaliths unearthed in the Khasi Hill area. Apart from rains, Mawsynram is also known for lush green vegetation, floating clouds, roaring waterfalls and the colourful orchids. Mawjymbuin Cave, Mawlyngbna ..... Distance (From Shillong): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Laitlum Canyon

#18 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 8 km from Smit and 24 km from Shillong, Laitlum Canyon is a picturesque mountain ridge situated near Smit in Meghalaya. Perched atop the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, it is one of the top places of trekking in Meghalaya and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored yet enthralling tourist spot known for its sublime natural beauty. The word Laitlum means 'The end of hills' and this beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. Also referred to as the 'Smit Valley' by the locals, the hilltop overlooks breathtaking landscapes which include undulating verdant hills, sprawling bamboo plantations and colourful beds of orchids. The canyon is covered with a white misty blanket and is known for the best bird's eye view of Shillong. The scenic hill slopes of Laitlum are often called the Amphitheatre of Meghalaya. The hill slopes are painted in a multitude of hues from earthy brown to soft pink and vibrant orange at sunrise .....

Sweet Falls

#19 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Sweet Falls is a gorgeous waterfall situated near Happy Valley in Shillong, Meghalaya. Also called as Kshaid Weitden, it is one of the stunning waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the popular places to visit in Shillong. Falling from a height of 315 feet, the Sweet Falls is unbroken and the water falls down with a tremendous force. The milky white stream and the surrounding green vegetation make it one of the most scenic waterfalls in Shillong. Naturally, the force of the water makes it impossible to bath or stand directly underneath the falls. Often referred as 'most beautiful' yet 'most dangerous' waterfall in Shillong, tourists are prohibited to enter into the waterfall but can be seen from a viewpoint near Happy Valley. Numerous suicides and accidental falls have been occurred at the sweet falls. The locals firmly believe that the fall is haunted. In fact people say that 'go in groups of odd numbers to the sweet falls and you .....

All Saints Cathedral

#20 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, All Saints Cathedral is an ancient church located near Police Bazaar in Shillong. Situated opposite to State Central Library, it is one of the oldest churches of Shillong and among the best places to visit in Shillong. The church was originally built in 1877 during the British Raj and was completely damaged in the year 1897 due to an earthquake. Later, a new church was constructed in 1902. Being the main church of the Shillong, this church is the perfect place to spend some peaceful time along with the Lord's blessings. Built in colonial style of architecture, this church has a beautiful wooden structure and a few stained glass paintings. Daily religious masses are organised at the church, amongst which the morning mass on Sundays is attended by a large number of people. Timings: 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM

Lady Hydari Park

#21 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2.5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Lady Hydari Park is a public park located at the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. Also known as Phan Nonglait Park, it is the only park with zoo in Shillong and among the best places to experience Shillong Tourism. The park is named after Lady Hydari, the wife of Governor of Assam. The park is designed in a Japanese garden style which sprawls over an area of more than a kilometer. The landscape dotted with small ponds, rhododendron plants and willow trees with its leaves almost touching the ground are all unmistakably Japanese inspired. Often considered as the best maintained park in Shillong, it encompasses a wide variety of local flowering plants and orchids. The park also features a mini zoo that comprises 73 species of birds, 140 of reptiles and other mammals. Besides, the park also houses a deer abode within it. A small house inside the park also houses a museum which displays the rich biodiversity of the state including .....

Rhino Heritage Museum

#22 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Rhino Heritage Museum is a war museum situated near Military Hospital in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the museums in Shillong and among the best tourist places in Shillong. Rhino Heritage Museum is one of the most prominent war museums in North East India. The museum was built in the year 1928 and it is said that Japanese prisoners of World War 2 were kept imprisoned here. Recently, the building was renovated and inaugurated by Lt. Gen Shokin Chauhan, director general, Assam Rifles. The museum has many historical photographs related to the military as well as things related to the local culture. The newly renovated Rhino Heritage Museum will showcase the rich history of headquarters 101 area and its units. It will also provide viewers an insight towards the participation of headquarters 101 area in the 1971 Indo-Pak war which led to the birth of 'Bangladesh'. The museum also has a dedicated corner for displaying the rich .....

Kyllang Rock

#23 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 57 km from Shillong, Kyllang Rock is a massive red granite dome-shaped rock located at Mawshut in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. Locally, known as Lum Kyllang, it is one of the unique tourist places in Meghalaya and among the interesting places to visit near Shillong. This monolithic structure stands 5400 feet above the sea level and has a width of 1000 feet. It is a mammoth block of granite which is part of the Khasi folklore and seems beautiful in its shape. The Bright red granite is claimed by the geologists to be several million years old. The rock can be approachable from its northern and eastern sides but remains unapproachable from the southern flank. The southern side of Kyllang Rock is laden with massive detached blocks of rock while the northern part of the rock is enveloped with dense forests. Surrounded by age old Red Rhododendrons, Kyllang Rock is believed to have magnetic properties. Due to this magnetic field, anything doesn't fall .....

Khasi Heritage Village

#24 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 27 km from Shillong, Khasi Heritage Village is a model village situated at Mawphlang near Shillong. Situated opposite to Mawphlang Sacred Forest, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Spread across almost 8 acres, the Khasi Heritage Village has been created to showcase the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi tribes. The village has houses built in the conventional Khasi style with bedrooms, kitchens, storehouses etc. A museum is also kept to display artifacts, tools, and weapons, traditional daily and occasional items that were extensively used by the Khasis. It also has a section for archery with the traditional bows and arrows displayed for visitors. There is a long suspension bridge inside along with an amphitheater that screens documentaries and holds stage shows during the famous Monolith Festival. Initiated by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, the Monolith Festival is usually held in March every year. The main aim of the festival .....

Shillong Golf Course

#25 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 4 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Shillong Golf Course is located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Shillong Golf Course is one of the finest golf courses in India and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Situated at an altitude of 5200 feet, Shillong Golf Course was established as a 9-hole golf course in 1898 by the British Civil Service Officers. It was converted into 18 Holes in 1924 by Capt. Jackson and C.K. Rhodes. According to first survey in 1933, Shillong Golf Course is the third oldest Golf Course in India. Covering an area of 5873 yards, and with a par of 70, the tight fairways at the Golf course of the Shillong Golf Club are made of an indigenous species of local grass which give a solid effect on the soil thus making it challenging for the golfers. The sixth hole, at a distance of 594 yards, is the farthest amongst all the golf courses across India and reaching it proves to be quite a task for the golf players. The course is located in a scenic valley .....

Sohpetbneng Peak

#26 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 7 km from Umiam Lake and 25 km from Shillong, Sohpetbneng Peak is a mountain peak located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Considered as 'Navel of Heaven', it is one of the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Stands at an altitude of 1,343 m, the location provides a mesmerizing bird's eye view of the dense forest and the city of Shillong. The peak is associated with mythological tales and is revered by the Hynniewtrep community which includes communities like Khasi, Jaintia, Bhoi and War Tribes. Also known as U Lum Sohpetbneng, the place is believed to hold a golden tree at the peak which the native Hynniewtrep tribe of Meghalaya has worshipped to be the bridge or ladder between earth and the heaven. The Sohpetbneng Peak is a scenic getaway that holds historic as well as spiritual significance. There is an annual tribal festival that is held on the first Sunday of February, when the Seng Khasi people would reach the peak to perform their rituals and rites, and .....

Diengiei Peak

#27 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 22 km from Umiam Lake and 40 km from Shillong, Diengiei Peak is a mountain peak in Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated to the west of the Shillong plateau, it is one of the highest peaks in Meghalaya and among the popular places of trekking in Shillong. At an altitude of about 6200 feet, Diengiei Peak is the second highest peak in Meghalaya which is just 200 feet shorter than the Shillong Peak. Known for its scenic beauty, the peak offers breathtaking view of the green hills, Umiam Lake and mountains of the East Khasi Hills. One can also see several small villages in the form of tiny dots at a distance. At the top of the Diengiei, there is a huge cup-shaped hollow which some geologists believe to be the crater from an extinct pre-historic volcano. For a height of about 1000 feet, the gradient of this peak is very steep and precipitous which makes for excellent mountain climbing. The other adventurous sports like rock climbing and rappelling can be done here. There .....

Police Bazar

#28 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 1 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Police Bazar is the main market area located at the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. It is one of the best places for shopping in Shillong and among the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Police Bazar is a one-stop market for every kind of tourists visiting Shillong as it is a modern market that has a number of hotels, shops and eating joints. It offers several kinds of opportunities for shopping and entertainment. Along with the modern shops, one can also find an array of traditional shops selling exquisite handicrafts from Meghalaya. The market is considered ideal for leisure seekers, shopping enthusiasts and food lovers as it has enough facilities for everyone. A lot of bargaining skills are needed when purchasing from street vendors. This place is overflowing with people all through the day, and is easily reachable from all parts of Shillong by taxis, buses and supplementary transport service. Timings: 10 AM .....

Wahrashi Falls

#29 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 63 km from Shillong, Wahrashi or Wah Rashi Kshaid is a stunning waterfall situated at Syntung village near Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the top waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the best places to visit near Shillong. Formed over Wah Rashi Kshaid River, the little known Wahrashi Water Falls is a congregation of eight waterfalls. Encircled with cluster of sacred hills, only tier 3 of the waterfall is made accessible to the public. The other levels, although visible, are not accessible. There are some viewpoints for the visitors to get the better views of the waterfalls. The area surrounding the waterfalls is mostly marshy land with a lot of wild vegetation, with pitcher plant saplings growing in abundance. The road to Wahrashi is extremely bad and only Heavy vehicles like Trucks, Buses, Sumo, Jeeps, SUVs and other 4x4 wheel drive vehicles can easily go through the road. This makes it very difficult for common people to access the waterfalls. The path from .....

Most Asked Questions on Shillong

Shillong can be visited at any time through out the year, however, September to May is the best time to visit Shillong. During these months, the weather is extremely pleasant with moderate rainfall. Shillong looks beautiful and refreshing during the monsoon season (June-August), but torrential rain may disrupt travel plans..

Shillong usually requires at least 2 full days to visit the most important attractions. Shillong can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Cherrapunji, Dawki, Guwahati and Kaziranga National Park by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Shillong trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Shillong tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 6000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8500 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Shillong like Umiam Lake, Mawphlang Sacred Grove, Don Bosco Museum, Wards Lake, Elephant Falls, Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians, Shillong Peak & Viewpoint, Air Force Museum, Meghalaya State Museum, Beadon-Bishop Waterfalls, etc.

Shopping in Shillong can be a great experience if you know the right things to buy. Some of the famous things to buy in Shillong are Scottish Cloth, Shawls and Stoles, Organic Products, Bamboo Handicrafts, etc.

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Things to do in Shillong

Located in the lap of the Himalayas, Shillong is one of the most elegant and popular tourist destinations of Meghalaya. Often referred to as the abode of clouds, Meghalaya is well-known among travel enthusiasts mainly for the wide range of surprises which it offers to the visitors at every nook of the state. From exploring the serene lakes to enjoying the picturesque views of the foggy mountains and gorgeous waterfalls, there are a lot of things to see and enjoy in this city. Shillong is also home to a number of well-preserved museums which portray the cultural beliefs and history of its inhabitants ideally. Even the adventure geeks are going to fall in love with this place instantly as there are innumerable varieties of thrilling activities to try out here. Along with all these, there are a number of local restaurants scattered all over the hill station and some of the mouthwatering dishes are definitely a must-try even if you are not a foodie. Be it angling at Dawki or boating in Umiam Lake, there are a lot of things to do in Shillong which will let you earn some remarkable reminiscences. Once you step on the land of Shillong, quite often, you will feel that this city shares an intense and soothing connection with nature and its tribes. The peaceful vibe of the valleys, misty captivating hills, and the mesmerizing sky, all of it is what makes Shillong such a perfect place for the tourists to unwind and enjoy amidst its overwhelming greenery and serpentine waterbodies.

Following are the things to do in Shillong

1 umiam lake, 2 dawki- a perfect place to enjoy a boat ride, 3 riverside camping at shnongpdeng, 4 scuba diving, 5 snorkeling, 6 cliff jumping, 7 zip-lining, 9 shillong sightseeing tour, 10 don bosco museum, 11 david scott trail trek, 12 double decker root bridge trek, 13 explore bara bazar (iewduh) traditional market, 14 shopping at police bazar, 15 lakefront nature camping at mawsynram, 16 mawphanlur day tour- a tranquil getaway, 17 umden village tour, 18 visit laitlum canyons, 19 cherrapunjee, 20 river canyoning, 21 zip-lining at mawkdok dympep valley, things to do in shillong(best selling packages), things to do in shillong(honeymoon packages), things to do in shillong(one day tour), things to do in shillong(adventurous activities), frequently asked questions- things to do in shillong.

Some of the prime water activities in Shillong are: Yachting Cruising Pedal boating Kayaking Scuba diving Snorkeling Cliff jumping

The options for zip-lining are available in: – Shnongpdeng which is around 8 km away from Dawki – Mawkdok Dympep valley in Cherrapunjee

There are a number of serene places like Mawsynram, Cherrapunji, and Dawki, for Camping. However, camping overnight by the riverside in Shnongpdeng is going to be the best location.

Just because Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, it does not necessarily mean that it is the only city that houses the best destinations of the state. There are a number of less-visited spots in and around the outskirts of Shillong, which includes: -Spread Eagle Falls -Arwah Cave, Sohra -Wahkaba Falls -Phe Phe Falls -Syntung -Tyrshi Falls -Butterfly Museum -Rynji Falls

Definitely Shnongpdeng! Even though this place is still unknown for many, and maybe that is why it seems to be much peaceful and better than Dawki. Even though both the places offer a number of adventure activities, opting for camping in Shnongpdeng by the riverside is going to be the best choice.

There are numerous places for trekking and hiking in and around Shillong. However, when it comes to beginners, the Double Decker Root Bridge Trekis going to be the ideal option.

The summers of Shillong are not that hot and humid compared to the other states of India. Moreover, the weather of Shillong stays quite pleasant all around the summer months. The temperature generally ranges between 25° Celsius (Maximum) to 16° Celsius, in the months of summer.

It’s unquestionably the monsoon. However, if you are not that fond of rains, the months just after the monsoon are quite charming too.

Yes, Shillong is relatively a much safer place to travel alone than many of the other well-known Indian towns and cities. Besides that, it has ample transportation facilities and good places to stay for even solo travelers.

Most of the tours in Shillong are planned between 3 Nights 4 Days to 6 Nights 7 Days. However, to cover the whole of Shillong as well as certain hidden gems around the city, 4 Nights and 5 Days are going to be sufficient.

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• 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong In 2024 For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty!

As you move outside, however, you’re introduced to undulating hills, quiet hiking trails and huge natural formations that will leave you awestruck. Check out these places to visit near Shillong that will enrich your holiday.

From ravishing waterfalls to serene lakes, Shillong is located near gorgeous places. If you are exploring Shillong and are planning to visit the nearby spots, then do go through this list. Add these famous places to visit near Shillong to your itinerary and get ready to have a vacation like never before!

19 Best Places To Visit Near Shillong

Shillong is a beautiful place in Meghalaya which is surrounded by equally pretty escapes. Listed below are some beautiful places near Shillong. All of these places are remarkable and offer experiences that one tends to cherish. With something to do for every kind of travelers, places near Shillong  are worth a visit. Have a look!

• Shillong Peak –  The Highest One
• Laitlum –  About Deep Gorges 
• Sacred Grove –  A Protected Forest
• David Scott Trail –  Trekker’s Paradise
• Kyllang Rock –  Stunning Rock Formation
• Nongriat –  The Hottest Tourist Place
• Mawlynnong –  The Cleanest Village Of Meghalaya
• Nongkhnum –  A Pristine River Island 
• Nohkalikai Falls –  For An Ultramarine Pool
• Shnongpdeng – Mini Paradise
• Cherrapunjee –  Wettest Place On Earth
• Jowai –  Mesmerizing Little Town
• Nohsngithiang Falls –  The Seven Sisters Falls 
• Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary –  Perfect Naturscape
• Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden –  Exotic Blend Of Flora And Fauna
• Umiam Lake –  Awe Inspiring Landscapes
• Elephant Falls –  Refreshing Aura
• Mawsynram – Second Wettest Spot In World
• Sweet Falls –  Haunted Legends 

1. Shillong Peak – The Highest One

A popular stop just a few kilometers out of town, Shillong Peak – the town’s highest point – provides an expansive look at the capital with hills as the backdrop. It is definitely one of the impressive places to visit near Shillong . The area is administered by the IAF and you’ll need to hand in identification at the entrance. You’ll want to carry a good camera to take photos as the air can get hazy. However, there’s a telescope installed to get close-up views of the town. Take time to look around and have a cup of piping hot tea from the local vendors.

Distance From Shillong: 10.6 Km Ideal for: Leisure, hiking

Must Read: 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul!

2. Laitlum – About Deep Gorges

Deep gorges and majestic hills rising in the distance await at Laitlum. You can spend hours exploring the meadows or just sitting down on the grass and admiring nature’s handiwork. Although tucked away from town, it’s no longer unfrequented and has become one of the most popular tourist places near Shillong. If you’re up for some pulse-racing adventure, head down the 3,000 or so steps towards the hamlet of Raslong. Seeing the residents effortlessly climb up and down the steep, meandering steps will leave you stunned and more than a little envious!

Distance From Shillong: 4.1 Km Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: Explore These 9 Mesmerizing Places To Visit In Shillong In May On Your Next Vacay!

3. Sacred Grove – A Protected Forest

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A ways from the town in Mawphlang is an oasis of sorts with old trees and meadows creating an Eden-like world. The Sacred Grove is a protected forest overseen by a local deity and is one of the offbeat places near Shillong . You can visit and admire the native flora and fauna but you aren’t allowed to remove anything from here – this goes for leaves, stones, twigs et al. The Sacred Grove has for long been one of the best places to visit near Shillong especially for those who love nature walks. Local guides will take you in and narrate fascinating tales of lore.

Distance From Shillong: 27.0 Km Ideal for: Leisure, history

Suggested Read: 10 Trails For Trekking In Shillong That’ll Allow You To Experience Pure Bliss!

4. David Scott Trail – Trekker’s Paradise

Here is a little something for thrill seekers. David Scott Trail is one of its kind for those who seek an impeccable trekking experience. One of the oldest routes in Meghalaya, David Scott Trail was once used as a track to connect Assam to Bangladesh back in the 19th century. This is among the adventurous tourist places near Shillong because the trail is not really marked. It is best to take help of locals to find your way around. Although, the cascading waterfalls, thick jungles, majestic mountains, mystical groves, and the pristine streams surely makes this trail worth it.

Distance From Shillong: 26.5 Km Ideal for: Hiking

Suggested Read: 12 Hotels In Shillong For Couples That Promise A Blissful Stay

5. Kyllang Rock – Stunning Rock Formation

About 50 kilometers from Shillong and around 10 kilometers from Mairang in West Khasi Hills district is a huge granite rock formation that is a treat to climb (steps are built so you don’t need bouldering skills!). It’s believed that you can’t fall off the top of the rock owing to a magnetic field. However, we advise you not to try it anyway! Once at the top, seat yourself down and feel the wind refresh you. Take along a good camera for long-distance shots of villages in the distance.

Distance From Shillong: 58.1 Km Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul!

6. Nongriat – The Hottest Tourist Place

Nongriat is arguably one of the hottest tourist places in and around Shillong. It’s home to the iconic living root bridges, which are man-made and natural marvels that will take your breath away. The village is accessible by roughly 3,000 steps that wind down from Tyrna. The walk itself is totally satisfying but the reward at the end is what visitors seek. Three living root bridges await, one of which is an impressive double-decker.

Distance From Shillong: 65.2 Km Ideal for: Leisure, hiking, overnight stays

Suggested Read: 8 Awe-Inspiring Places To Visit In Shillong In June To Witness The North Eastern Charm At Best!

7. Mawlynnong – The Cleanest Village Of Meghalaya

Asia’s cleanest village of Mawlynnong is not just startlingly free of trash but it’s incredibly picturesque. Traditional huts and houses dot the village while gardens create a kaleidoscope of colors. However, it’s not just cleanliness that it lays claim to; it has a high literacy rate at over 90 percent. The once unknown village is today the beacon of what teamwork and attitude can achieve. Walking through, you see it reflected in almost every aspect of life.

Distance From Shillong: 77.9 Km Places to Stay:

• Vamoose Hotel
• Ritz Homestay
• B.E. Kynmawlem
• Umpohliew Homestay Room
• Shaiti Homestay cum View Point

Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: 7 Reasons Why Shillong Is Called Scotland Of The East

8. Nongkhnum – A Pristine River Island

About three hours from Shillong in West Khasi Hills district headquarters is Meghalaya’s largest river island and the second largest after Assam’s Majuli. Nongkhnum is one of the best places to visit in and around Shillong although it is quite a ways off. It’s located at the divergence of the Kynshi River as it splits into Phan Liang and Namliang. The sandy shores and grassland make for ideal picnic spots so pack a lunch.

Distance From Shillong: 101.3 Km Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: 10 Homestays In Shillong For Travelers Planning A Trip To North East!

9. Nohkalikai Falls – For An Ultramarine Pool

One of India’s highest plunge waterfalls is a feast for the senses especially during the monsoon. Nohkalikai Falls, one of the most visited places near Shillong, plunges into an ultramarine pool hundreds of feet below. Viewing points have been built at several areas so you can see the falls from different heights. Keep in mind that low-level clouds frequently roll in and can obscure the view. If this happens, you can head to one of the many eateries nearby where you can sit down to tasty snacks and wait for the clouds to pass.

Distance From Shillong: 54.2 Km Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: 8 Exciting Adventure Sports In Shillong To Get Closer To Marvels Of Mother Nature!

10. Shnongpdeng – Mini Paradise

Head towards Jaintia Hills district and beyond the town of Dawki to find a village that is as idyllic as they come. Shnongpdeng is very close to the border with Bangladesh and if you head straight without turning onto the road leading to the village, you’ll reach the border crossing point. Shnongpdeng is an adventurer’s mini paradise with camping, hiking and kayaking along the river Umngot some of the activities to indulge in. The village itself is known for its hospitality and there are comfortable homestays where you can spend the night.

Distance From Shillong: 89.0 Km Ideal for: Adventure activities, overnight stays

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Shillong That Will Entice You To Explore Meghalaya!

11. Cherrapunjee – Wettest Place On Earth

Cherrapunjee, famous for its living root bridges, is at a distance of 54 km from Shillong and takes around 2 hours to reach from Shillong. A weekend getaway, Cherrapunjee is a beautiful place to explore, due to its natural elements like the living root bridge. Hire a car and enjoy the two-hour road trip from Shillong to Cherrapunjee, to this bridge. The scenic vistas will make up for the time, and this town in itself too is pretty. There are various falls that one can visit in Cherrapunjee after the famous living root bridges, which is the top attraction in Cherrapunjee. Visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridge on your trip to Cherrapunjee from Shillong on your next trip.

Distance From Shillong: 53.7 Km Places to Stay:

• Sulwado Resort
• Aisha Guest House
• Hotel Crescent
• Hill Top Castle
• Labana Hotel

Ideal for: Sightseeing

Suggested Read: The Ever Growing Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya – A Nature’s Marvel In The Northeast

12. Jowai – Mesmerizing Little Town

Jowai is a picturesque hill station in Meghalaya. It is around 70 km from Shillong and makes for a perfect weekend getaway from Shillong. Located at 2 hours away, the drive from Shillong to Jowai is quite scenic. Call up a bunch of friends and head to Jowai, the pretty hill town this weekend. The border of Bangladesh is a mere 50 km from Jowai making it an important town. This hill town is really mesmerizing and has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the vicinity.

Distance From Shillong: 65.8 Km Places to Stay:

• Highwinds Lakeside
• Emma Womsa Homestay
• Phu ki Homestay
• Samanlang Homestay
• Crystal River Camp

Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June Which Reflects Tranquility And Serene Beauty!

13. Nohsngithiang Falls – The Seven Sisters Falls

Also known as the Seven Sisters Falls, this is a famous waterfall in Cherrapunjee. Located 2 hours drive away from Shillong, these falls make for a perfect escape into nature. Head to the falls, early morning and enjoy the scenic road trip between the two cities. Places to visit near Shillong, Meghalaya are not a few, as there is something or the other totally breathtaking at every mile. This is a seven segmented waterfall, which gives it the popular name, Seven Sisters Falls.

Distance From Shillong: 97.9 Km  Ideal for: Sightseeing

Suggested Read: Breaking Records: World’s Longest Sandstone Cave Just Got Discovered In Meghalaya!

14. Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary – Perfect Naturescape

If you are looking for a nature escapade then Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is a great option. Not too far away from Shillong, this wildlife sanctuary is a haven for all nature lovers. The sanctuary has a natural lake called Birbah towards the south. There are two artificial lakes too close to this natural lake in the sanctuary. The summers here are hot and wet while the winter sees a cool and dry climate, making it a better option to visit during the winter.

Distance From Shillong: 74.3 Km Ideal for: Sightseeing

Suggested Read: 33 Tourist Places In Assam: Unveiling The Hidden Charm Of The North-East

15. Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden – Exotic Blend Of Flora And Fauna

This is another place to visit when in Shillong. 3 hours away from Shillong, this is an amazing zoo in Guwahati. If one is looking for places to visit near Shillong with kids, then this zoo is the perfect place. Sprawled over an area of 130 hectares, the zoo has a unique biodiversity of both flora and fauna. Built in 1957, the zoo has been welcoming people since 1958. Trip to the zoo and watch various species of plants and animals here.

Distance From Shillong: 93.2 Km Ideal for: Leisure

Suggested Read: 16 Scenic Waterfalls in Meghalaya That’ll Leave Your Mesmerized

16. Umiam Lake – Awe Inspiring Landscapes  

Image Credits: Srabanti.basak for Wikimedia

Umiam Lake is among the mesmerizing places to visit near Shillong . This lake is sitting in the proximity of Shillong. It is a man-made reservoir that offers some of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring landscapes one has ever witnessed. This was constructed to generate the hydroelectric power but now has become a popular spot. From locals to tourists, each individual who wishes to escape the city life finds respite here. This lake is surrounded by a thick lush jungle which makes the entire area look right out of a fairytale. There are also various adventure sports that one can be a part of.

Distance From Shillong: 17.0 Km Ideal For: Photographers, adventure activities

Suggested Read: Here’s Your Guide For River Rafting In Shillong To Amp Up The Fun On Your Vacation!

17. Elephant Falls – Refreshing Aura

Image Credits: Bito for Wikimedia

Elephant Falls got its name because of the peculiar stone that used to be sitting at the foot of the falls. However, during an earthquake, that stone was washed away. One of the most refreshing tourist places near Shillong , Elephant Falls is accessible from three different spots. The falls are idyllic to get rid of the fatigue and the stress from workload back at home. These falls never fail to impress. The Elephant Falls are ‘three step waterfalls’ with the first one being broad one nestled amidst the lush greens, the second one being the thin threads of water, and the third one being the most beautiful and clear falls gushing against the dark colored backdrop.

Distance From Shillong: 12.2 Km Ideal For: Leisure

Suggested Read: 8 Great Picnic Spots Near Shillong Where You Can Head For An Amazing Time!

18. Mawsynram – Second Wettest Spot In World

Image Credits: Sharada Prasad for Wikimedia

Mawsynram is the wettest place on earth followed by Cherrapunji. Nothing less than heaven on earth, this destination is nature lover’s delight. This destination oozes romance from every nook and experiences a pleasant weather all year long. Mawsynram is among the beautiful tourist places near Shillong that is surely worth a visit. The name was derived on the basis of several megalights that were found in the Khasi Hill region of Shillong. The town got its fame by virtue of a stalagmite formation that took the shape of a ‘Shivling’. One can witness thick grass being used by the locals to sound proof their homes from the powerful rains.

Distance From Shillong: 60.7 Km Ideal For: Leisure

Suggested Read: 10 Churches In Shillong That Will Give You The Peace You Deserve

19. Sweet Falls – Haunted Legends

Image Credits: Nirolfix for Pixabay

When it comes to steep falls, Sweet Falls tops in the list. It is one of the fascinating places to visit near Shillong . The Sweet Falls are extremely beautiful yet extremely dangerous. Hence, it is advised for only professionals and thrill-seekers to pay a visit to the falls. The trail to this Falls is a bit treacherous and covered with slippery stones, but the end result is totally worth it. These falls have a haunted legend attached to itself. The locals believe that the odd numbered groups always return in even numbers! The sounds of birds chirping, fresh water gushing, and the serenity oozing out of the lush greens often create a serene atmosphere for a picnic.

Distance From Shillong: 54.2 Km Ideal For: Adventure

Further Read: 5 Handpicked Resorts Near Shillong Which Are Known For Ultimate Luxury And Comfort!

These places to visit near Shillong truly bring out its natural side and mesmerizing hilly vibes. And if you too want to experience it, then we would recommend you to book a personalized Meghalaya trip with TravelTriangle and include as many places in your itinerary as you would like.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Shillong

What are some places to visit near Shillong?

Shillong, popularly known as the 'Scotland of the East,' is a lovely town in Meghalaya surrounded by equally beautiful getaways. Here are some lovely locations to visit around Shillong. 1. Shillong Peak 2. Laitlum 3. Sacred Grove 4. David Scott Trail 5. Kyllang Rock

Is it safe to visit Shillong during Covid times?

Though there is a curfew in place from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. in several sections of Shillong. The government is permitting fully vaccinated tourists to travel, and all activities have returned to normal so it is safe to visit Shillong.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

The best time to visit Shillong is between the months of March and June, when the weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for travel.

How many days are enough for Shillong?

4 are enough to explore Shillong and visit beautiful sights such as Umiam Lake, the Cathedral, Shillong's lush green golf course, and so on. Keep one day for seeing the popular lakes and hills, another for visiting the Living Root Bridges, another for touring Cherrapunji, and another for a village trip.

Is Shillong safe for tourists?

Yes, Shillong is a safe destination for tourists, including female solo visitors. The Police Bazaar and Jail Road areas are among the safest and most convenient places to seek for accommodation.

How can I go to Shillong?

Here are the ways to reach Shillong: By Air: The nearest airport to Shillong is Umroi Airport in Barapani which is located 25Kms away from the city. But Guwahati Airport (125Kms) is the nearest airport to Shillong, with wider connect to other places. By Rail: The nearest railway head to Shillong is in Guwahati (100Kms)2 By Road: Shillong can be reached from the nearby cities via buses or taxi

Which is the most beautiful place in Meghalaya?

Meghalaya is one of India's most beautiful north-eastern states, having a plethora of natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya are: 1. Shillong 2. Cherrapunji 3. Nohkalikai Falls

What can I buy in Shillong?

Shillong, often known as the 'Scotland of the East,' has breathtaking vistas, but it doesn't stop there. Shopping in Shillong is a must-do experience. Here are some of the things to buy in Shillong include: 1. Bamboo handicraft 2. Scottish-checked dresses 3. Woolen clothes 4. Apparels

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A Japanese Village Wants Tourists to Come for Heat, Soot and Steel

To lure visitors, residents of Yoshida, famed for its high-quality steel, are inviting tourists to help produce it.

The furnace in Yoshida reaches temperatures of about 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Credit...

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Photographs and Text by Craig Mod

• April 18, 2024

This past October, I found myself in Yoshida Village standing before a tatara, a giant open-top furnace that was filled with charcoal and raging with such controlled ferocity that it could have been a set piece in Lucifer’s bedroom.

Deep within the belly of those orange flames sat a growing and mangled ingot that contained some exceptionally high-quality steel called tamahagane, or jewel steel, from which Japanese swords have been made for much of the country’s history. The presence of a usable ingot seemed unlikely, and if true, downright alchemic. All we had been doing for the last 20 hours was gently shaking iron sand and fresh charcoal onto the flames at timed intervals.

Yoshida is nestled back in the mountains of Shimane Prefecture in central Japan, abutting the ever-turbulent Sea of Japan. For nearly 700 years, workers around Yoshida made jewel steel in places called tatara-ba (literally “furnace spots”) on a grueling schedule — one that reshaped mountains and rivers, that seared the brows of generations of sooty men shoveling charcoal in loincloths. Then, at the start of the 20th century, production all but ceased. Other methods were cheaper and more efficient.

At the height of its steel prowess, Yoshida swelled to nearly 15,000 people. Today, the population hovers around 1,500. As with many towns in the Japanese countryside, a mix of aging population, low birthrates and loss of industry has emptied its streets.

Recently, though, in a Colonial Williamsburg sort of way, 24-hour re-enactments of the old iron-smelting traditions began to be performed in Yoshida. The firings are managed by a man named Yuji Inoue, who works for Tanabe Corp., which owns the furnace. “We consider the tatara a symbol and a pillar of town development,” he told me, standing next to the flickering furnace. Mr. Inoue and Tanabe Corp. were trying to remake Yoshida into a kind of tatara village, which he hoped would create self-sufficiency, expand the population and revitalize the town.

And so with this notion of countryside regrowth in mind, a few times a year they fire up their furnace, invite tourists and birth an ingot weighing about 250 pounds.

The open-top blazing furnace was set on a concrete plinth in the center of a room. Flanking its longer sides were air intakes tubes, feeding the furnace, kicking it up to around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Around it all hung Shinto purification ropes. Just before the fire was lit, a priest had blessed the whole place, for luck and safety.

Safety was paramount because around the flames, at various stations, milled a team of some 20 excited tourists, a mix of both Japanese and a few foreigners, all dressed in very hip dark gray jumpsuits. These were people paying roughly ¥200,000, or about $1,500, for the chance to be a worker in a tatara-ba for a day and night. (They would get to keep the jumpsuits and a small piece of raw steel as souvenirs.) Their faces and hands were streaked by charcoal.

Jewel steel is produced by sprinkling iron sand — alluvial (river-deposited) sand saturated with iron — slowly over a charcoal pit. The tourists spent hours chopping the pine charcoal to precise sizes. They used scoops woven from bamboo to gather heaps of charcoal and dump them atop the furnace.

Off to the side stood a man named Noriaki Yasuda. He was the designated conductor — called a murage — of this slow dance between heat, charcoal and dampened iron sand. Dressed in an electric blue jumpsuit, he stood out in beautiful, almost poetic, contrast to the licking orange flames.

Monitoring the airflow, the color of the fire and the height of the charcoal with paternal concern, Mr. Yasuda scowled and watched, sometimes retreating to sit in his dark alcove, his arms crossed, still scowling and watching. To produce steel using the tatara technique, it turns out, you spend a lot of time watching.

Outside the all-encompassing warmth of the tatara-ba, the October mountain air felt like prickles on the skin. The sky was abundant with shooting stars. Shimane Prefecture truly is in Japan’s hinterlands. You can take trains to Shimane, but from Tokyo it’s a fairly arduous journey. So it’s easier (and cheaper) to fly there. Of course, I rode the trains. The 500-mile trip took about seven hours.

The area is best known for its astounding Izumo Shrine, a foundational place in Japanese cultural mythology. Still, Shimane was one of the least visited prefectures in 2019. Only a sliver of all inbound tourists made their way that year. In contrast to sites like Gion in Kyoto, which is now overwhelmed by visitors, Shimane reminded me of Covid-era Japan when international tourism was effectively banned.

“Steel is just iron with a little bit of carbon,” Mr. Yasuda explained to me. When I finally built up the courage to talk with him, his face lit up in a wide smile from behind his mask. (Everyone was wearing masks, less out of Covid concerns and more because of the charcoal dust.) He casually led me to a blackboard in the back of his resting space and sketched out the basic chemical formulas of what was happening in the furnace, how charcoal serves two purposes. First, it burns much hotter than wood. And second, its carbon atoms are essential to the formation of steel; embedded between iron atoms, they increase the strength of the metal.

As I stood and watched that giant burning thing, I thought back to Akihira Kawasaki, the master Japanese swordsmith I had visited a few days earlier. I explained how I had never before held a Japanese sword, had never carefully looked at one up close. He nodded and removed one of his gleaming works from its scabbard and placed it on a piece of red felt.

I picked it up, and it felt like holding a black hole, as if light were disappearing into the ridge line of the blade, as if light was being flipped and flopped onto and into itself. My eyes couldn’t get a purchase on the thing. It glimmered and reflected like a mirror and simultaneously seemed to inhale the world. Held up to the lights, the blade seemed to glow as if lit from within.

I was mesmerized. It was a thing of extraordinary beauty: delicate yet strong, and terrifying in sharpness. An atavistic choir in the subcortical corner of my brain was screaming, “Stay away from that edge!” When I placed it back on the felt — warily, delicately, with great focus — I still accidentally sliced off a corner of the mat.

The gap between the smelting process and the end product of the sword was enough to make a thinking person faint. All this charcoal and sand, this heat, this sootiness, this periodic removal of slag — impurities that come out like molten lava, scooped up with shovels and carted away in beaten-up old wheelbarrows to be dumped outside in a smoldering heap — from the bottom of the furnace. That this process of utter rawness could result in a Japanese blade so pregnant with artistry and violence was a miracle of the highest order.

Back inside the tatara-ba, after 20 hours of feeding the furnace, the sand ran out and the process ended. A crowd of some 30 villagers, including several children, squeezed inside the furnace’s building. The concrete outer shell of the furnace was gingerly lifted with the help of a winch. The full force of the heat hit us all immediately. Inside still burned a mass of charcoal. Below the bed of charcoal was a floor of liquid slag. And in the middle of it sat what looked like a mauled rock — the ingot all this work had produced.

The crowd cheered. The ingot was brought onto the dirt floor, and we all gathered around it to take a family portrait.

Can you revitalize a town through steel-making in 2024? I don’t know. But Japan is dotted with this kind of history, culture and craft. The countryside is disappearing, but efforts like this are a worthwhile way to look back and honor what was — and to build something sustainable and future-facing.

There’s a practical element to it all, too: Tamahagane can’t be made any other way. “It seems that modern steel-making cannot produce the same thing,” Mr. Inoue told me when I asked why it was worth all the effort. “The tamahagane is right there, as the highest-quality pieces of the ingot,” he said. Those pieces will be broken off and shipped to a handful of swordsmiths across the country, and also to the museum shop in Yoshida. It turns out that tamahagane also makes amazing golf putters.

Craig Mod is a writer and photographer based in Kamakura and Tokyo. You can follow his work on Instagram: @craigmod . His previous book, “Kissa by Kissa,” chronicles a 435-mile walk along the Nakasendo Highway from Tokyo to Kyoto. His forthcoming book, “Things Become Other Things,” will be published by Random House in the spring of 2025.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Villager arrested after visit to his neighborhood swimming pool

A Villager was arrested after a visit to his neighborhood swimming pool.

Edward Joseph Fox, 63, of the Village of Belvedere summoned law enforcement at about 3 p.m. Sunday to the Belvedere pool, according to an arrest report from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

A deputy found Fox standing next to his vehicle in the parking lot and he claimed a woman at the pool had violated an injunction issued by a Sumter County judge. Fox went back to his home and returned with paperwork to show the deputy.

The deputy read the paperwork and explained to Fox that the judge’s order prohibited the York, Pa. native from coming within 500 feet of the woman. Fox indicated he had seen the woman’s golf cart at the pool, went home and called the sheriff’s office before returning to the pool. When he was back at the pool, Fox was “observing her from the gate.” The woman provided pictures of Fox in the pool parking lot.

The deputy noted in the arrest report that Fox never attempted to claim it had been “accidental contact.”

He was arrested on a charge of violating an injunction. He was booked at the Sumter County Detention Center and released after posting $2,500 bond.

Fox was also arrested in 2023 for violating a similar court order, but that case was dropped when evidence was deemed “legally insufficient to prove guilt.”

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First phase of voting at a remote polling station in Nongriat village in Shillong

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