Shillong

Lakes that reflect the soul. Waterfalls that cleanse away all sins. Hills that transport you to the gates of heaven itself. The soothing touch of mother earth? This is Shillong… A place where the past and present intertwine. A place where traditions remain intact. A place where adventure is spewing, and cuisines are steaming. A place that sings and dance in every season. Shillong tourism is awaiting you!

Highlights of Shillong: In the Spotlight

Nature Of Shillong 

If you had to jump into a magical post card, you would find yourself at Umiam Lake. It is surrounded by the East Khasi Hills and dense coniferous forests. Oodles of delicious peace and melting scenery envelope the entire region. Here, you can engage in kayaking, water cycling, scooting or a good old-fashioned picnicking. This is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Shillong Peak offers an exquisite panoramic view of the city. You will see life relegated to tiny squidges of blue, brown and white. A trek to the summit is met with an explosion of awe-inspiring natural landscapes. When you’re at the highest point in the region, its almost as if you’re touching the clouds…

Elephant Falls will mesmerise you with its foamy, buttery, cascading aqua. A three-tier glittering waterfall, obscured by thick layers of emerald green vegetation, is a sight you’re unlikely to forget. The gushing sound and earthy smell is equally alluring!

David Scott Trail is a 16km path that will lead you into nature’s belly. A former horse cart track, discovered by Englishmen David Scott, this meandering route promises many thrills. A 4-hour journey will acquaint you with changing topography, as one setting transforms into another. 

History Of Shillong

Don Bosco Square was once the epicentre of educational activity, as most of the premium institutions were located in this area. The quaint and idyllic spot has witnessed the stories of a 1,000 students, as they journeyed through the ups and downs of academic life. Don Bosco was an educator and a friend to the youth. His statue bears witness to the tides of time.

The Air Force Museum is a sight of historical beauty and wonder. Marvel at an impressive collection of rockets, missiles, miniatures fighter planes, rank medals, badges and awards. Tourism in shillong would be amiss without a little history tour. And this enriching place attracts travellers from far and wide.

Motphran is referred to as the ‘Stone of France’. It was built in honour of the Khasi Labour Corps, who served in France, under the British army. Situated amidst a vibrant market, the monument acts as a cultural hub.

Culture Of Shillong

Don Bosco Museum offers insight into the fascinating indigenous culture of Shillong. One of Shillong’s famous places, history connoisseurs and art enthusiasts will be particularly delighted. The complex is equipped with 17 art galleries that house handicrafts, artefacts, clothing, ornaments and weapons used by several North-east Indian tribes.

Police Bazar is a vibrant market that perfectly blends modern with medieval. Bustling with shops, hotels and eateries, there is a lot of fun, finery and food to be discovered ! Peruse through the elegant local textiles, fabrics and weaves. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to buy the gooey jams and jellies made out of Sohiong, Pineapple and peaches.

Jadoh is a quaint little café that offers authentic Khasi delicacies. With plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, you can pick and choose the dish that calls out to you. However, we recommend the smoky beef curry, glazed pork with black sesame seeds, raw fish and tomato chutney. You can even try the combo meals that offer rice, vegetables, meat curry, salad and chutney. 

Interesting facts about Shillong

• Shillong’s Golf Course is deemed as the ‘Glen Eagle of the East’. It is considered to be the most extensive and wettest, in the whole continent of Asia.
• Mawlynnong Village has earned the title of being the cleanest village in Asia.
• 7 out of 10 people in Shillong are football fans. 
• Shillong tourism enables a visit to the sacred Mawjymbuin Caves which has one of the rarest and most magnificent Shiva Lingas. 

Location Of Shillong

Shillong is an ethereal hill station in Northeast India’s state of Meghalaya. It serves as the region’s capital, as well as the headquarters of East Khasi Hills. Lying at an altitude of 4,908 ft above sea level, the city stretches for approximately 6 km on an elevated tract. Shillong is flanked by Umiam gorge in the north, Diengiei Hills in the north west and the hills of Assam in the north east. Shillong Peak rockets into the sky at 6,449 ft, rendering it the city’s highest point.

Best Time To Visit Shillong

Shillong is beautiful throughout the year. However, you must make the important decision regarding when to travel. And so, we have provided a break up for each season. Summers are a particularly lovely time to explore Shillong. From March to June, temperatures fluctuate between 15 and 26 degrees, creating the perfect atmosphere for sightseeing and adventure sports. When it comes to the monsoons, the entire hill station glistens with crystal drops. June to September witnesses temperatures averaging 19 to 25 degrees. Although the rainfall can be incessant, this is the best time to avail off cheap air tickets and accommodation. Winters infuse the air with a frost and chill, dropping down to almost 5 degrees. October to February is a delightful time for honeymooners, as they can cosy up in woollens and sip hot tea. 

How To Reach Shillong

By Road – Should you choose to take the road to Shillong, know that the drive is absolutely beautiful. But your journey will commence from Guwahati, via National Highway 40. The journey is approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes. You can opt to self-drive or hire a private taxi/shared cab. There are government operated deluxe buses from MTC and ASTC that ply regularly too.

By Rail – If you’re looking to take the train, you will have to avail of one that goes to Guwahati Railway Station. Located 100 km away, it the closest railway head to Shillong. And don’t worry, it is well connected to major cities in India such as Mumbai and Delhi. Upon arrival, you can book a taxi to Shillong.

By Air – Shillong, unfortunately, does not have an airport to its name. The closest one is Umroi Aiport near Barapani, a mere 25 km away. However, its connectivity to other cities is limited. You can avail of Guwahati Airport which offers direct flights to and from all important destinations. This is located 125 km away from Shillong. If you’re a little more adventurous, you can choose to take a helicopter from Guwahati. 

History Of Shillong

Shillong’s tumultuous history points towards certain significant moments and events. It was but a tiny and nondescript village in Northeast India, until 1864 when it was deemed the new civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. It thrived as the summer capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam for a number of years. In 1874, when Assam was declared a Chief Commissioner’s Province, Shillong was appointed as the capital of this new administration. In the year 1897 an earthquake destroyed much of the city and took 27 lives. It was only in January 1972 that Shillong was incorporated into the newly formed state of Meghalaya, becoming its capital.