Shillong - Where Clouds Reign!

Snuggled in the lap of hills amidst tall conifers and pineapple shrubs, Shillong is the beautiful capital of Meghalaya. Charming colonial era buildings, cobbled streets and pretty churches amidst spectacularly verdant hills- Shillong is rightfully called the Scotland of the East. The colorful ethnicity the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes of Meghalaya is reflected in the vibrant culture of the city; making Shillong a popular North East travel destination.

Major Attractions

Umiam Lake

This sprawling lake formed by damming Umiam River, is embraced by Khasi Hills & thick coniferous jungles and is a perfect picnic spot.

Shillong Peak

Located at an elevation of 6449ft, Shillong Peak offers bird’s eye view of Shillong. Rolling hills, gorgeous waterfalls and faraway plains of Bangladesh contribute to the stunning views from the peak.

Elephant Falls

Named after an Elephant shaped rock in the vicinity, long destroyed by an earthquake, these three tiered falls are a major attraction in Shillong.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Located in the East Khasi hills, this protected forest area is considered sacred by the locals. The thick woodland surrounded by grassy meadows is a treasure trove of local legends & tribal-lore. Walk the forest with a local guide to discover its many secrets.

Ward’s Lake

Located in the heart of the city, this pretty lake is thronged by locals & tourists alike. Cobbled walkways and lush surroundings around the lake make it a pleasant place for evening strolls & happy picnics.

Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

A bonanza of northeastern tribal heritage; this 7 storey center is home to 17 galleries; each depicting various forms of the rich tribal culture of the region.

Other Attractions

• Crinoline Falls
• Cathedral Catholic Church
• Marai Caves
• Laitlum Canyons
• Spread Eagle Falls
• Wankhar Entomology Muesuem
• Air Force Museum
• Lady Hydari Park

Nearby Excursions

• Cheerapunji (54kms)- Its main attraction are the Double Decker Living Root Bridges.
• Mawlynnong(77 kms)- Cleanest Village in Asia
• Dawki (81kms) - Its main attraction being the crystal clear Umgot River.

Fairs & Festivals in Shillong

• Autumn Festival- A Tourism Festival
• Shad Suk Mynsiem- A Khasi Festival
• Nongkrem Festival- Khasi Harvest Festival
• Bacardi NH7 Weekender- Rock Music Festival

Shopping in Shillong

Shillong’s biggest local market- Police Bazaar bustles with all kinds of stuff including hand woven shawls, stoles & warm clothing, Scottish dress material, Khasi organic scrubs, Sohiong (local fruit wine), bamboo & cane artifacts and fish & pork pickles- be sure to take a piece of Shillong back with you!

Food in Shillong

The local food here is a delight for non vegetarians. Ja doh (rice cooked in pork or chicken stock), Doh Kleh- pork & onions, Doh Shiar Ngiong & DohNngiong (meat curries with black sesame flavor), Doh kha sdieh (fried fish), and boiled vegetables are some of the traditional delicacies of Shillong.

Best Time to Visit

The pleasant climate of Shillong allows for year-round travel to this beautiful city. However, peak season is from February to May and then from October to December.

How to Reach Shillong

By Air- Umroi Airport, around 25kms from Shillong, caters to domestic air traffic.
By Rail- Guwahati, the closest railhead to Shillong, is connected with all major Indian cities by a good rail network.
By Road- Shillong is well-connected all major cities in the region with a good network of roads & highways.