Shillong often called the “Scotland of the East,” is the capital city of the Indian state of Meghalaya. Shillong known for its breathtaking beauty and pleasant climate. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Khasi plateau. Shillong offers lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls like Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak, and serene lakes like Umiam Lake.

The city is a cultural melting pot, with a blend of Khasi, Assamese, and Bengali influences, and it’s known for its vibrant music scene, particularly rock music. The vibrant Police Bazaar market, Ward’s Lake, and the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures are among the city’s attractions. Shillong’s charm lies in its natural beauty, cool climate, and unique blend of cultures, making it a popular destination in northeastern India.

Things to do in “Shillong”

Shillong offers wide range of activities and attractions for travelers. Here are some of the top things to do :

Umiam Lake : Visit Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, for boating, picnicking, and water sports amidst the serene surroundings.

Ward’s Lake : Stroll around Ward’s Lake, a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by gardens and a wooden bridge. Enjoy boating and birdwatching here.

Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures : Explore this museum to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of Northeast India through exhibits, artifacts, and cultural performances.

Shillong Peak : Hike or drive to Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and the Himalayan foothills. The peak is especially beautiful at sunrise.

Elephant Falls : Visit the Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Elephant Falls one of the most famous waterfalls in the region.

Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram : Take day trips to Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram, known for their high rainfall and stunning natural attractions, including living root bridges and caves.

Local Cuisine : Savor traditional Khasi cuisine at local restaurants. Try dishes like Jadoh, Doh Syiar, and bamboo shoot preparations.

Police Bazaar : Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products at Police Bazaar, Shillong’s main market.

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians : Visit this beautiful Catholic cathedral, an architectural gem in the heart of the city.

Shillong Golf Course : Play a round of golf at the Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in India.

Cultural Festivals : Attend local festivals and cultural events to experience the vibrant Khasi culture, music, and dance.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest : Explore the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, home to ancient trees and unique biodiversity, and take a guided walk to learn about local customs and beliefs.

Trekking : If you’re an adventure enthusiast, consider trekking in the surrounding hills and forests, such as the David Scott Trail.

Teer Betting : Try your luck at Teer, a traditional archery-based betting game that is popular in Shillong.

Music Scene : Enjoy the thriving music scene in Shillong, known as the “Rock Capital of India.” Check out local bands and live performances in the city’s venues.

Shillong offers a delightful blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and urban delights. No matter what you enjoy doing when you travel, Shillong has something for you.

How to reach “Shillong”

Shillong is easy to reach by road, and the nearest major airport is in Guwahati, Assam. Here are some common ways to reach :

By Air : nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (also known as Guwahati Airport) in Guwahati, Assam, which is approximately 125 kilometers away from Shillong. From Guwahati Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Shillong. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions.

By Road : Shillong is well-connected to neighboring states by road. You can drive to Shillong or take a bus. Major cities and towns like Guwahati, Siliguri, and Kolkata have bus services to Shillong. The most common route is from Guwahati, which is well-connected to Shillong. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Guwahati to Shillong. The journey from Guwahati to Shillong by road takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

By Train : You can’t take a train directly to Shillong because Shillong doesn’t have its own train station. The closest train station is in Guwahati. You can take a train to Guwahati Railway Station and then proceed to Shillong by road via taxi or bus.

Local Transportation : In Shillong, you can explore the city and nearby places by using local taxis, shared cabs, and auto-rickshaws. Shillong is not a very big city, and most interesting places are not too far from the middle of the city.

Important Tips : Visit https://www.meghalayatourism.in/ for more Details

Check the flight schedules and availability of flights to Shillong’s Umroi Airport or Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport based on your travel plans.
If traveling from Guwahati to Shillong by road, consider hiring a reputable taxi or car rental service. The trip might involve going up and down hills and curvy roads, so it’s important to use a comfortable and reliable way of getting around.
Check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements, as regulations may change, especially for travel to the Northeastern region of India.

Shillong, with its scenic beauty and rich culture, is a delightful destination for travelers. Whether you choose to fly directly to Shillong or arrive in Guwahati and continue by road, you’ll be rewarded with a memorable experience in this charming hill station.

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