Shillong, which translates to ‘abode of clouds,’ is a picturesque hill station nestled among the magnificent Garo and Khasi mountains. Discover the natural charms of the Northeast in this charming hill town with sparkling waterfalls, manicured gardens, and azure lakes. This region is considered to be the ‘Scotland of the East’ because of its similar natural scenery.
You can reach Shillong:
By air: The Umroi Airport, located 35 kilometres away, provides regional air service between Kolkata and Shillong. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, approximately 130 km away, is another big, convenient airport near Shillong. When visitors arrive at the airport, they can take a taxi or a state bus to various destinations.
By road: The Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) and the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) operate buses to Shillong. Depending on their budget and requirements, travellers can choose from sleeper buses, air-conditioned buses, luxury buses, and Volvo buses. You can also drive along NH 40 to cover the 135 km distance between Guwahati and Shillong in around three to four hours.
By train: From the Guwahati Railway Station, Shillong is approximately 135 km away. Guwahati Railway Station is connected to major Indian cities by an extensive rail network. Outside the station, taxis, cabs, and buses are available for hire to get to Shillong.
Here are some of the best Shillong tourist places for you to discover its ethereal beauty. A visit to these places in Meghalaya will ensure a memorable experience.
19 places to visit and things to do in Shillong
Elephant Falls
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Are you on a quest to discover the best of Shillong’s natural wonders? Elephant Falls is a great place to start. A scenic spot for nature lovers in Shillong, Elephant Falls is named after an elephant-shaped rock near the fall. However, the rock was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897 and can no longer be seen. These wonderful waterfalls feature three separate cascades. Encased in layers of frothy water, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery.
Shillong Peak
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Visit Shillong Peak, the highest viewpoint in Shillong, for a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It offers 360-degree views of Shillong city, Kashmir, the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and the plains of Bangladesh from its elevation of 6449 feet. This place is unquestionably one of Shillong’s top tourist attractions for nature lovers, photographers, and trekkers.
Umiam Lake
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Located 15 kilometres north of Shillong, Umiam Lake is a mesmerising man-made reservoir. The lake was created following the construction of a dam for generating hydroelectric power. An East Khasi hillside surrounds the scenic Umiam Lake, forming one of the best panoramic views in the country for nature lovers. Watching the sunrise at the lake is a treat to behold. It has an adjoining park that is a favourite picnic spot for locals who take advantage of it to escape their busy schedules.
Police Bazar
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Those who enjoy shopping should not miss a visit to Police Bazar when they are in Shillong. There are plenty of things to do in Shillong’s Police Bazar, whether you want to sample delicious local and international delicacies, buy handicrafts, shop clothes, or find a budget hotel to stay in for the night. Due to its many attractions for locals and tourists alike, it is easily Shillong’s busiest spot.
Laitlum Canyons
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Located in the Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is one of Shillong’s most offbeat attractions. A perfect place for trekking enthusiasts, nature enthusiasts, and peace seekers, Laitlum Canyon translates literally into “end of the hills”. Taking a hike up this hilltop viewpoint, you’ll be able to see gorges, valleys, distant hills, and zigzagging hilly roads. As a result of its surrounding beauty and tranquillity, this is an excellent honeymoon destination near Shillong.
Don Bosco Museum
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North East India’s beautiful culture and tradition are showcased in the Don Bosco Museum, Asia’s biggest museum of Indigenous Cultures. With its seven floors, it rises above Shillong’s skyline and contains 16 galleries displaying paintings, artefacts, and figures of Northeastern culture. These are not only eye-catching, but also provide an insight into the living style of the North-Eastern people.
Eminent people such as members of the Rajya Sabha and the Thai Princess have toured the Don Bosco Museum.
Ward’s Lake
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Shillong has a number of quiet places that are ideal for relaxing. Ward’s Lake is a major one among them. The horseshoe-shaped lake is known locally as Pollock’s Lake, and a garden surrounds it so you can explore the variety of plants.
There are plenty of things to do here, such as strolling along the lakeshore, boating in its waters, and feeding the fish. A picnic here is a great way to spend time with your family.
Sweet Falls
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There is nothing quite like Sweet Falls, situated in a tranquil environment, to escape the hustle-bustle of city life. It is impossible not to be captivated by the picturesque roar of the waterfall. The sound of flowing water, birds chirping, the lush greenery and the feel of falling water, all combine to take your breath away. Due to the steep fall and intense velocity of the waterfall, swimming is not allowed under it. It may, however, be worthwhile for you to check out Mini Zoo and Butterfly Park nearby.
Mawlynnong
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The village of Mawlynnong is located in the East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, around 90 kilometres from Shillong. It is nicknamed ‘God’s own garden’. Discovery India named it the cleanest village in Asia in 2003, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
With lush green valleys, flowering orchids hanging from the trees, crystal clear water in the river, and extremely clean roads, Mawlynnong offers some of the most picturesque natural beauty for tourists visiting Meghalaya. Throughout the year, the village has pleasant weather, but during monsoon season, it becomes even more elegant, giving visitors a sense of paradise.
How to reach: To get to Mawlynnong, you can hire a cab or take a bus
Spread Eagle Falls
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One of Shillong’s most wide waterfalls, Spread Eagle Falls, is located in the East Khasi District, 6 km from the cantonment. The unmatched artistry of nature can be seen in this waterfall, a magnificent place for nature and landscape photography. The cascade’s shape resembles an eagle spreading its wings, which is why it is named such. If you’re seeking solace in nature, listen to the soothing sounds created by the cascading stream.
David Scott Trail
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Are you a fan of hiking? Then you must take a trip to the David Scott Trail, one of the most impressive Shillong tourist attractions. As you walk down the 16-km adventure trail, you will not only experience the best views of nature but also a number of adventures. This trail was named after David Scott, a British administrator who used this road as a horse cart track. This place offers endless adventure, so don’t miss out.
How to reach: By car or bus, you can reach Mawphlang, which is the starting point of the David Scott Trail.
Kyllang Rock
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Located in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Kyllang Rock is a gigantic dome made of red granite that is just 78 kilometres from Shillong. A mammoth block of granite with a width of around 1000 feet, the Rock is located over 5,400 feet above sea level and is believed to have been part of Khasi folklore. Hiking up Kyllang Rock rewards you with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
How to reach: A cab or a bus from Shillong will take you to Kyllang Rock, which is just 78 km away on NH 44E.
Lady Hydari Park
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One of the most popular Shillong tourist attractions, this park is named after the first lady of the province, Lady Hydari. This park features a sprawling, beautifully maintained garden with lush rose beds and a children’s playground. The park houses a mini-zoo with over 73 bird species and 100 reptile species.
Sohpetbneng
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There is no better place to experience divinity, serenity, and nature’s bounty than Sohpetbneng Peak, located on the outskirts of Shillong. Atop this 1,343-metre peak, photography enthusiasts can enjoy the stunning views of Shillong and the forest expanses.
There is great religious reverence for the peak among the Hynniewtrep Tribe, and it is frequented by locals as well. In Khasi mythology and folklore, it is called the “Navel to Heaven.”
How to Reach: Taxis are available to get you to the Sohpetbneng point. It may take a bit of walking to reach the pinnacle.
Mawsynram
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In the heart of the world’s wettest region, Mawsynram is one of the most mesmerising villages you’ve probably never heard of. Located 61 km south of Shillong, it is an ideal weekend getaway destination for nature lovers. One of the most famous features of the village is a huge stalagmite formation shaped like a ‘Shivling’. Rainstorms in Mawsynram can be so violent that local residents have to soundproof their homes with thick grass.
How to reach: To get to Mawsynram from Shillong’s city centre, take a taxi or local bus.
Mawjymbuin Cave
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There is a religious significance to Mawjymbuin Cave, located in Mawjymbuin village in Mawsynram in Cherrapunji. The 209-metre-high cave is constructed from calcareous sandstone and is home to numerous stalagmites (formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate, weathering, and flowing liquids rich in mineral deposits). Naturalists, pilgrims, photographers, and tourists flock to the cave all the time.
How to reach: Take a private taxi from the Police Bazar. From Shillong to Mawsynram, you can even take a bus.
Rhino Heritage Museum
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Rhino Heritage Museum, located in Shillong’s Bara Bazar area, is dedicated to war missiles, rifles, and army personnel. Pink rhinoceros sculptures are installed outside the museum, giving the museum its name. There is also a display of Japanese military weaponry, which is one of the highlights.
Malki Forest
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The Malki Forest is a peaceful forest in the Shillong Malki region, which is popular with locals and tourists who are looking for some time away from city life. There is nothing better than getting some exercise in the forest, admiring flora and fauna, and just relaxing. There are towering trees in Malki Forest, especially British pines, which provide shade and cover to those exploring it. A few trails wind through the forest, making it an ideal place for hiking and trekking as well as seeing wildflowers and mushrooms.
Jakrem
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Jakrem is a renowned hot spring that is popular with people from all over because of its therapeutic properties. Aside from its healing properties, the area is known for its panoramic views of surrounding valleys. In its current form, it serves as a healthcare resort that attracts travellers from all around the world for rejuvenation sessions. It’s a great spot for picnics, and you’ll find a lot of tourists having a great time.
How to reach: From Shillong’s city centre, you can either hire a cab or take public transportation to reach here.
FAQs
What are the best romantic places to visit in Shillong?
When you're planning a vacation in Shillong with your significant other, there are a lot of romantic places to see, including Laitlum’s Canyons, Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Pioneer Adventure Tour, Umiam Lake, Elephant’s Falls, and Sweet Falls.
What is Shillong famous for?
With its proximity to one of the wettest places on earth, quirky guest houses, many natural wonders, and serene vibes, Shillong is a famous tourist destination.
What is the best time to visit Shillong?
Visit Shillong between September and May for the best weather. If you would like to experience Shillong during the monsoon season, you should visit between June and August.
How many days are enough to explore Shillong?
The best way to experience all of Shillong's major attractions is to spend at least five days there.
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