shillong tourist point

Places To Visit In Shillong

Top hotel collections.

Near Shillong Airport

5 Star Hotels

Must Visit Places in Shillong

Elephant Falls

Shillong Peak

Don Bosco Museum

• Filter (33)
• Hills & Valleys (8)
• Waterfall (5)

1. Umiam Lake

10 km from city center 1 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Umiam Lake, a mesmerizing man-made reservoir, is located at a distance of 15 kilometres north of Shillong which is the capital of the north-eastern Indian state of Meghalaya. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic Umiam Lake is encircled by lush green East Khasi hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers in the country.

2. Elephant Falls

8 km from city center 2 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Named after an Elephant like stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls are amongst the most popular falls in the North-East. These falls consist of three mesmerising falls in succession. It is a great stopover destination before one heads for further journeys into Meghalaya.

3. Laitlum Canyons

3 km from city center 3 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Perched on the East Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is a less explored but one of the most picturesque tourist and trekking destinations in Shillong. This exotic viewing site offers the best panoramic views of the whole of Meghalaya embraced by the majestic hills and valleys. Visit Laitlum Canyons either during sunrise or sunset.

4. Don Bosco Museum

2 km from city center 4 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Hailed as Asia's largest Museum of Indigenous Cultures, the Don Bosco Museum is the house of the beautiful culture and tradition of North East India. It has 16 laid out galleries that showcase artefacts, paintings, figures significant to the Northeastern culture.

Shillong Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Shillong Cherrapunji Meghalaya Tour Package - Shillong Peak & Elephant Falls

Kaziranga Meghalaya Tour Package - Brahmaputra River Cruise

Mesmerising 5 nights meghalaya tour package - trek to nongriat, enchanting meghalaya exploration - explore mawphlang's sacred forest.

Guwahati Meghalaya Tour Packages with Mawsmai Cave Exploration

Meghalaya Tour Packages for Couple - Honeymoon Edition

5. police bazar.

1 km from city center 5 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Police Bazar is the major market of Shillong, and a popular shopping haunt. In addition to an array of restaurants, hotels and big brand stores, the Police Bazaar also has a flea market section selling traditional handicrafts stores, exquisite Meghalaya merchandise, regional apparels, junk jewellery and the like.

6. Meghalaya State Museum

1 km from city center 6 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum, also known as the Meghalaya State Museum, stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Meghalaya's tribes, specifically the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities. Established in 1975 and named after the pioneering Captain Williamson Sangma, the museum showcases over 2500 exhibits, offering a deep dive into the indigenous lifestyle, practices, customs, and traditions of these vibrant communities.

Top Hotels In Shillong

₽ 689 onwards

₽ 3,329 onwards

₽ 776 onwards

₽ 3,169 onwards

₽ 2,122 onwards

7. Mawphlang

20 km from city center 7 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Mawphlang, home to Meghalaya's Sacred Forest, is a beautiful village situated 25 kilometres away from Shillong, the capital city of the north-east Indian state of Meghalaya. The village lies in the district of East Khasi Hills and is famous for its sacred groves. The village is named Mawphlang as it is one of the several monoliths in the Khasi Hills.

8. Ward's Lake

1 km from city center 8 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Lying in the centre of Shillong city, the Ward's Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by a prolific green garden, is a major tourist attraction around which the entire city has been planned. Also known as Pollock's Lake, the mesmerising lake is a popular picnic spot amongst the locals and travellers who come here to simply walk around the horseshoe-shaped lake or sit and admire the stunning flowerbeds throwing a myriad of colours.

9. Mawlynnong

42 km from city center 9 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Mawlynnong is a small village situated around 90 km from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya and is also known as God's own Garden. It was declared as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 by Discovery India which certainly which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Indian state.

10. Shillong Peak

4 km from city center 10 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

At the height of 6449 ft or 1965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak is the highest point of Shillong. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, the Himalayas, its waterfalls as well as of the Bangladesh plains. A telescope is available for tourists to get a bird's eye view.

11. Mawjymbuin Cave

44 km from city center 11 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Mawjymbuin Cave is situated in Mawjymbuin village in Mawsynram (the wettest place on earth) in Cherrapunji and is a religiously significant site. Made of calcareous sandstones and having numerous stalagmites (formed as a result of calcium carbonate depositions, weathering and dripping of mineral enriched liquid), the 209-metre high cave is of special interest to geologists who conduct special researches here.

12. All Saints Church

1 km from city center 12 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

All Saints Church is constructed on the Kacheri Road in Shillong. One among the oldest churches in the city, this was built during the British Raj and boasts of colonial style architectural finesse. The church was a whole wooden structure and is busiest during the routine Sunday masses. Situated opposite the State Central Library and quite close to the Police Bazaar, it is very convenient to reach the All Saints Church through any means of local transportation.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Shillong

Sightseeing

Things to do in Shillong for a Fulfilling Vacay Experience

Food & Drink

12 Best Cafes in Shillong for Perfect Coffee and Snacks!

Experiences

Why Visit Japan When you Can Experience The Cherry Blossom In Meghalaya!

Places Near

21 Tourist Places to Visit near Shillong

13. Lady Hydari Park

2 km from city center 13 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

One of the most famous tourist spots of Shillong, the park is dedicated to the first lady of the province - Lady Hydari. This sprawling park encompasses a wide variety of flora along with a cute mini zoo housing 73 species of birds and over 100 reptiles.

14. Sweet Falls

5 km from city center 14 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Sweet Falls is one of the steepest and the most mesmerizing falls in the country. The sound of gurgling water, chirping birds, the feel of the falling water and the lush greenery - all together just take your breath away. It is a popular picnic spot surrounded by verdant greenery. There is also a butterfly museum a mini zoo nearby.

15. Spread Eagle Falls

2 km from city center 15 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Located in the East Khasi District, 6km from Shillong Cantonment, the Spread Eagle Falls are considered to be the widest in all of Shillong. It gushes down steep hills, towering three sides into a massive pool of water which is ideal for the tourists to sit and lounge by.

16. David Scott Trail

36 km from city center 16 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Named after David Scott, a British officer, the David Scott Trail is an old and one of the most popular trekking routes in Meghalaya. It is a 16 kilometres long trek that stretches from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang.

17. Kyllang Rock

30 km from city center 17 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Some 78 km away from Shillong, a unique giant rock made out of red granite, Kyllang Rock is a giant dome placed in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. It is said to have a special magnetic field that makes sure that people don't fall off it. It is popular for rock climbing and trekking.

18. Mawsynram

44 km from city center 18 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Currently the wettest place on earth (tough competition with Cherrapunjee), Mawsynram receives 12m of rain annually. The generosity of mother nature can be easily seen and experienced with the fresh air, blue skies waterfalls and lush greenery.

19. Sohpetbneng

11 km from city center 19 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

At 1343m above sea level, an ideal location to meet nature. Sohpetbneng means 'navel of heaven' in the local language and is truly heaven - with the breathtaking view of Shillong it offers.

20. Rhino Heritage Museum

2 km from city center 20 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Located in the Bara Bazaar area of Shillong, Rhino Heritage Museum is dedicated to the army personnels, military weapons and war missiles and rifles. The museum gets its name from the pink coloured rhinoceros sculpture installed outside the premises. Among other exhibits, the highlight is the display of the weaponry of the Japanese army.

21. Malki Forest

2 km from city center 21 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

A serene forest in the Malki region of Shillong, Meghalaya that is locally called Khlaw Malki, the Malki Forest is a popular amongst locals and tourists who want to take a break from the city and spend some time amidst nature. The forest is an excellent place to get some exercise, admire the flora and fauna and to just relax.

22. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians Shillong

1 km from city center 22 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, also known as the Laitumkhrah Church is one of the most beautiful churches of Shillong. The church with its towering arches and big stained-glass windows has two levels: a chapel and a huge cathedral.

23. Air Force Museum

8 km from city center 23 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Situated in the Upper Shillong area, Air Force Museum is a brilliant display of the country's defence forces, especially the Air Force and learn about the defence history. A great place for adults and children both, the museum has aircraft models, uniforms of pilots, miniature models of missiles, rockets, machinery, technology demonstrations of the Indian Air Force- Eastern Command along with pictures of Indo-China war and Indo-Pak war.

24. Nohsngithiang Falls

40 km from city center 24 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Plunging from a height of 315 meters, Nohsngithiang Falls are another wonder that Cherrapunjee has to offer to its visitors. Also known as the Seven-sisters falls, Nohsngithiang is an absolutely amazing sight to behold.

25. Butterfly Museum, Shillong

1 km from city center 25 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Also known as Entomological Museum, Butterfly Museum in Shillong is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city. Situated on the Riatsamthiah Jaiaw, near Christian Academy School, the museum houses an extensive collection of vibrant butterflies, moths, beetles and other insects. The museum also cultivate butterflies for commercial purposes.

26. Crinoline Falls

2 km from city center 26 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Crinoline Falls, also called the Blue Heaven Falls, is a stunning waterfall situated near Lady Hydari Park in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is an absolute treat for nature lovers as it is situated amidst the forest and makes for a breathtaking view and a great swimming experience.

45 km from city center 27 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Jakrem is a famous hot water spring of sulphur, located about 64 km from Shillong. The sulphur springs is believed to have curative medicinal properties. The site has slowly developed into a health resort.

28. Diengiei Peak

10 km from city center 28 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Situated on the western side of Shillong, is 6200 ft in altitude, this peak is just 200 ft shorter than the tallest peak in Shillong, Shillong Peak. For a height of about 1000 ft, the gradient of this peak is very steep and precipitous which makes for excellent mountain climbing.

29. Museums in Shillong

1 km from city center 29 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Shillong is a cultural hub that boasts an array of museums offering intriguing glimpses into the region's heritage. These museums serve as portals to the rich tapestry of Meghalaya's diverse tribal cultures, history, and artistic expressions. From the immersive exhibits at the Don Bosco Museum, unraveling the indigenous cultures of the Northeast, to the curated collections at the Meghalaya State Museum, showcasing the state's historical evolution, Shillong's museums are veritable treasure troves.

30. Khasi Hills

26 km from city center 30 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Named after the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, the Khasi hills are famous for housing the Sohra or Cherrapunjee scarp, one of the regions with highest annual rainfall in the world, and the prevalent use of living root bridges seen in this region. The Nongkhum island, the second largest river island of Asia, is also located within this spectacular area.

31. Jaintia Hills

46 km from city center 31 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Part of the former Jaintia Kingdom, the Jaintia Hills is a land of majestic hills filled with rich natural vegetation and mineral deposits situated in Meghalaya. The Jaintia Hills is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls of India, the Krang Suri Falls and the fascinating Nartiang Monoliths.

32. Garo Hills

32 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Situated close to the Indo-Bangladesh Border, the Garo hills get their name from the Garo tribe who inhabit the area. The Nokrek Biosphere reserve, one of the most important national parks with international importance, is located in this nature-rich area. The hills are also decked with splendid waterfalls, enriching the environmental coherence of the place.

33. Ever Living Museum

5 km from city center 33 out of 33 Places To Visit in Shillong

Situated in the Mawshbuit Village in Shillong, Ever Living Museum is a privately owned museum depicting the love for nature, culture, tradition, posterity and history. An ethnographic museum, it houses the objects of the hill tribe of Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills and is divided into three sections.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Shillong

How much does a package cost for shillong, what are the top hotels in shillong, what are the top sightseeing places in shillong, how can i commute within shillong, can you suggest an itinerary for shillong, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages.

Cherrapunji

Top Listed Packages

Meghalaya Tour Package 7 Days with Shnongpdeng

Guwahati Shillong Tour Package - 4 Nights 5 Days

Guwahati Shillong Meghalaya Tour Packages

Assam Meghalaya Arunachal Pradesh Tour Packages

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Literally translating into an ‘abode of clouds’, Shillong is a breathtaking hill station that is nestled amidst the paradisaical Garo and Khasi hills. With sparkling waterfalls, manicured gardens, azure lakes, and distinct culture, this alluring hill town beckons you to witness the natural charm of the Northeast at these 31 mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong . Referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East, the natural scenery of Shillong has a striking similarity with the mountains in the east. 

31 Best Places To Visit In Shillong In 2023

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Shillong? A trip to Shillong is not restricted to scenic beauty rather there are numerous adventurous excursions that make your vacay a perfect one! Here are some of the best places visit in Shillong to witness the ethereal beauty of the hill station. Each place listed below will ensure a memorable trip to this majestic city of Meghalaya. Make sure you visit most of them, as it will give you a great idea about the culture and heritage of Meghalaya.

1. Umiam Lake

Image Source

Surrounded by thick coniferous forests and East Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong . Popular as Badapani, this is a sprawling man-made water body, formed by damming Umiam River. The lake is dotted with few small islands and the adjoining Lum Nehru Park is an ideal place for strolling and picnic. Along with natural beauty, Umiam Lake is famous for thrilling water sports and fun activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, scooting, and is an important part of the Shillong sightseeing itinerary.

Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 16.5 Kilometers Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm How To Reach: Hire a private cab from Police Bazaar to reach Umiam Lake Tip: When planning your stay in Shillong, do consider booking a room in one of the hotels located near the lake

North East Trip: Exploring The Soul-Stirring States Of Seven Sisters, One Brother, And A Neighbor In India

Sikkim-Gangtok-Darjeeling Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Plan your trip today!

Scintillating North-East Family Tour 6D/5N @ Rs 16,065

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Fun-Filled Gangtok & Darjeeling Family Tour 6D/5N @ Rs 18,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Darjeeling Gangtok Family Package 7D/6N @ Rs 20,783

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Family Tour 7D/6N @ Rs 41,265

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Shillong Peak

For a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys, visit Shillong Peak which happens to be the highest view point and one of the best places to visit in Shillong . Located at an elevation of 6449 feet and mostly surrounded by fog, Shillong Peak offers 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the distant hills, waterfalls, Shillong city, and plains of Bangladesh. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers and trekkers, this place is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Shillong .

Location: Shillong View Point, Shillong,793004 Distance From The City Centre: 4 kms Timings: All Days – 9 am to 3:30 pm How To Reach: One can take a bus or a private cab from the city centre and reach within 20 minutes. Tip: Carry a valid ID proof for entry beyond the check post

3. Elephant Falls

Counted as one of the most scenic places to visit in Shillong in December , Elephant Falls is a three-tier cascading beauty and the most spectacular waterfall of the city. The Britishers named it so because of a huge adjoining rock, that has an uncanny resemblance with that of an elephant. However, the rock is no longer seen ever since it was destroyed in an earthquake. You can find more information about this place at the Shillong Tourism center. Here at Elephant Falls, Shillong , you can admire the beauty of foamy water dropping in layers, surrounding dense vegetation, and enjoy shopping for souvenirs from local shops located at the entrance.

Location: Upper Shillong, 793009 Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm Distance From The City Centre: 11 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a state-run bus from Police Bazaar.

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

4. Laitlum Canyons

Perched in the Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is the most offbeat name in the list of Shillong tourist places . Literally translating into the “end of the hills”, Laitlum Canyon is an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts, nature admirers, and peace seekers. Visit this hilltop viewpoint, and enjoy stunning views of gorges, distant hills, valleys, and zigzagging hilly roads. Owing to the surrounding beauty and tranquility, this is surely one of the perfect places to visit near Shillong for honeymoon couples. Also, trekking around these canyons is one of the top things to d0 things in Shillong .

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings : Anytime Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers How To Reach: From Police Bazaar, drive for about 10 to 15 minutes towards Mawpat road to reach Laitlum Canyons. Tip: Since the destination comprises a steep trek for a few kilometres, people with vertigo and breathing issues should be more careful while exploring the canyons.

5. Mary Help For Christian Cathedral

Featuring high arches and stained glass windows, Mary Help of Christian Cathedral is one of the most famous churches in Shillong . The white marble building along with Mother Mary statue looks grand and elegant. This is certainly the most famous Shillong tourist spot . Inside the Cathedral, there are some beautiful terracotta stations of the cross that showcases life events of Jesus. Perched high on a hill, one can also visit the Grotto Church which carved out the same hill and is located right below the Cathedral. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Shillong .

Location: Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: Monday to Saturday – 7 am to 6:30 pm; Sunday – 8 am to 6:30 pm Distance From The City Centre: 2 Kilometers How To Reach: Take a cab and reach the Cathedral via the Don Bosco Road from Police Bazaar. Tip: If you are visiting on a clear day, do not miss to enjoy the superb vista of Brahmaputra River and Himalayan Peaks from the Cathedral.

13 Gorgeous Homestays In North East India That’ll Transport You To Another World

6. Ward’s Lake

During Shillong sightseeing , it is impossible to miss Ward’s Lake. Located at the heart of the city, this is another famous lake in Shillong, also known as Polok Lake. The lake is encircled by a cobblestone walkway, ideal for evening strolls. People visit this Shillong tourist spot , to enjoy the natural beauty, day picnics, watch dancing fountain shows or relax at the cafeteria, located by the lake. The wooden bridge on the lake and sprawling lotus beds on both sides make the place look immensely scenic.

Location: Police Bazaar, Shillong Entry Fee: INR 5 per person; boating and camera charges extra Timings: All Days – November to February – 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; March to October – 8:30 am to 7 pm Distance From The City Centre: NA How To Reach: Ward’s Lake is conveniently located at the heart of the city near the Raj Bhavan. Tip: Buy puffed rice from the entrance gate in case you plan to enjoy feeding the fish.

7. Don Bosco Museum

As one of the best places to visit in Shillong , the Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures welcomes every tourist, art enthusiast, and history buff with open arms. Featuring art galleries, wide collections of handicrafts, artefacts, attires, ornaments, and weapons used by various tribes of North-east India, one can witness panoramic views of entire Northeast India. The museum is located in the premises of Sacred Heart Church and is a seven-storey building with seventeen different galleries. This is certainly amongst the best tourist places in Shillong .

Location: Mawlai, Shillong Entry Fee: INR 50 per person Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Sundays Distance From The City Centre: 5 kilometres How To Reach: From the Police Bazar, embark on the Buddhist Temple Road or Camels Back Road to reach the museum easily. Tip: Once you have seen all the galleries, walk up to the skywalk on the top to enjoy the jaw-dropping vista of Shillong city.

47 Places To Visit In Winter In India That Will Ensure You Give Your Quilt A Miss

8. Lady Hydari Park

Named after the first lady of the province- Lady Hydari, this park is one of the most popular Shillong tourist places . The park comprises of a sprawling and manicured garden including beautiful rose beds and a children’s play area. There is a mini-zoo inside the park housing more than 73 species of birds and 100 species of reptiles.

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Mondays Distance From The City Centre: 2 kilometres How To Reach: Drive for 5 to 10 minutes via MG road to reach Lady Hydari Park Tip: Visit the park during the mornings as the locals flock to the park in the evening and it will be difficult to find parking space for those who are travelling by car.

9. Air Force Museum

Located within the complex of Eastern Air Command, Air Force Museum in Shillong is yet another sight of beauty and wonder that makes it one of the most popular places to see in Shillong . With galleries displaying various rockets, missiles, miniatures of fighter planes, badges, rank medals, and awards, this museum attracts all types of travellers throughout the year. This is amongst the most interesting tourist places in Shillong .

Location: 7th Mile, HQ, EAC, Shillong Timings: 9 am to 2 pm; 2:30 pm to 5 pm; Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers How to Reach: Embark on the national highway numbered 106 to reach IAF museum from the Police Bazar. Tip: Carry valid ID proof which is required to enter the museum.

60 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India To Have A Gala Time With Your Favorite People!

10. All Saints Cathedral

Considered to be one of the oldest churches in the city, All Saints Cathedral is certainly one of the best places to visit in Shillong . The building reflects a colonial-style architecture along with wooden roofs whereas the internal structures add to the beauty and elegance of the Cathedral. Daily masses are organised here, but most footfall is seen during Sundays. It is one of the most boosted places by Shillong tourism.

Location: Kacheri Road, Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: The church is open on all days of the week from 8:30 Am to 5:30 Pm. Distance From The City Centre: 1.4 Kilometers How to Reach: Drive for about 5 minutes via MG Road from Police Bazar and once you reach the State Central Library, you can spot the church right opposite to it. Tip: Plan well in advance so that you can explore other tourist attractions like Lady Hydari Park, State Museum, and Butterfly Museum that are located in close proximity to the Cathedral.

11. Phan Nonglait Park

One of the best Shillong tourist places , Phan Nonglait Park is located right in the heart of the city. The beautiful Japanese style park attracts a huge flock of locals and tourists every day. You can spot animals like Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, Leopard, etc, in the zoo. The rich flora and fauna and numerous pretty ponds inside the park will win you over. You can even enjoy boating in the lake with enthralling scenery in the background. These is the most loved tourist places in Shillong .

Location: Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: 8 Am – 5 Pm, Monday closed Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers from Shillong Bus Stand How to Reach: It is located in the city and can be reached by cab. Tip: At the entry, you’ll be asked to pay INR 10/- and if you’re carrying a camera then you’ll be charged INR 20/-; make sure you’re carrying change

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

12. Sweet Falls

Located in a serene location, Sweet Falls is a perfect place to get away from the hustle-bustle of the fast-paced city life. One of the top places to visit in Shillong , this place offers you scenic views of nature. The picturesque roaring waterfall will make you forget about all your problems in life. Bathing under the waterfall is not allowed due to the intense velocity and height of the fall. However, you may wish to visit Mini Zoo and Butterfly Park in the vicinity. This place is also popular among honeymoon couples visiting Shillong .

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings: Open 24 hours Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: The only way to reach here is to hire a taxi or rental car. Tip: Make sure you’re carrying your own snacks, as there are no eateries around the attraction

13. Sohpetbneng Peak

Image Source If you are looking for ideas for places to visit in Shillong Meghalaya , then you should definitely add Sohpetbneng Peak to your itinerary. Located on the outskirts of the city, the peak offers you the most thrilling views of the city. Its divine, tranquillity, peace, and aura make it a must-visit attraction. The Khasi Tribe is even regarded as the ‘Naval of Heaven’. Do not forget to bring your camera along.

Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong Timings: Open 24 hours Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: Take a taxi to reach the point. You may have to walk a bit to reach the pinnacle. Tip: The location of this peak is just at the periphery of Shillong and you’ll have to take a road to the left when you’ll be around Barapani

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

14. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Shillong is blessed with an abundance of nature. Its lush forests are its treasure and this is what makes Mawphlang Sacred Forest one of the top places to visit in Shillong . If you are a nature lover or wish to get into nature’s lap, you have got to devote your time to a forest trip on your North East vacation. You will be surprised to find a wide array of species of plants and trees. Some of them are even as old as 1000 years. You are not allowed to take anything from the forest since it is revered.

Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong Timings: 9 Am – 4:30 Pm Distance From The City Centre: 26 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: It takes about an hour to reach here. Take a cab or taxi. Tip: Don’t forget to take a tour guide along

15. David Scott Trail

Do you enjoy hiking? Then you must head out on the David Scott Trail which is one of the most amazing Shillong tourist places . The 16-km adventurous trail not only offers you the best views of nature but also bestow upon a number of adventure activities. This trail is named after a British administrator, David Scott, who used this path as a horse cart track. If you are looking for an unlimited adventure, make sure you visit this place. It takes about 4 hours to cover 16 km of trail.

Location: Mawphlang, East Khasi Hills District Timings: 6 Am – 8 Pm Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: The start point is Mawphlang where you can reach by car. Tip: You can visit here any time throughout the year but the trail gets a little slippery in the monsoon season and therefore one must be careful

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

16. Spread Eagle Falls

Shillong is a land of numerous mesmerizing falls and Spread Eagle Falls is one of the best places to see in Shillong . It is an idyllic spot where nature lovers and water babies can come to spend some time in nature and serenity. The sound of flowing water is the only therapy you will need to calm the chaos in your mind. Also known as Sati falls, it is a great place for photographers. The wing-like shape of the cascading waterfall is not only astounding but also a fine example of nature’s artistry. Consider this one when looking for the best places to visit in Shillong .

Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: Take a private cab. Tip: Be careful around the pool of the falls, as it is quite deep

17. State Museum

State Museum is a modest cultural museum that will give you a short information tour about the various tribes in Meghalaya. Also, known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, this place is a must-visit for those who want to delve right into the cultural diversity of Shillong. Find a collection of traditional tools, music instruments, antiques, jewellery, and dinosaur models on display. If you are a history buff, then you should definitely not miss this place. You may think that museums are boring but if you have nothing else to do, visiting this place might actually turn out to be fun.

Location: Secretariat Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001 Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 10 AM-4 PM, Sat-Sun closed How To Reach: The only way to get around Shillong is by foot or by hiring a private taxi. Tip: To make your visit to the museum hassle-free, it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance via their online portal

Visiting Meghalaya In June? Take Tips From Manogna’s Thrilling Escapade To Plan Yours Right

18. Mawphlang Village

Have you heard about the wild and beautiful Mawphlang Forest? The sacred forest is located in the village of Mawphlang. Once you are done with wandering in the forest, then you should take a tour around the heritage village that will give you an insight into tribal life. The village is located in the East Khasi Hills and is surrounded by lush greenery and lofty mountains. The breathtaking landscapes will make your jaw drop in awe. The undulating meadows and layers of mist look so dramatic as if it is right out from a book.

Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya Distance From The City Centre: 25 km Timings: NA How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazaar for a day. Tip: To make your visit to the museum hassle-free, it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance via their online portal

19. Mawjymbuin Cave

Meghalaya is full of surprises and one of the most fascinating things   that exist in the north-eastern state is caves. The best part is that you can visit a few of these caves and wonder at the stalagmite and calcite formations. One such place is Mawjymbuin Cave. This is amongst the best caves in Cherrapunjee . Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic scenery, Mawjymbuin Cave is located near Mawsynram village. There is not even a single reason why you should visit this place except you are claustrophobic. The most prominent attraction inside the cave is a giant Siva Linga made from stalagmites.

Location: Mawjymbuiñ Rd, Meghalaya 793113 Distance From The City Centre: 58 km Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar. You may even take a bus from Shillong to Mawsynram. Tip: For a memorable tour, having a local guide accompany you would be a wonderful idea

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

20. Rhino Heritage Museum

Rhinos are an important part of Shillong’s heritage and culture. So, the people of Shillong have dedicated an entire museum to the mighty animals. It is a one-of-its-kind museum and, hence, an interesting place to visit in Shillong. Apart from the sculptures and preservations of rhino, you will also find exhibit weapons and photographs of military operations inside the museum.

Location: Zigzag Rd, Ïewduh, Bara Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004 Distance From The City Centre: 5 km Timings: 9 am–1 pm, 3–5 pm, Thursday closed How To Reach: You can hire a taxi. Tip: For your ease, wear comfortable footwear here and make sure you’re carrying an umbrella and water bottle

21. Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in Shillong known for its impressive collection of special and rare orchids. It is a nice place to take a stroll in the afternoon when you want to spend some quality time with your spouse. If you are visiting Ward Lake, then you should definitely put this on your list too. It is not necessary that you should be doing something all the time on your vacation. Have a few moments of respite and spend some amidst nature and peace at Botanical Garden in Shillong.

Location: Next to Ward Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi to drop you at the Botanical Garden. Tip: This is a great place to visit when you have spare time

19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty

22. Bishop Falls

In case you didn’t know, Bishop Falls are the 22nd highest fall in the country. So, that should pique your interest for visiting this waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall drops from a height of 443 ft. The cascading waterfall is also accompanied by Beadon Falls. So, it is a double threat. If you are coming to see the waterfalls from all the way, then it is best you pack a picnic with you. It is one of the best places to spend some time in nature with your family and loved ones. It gets more crowded on the weekends where locals come to take a respite.

Location: Mawprem, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 5 km Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi or a cab to the waterfalls. Tip: This is an ideal tourist attraction for a sunny day

23. Lumpongdeng Island

Lumpongdeng Island is an idyllic spot in the Umiam Lake ideal for boating and enjoying mesmerizing views of nature. Disconnect from the rest of the world and enjoy a stay on a houseboat if you like. The lake also provides opportunities for camping and trekking. One cannot get enough of the astounding views of the lake and surroundings. You must capture shots of the island and lake in your camera to save it for a lifetime. The island is truly a getaway for peace seekers and photographers.

Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 17 km Timings: NA How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar to take you to Umiam Lake. Tip: Don’t forget to go for a ride in one of the houseboats

24. The Grand Madina Masjid

The GrandMadina Masjid in Shillong is had to miss because of its remarkable architecture. The largest mosque in northeast India, it can accommodate up to 2,000 people at a time. You won’t be able to stop yourself from gazing at the glass dome and glass minarets. Wait till the evening when it is spectacularly lit. There is even an orphanage and library inside the mosque where you can do some goodwill on your trip to Shillong. The museum is one of the most illustrative places to visit in Shillong.

Location: Laban, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004 Distance From The City Centre: 2 km Timings: 5 am to 8 pm How To Reach: NA Tip: To make your visit memorable, visit the mosque at night when it is beautifully lit up

25. Ever Living Museum

A one-of-its-kind museum, Ever-Living Museum is where you will get an insight into the culture of Gairo, Khasi, and Jaintia tribes. You will find coins, instruments, jewellery, utensils, handicrafts, and weapons on display in the museum. Apart from that, there is even a stone collection in the museum where you find a unique collection of fossils, crystals, seashells, and other items on display.

Location: Mawshbuit, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 9 km Timings: 11 AM – 5 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi or cab from Police Bazar Tip: You’ll have to go to the outskirts of Shillong to get here

The Famous Cherry Blossom Festival Is Ready To Paint Shillong With Hues Of Pink & White

26. Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong is a serene village that is located in the outskirts of Shillong, nearly 90 kilometres from the city centre amidst the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. It was declared as the cleanest village in Asia in the year 2003 by Discovery India which made it a popular destination in North-East India. The place is known for offering picturesque sights of the lush green valleys. You must surely add this serene place is you sightseeing in Shillong list!

Places to Stay: Pumpkin Kharmawshun Homestay, Ritz Homestay, B.E. KYNMAWLEM HOMESTAY, B.E, Pumpkin Iaikyrsoi Homestay Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 90 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a local bus to Mawlynnong Tip: Do try the local dishes at this village that’ll help you get an insight into its culture

27. Mawsynram

Don’t you want to explore the wettest place in the world on your next trip to Shillong? Yes, Mawsynram has been acknowledged as the wettest site of the world and is known for its exquisite beauty that lures travellers from across the world to this mesmerizing village. If you are looking for a perfect escape on your Shillong trip then this beautiful place will surely enthrall you. The place is known for experiencing the highest rainfall in India .

Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 60 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a local bus to Mawsynram from the city centre in Shillong Tip: For your ease, hire a Khasi guide who speaks English

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

28. Nohsngithiang Falls

Nohsngithiang Waterfall is another stunning attraction to visit near Shillong. Located mere 4 kilometres from Cherrapunjee it is the tallest waterfall in India and a major tourist spot. As it is located in the Mawsmai village of Meghalaya, it is also known as Mawsmai Falls. Here, water cascades from a height of nearly 1033 feet making it the epithet of Seven Sister Waterfalls. This is one of the best waterfalls in Cherrapunjee . This is the most beautiful experience of sightseeing in Shillong tours. 

Location: Meghalaya Timings: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM Distance From The City Centre: 97.9 Kilometers How To Reach: You can either hire a cab or take public transport from the city centre Tip: To witness the best sight of the falls, make sure you visit this tourist attraction after the monsoon season

Jakrem is the popular hot spring of sulphur, visited by people from near and far due to its medicinal properties. Apart from being a curative medicinal spot the place is known for offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Currently, it has been transformed into a healthcare resort where travelers from across the globe visit for reviving sessions. It is also a popular picnic spot and you will find numerous tourists having a perfect family time here. 

Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 67.9 Kilometers How To Reach: You can either hire a cab or take public transport from the city center Tip: The route to these hot springs could be bumpy; make sure you’re traveling via car

8 Great Picnic Spots Near Shillong Where You Can Head For An Amazing Time

30. Kyllang Rock

Located on the western side of Khasi Hills at a height of 5,400 feet, Kyllang Rock is a unique and giant rock that is made out of red granite. To reach this location, one has to opt for a hike where you can savor some of the best landscape views. Moreover, as it is surrounded by red Rhododendrons, it attracts several nature lovers to this place. It will take around half an hour to reach the top. If you are a hiker then this is one of the best places to visit in Shillong, India . Make sure that you do not miss it!

Location : Meghalaya 793120 Distance From The City Center : 58 kms Timings : 8 am – 4 pm How To Reach : You can take a cab and reach Kyllang Rock. Tip: The company of a local guide to this site will work wonders

31. Butterfly Museum

Planning to explore Shillong with your partner? Here is the Butterfly Museum, also known as Entomological Museum, which is counted among the best places to visit in Shillong for couples . It displays an amazing collection of beetles, butterflies, and other insects. For commercial purposes only, the museum also cultivates several butterflies. Along with this, regular programs are held to conserve butterflies and insects. All of this is handled by the owner of this museum, Wankhar.

Location : near Christian Academy School, Riatsamthiah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001 Distance From The City Center : 2.8 km Timings : 11 am – 4 pm How To Reach : The place is not located far from the city centre so you can visit this place along with other tourist places.  Distance From The City Centre: 67.9 Kilometers Tip: The museum is closed on Sundays

10 Trails That’ll Allow You To Experience Trekking In Shillong At Its Best

Best Time To Visit Shillong In 2023

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Shillong

What are the most popular things to do in Shillong with children?

Some of the most popular things that you can explore while you are on a trip to Shillong. These include Trekking, Angling, Rafting, Horse Riding, and Kayaking are some of the best things to do in Shillong.

Which are the romantic places to visit in Shillong?

There are many romantic places to explore if you are planning a vacation in Shillong with your loved one. These places include: 1. Laitlum’s Canyons 2. Umiam Lake 3. Ward’s Lake 4. Elephant’s Falls 5. Lady Hydari Park 6. Pioneer Adventure Tour 7. Sweet Falls

What is Shillong famous for?

Shillong has earned its fame because of numerous reasons with its vicinity to the wettest place on earth, quirky guest houses, many natural wonders, and the serene vibes topping the list.

Can I visit Shillong in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, so you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more in Shillong. But don't take our word for it, just make sure you travel in a small group and keep updating yourself about the latest news and guidelines concerning Covid-19.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

The best time to pay a visit to Shillong is anywhere between September to May. All those who wish to experience the monsoon season should visit Shillong from June to August.

How many days are enough for Shillong?

Those who wish to travel around and cover all the major places in Shillong should visit this destination for at least 5 days.

Which are the best shopping places in Shillong?

OB shopping mall, Glory’s Plaza, Raps Mansion, and Paltan Bazar are some of the best shopping places in Shillong.

Which are the most popular local dishes of Shillong?

Jadoh, Tungrambai, Kyat, Ktung, and Ki Ktu are some of the best local dishes that one must try when in Shillong.

Which are things that you should not do in Shillong?

Not making reservations before you arrive in Shillong and not carrying enough cash are two of the things you should not do in Shillong. ATMs here are scanty. Also, do not forget to carry your ID proofs.

Places To Visit In Uttarkashi Places To Visit In Panchgani Places To Visit In Thekkady

Recent Posts

Best Campgrounds In France For Your Next Camping Adventure

Camping Sites In Michigan: A Guide To Unveiling The Best Outdoor Experience

11 Hidden Gems In San Diego: Embrace An Offbeat Experience

10 Places To Visit Near India Gate For An Exhilarating Experience

7 Places To Visit Near Lotus Temple That Leave You Awestruck

8 Places To Visit Near Qutub Minar For Adding Extra Charm

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Fireflies Special
• Leh Ladakh Tour Packages
• Customized Tours
• INTERNATIONAL TRIPS
• Why the name HikerWolf ?
• HikerWolf Core Values
• Other Activities
• Get In Touch
• Search for:

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.

Himani Wadhwa

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Username  *

Email address  *

Let's Chat

• Corporate Tours
• +91-8527850026

• Himachal Pradesh
• Uttarakhand
• Weekend Getaways
• Spiti Valley
• Honeymoon Packages
• International Trips
• India Trips

Weekend Trips

• Group Tours

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

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive exclusive offers, latest news and updates.

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.

Our Blog Post

Looking for a hassle free trip?

Connect with our experts! Get the best Itineraries and Offers!

We at WanderOn are a modern travel community that provides end to end travel packages in India and abroad. We design the best travel itineraries that encourage group traveling for like-minded people. Our services include road trips, trekking expeditions, corporate trips, and customized tour packages. On our trips, we ensure hassle-free traveling, top-notch accommodation and guided sightseeing that too in a budget that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Just give us your dates and be ready to experience traveling like never before.

• Bir Billing
• Chopta Tungnath
• Kasol Kheerganga
• Tirthan Valley
• Manali Solang

Himalayan Escapades

• Kasol Manali
• Parvati Valley
• Mcleod Bir Tirthan
• Mcleod Bir Barot

Backpacking Trips

• Himachal Backpacking
• Ladakh Trips
• Meghalaya Backpacking
• Kashmir Backpacking
• Beautiful Places to Visit in Spring in India
• Workcations: The New Trend of Travel
• Breathtaking Monasteries of Ladakh
• Soul-Satisfying things to do in Spiti Valley
• Mesmerising Waterfalls of Meghalaya to Visit

Quick Links

• Privacy Policy
• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Condition

WANDERON EXPERIENCES PVT LTD

3rd Floor, Building No-436, Phase IV, Udyog Vihar, Sector-18, Gurugram, Haryana-122001

• [email protected]
• www.wanderon.in

© WANDERON EXPERIENCES PVT LTD, All rights reserved.

Where do you want to go next.

The Best Travel & Tourism Blog of India

India Tours

• International Tours
• Destination Wedding
• Medical Tourism

Plan Your trip

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
• Best of North East India Tour

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.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Top Tourist Destinations in Meghalaya
• Must Visit Waterfalls in Meghalaya
• Best Hill Stations to Explore in North East India
• Best Snow Tourist Places in Northeast India
• Natural Wonders of North East India
• Offbeat Treks in North East India

Like & Follow our social media accounts at Twitter , Facebook , Linkedin & Instagram for getting the latest updates & offers on holiday packages.

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.

Recent Trending Posts

April 1,2024

Now an Intangible Cultural Heritage Under UNESCO, Gujarat’s Garba Shares the Global Stage

March 27,2024

10 Best Bird Watching Destinations in India

March 15,2024

Three Tiger Cubs Spotted in Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve

• Hill Stations
• Travel Deals
• Amazing Facts
• Travel Experience
• Travel Tips
• Travel Alerts
• Travel Videos
• Edu-Tourism
• Inspirational People

Popular Posts

May 30,2014

20 Highway Dhabas that You Must Stop By

February 12,2014

Top 15 Places for Honeymoon in North East India

September 6,2014

12 Best Beaches in Maharashtra

October 31,2013

Top 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

August 27,2014

Best 15 Destinations in India for Solo Women Travellers

International posts.

November 8,2023

10 Best Beaches in Thailand

November 3,2023

Tourism Update – Enjoy Visa Free Holiday Travel in Sri Lanka

Thailand Tourism Update- Indian Travelers Now Get a Visa-Free Entry to Thailand!

Explore best places to visit in india by month.

Best Places in January

Best Places in February

Best Places in March

Best Places in April

Best Places in May

Best Places in June

Best Places in July

Best Places in August

Best Places in September

Best Places in October

Best Places in November

Best Places in December

India tourism important information resources, north india.

• Uttarakhand
• Jammu & Kashmir

South India

• Pondicherry
• Andhra Pradesh
• Mahararashtra
• Dadra Nagar Haveli
• Daman & Diu

Luxury Trains

• Maharaja Express
• Palaces on Wheels
• The Golden Chariot
• The Deccan Odyssey
• Majestic Tourist Train

Quick Links

• Kumbh Mela Haridwar 2021
• MICE Tourism

Places to visit in Shillong

Shillong tourist places.

• Ward’s Lake
• Elephant Falls
• Shillong Golf Course
• Laitlum Grand Canyons
• Shillong View Point
• Nongjrong View Point
• Mawkdok Dympep Valley
• Seven Sister Falls
• Nohkalikai Falls

Popular Shillong Packages

Upcoming shillong group tour, following are the best places to visit in shillong, 1 umiam lake, honeymoon packages for shillong, 2 elephant falls, 3 police bazaar, 4 don bosco museum of indigenous cultures, 5 wards lake, 6 shillong peak, 7 nongjrong, 8 lady hydari park, 9 shillong golf course, 10 mawphlang sacred grove forest, 11 laitlum grand canyons, adventurous activities in shillong, 12 air force museum, 13 bishop falls, 14 captain williamson sangma museum, 15 mawkdok dympep valley, 16 mawsmai cave, 17 seven sister falls, 18 nohkalikai falls, 19 double decker living root bridge, 20 krangsuri falls, 21 umngot river, 22 mawlynnong village, 23 dainthlen falls, 24 butterfly museum, 25 kharmih varieties spot, 26 wei sawdong falls, 27 borhill falls, 28 lyngksiar falls, 29 janailar falls, 30 dawki tamabil border crossing, 31 thangkharang park, 32 ever living museum, weather in shillong.

Shillong, which literally translates to “the abode of the clouds,” is Meghalaya’s magnificent capital city. Shillong, at 1496 metres above sea level, has a different climate than much of tropical India, which is why it is known as the “Scotland of the East.” The rains always put on a show and tend to stay a little too long. It’s beautiful to see how the local architecture, design, and culture coexist with these circumstances in their own particular way. Colonial influences are still present in the town today, which adds to its charm. This pine-ringed city has cooler overall temperatures throughout the year. The wet season in Shillong is pleasant, muggy, and mostly cloudy, while the dry season is cool and mostly clear. The average temperature throughout the year is between 40°F and 73°F, with lows of 35°F and highs of 77°F being extremely rare.

Shillong Travel Guides

Frequently asked questions about places to visit in shillong.

Yes , Shillong is a famous tourist place as it is surrounded by mesmerizing mountains and lush greenery everywhere. Shillong’s Tourist Spot are Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls and Laitlum Canyons. Other tourist places nearby are Seven Sisters Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Dainthlen Falls etc.

Shillong is a well known place in India for its tourist spot. Some of Shillong’s famous places to visit are Cherapunji, Dawki, Mawsynram and Jowai. It is also famous for longest caves, tallest waterfalls and its unique culture.

Some of the best tourist places in Shillong are: Umiam Lake (Barapani): Umiam Lake is one of the most famous spot for tourists visiting Shillong because of its lush green mountains on each edge and a beautiful island in the middle of the lake. Police Bazar: It is one of the central markets of Shillong famous for its handicraft items and clothes. Shillong Peak: It is one of the most scenic spots situated at a higher altitude from where you can see the entire Shillong City. Elephant Falls: A beautiful waterfalls falling through the rocks, the three layers of this falls makes it really a breathtaking spot.

Best Places to Visit in Shillong are: Ward’s Lake: It is a popular place for tourists visiting Shillong, because of its tall trees and different species of flowers planted in its sorroundings. Visitor’s can also go for boating at the lake. Lady Hydari Park: A mini park contains varieties of flowers and animals like deer, monkey, bear, birds, fishes etc. This mini zoo is an ideal place for kids and family outings. Don Bosco Museum: A museum showcasing lifestyle and culture of north eastern people with sixteen art galleries.

Generally 5 Days and 4 Nights duration is required for visiting shillong inorder to cover the major tourist spots like Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong and Dawki, Krangsuri and Laitlum etc.

It depends on the number of days you are booking for. Generally a package will cost around Rs.15,000/- for 5 Days and 4 Nights.

Communicating in Shillong is easy, as the people in Shillong generally understand English. Apart from English, people can also speak in hindi inside the city.

Different hotels are available for visitors as per their budget. Visitors can book standard hotels, deluxe hotels and super deluxe hotels according to their needs.

Yes, you can plan a budget tour of Shillong. In Shillong you can find budget homestays and hotels in almost all places. Budget stays will cut your costs and make your tour economical.

Your ideal Shillong Trip can be as follows: Day 1: Guwahati-Shillong: Arrive in Guwahati and visit Umiam Lake (Barapani) and thereafter visit Don Bosco Museum. Reach Shillong and in the evening visit the police baazar market for shopping and chilling. Day 2: Shillong Sightseeing: Visit Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Wards Lake, Lady Hydari Park and other beautiful places. Day 3: Cherrapunji Tour: Visit Nohkalikai Falls, Wei Sawdong Falls, Seven Sister Falls, Mawsmai Cave and Eco Park among other attractions. Day 4: Dawki and Mawlynnong Tour: Visit Dawki River, Mawlynnong Village and also the India-Bangladesh border. Day 5: Krang Suri Falls, Laitlum Canyons – Guwahati: Visit Laitlum Canyons (one of the largest canyons in India) and Krang Suri Falls (the biggest falls of north east). Thereafter leave for Guwahati for your onward journey.

Every season is best for visiting Shillong but If you’re a nature lover then monsoon season is the best time for you to visit Shillong because monsoon allows you to see the waterfalls nicely. If you are an adventure lover then visiting Shillong in winters will be the best season for you.

Yes, visiting Shillong is safe for the tourists, because Shillong has a low crime rate and it is much safer than many other places in India. Even for female travellers, shillong is a safe place to travel.

The best time to visit Shillong depends on the choice of travellers. If you are a nature lover then you can visit Shillong during monsoons. During monsoons the real beauty of the waterfalls can be admired and also the green mountains looks beautiful. If you are an adventure enthusiast and love activities like trekking, kayaking and scuba diving you can visit Shillong during non monsoon seasons when the place is dry and river water is clean making it ideal for adventure sports.

The best places to visit near Shillong are Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Jowai and Guwahati.

Popular tourist places near Shillong are waterfalls and caves of Cherrapunji, cleanest river at Dawki, cleanest village at Mawlynnong, Kran Suri Falls and Laitlum Canyons. All these tourist places near Shillong are worth visiting.

Day Tours for Shillong

Recommended packages for shillong, suggested read.

10 Most Famous Places to Visit in Shillong

• Updated on November 24, 2023

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
• 4 Nights 5 Days Guwahati Shillong Tour Itinerary

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.
• North East India Tour for 10 Days
• 4 Days North East Tour
• 13 Days North East India Trip
• 8 Days North East India Tour Package
• 7 Days North East India Tour Itinerary
• North East India Package 7 Days
• 6 Days North East Tour Itinerary

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.
• North East Packages From Delhi
• North East Packages From Mumbai
• North East Packages From Chennai
• North East Packages From Hyderabad

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.
• Folk Dances of Meghalaya
• Meghalaya National Parks
• Historical Places in Meghalaya
• Meghalaya Hill Stations
• Famous Food of Meghalaya
• 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.
• North East India Visit in July
• Places to See in North East India
• Visit North East India in June
• Adventure Places in North East India
• North East India Honeymoon Places
• North-East India See in April

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.

• Cherrapunji
• Mawlyngkhung
• Balpakram National Park
• Nongkhnum Island

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

Related Posts

12 Famous Things to Buy in Shillong

Top 10 Things to Do in Shillong, Meghalaya

Meghalaya’s Tourism: Poised for Remarkable Growth by 2028

Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024: A Symphony of Colors and Music

Complete Guide to Meghalaya’s Grand Wangala – The 100 Drums Festival

Meghalaya’s 6th Annual Kayaking Festival: A Must-Attend for Adventure Lovers

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Shillong View Point

Top ways to experience Shillong View Point and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Shillong View Point - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• 6D/5N Assam & Meghalaya (From ₹ 45,984.91)
• 4D/3N Glimpse of Meghalaya (From ₹ 26,529.60)
• 10D/9N Assam-Meghalaya-Arunachal pradesh (From ₹ 1,63,599.73)
• 6 Days Assam & Meghalaya Tour (From ₹ 49,660.09)
• Shillong Nature Walk (3 Hours Guided Trekking Experience) (From ₹ 2,038.63)
• (2.41 km) Hotel Heiga
• (3.48 km) Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong
• (3.56 km) Courtyard by Marriott Shillong
• (3.87 km) Hotel Polo Towers
• (1.07 km) Dew Drop In
• (3.47 km) City Hut Family Dhaba
• (3.87 km) Dejavu
• (2.83 km) Dylan's Cafe
• (3.18 km) Jiva Veg
• (1.07 km) Relish Restaurant
• (0.01 km) Shillong Peak
• (0.90 km) TEA COUNTRY
• (5.10 km) Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
• (3.25 km) Ward's Lake
• (2.84 km) Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 20 Best Things To Do In Shillong

Best things to do in Shillong include Don Bosco Museum, Shillong viewpoint, Umaim lake, Khasi hills, etc. You can book our  six days mesmerising tour package(Flat 17%) to cover the best tourist attractions. If you’re seeking solitude, respite and thrill, there are more than sufficient things to do in Shillong, the gem of North East India. The landscape of Shillong is woven beautifully by plunging waterfalls, verdant hills and mountains, an endless line of ancient caves, serene lakes and streaks of undulating rivers. 

Besides being the crowned capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is the heart and soul of the state. No matter where your interests lie, or what sets your heart racing, Shillong has enough treats within her folds. Being as generously blessed with natural beauty as Shillong is, there are plenty of adventures to be had and numerous places to visit .

 Explore the heavenly Sacred Grooves of Mawphlang, with the mystery and legends that surround it. If you’re seeking an adrenaline high, you must try the waterfall rappelling at Elephant Falls! Try riding on a horseback to the highest point of Meghalaya as the path winds through the beautiful forests of Shillong. 

Lose yourself amidst the green heaven of the Khasi Hills as you hike up to great vantage points to set camp overnight. If you’re a history or art fanatic, the iconic Don Bosco Museum makes for an irresistible treat. Experience the peaceful beauty of the Cathedral Catholic Church of Shillong, marvelling at its noteworthy architectural styles.

You can book our three days budget tour at a discount of flat 15%, it includes all the must-see places that you should not miss out.

Here are the 20 best things to do in Shillong:

Quick navigation.

Boating in Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake is a beautiful reservoir fed by Umiam river and sits about 15 km away from Shillong. The lake went quickly from being a mere reservoir to one of the most happening tourist places in Shillong. It is host to numerous water adventure activities, boating being the classic choice! The clean waters of the lake are ideal for boating. 

Choose from a diverse range of cruise boats, sailboats, rowboats, paddle boats and speed boats! The panoramic sprawl of the East Khasi Hills can be viewed spectacularly from the lake. Furthermore, the lake houses a garden called Lum Nehru Park for you to visit. Nested amidst incredible greenery and grasslands, the lake is also compared to the great lakes of Scotland!

Timings: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Best Offers on North East Tour Packages: Enquire Now

Waterfall Rappelling at Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls is one of the many great waterfalls of Meghalaya and skirts Shillong. This two-tiered waterfall featuring triple cascades offers you plenty of adventure opportunities. Forget your regular rappelling and rock climbing, Elephant Falls brings you something even more exciting! One of the most thrilling things to do in Shillong is waterfall rappelling, and there are few other places that can match the beauty of Elephant Falls. 

If you’re a beginner, begin with a height of about 40 ft. Feel the smashing flow of water hitting you while you struggle to rappel down, seeking sure footing. This can be done throughout the year, but if you’re seeking pure adrenaline, the monsoon is your best bet.

Trekking at David Scott’s trail

The David Scott Trail is one of the oldest and most popular trekking routes in Shillong. It follows the old trail running from Cherrapunji to Bangladesh, used mostly by mules and horses. The trek wind through the Khasi Hills, and unfolds from Mawphlang to Ladmawphlang, two of the most rustic and beautiful villages of Shillong, both of which are steeped in Khasi history and culture. 

The treks span 16 km over an easy gradient and climb up to a maximum height of 4,892 ft. One section of the trail runs along the serene Umiam river too. Despite being a popular trekking trail, is poorly marked. You may require a guide to navigating through.

After a rough day at trekking, you will crave to relax in a soothing place and Shillong has numerous lavishing resorts  to have a splendid holiday. 

River Rafting in Umiam River

One of the most beautiful rivers in Meghalaya, the Umiam river guarded within the northern district of Shillong is the hub of all water adventure sports. Mothering the serene Umiam Lake, there is no shortage of water sports that you can try. Ranging from kayaking and river rafting to speed and row boating, spend a perfect day over the rapids of the Umiam river. 

The clear waters of the lake bear stunning, if somewhat distorted, reflections of the surrounding hills and forests. River rafting over these waves is one of the most unmissable things to do in Shillong, as the magnitude of tourists who flock to the place every year prove. Another great rafting destination is Ranikor, very close to Shillong.

Kayaking at Kynshi River

Kayaking not the calm, crystal blue waters of Kynshi river is one of the most thrilling things to do in Shillong. A classic Meghalayan adventure awaits you at the Kynshi river, strewn with massive rocks and boulders, and a handful of steep sections that make your heart skip a beat. Like Umiam Lake, the Kynshi river can also be seen flooded by tourists who seek pleasures in an adrenaline surge.

Besides kayaking, you can opt for swimming or sliding too! Although, you may want to avoid kayaking or even visiting the riverside during peak monsoons. There are sufficient safety measures for tourists, which means safety is the last thing you have to worry about.

• Cherrapunji

Boating and Fishing at Dawki River

Skirting the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, Dawki river, also known as Umngot river, is a beautiful green streak that is flanked by Bangladesh and India on either side. The river hosts boating and rising competitions every year and is the core of tourism in Dawki. Circled by tranquil greenery, the cool waters of Umngot serve as ideal means for boating and fishing. 

Spend a few hours of a beautiful evening fishing by the banks of Umngot with your loved ones, while the backdrop of pristine, unmarred beauty of Meghalaya watches over you. If you prefer a more quiet evening, take a walk along the suspension bridge that overlooks the river!

Beautiful Valley View from Shillong View Point

Shillong View Point, also referred to as Shillong Peak is the highest point in Meghalaya, sitting at 1,966 meters above sea level. It bears you stunning visual rewards, as the entire city of Shillong unfolds right before you, leaving you stunned. The peak is also a vantage point to the undulating green valleys of Shillong, Sylhet Plains of Bangladesh, along with silvery cascades and the mighty Himalayan ranges that border the city. 

The peak is usually shrouded in dense mist and fog and makes for an easy hike due to its mild, gradual gradient. A lingering folklore speaks of a revered deity that resides here, safeguarding Shillong from tragedies and natural calamities.

Timings: 09:00 AM to 03:30 PM everyday

Exploring the Caves in Shillong

Shillong is one of the most sought-after destinations for caving in India, owing to the innumerable caves that call it home. Some of these caves date back several centuries and bear untold stories of the bygone ages. Amongst the most famous caves in Shillong, the marvels of Mawsmai Cave, Mawjymbuin Cave and Krem Marai Cave stand out. 

Mawsmai Cave is well known for the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that it fosters, while the curious Mawjymbuin Cave boasts of a stalagmite shaped like the Shivalinga, believed to be sacred by the locals. The caves of Marai are steeped in mythology and folklore. Experience the thrill of cave exploration in Shillong, preferably with the help of a guide.

Golfing in Shillong Golf Club

Another famous spot cradled in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, the Shillong Golf Club is one of the finest golf tracks in the world! Seated amidst lush tree forests of a valley, lined with pine and rhododendrons, the golf course is an ideal place to spend a long, relaxed day. Featuring eighteen holes spanning the valley, the place has been honoured by the clubs of the finest players of Britain. 

Besides being a prominent destination and pride of Shillong, it is also the world’s wettest gold course! The greenery sits under a fresh blanket of mist and dew, enhancing the aura of the place. One of the most unique places to visit in Shillong, the golf course is a journey back into the colonial times!

Charges: Free

Timings: 05:00 AM to 08:00 PM

Rock Climbing at Khasi Hills

Khasi Hills are lodged at the core of Meghalaya, but East Khasi Hills steals the limelight when it comes to adventures, camping, and trekking! Housing stunning clusters of rock formations, there are ample opportunities for you to explore, discover, and rediscover your passion for rock climbing. 

Veered off the beaten path and the bustling streets of the city, East Khasi Hills is a paradise for professional rock climbers, as well as those making their first venture into the sport. That said, however, it is imperative that you hire a guide or at least consult the locals before running off into the hills, and picking your territory. A little caution goes a long way.

Charges: Charges differ from organisation to organisation.

Visit to Lady Hydari Park

Yet another one of the most popular tourist places in Shillong, the Lady Hydari Park is home to a beautiful, prominent Japanese garden that graces its entrance. Not only the garden, every corner of the park, including the designs, bears striking touches of Japanese traditions. The trail is lined with numerous willow trees overlooking clusters of rhododendrons and orchids amongst other beautiful floral species that thrive here. 

The park is also home to a little zoo, and an adjoining deer park. One of the most beautiful features of the park is the lush line of rose beds that grace it! No matter how long or short your trip to Shillong is, visit the Lady Hydari Park is a must.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM every day, except Mondays.

Charges: INR 10 per head.

Visit to Sweet Falls

Sitting fairly close to Happy Valley in Shillong, Sweet Falls is one of the most beautiful, albeit dangerous waterfalls in Meghalaya. The cascade tumbles down into a fall so steep that it is barely visible from the base of the waterfall. The sweeping beauty and the rich flowers that grace the surroundings of the falls makes for a mesmerising view. 

Although there are no fences or barricades guarding the foot of the fall, it is extremely ill-advised to try to approach it, as the area is likely to be slippery, and may result in a fatal fall. Wander into the gurgling realm of the waterfall, and admire the marvellous beauty from afar as the waters spray you with a gentle graze.

Best of Manali

Camping on Khasi Hills

Khasi Hills district forms the very heart of Meghalaya, sits amidst acres and acres of lush greenery. Wherever you go, whichever trail you follow, brace yourself for pleasant surprises everywhere! Sweeping green meadows, pristine forest tails lied with tall pine trees and streaks of gurgling streams await you. 

Explore some of the most beautiful campsites in Meghalaya, and prepare to be mesmerised by the canvas of the night sky, beset with millions of stars that tug at your heart. Trekking and camping in Khasi Hills are one of the most pleasurable things to do in Shillong.

Best of Nainital

Shopping at Police Bazar

The popular Police Bazar of Shillong is your one-stop destination for all your shopping needs. Regardless of whether you’re craving a taste of the local delicacies or just souvenirs and the like, Police Bazar is your saviour.  The streets are lined proper shops along with various streetside vendors. 

Ranging from beautiful handicraft items reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship of regional artists, right up to western fashion and ornaments, the place is a major tourist haunt. The quality of products is admirable, but you may need to dust your bargaining skills a bit before you venture here. If you’re good with haggling, you can find amazing things at throwaway prices!

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Best of Sikkim

Explore Mawphlang Sacred Grooves

The Sacred Grooves of Mawphlang is a beautiful sylvan realm where mother nature literally comes alive. Lined with countless trees that chaperone your trails, the forest is believed to be over 800 years old. There are endless stories tucked away within every corner of the forest, revealed to those who seek them. 

The atmosphere becomes cooler, and you can spot numerous stone altars which were used in the traditional rites and rituals of the Khasi natives. There are quite a few stories and legends that revolve around these grooves, all of which convey the presence of a deity which stands guard over the forest. The forest brings you a great deal of mystique, along with one single rule - you mustn’t take anything, not even leaves, from the forest.

Timings: 07:45 AM to 05:45 PM

Best of Gangtok

Walk Around Ward's Lake

Also known as Pollock’s Lake or Nan Polok, Ward’s Lake is one of the most prominent tourist places in Shillong. Believed to have been formed over a 100 years ago, the lake is circled by expansive greenery and is a famous picnic spot amongst tourists and locals alike. A beautiful garden featuring lovely cobble-stoned pavements sits in touching proximity to the lake, adding to the overall beauty of the setting. The place is crawling with tourists during the months of June and July, but if you’re seeking some quiet and peace, winter is the best time of the year, when the surrounding hills wear a veil of mist, and tourists are few in number. Timings: 08:00 AM to 07:00 PM during summers, and till 05:30 PM during winters

Charges: INR 10 per head

Best of Kullu

Spectating Laitlum Canyons

Lapped in the heart of the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, en route the Mizoram highway, Laitlum Canyons is one of the least explored parts of Meghalaya. The name literally means ‘end of hills’ canyon, and affords mind-blowing views of the entire sprawl of Shillong like never before. The undulating valleys, lush green hills, and beautiful rivers that ribbon through them, the view from these canyons are truly unbelievable. 

The beauty of these canyons is so enchanting, that they are often compared to Scottish Highlands! The place is well shaded away from the majority of tourists and brings you a peaceful dose of solitude and beauty amidst nature’s laps. A trip into the magical world of Laitlum Canyons is one of the most rewarding things to do in Shillong!

Best of Meghalaya

Visiting Don Bosco Museum

The Don Bosco Museum is the storehouse of all the information and documentation on all the seven states of North East India. Besides the important historical information, the museum also displays the fascinating traits of the North Eastern culture. 

Also, a wide assortment of artwork, artefacts, handicrafts and visual documents of the regional artists is hosted inside the museum, making it an unbeatable destination for patrons of culture, history and art. It offers you a fascinating glance at the indigenous tradition, along with their craftsmanship. 

The museum also hosts numerous competitions for musicians, writers and artists every year. Another highlight of the place is its brilliant architecture, built as a hexagonal figure.

Timings: 09:00 AM to 04:30 PM every day, except Sundays.

Charges: INR 100 per head

Best of Cherrapunji

Horse Riding to Shillong Peak

Horse rising to Shillong peak is one of the most iconic things to do in Shillong, and it’s a shame if you miss out on it. Being the highest point in Meghalaya, the peak is perched atop 1,966 meters and is a window to sweeping views of the verdant greenery that engulf it. 

To an already beautiful experience, add the thrill of horseback riding along the undulating trails, and you’ve got yourself an experience to cherish for the rest of your life! The trail meanders through tropical forests, home to a variety of floral species. Begin the ride from the town, and go all the way to the peak where you treat yourself to birds’ eye views of the townscape.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 03:00 PM

Best of Mcleodganj

Visit Cathedral Catholic Church

Fondly referred to as the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, the Cathedral Catholic Church is a religious shrine cradled within the deepest parts of Shillong, straddling Dhankheti and Laitumkhrah. It rests on the same land where the very first church of Shillong had once stood. 

Even if you’re not inclined towards religion, you must visit the cathedral simply for the beautifully preserved touches of Gothic architecture that adorn the interiors. Adding to the marvel of the church is the fact that it has been earthquake-proofed by strengthening the base of the building with sand! On a warm, sunny day with clear skies, views of the majestic Himalayan peaks along with the sacred Brahmaputra river treat you!

Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:30 PM

Best of Pelling

Trending in Shillong

Trekking in shillong.

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.

More Shillong Attractions

Shillong travel guides.

Shillong Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Shillong

More things to do in shillong, more on shillong tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property

SHILLONG TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO SHILLONG

• Shillong Overview
• Top 29 Places to Visit in Shillong
• Best Shillong Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Shillong
• Best Time to Visit Shillong

How to Reach Shillong

• Shillong Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Shillong

About Shillong

Country: india | state: meghalaya, #1 of 6 places to visit in meghalaya | #58 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2 full days, base station: shillong, nearest city to shillong: shillong, guwahati (98 kms), best time to visit shillong: september to may, peak season: march to april, shillong weather: summer: maximum - 32° c and minimum - 18° c winter: maximum - 20° c and minimum - 5° c.

At a distance of 98 km from Guwahati, 377 km from Dhaka, 414 km from Kohima, 420 km from Cooch Behar, 572 km from Siliguri, 594 km from Darjeeling, 631 km from Gangtok and 1116 km from Kolkata, Shillong is a mesmerizing hill station in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya in India. Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya as well as the headquarters of East Khasi Hills district. It is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India and among the must include places in your honeymoon tour packages . Perched at an attitude of 1496 m, Shillong is situated on a plateau bounded by the Umiam gorge on the north, Diengiei Hills on the northwest, and the hills of the Assam valley on the northeast. Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong with an altitude of 6449 feet. The city gets its name from the deity Shyllong or Lei Shyllong, who is worshipped at the Shillong Peak. The British fondly called Shillong the 'Scotland of the East' as the rolling hills around the town reminded the European settlers of Scotland. Earlier a small village, Shillong became the new civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia hills in 1864 CE. In 1874, it became the capital of composite Assam under British rule due to its favorable location between the Brahmaputra and Surma valleys. Shillong remained the capital of Assam till 1969 when the autonomous state of Meghalaya was formed. In 1972 CE, Meghalaya turn out to be a full-fledged state and Shillong was made its capital. The exciting mountain peaks, colourful tribal culture, beautiful landscapes, crystal clear lakes and breathtaking waterfalls, making Shillong a popular tourist destination in North East India. Elephant Falls, Sweet Falls, Umiam Lake, Ward's Lake, Shillong Peak, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong Cathedral, Air Force Museum and Don Bosco Museum are the top places to visit in Shillong. Shillong also houses Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth and Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia. It is also a hub of education in the North East because of the many renowned educational institutions. Shillong Airport, also called as Umroi Airport is the nearest airport which is about 30 km from Shillong. It has direct flights from Kolkata. Guwahati Airport is the major airport which is about 120 km from Shillong and is well-connected by flights with cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai and Jaipur. About 98 km, Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest rail head to Shillong which is well connected by train with Kolkata, Delhi, Agartala, Mumbai, Bikaner, Dibrugarh, Tambaram, Bangalore, Silchar, Trivandrum, Hyderabad, Patna, Kanyakumari, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Chennai and Jammu Tawi. Shillong is well connected by road with Guwahati, Silchar, Dharmanagar and Karimganj. Shillong is often called as 'India's Rock Capital' due to the great passion for music among the inhabitants of the city. Shad Suk Mynsiem Dance, Nongkrem Dance, Behdeinkhlam Festival, Wangala Festival and Autumn Festival are the important festivals celebrated with great pomp and fervor in Shillong every year. The best time to visit Shillong is from the months of September to May. 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.

...read more

Nearest Airport: Shillong - Umroi Airport (30 Kms)

Direct flights to shillong, nearest train station: guwahati (98 kms), direct trains to guwahati, nearest bus station: shillong bus stand (0 kms), direct buses to shillong, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to shillong, top 13 places to visit in shillong.

#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 .....

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 .....

Shillong Related Pages

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

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.

You may also like my travel stories from Egypt: Ancient, Mysterious and Everlasting Pyramids of Giza

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.

Related Posts

Please Share This Share this content

• Opens in a new window

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Places to Visit in Shillong- The Abode of Clouds!

• Sightseeing
• Summer Holidays
• April 8, 2019 in Sightseeing , Summer Holidays
• Hotels to book in Shillong places of interest in Shillong Shillong in summer holidays Shillong tourist attractions visiting places in Shillong

Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya also known as the ‘Scotland of the East is one of the most  popular tourist destinations of India.  Situated at an altitude of 4,990-feet above sea level, it is a perfect mix of unique culture and natural heritage. If one wants to see the natural charm of the NorthEast then there are numerable places to visit in Shillong.

Find Best Hotels in Shillong

The cascading waterfalls, azure lakes, botanical gardens, breathtaking greenery, swaying pine trees, and museums displaying the enriched culture of the Khasis, all make Shillong a perfect holiday destination. The cherry blossoms trees are a sight to behold in October. Shillong, which means abode of clouds is a beautiful hill station in the North-East part of India nestled amidst the mesmerizing Khasi and GaroHills, and your visit to this enchanting place remains incomplete if you have not visited the following tourist attractions and not witnessed the exquisite beauty that this hill station has to offer.

Top 9 Places To Visit In Shillong

• Elephant Falls
• Shillong Peak
• Sohpetbneng Peak
• Don Bosco Museum
• Laitlum Canyons
• Ward’s Lake
• Mary Help for Christian Cathedral
• Cherrapunjee

1. Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls is undoubtedly one of the main tourist attractions, situated just 12 kilometers away from the state capital. Flanked by the beauty of the frothy water dropping in layers and dense green vegetation, it is a complete sight to behold and can be visited with family on a picnic or with friends for a days’ outing. The awesome waterfall was named by the Britishers after a rock at its bottom that appears like an elephant. However, the uncanny resemblance was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897. With three layers of the falls accessible and surrounded in lush greenery, with crystal clear streams of water brushing through its rock, this mesmerizing sight is a complete tourists’ paradise. Though the falls can be visited any time of the year, monsoons are the best time to see the falls in their full might and the magical feeling will remain engraved in your mind forever. The three-layered cascading natural view is considered one of the most spectacular  waterfalls in India .

Tip : It is advised to leave early from your place of stay to avoid traffic and congestion on the road leading towards the Elephant Falls. Also, the stairs leading to the falls might be slippery, so make sure you wear comfortable footwear with a good grip.

Location: Upper Shillong, Shillong

Best time to visit: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry fees :INR 20 per person

Activities/Attractions: Nature photography, sightseeing, shopping for souvenirs, Bamboo handicrafts, and exquisite hand-woven woolen shawls.

2. Shillong Peak

Another place worth visiting in Shillong, this peak is the highest spot of the city situated at a height of 1965 metres from sea level and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the scenic countryside, the lofty peaks of the Himalayas, several cascading waterfalls, and the plains of the neighbouring country, Bangladesh. One can reach this beautiful peak via the Upper Shillong or Jowai Road. Trekking is a highly recommended activity to get the most out of your visit to this tourist attraction, which is often covered by mist and fog.

The abundant greenery and magnificent views all around will keep you spellbound. It is a true heaven for nature lovers, trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and birdwatchers. It is believed that the patron deity Lieshyllong from which the name Shillong is derived resides in these hills and is its protector. There is a sacred site at the top of Shillong Peak where every spring ritual is organized. The place also has an Airforce base and a radar, and so tourists are advised not to carry their cameras and be prepared for strict security checking.

Tip: Carry a valid ID proof for entry beyond the check post

Location: Shillong View Point, Shillong

Best time to visit: 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Entry fees: N/A

Activities/Attractions: Photography, trekking, and bird watching

3. Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake  is one of the other top places to see in Shillong and is situated at Umiam, at a short distance from the city on the Shillong-Guwahati Highway. Popularly known as Barapani, this refreshing site is a place where you can be at peace with nature or enjoy a variety of water sports such as sailing, water skiing, fishing, cruising, kayaking, and water scooter rides. The place is surrounded by dense coniferous forests on one side and the East Khasi Hills on the other and offers enchanting views, making it the best iconic place for landscape artists and photographers.

This huge manmade lake has some small islands and great picnic spots and also houses a dam built on the Umiam River that is worth visiting despite the curvy congested road leading to it. The Lum Nehru Park in the vicinity is quite popular amongst locals as well as tourists. Be it students, casual holiday seekers, nature lovers, botanists, or adventure seekers, there is something for everyone here. So if you are planning a trip to Shillong do plan a day trip to this getaway. There is an interesting story behind the name Umiam, which means water of tears in the Khasi language. It is said that among two sisters while descending from heaven to Meghalaya one lost her life on the way. The other sister shed so many tears in grief that it formed the Umiam Lake.

Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong

Entry fees: INR 20 per person

Activities/Attractions: Pedal boating, fishing, kayaking, and various other water sports

4. Sohpetbneng Peak

Sohpetbneng Peak situated on the outskirts of the city is one of the other must places to visit in Shillong owing to its divine aura and peaceful nature. Regarded as the ‘Naval of Heaven’ by the local people as well as having religious significance for the Hinniewtrep Tribe it’s a photographer’s paradise. Its scenic and mesmerizing views draw tourists to this peak throughout the year. At an altitude of 1343 metres above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the forest all around it.

Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong

Best time to visit: 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Activities/Attractions: Trekking, photography, and sightseeing

5. Don Bosco Museum

Don Bosco Museum is the place to visit if you are a history buff. The museum exhibits a wide collection of regional artwork, attires, artefacts, paintings, handicrafts, ornamentation, photographs, and weapons, and is considered one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia. It consists of a seven-storey building with seventeen galleries for viewers to enjoy and covers the cultural heritage of nearly the whole of North East India. This museum of Indigenous Culture is a must-visit to get an excellent insight into the rich heritage and culture of the tribes in the North East.

Location: Mawlai, Shillong

Best time to visit: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Saturday; closed on Sundays

Entry fees: INR 50 per person

Activities/Attractions: History and architecture

6. Laitlum Canyons

One of the not-so-famous but enchanting places to see in Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is just a 45-minute drive away from the city. Laitlum literally means ‘The End of Hills’ and the panoramic vistas you can witness here make it very popular among photographers and trekkers. This tourist spot is perched atop the East Khasi Hills and is surrounded by thick lush green forests and majestic mountain peaks, and one can spend hours here enjoying its solitude and surrounding beauty.

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong

Best time to visit: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM

7. Ward’s Lake

One of the other popular tourist attractions in this beautiful city is Ward’s Lake. This horseshoe-shaped lake locally known as Pollock’s Lake is situated in the centre of the city is surrounded by a beautiful garden and encircled by a cobblestone walkway and is very popular among morning and evening walkers. The sprawling lotus beds on the borders of the lake and the dancing fountain shows attract couples, picnickers, locals, and tourists in hordes. One can just chill in the cafeteria there or roam about in the botanical garden.

Location: Police Bazar, Shillong

Best time to visit: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Entry fees: INR 10 per person

Activities/Attractions: Boating, fishing, feeding the fish from the wooden bridge on the lake, walking, and sightseeing

8. Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

There are several churches worth visiting in Shillong but the Mary Help for Christian Cathedral is a must-visit. Founded in the year 1936, this church is a prominent religious place in Shillong and quite famous for its unique and striking architecture. Being an example of Gothic Revival Architecture, it is a great example for the patrons of architecture. Situated on top of a hill this holy building gives a feeling of serenity and spirituality. The high arches and stained glass windows, artwork showcasing scenes from the Holy Scriptures, the white marble building enhance the overall appearance of the church. The statue of Mother Mary looks elegant and grand even today after so many years of it being built. As you enter the cathedral you can see beautiful terracotta stations of the cross that depicts the life events of Holy Jesus.

This is said to be the cathedral of the Roman Archdiocese of Shillong and is the main praying hall of the Christians of East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi. The church is so designed that it can absorb the shock waves from earthquake tremors. Being in the centre of the city, it’s brimmed with devotees on Sundays. Visitors are advised to visit this holy structure on weekdays to enjoy its elegance and soak in the peaceful environment.

Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong

Best time to visit: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM, Monday to Saturday and 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM on Sunday

Activities/Attractions: Architecture of the building

9. Cherrapunjee

A must place to visit is Cherrapunjee, which is situated at two hours’ distance from Shillong and is 1,300 metres above sea level. Famed for having the heaviest rainfall in the world, this is the wettest place on Earth. Also known as Sohra there are several roaring waterfalls, including the famous Nohsngithiang Falls here, and is a very popular holiday destination. There are plenty of reasons for visiting this marvellous gem of nature.

 The natural beauty of the area, the scene of the rivers that fall from mountains in thunderous waterfalls, the towns famous limestone caves, the thriving flora and fauna, the oranges, the natural honey as well as it being a headquarter of the Syiem of Sohra and a Centre of the Khasi Culture and Literature. With climatic changes, Cherrapunjee has lost its wet slot but even today it’s still stunning with the swirling clouds, misty valley, foaming rivers, cascading waterfalls, and scenic route. This abode of clouds is not to be missed when you visit Shillong.

Location: Cherrapunjee

Best time to visit: October to May, 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM

Activities/Attractions:   Photography and sightseeing

So, to spice up your whole holiday experience, make sure you include in your bucket list these best places to see in Shillong. All of these places in and around Shillong bring out its natural side and mesmerizing hilly vibes and if you too want to experience it, then we recommend you to include most of these enticing places in your itinerary. Happy holidays! 

• SHARE THIS ON:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Book a hotel

• City Select Cities Agra Ahmedabad Alwar Amritsar Aurangabad Autumn Badrinath Bangalore Bathinda Bhopal Bhubaneswar Bihar Chandigarh Chennai Coimbatore Coorg Darjeeling Dehradun Delhi Dhanushkodi Dharamshala Dwarka Gangtok Garba Ghaziabad Goa Gujarat Gurgaon Guwahati Himachal Pradesh Himalaya Hyderabad India Indore Jaipur Jamshedpur Jodhpur Karnataka Kashmir Kedarnath Kerala Kochi Kodaikanal Kolkata Kotagiri Kullu Leh Ladakh Lonavala Lucknow Madhya Pradesh Madurai Mahabaleshwar Maharashtra Manali Manesar Mathura Mount Abu Mumbai Munnar Mussoorie Nagpur Nainital New Delhi Noida Odisha Ooty Patna Pondicherry Pune Puri Raigad Raipur Rajasthani Ranchi Rishikesh Shillong Shimla sikkim Siliguri Srinagar Surat Tamil Nadu Tawang Trivandrum Udaipur Ujjain Uttar Pradesh Uttrakhand Vadodara Varanasi
• Guests 1 Guest 2 Guest 3 Guest

Recent Posts

Mississippi: your next travel destination.

Spring Break Hotels Near Stunning Beaches

Here Are Some Responsible Travel Tips For Meaningful Experiences On The Road

Countdown to Midnight: Epic New Year’s Eve Parties 2024 in Indian Metropolises

Essential Backpacking Tips For A Seamless Travel Experience

• Uncategorized
• beach holidays

Please rotate your device

Please go back to portrait mode for the best experience

2-Day Shillong Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Shillong in 2 days
• 1-Day Shillong Itinerary
• 3-Day Shillong Itinerary
• 4-Day Shillong Itinerary
• 5-Day Shillong Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: proximity is everything, elephant falls.

Don Bosco Museum

Lady Hydari Park

Cathedral of mary help of christians, shillong view point, laitkor peak, laitlum canyon, where to eat, bamboo hut restaurant - restaurant in shillong, open up cafe, cafe shillong heritage.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

OB Shopping Mall

Ward's lake, air force museum, khasi heritage village, mawphlang sacred grove, the evening club, city hut family dhaba.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Top searches in Shillong

Popular road trips from shillong, what's the weather like in shillong.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Shillong for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Shillong in January
• Weather in Shillong in February
• Weather in Shillong in March
• Weather in Shillong in April
• Weather in Shillong in May
• Weather in Shillong in June
• Weather in Shillong in July
• Weather in Shillong in August
• Weather in Shillong in September
• Weather in Shillong in October
• Weather in Shillong in November
• Weather in Shillong in December

All road trips from Shillong

• Shillong to Bangkok drive
• Shillong to New Delhi drive
• Shillong to Siem Reap drive
• Shillong to Hanoi drive
• Shillong to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Shillong to Kathmandu drive
• Shillong to Jaipur drive
• Shillong to Mumbai drive
• Shillong to Agra drive
• Shillong to Gangtok drive
• Shillong to Darjeeling drive
• Shillong to Pattaya drive
• Shillong to Chiang Mai drive
• Shillong to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Shillong to Phnom Penh drive
• Shillong to Bengaluru drive
• Shillong to Hyderabad drive
• Shillong to Varanasi drive
• Shillong to Thimphu drive
• Shillong to Luang Prabang drive
• Shillong to Krabi Town drive
• Shillong to Bagan drive
• Shillong to Udaipur drive
• Shillong to Dhaka City drive
• Shillong to Pokhara drive
• Shillong to Mandalay drive
• Shillong to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Shillong to Chiang Rai drive
• Shillong to Hua Hin drive
• Shillong to Mysuru (Mysore) drive

Explore nearby places

• Laitmawsiang
• Cherrapunjee
• Sonapur Pathar
• Kaziranga National Park
• Nameri National Park
• Sylhet City
• Manas National Park

All related maps of Shillong

• Map of Shillong
• Map of Mawlynnong
• Map of Jowai
• Map of Mukhla
• Map of Laitmawsiang
• Map of Nongpoh
• Map of Sohra
• Map of Cherrapunjee
• Map of Jakrem
• Map of Dawki
• Map of Jaflong
• Map of Bataw
• Map of Sonapur Pathar
• Map of Nongstoin
• Map of Dispur
• Map of Kaziranga National Park
• Map of Nameri National Park
• Map of Guwahati
• Map of Sunamganj
• Map of Sylhet City
• Map of Hajo
• Map of Marigaon
• Map of Karimganj
• Map of Mangaldai
• Map of Nalbari
• Map of Nagaon
• Map of Sibsagar
• Map of Barpeta
• Map of Manas National Park
• Map of Hailakandi
• Map of Silchar

Shillong throughout the year

• Shillong in January
• Shillong in February
• Shillong in March
• Shillong in April
• Shillong in May
• Shillong in June
• Shillong in July
• Shillong in August
• Shillong in September
• Shillong in October
• Shillong in November
• Shillong in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Shillong?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Guwahati Itinerary
• 2-Day Cherrapunjee Itinerary
• 2-Day Mawlynnong Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Appointments
• Corporate Connect
• Discover Your India
• Explore the world
• Food Voyager
• Hotels & Resorts
• Lifestyle, Weddings & Wellness
• Today's Traveller Awards
• Today's Traveller Interviews

• Today’s Traveller Awards
• Today’s Traveller Interviews

7 best places to visit in Shillong, Meghalaya

Nestled amidst the clouds and the mountains of the east khasi hills is the picturesque city of shillong..

The state capital of Meghalaya is surrounded by lush rolling hills and swaying high pines, and was named ‘the Schotland of the East’ by the Britishers. It is a place dotted with majestic waterfalls and valleys stretching beyond the horizon. Meghalaya is a nature paradise and undoubtedly a must-visit in the North East of India .

Shillong, along with its exotic natural resources, is also a place of unique cultural blend. The indigenous people here in the state of Meghalaya are the Garo and Khasi tribe with rich heritage and vibrant traditions. However, the younger generation is highly influenced by western rock and roll music and often Shillong is referred to as the ‘Rock and Blues Capital ’ of the country.

One of the most accessible cities in North East India, Shillong has it all. From mesmerizing waterfalls to British Architecture, sunset points , and panoramic views to amazing nightlife, Shillong caters to all of your travel desires. And of the numerous attractions, here are the best seven places to visit in Shillong:

Elephant falls

Only 12 km away from the city center is this gorgeous waterfall and a prime tourist attraction. It has crystal clear water sprawling through three tiers of rocks and lush greenery surrounding the area. The fall was originally named ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ by the Khasi people, which meant ‘Three Steps Waterfalls’, owing to its three layers.

Later the Britishers named it Elephant Falls because of the presence of a huge elephant-shaped rock at the bottom of the waterfall. However, the rock was destroyed in a major earthquake in the year 1897. This stunning waterfall in the Upper Shillong region stays open till 6 in the evening. One may club it with a visit to the highest point of Shillong, Shillong Peak, to get a panoramic view of the city and the countryside.

One of the most scenic places in the state is Lake Umiam. Built as a reservoir on the Umiam river in the 1960s, today is an ideal place for nature lovers. With the blue of the water and the vastness of the lake, and the dense coniferous forest surrounding the area, this place is truly magical and is a perfect spot for some landscape photography.

Located on the Guwahati-Shillong highway, around 15 km away from the city, the lake is popular for picnics among the locals. One can visit this place for a day trip and unwind in nature. There are even various water sports activities to take part in, like kayaking, fishing, and cruising.

Laitlum Canyons

Another place to visit in Shillong is the enchanting Laitlum Canyons. A secluded and serene viewing point, it offers panoramic vistas of the majestic Khashi hills, dotted with waterfalls and valleys. ‘Laitlum’ which means ‘The end of hills’, is exactly how it feels to be there at the edge of the hills witnessing the surreal surrounding. It is 23kms away from the city center and takes about 45 mins to reach the canyon.

Laitlum Canyons is a beautiful and rugged section of the eastern Himalayas located in Shillong, India. This spectacular region is known for its awe-inspiring views of snow-covered peaks, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. It’s a great place to explore nature, take pictures and simply relax.

The incredible beauty of Laitlum Canyons is what draws people to it. From a distance, the mountains and canyons look like they’ve been carved out of solid stone with jagged ridges and steep drops. Closer up, these sharp edges are softened by lush trees and plants that give the landscape a serene feel. The valleys are covered in thick green vegetation and the river streams are full of cascading waterfalls .

The view from the top of the Canyons is breathtaking. It’s easy to spot distant villages tucked away in the mountains and lots of wildlife roaming around. The best time to visit is early morning, as the sun rises over the horizon and paints the sky with a pinkish hue.

The area is also known for its great hiking trails. Paths lead through quiet forests, along river banks, and up steep climbs to vantage points where you can get an even better view of the landscape. The terrain can be quite challenging, but it’s also rewarding as the views are spectacular. Laitlum Canyons is an amazing place to experience nature in all its glory.

Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

Built in 1936, this cathedral is a prominent place of worship for both locals as well as tourists. The church sits on a hilltop with rich green lawns and displays stunning Gothic architecture. With tall arches and stain-painted windows, the cathedral gives a feeling of serenity and calm. Only 4kms away from the city center, this place is a must-visit in Shillong.

The cathedral is one of the oldest churches in India. It features towering spires, intricate carvings, and stained glass windows.

The church has been dedicated to Mary Help of Christians, the patron saint of Shillong. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for both locals and tourists alike. The main entrance of the cathedral features a grand staircase leading up to the massive double doors that open into the main sanctuary. Inside the church, there are several Gothic-style sculptures of Jesus, Mary, and many saints that serve as a reminder of faith and devotion to the Lord.

The cathedral also features an elaborate pipe organ that plays enchanting hymns during services. This beautiful instrument creates a heavenly atmosphere inside the church which is further enhanced by its candle-lit altars. Tourists visiting the city should not miss the opportunity to visit this majestic church and revel in its beauty, history, and culture. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in Shillong, a symbol of faith, hope, and inspiration for all who visit.

Ward’s Lake

Locally known as Pollock’s Lake, it is a horseshoe-shaped lake surrounded by gardens with exotic flowers and cobblestone sidewalks. It is a quiet place for relaxation within the city and ideal for day visits and picnics.

As one of the most beautiful sights in the city, Ward’s Lake offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its crystal clear blue waters and lush gardens. On any given day, visitors to Ward’s Lake can wander along the banks of the lake, explore its natural beauty, or simply relax in its tranquil atmosphere. One can also go boating in the lake or feed the fish or simply stroll around the lake in the evening. The lake’s edge is lined with trees and shrubs that offer peaceful shade during the hot summer months.

The lake itself is full of life – many species of birds call this area their home. Visitors can watch them swooping, fluttering, and flying across the lake as they search for food or take a break in the trees. The lake also has a number of turtles and fish, adding to its charm and making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Ward’s Lake is a great place to bring visitors or family to experience the beauty of Shillong. The lake is well-maintained with pathways and benches for visitors to rest on while they take in the views. There are also a number of shops that line the banks selling traditional foods, refreshments, and souvenirs.

Air Force Museum

Built as a tribute to the country’s defense forces, the museum houses some unique and interesting information about the Indian Air force and its glorious history. It is a part of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Command in Shillong. It has an impressive collection of pictures from the Indo-China war and the Indo-Pak war, uniforms, missiles, medals, and model rockets and aircraft. Its most impressive displays are the 1971 war helicopter and fighter plane, MI 4, and Caribou DHC 4, used for bombing east Pakistan during the war. Another such museum in the city is the Don Bosco Museum, dedicated to the state’s rich tribal culture.

Police Bazar

When in Shillong city, one must visit the iconic Police Bazar to experience Shillong in its most authentic form. It is the major shopping hub for both locals and tourists alike. Situated in the heart of Shillong capital, it has arrays of shops and restaurants catering to both the shopaholic and the foodie in you. Apart from the big branded stores, it has a flea market section selling exquisite traditional jewelry, Meghalayan artillery, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

Apart from this, the market also has numerous nightclubs and cafes for music lovers and a chill night scene. Shillong is nothing like any other hill station in the country. It has a laid-back vibe, with an earthy smell of the rain and pines, and a unique blend of nature and culture. It is truly an enchanting city hidden behind the clouds.

Getting to Shillong.

• The Umroi Airport or Shillong Airport is situated at a distance of 30 km from the city centre of Shillong.
• Guwahati Railway Station is the closest railhead to Shillong. The distance from Guwahati to Shillong by road is 99 Km.

Read More: Latest

Table of Contents

Our social presence.

• Discover India
• Hotels & Resorts
• Lifestyle, Weddings & wellness
• Todays Traveller awards
• Todays Traveller Interviews

Quick Links

Our social networks.

Top 5 Places To Visit In Shillong

Located at a height of 1496 meters above sea level, Shillong , the capital of Meghalaya , is a great destination that fits the dream of nature lovers and adventure seekers. The picturesque landscape of the hill station earns it the name the ‘ Scotland of the East ’. Located on Khasi Hills, the colorful city offers adventurous outdoor activities such as rock climbing and boating. Here are the top 5 places to visit in Shillong.

1. Shillong Peak

Situated 10 kms from the city, Shillong Peak offers spectacular views of the city from an impressive height of 1965 m above sea level. Being the highest point in Shillong, it offers stunning views of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. If you are here on a day when clouds do not play spoil sport, you will be able to view the majestic Himalayan peaks and the Bangladesh plains from here. Indian Air Force has its radar station here.

2. Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Culture

The culture of the land is best understood here and hence make it a point to visit Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Culture . The museum gives you a clear insight into the history and culture of the tribes who lived here in the ancient times. The seven storied building has many galleries that highlight the different faces of the city. The galleries here are about Prehistory of the tribal world, culture, art, musical instruments and tools used in the past for fishing and hunting. If you are adventurous enough you will love the skywalk on the sloping roof at the top of the building.

3. Laitlum Canyons

How much of nature would you be able to take on that make you miss many a heart beat? Viewing endless beauty of nature could be challenging too, so it seems when one goes to Laitlum Canyons . A paradise by every definition, Laitlum canyons in the Khasi Hills gives you panoramic views of the hills and valleys. A place that is not much explored gives you an experience of a lifetime – naturally so, considering the fact that Laitlum means ‘end of hill’. You will have breathtaking views of valleys and surrounding hills from here. Trekkers are in for great exercise and even if you are not one, you are going to love every minute of it.

4. Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls , the Three Steps Waterfalls as it is originally called, is located 12 km from the capital city. The three steps in which the water falls earned it the name as Three Steps Waterfalls, which was later called as Elephant Falls by the British. The stone that resembled an elephant near the beautiful falls inspired the British to name the falls thus though the stone is no longer seen as it was destroyed in 1897 by an earthquake. The rainy season brings more life to the already energetic waterfalls and you will see the falls in full vigor. You may combine your visit to Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls on a single day as both are just a few minutes away from each other.

5. Mawjymbuin Caves

Mawjymbuin Caves , one of the leading attractions of Shillong, is located 56 km from the city. The natural caves are situated on the world’s wettest place, Mawsynram. You will be required to do some stretching, squeezing and at times go on all fours as you explore the caves. The spectacular stalagmites seen in the caves are amazing. One such huge stalagmite is in the shape of Shiva Linga on which drops of water fall steadily from a stone above. Exploring the naturally formed caves is a thrilling experience, which words fail to describe.

Shillong, one of the most compelling tourist destinations deserve more time to explore the land and take in the essence of its rich culture and enjoy its endless natural beauty. I had been to more tourist destinations here but the above mentioned places are my favorite places here. Do send along your ‘top favorites’ list here so that we will have more for tourists who plan to visit Shillong.

More Tourist Destinations In Manipur:

• Top Places To Visit In Cherrapunji
• Top Places To Visit In Tura
• Top Places To Visit In Mawlai

About Rohit

6 thoughts on “Top 5 Places To Visit In Shillong”

It will be my first time to visit Meghalaya and it will be for two days only.

I am retired and 70 years old. Kindly guide me details on which area of north east India we should visit.

Would travel during the 1st week of nov to shillong with my two yr old kid and hubby for 5 days.kindly guide on the must see places apart from above. Thanks Priya

Is it necessary to higher a guide to visit Shillong ?

Kindly advice me,i have 9 days to visit north east.I decided to go to sikkim,asam(guwahati)and Shillong.kindly advice me that how much days are sufficient to visit Shillong.

Hello! 2 days is too short although if you reach early from Guwahati you may take : DAy 01: arrive early by taking early flight to Guwahati and drive in 03 hrs to Shillong for 100 Km & take half day local sight seeing including Shillong top, Idlew market, Donbosco museum and elephants fall. Evening stroll around the wards lake. Overnight Shillong.

Day 02 : early morning drive to Cherrapunjee to see the water fall , an old church built by the British and if you are fit walk for 5 Kim’s to see the living root bridge , you can take a local guide from Cherrapunjee holiday resort. Drive back to Shillong to be convenient to reach Guwahati to catch your flight.

Day 03 : drive to Guwahati to catch your flight or train.

You can find various good hotel as per your budget.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Shillong Peak
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Culture
• Laitlum Canyons
• Elephant Falls
• Mawjymbuin Caves
• Best Time to Visit Shillong
• Cherrapunji
• Williamnagar
• Balpakram National Park
• Nokrek National Park
• Cherrapunjee
• Hill Stations in Meghalaya
• National Parks in Meghalaya

Shillong Tourism: An Absolute Travel Guide

The Meghalayan state capital and hill town of Shillong is located in northeastern India. Shillong, in the state of Meghalaya, is situated at an altitude of 1496 metres above sea level. Prior to the creation of Meghalaya in 1972, Shillong remained Assam’s capital. Shillong, Meghalaya, is a great vacation spot all year round because of the location, the people, and the climate, which all worked together to create a friendly atmosphere. Shillong is located 56 kilometres from Cherrapunjee, the wettest region on Earth. Shillong is surrounded by green mountains, pine woods, and stunning lakes and waterfalls. Popular highland town that the British used to refer to as the Scotland of the East. Shillong is a beautiful, clean city with a lot to offer. Meghalaya is known for its numerous caves in addition to its breathtaking waterfalls, which draw visitors from both India and outside. A couple of the state’s caverns have been ranked as some of the world’s longest and deepest. Shillong metro’s overall resident population considerably surpasses 3.5 lakhs, while the town itself has a population of more than 1.4 lakhs. And Shillong town is roughly 64.4 square kilometres in size overall. Shillong Peak, which rises to a height of 6,449 feet and provides panoramic views of the town and its surroundings, is the highest point in this area and a well-liked tourist destination. Additionally, this is where Meghalaya’s highest point is located. This pleasant hill town has a lot to offer visitors, including a lot of beautiful viewpoints, spectacular waterfalls, picturesque lakes with boating opportunities, museums, excellent hotels & restaurants of all kinds, and a tonne of activities in addition to shopping. In addition, the inhabitants are endearing and hospitable, and the climate is cool all year round, making it an alluring destination.

What Makes Shillong so Famous?

The only hill station in the nation that is reachable from every direction is Shillong, which is also the capital of Meghalaya. Shillong, which is 1,491 metres above sea level, gets its name from U-Shyllong, a powerful deity. The city is surrounded by valleys and is located in the centre of a plateau. This lovely city is 103 kilometres away from Guwahati. Due to its unspoiled beauty and the rolling hills of lush greenery that perfectly envelop it, Shillong is known as the Scotland of the East. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Meghalaya and the entire North-East is Shillong, which is adorned with stunning waterfalls, emerald fields, and hills. There are many sites to explore in Shillong if one wishes to experience the natural beauty of the North East. Shillong is the ideal vacation spot because of its tumbling waterfalls, clear lakes, floral gardens, stunning scenery, swinging pine trees, and museums that showcase the rich culture of the Khasis. Shillong is the centre of education for the entire north-east thanks to the existence of numerous highly regarded educational institutions, many of which were founded by different missionary groups. Along with its natural beauty, Shillong serves as a gateway to Meghalaya, a region known for its incredible people, tallest waterfalls, caves, and gorgeous scenery. Additionally, Shillong is quickly becoming the Northeastern region’s centre for education.

History, Language, and People of Shillong

History Yeddo, or “Iewduh” as the locals call it, was Shillong’s previous name. Later, because the new town was situated beneath the Shillong Peak, the name “Shillong” was chosen. Additionally, the city’s name has a little history. According to the locals, a virgin gave birth to a beautiful stillborn child, which she buried in her garden. The child was resurrected in a supernatural form years later, grew up, and reached such beauty and power that the people worshipped him as a deity and gave him the name U-Shyllong (meaning one who grows naturally). Shillong was thereafter given his name in his honour. The phrase “Khot Shyllong,” which translates to “Call Shyllong,” is still recited by the locals during times of extreme tragedy or catastrophe. Shillong is only a short drive from Guwahati, which can be reached by car along NH 40. The drive takes about 2 hours 30 minutes and passes through verdant hills and the Umiam lake. Shillong has been chosen as the 100th city to receive money under the center’s flagship Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation AMRUT “Smart Cities Mission.” Language Shillong’s primary language of communication is Khasi, despite the fact that English is the state’s official tongue. The city also has a significant English, Hindi, Bengali, Assamese, and Nepali speaking population. Because they are fluent in both Hindi and English, the locals encourage tourists. People Shillong, which served as the capital of composite Assam under British administration, has kept some of its colonial elegance despite being thoroughly contemporary. One of the main tribes in Meghalaya, the Khasis, make up the majority of the population in the city. A limited number of Garos, Jaintias, and members of the Bengali, Assamese, Nepali, and Hindi-speaking populations have merged with the Khasi community. Shillong is a predominantly Christian state with sizable populations of Muslims, Seng-Khasis, Hindus, etc. Shillong residents prefer wearing western clothing, while the younger generation also occasionally dons traditional garb. But among the elders, the traditional clothing of the Khasis, the “Jymphong” for men and the “Jainsem” or “Dhara” for women, is very common. On important occasions, the women furthermore don a crown made of silver or gold that has a spike or peak attached to the back. The Khasi culture is a matrilineal one, which is a significant fact.

Popular Shillong Tourism Packages

Amazing Meghalaya Assam and Arunachal Pradesh Tour

10 Days Mesmerizing Assam Tour

Majestic 10 Days Meghalaya Tour

Enchanting Meghalaya Tour

9 Days Meghalaya Assam Arunachal Tour Package

Amazing Meghalaya Tour

8 Days Meghalaya Holiday Tour

8 Days Tour of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh

Majestic Cherrapunji Dawki Mawlynnong Tour

Majestic Kaziranga and Meghalaya Tour

Travel guides.

Places to visit in Shillong

Things to do in shillong.

Guwahati To Shillong- A Complete Travel Guide

Top tourist attractions in shillong.

“Scotland of the East,” Shillong is one of Meghalaya’s most well-known tourist destinations in the Northeast and a location that is on everyone’s travel wish list. Visitors from all over the world who want to escape the bustle of daily life are attracted to the region by its forested hills, pleasant ambiance, and stunning natural surroundings. The following locations are worth seeing in Shillong.

Shillong Peak

A picnic at the Shillong Peak in Shillong, Meghalaya, would be a lot of fun. From this point, you may get an incredible aerial view of the city spread out against the lovely hill slopes. The highest point in the state is Shillong Peak in Meghalaya, which rises to a height of 1956 metres. It is regarded as one of the state’s most picturesque regions and is well-known for its thick tropical vegetation and enormous chasms that abruptly end at the road. It is regarded as a popular vacation destination.

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls, one of Meghalaya’s natural beauties, is near the stone in the shape of an elephant. The name “Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew,” which translates to “The Three Step Waterfalls,” is given to the stunning Elephant Falls by the local Khasi people because it refers to a series of three gorgeous falls that follow one another. Behind two massive trees sits the first waterfall, which is the largest of the three.

Ward’s Lake

This renowned lake can be found smack dab in the midst of Shillong. Visitors and locals alike go there. The lake seems beautiful because of the dense flora surrounding it. The lovely and serene surroundings of the lake are a wonderful place to spend time.

Don Bosco Museum

A seven-story historical building, the Don Bosco Museum has 17 rooms with exhibits that take visitors on a tour of life in Northeast India. It’s in Shillong, where it is. Also included in these galleries are a wide range of artistic expressions, antiquities, outfits, tools, and labor-intensive crafts that depict the customs and way of life of the different tribes and people of Meghalaya.

If you think manufactured lakes can never be as beautiful as natural ones, all it will take is one visit to Umiam Lake to make you reconsider. The lake is vast with a surface size of 221 square kilometres. The best place to take beautiful images and appreciate how amazingly creative nature and people can be is in Umiam. You’ll want to keep in mind this breathtaking image of the sun setting for the rest of your life. One of Meghalaya’s most gorgeous tourist spots is this reservoir, which is encircled by lush hills. Umiam Lake also offers other fun water sports including skiing, boating, and yachting.

Lady Hydari Park

The park in Shillong, which honours Lady Hydari, the province’s first lady, is a very famous tourist destination. This large park, which is in the centre of the city, contains a variety of plants as well as a small zoo that is home to 73 bird species and more than 100 reptiles. The park’s centrepiece is the lovely flower bed.

Laitlum Canyons

Nothing will adequately prepare you for the breathtaking panorama you will get to see from the Laitlum Canyons; you will undoubtedly be taken aback. The majority of the Meghalaya Vista can be seen from The Canyons, which are located on top of the Eastern Khasi Hills. Although the ascent to the Laitlum requires some effort, hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts all seek it out in equal measure. It continues to be one of Meghalaya’s most popular destinations.

Sohpetbneng Peak

Sohpetbbneng is arguably Meghalaya’s most stunning peak, despite not being the state’s tallest mountain. The summit is located 20 kilometres to the north of Shillong, and on the second Saturday of February every year, thousands of Khasi devotees hike more than 7 kilometres upwards from the highway to the peak. The journey includes native dances, religious rites, and chants as the passengers pray to U Blei (the creator, according to the Khasis) for the welfare of the planet and all life on it.

All Saints Church

One of Shillong’s oldest churches, this one was constructed under the British Raj. A new Church was constructed in 1902 after the former Church on the Kacheri Road was entirely destroyed by an earthquake in 1897. This gorgeous chapel in colonial style is made of wood and has excellent architectural features. In order to have a spiritual experience, the Sunday Mass is also worthwhile to attend. The Church is very well maintained and is an excellent location for amazing photos. The two-story Church’s spectacular stained glass windows are the focus.

Brookside Bungalow

Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel Prize-winning author from Bengal, spent his summers in the lovely Brookside Bungalow in Rilbong. The author of “Shesher Kavita,” one of his most well-known novels, was a poet, bard, and novelist who lived in this bungalow in the summer of 1919. In this novel, Shillong serves as the setting for over 13 chapters. Visits to the Brookside Bungalow are definitely worthwhile if you have ever came across Tagore’s writings. The bungalow will reportedly be given the name Tagore Art Gallery and granted museum status, according to the most recent reports.

Air Force Museum

An excellent location for fans of aircraft and the air force, the museum is frequently filled with families with young children. This location is a must-visit if you want to know about the Air Defence Force of our nation or teach your children about it. Along with miniature rockets and aircraft, there are uniforms from the air force on exhibit.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

You cannot take even a single leaf from the Mawphlang sacred forest, which is like a virtual treasure trove of the priceless gifts of Nature. The forest is absolutely fascinating, drawing throngs of spiritual seekers, travellers, ornithologists, botanists, and photographers. It is also famously known for its spiritual potency and the unique Rudraksh trees. The forests are an unusual example of flora due to the humus-laden grounds, the abundance of pipers, ferns, orchids, and fern allies.

Spread Eagle Falls

One of the most well-liked picnic areas and tourist places nearby is the Spread Eagle Falls, also known as Sati Falls or Umkaliar. The name Spread Eagle was given to this waterfall because of its width, which makes it the widest waterfall in Meghalaya. When it strikes the ground, the Waterfall, which dominates three sides of the pool, makes a frantic splashing noise. an outstanding location for photography.

Crinoline Falls

The fact that the Crinoline Falls is located right in the centre of Shillong contributes to its enormous popularity. At the location of Crinoline Falls, the MTDC (Meghalaya Tourism Department) hosts a number of tourism events and cultural activities. In the nearby three-star restaurant, you can eat while admiring the stunning waterfall. The Crinoline Falls region is more prosperous because it has a small zoo and a big swimming pool. This location is a must-see if you’re travelling with kids because it has the appearance and atmosphere of a well-known amusement park. Otherwise, if you enjoy waterfalls, Crinoline Falls’ 13-metre height won’t do much to wow you.

Beadon Falls

Beadon Falls in Shillong’s stunning Suna Valley, is only 2 kilometres from the Bara Bazar area, making it simple to explore even if you are staying in the town’s centre. The waterfall flows through stunningly steep rock formations before joining the Umiam River. The Beadon Falls, which plunge straight down from a steep hill into a deep gorge created by the Umiam river, are famous for their majestic majesty and thunderous noise. This roaring waterfall’s beautiful and serene surroundings, which include miles of lush green trees and enormous boulders, make it even more unique.

Cathedral (Mary Help) Catholic Church

One of the most beautiful churches in this area of the world is the Cathedral of Mary, and its setting atop a hill only enhances its appeal. On a clear day, a location on the church grounds offers views of the Brahmaputra River and the snow-covered Himalayan Peaks. Tall arches and stunning stained glass windows may be found throughout the cathedral. The late Archbishop Rev. Hubert D. Rosario designated it as a site of spiritual pilgrimage in 1980, which increased its significance as a tourist destination. The Eastern Khasi Hills and the Ri Bhoi are home to more than 300,000 devout Catholics who belong to the Shillong Archdiocese.

Police Bazar

Shillong’s main market, Police Bazar, is a well-liked destination for retail therapy. The Police Bazaar features a variety of restaurants, hotels, and big-name retailers in addition to a flea market area where you may find antiques, trash jewellery, fine Meghalayan goods, local clothing, and other items.

Rhino Heritage Museum

The Rhino Heritage Museum in Shillong’s Bara Bazaar neighbourhood is devoted to military men, weapons, including combat missiles and guns. The pink rhinoceros sculpture outside the museum’s doors is where it derives its name. The highlight of the exhibit, among others, is a display of the Japanese army’s weapons.

Butterfly Museum

One of Shillong’s most well-liked tourist destinations is the Butterfly Museum, sometimes referred to as the Entomological Museum. The museum is located on the Riatsamthiah Jaiaw, close to Christian Academy School, and it has a huge collection of beautiful butterflies, moths, beetles, and other insects. For economic interests, the museum also raises butterflies.

Diengiei Peak

This peak, Shillong Peak, which is 6200 feet tall and located on Shillong’s western side, is only 200 feet shorter than Shillong Peak. This peak’s gradient is quite steep and precipitous for its height of roughly 1000 feet, which provides for great mountain climbing.

Ever Living Museum

Ever Living Museum, a privately owned museum in Shillong’s Mawshbuit Village, showcases the love of nature, culture, tradition, posterity, and history. An ethnographic museum, it is organised into three sections and has artefacts from the hill tribes of the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills.

Jaintia Hills

The Jaintia Hills, which were once a part of the Jaintia Kingdom, are a region of spectacular hills in Meghalaya that are home to abundant natural vegetation and mineral riches. The Krang Suri Falls, one of India’s most stunning waterfalls, and the intriguing Nartiang Monoliths may both be found in the Jaintia Hills.

Sweet Falls

One of the country’s steepest and most captivating waterfalls is Sweet Falls. Your breath is taken away by the sound of flowing water, chipping birds, the sensation of cascading water, and the beautiful surroundings. It is a well-liked picnic location surrounded by lush vegetation.

Best Time to Visit Shillong Tourism

The choice of whether to visit this city is yours, whether you prefer the pleasantly balmy summer days or the stunning cherry blossom trees at their peak in the autumn. When to travel to your preferred vacation destination depends greatly on the weather. You can only choose the most advantageous time to go after assessing the benefits and drawbacks of each season. March through June Summer begins in March and April, but the temperature is still pretty good. With temperatures ranging from a high of 24°C to a low of 15°C, summers in Shillong are generally moderate and an excellent time to arrange a trip. Planning adventures and tourism excursions during this time is ideal. June to September Shillong experiences average to high rainfall during this time of the year. Visit the waterfalls at this time, and take in the stunning views of the area that have been washed by rain. In Shillong, July is the wettest month. Given that many visitors avoid travelling during the monsoons, it’s not a busy tourist season, but this makes it easier to find affordable lodgings. October to February October marks the beginning of the end of the rainy season and the onset of cooler weather. After November, when winter officially begins, the weather can get rather chilly, with the minimum temperature dropping as low as 2°C. The wintertime is a lovely time to visit the town and enjoy outdoor activities.

Popular Shillong Honeymoon Tour Packages

Mesmerizing Assam and Meghalaya Tour

Mesmerising 7 Days Assam Meghalaya Tour

Splendid Shillong Cherrapunji Tour

Romantic Shillong Cherrapunji Tour

Romantic Meghalaya Tour

Splendid guwahati shillong cherrapunji tour.

Shillong Cherrapunji Honeymoon Tour

Romantic shillong honeymoon tour, how to reach shillong.

The following three modes of transportation describe easy travel to the city. By Train Guwahati has the closest train station to Shillong. You may easily catch a taxi from there because it’s only a hundred kilometres distant. There are connections between the Guwahati railway station and New Delhi and other significant cities nationwide. By Air There is no airport in the city of Shillong. The Umroi Airport near Barapani, which is located about 25 kilometres from the hill station, is the closest airport. The link to other cities is not very good. Guwahati, which is around 125 kilometres away and has good connections to several places in India, is the closest major airport. From Guwahati to Shillong , you can take a taxi. By Bus Depending on their budget, a traveller can select from a variety of Volvo buses, sleeper buses, and conventional buses. Bus travel from Guwahati to Shillong typically takes three hours. It is advised to use alternative mode of transportation until Guwahati before boarding a bus for Shillong.

Shillong Tourism Day Tours

Scuba Diving in Meghalaya

Paragliding in Nongjrong

Cliff Jumping in Dawki, Shnongpdeng

Zip Lining in Dawki, Meghalaya

Snorkeling in Dawki, Shnongpdeng Meghalaya

Safari booking at kaziranga national park.

Jeep Safari at Kaziranga National Park

Elephant safari booking at kaziranga national park.

Kayaking in Dawki, Shnongpdeng Meghalaya

Travel advice on shillong.

Among the safest states to go to is probably Meghalaya. Always expect friendly service and a desire to assist you with your needs. Female travellers can feel most safe travelling in Meghalaya. In one of the states, Meghalaya, a solo traveller might feel at home. In order to watch the coolest attractions in Shillong, your trip should last for at least five days. Though it will be rushed, with careful planning, you can reduce the length of your trip to Shillong to 3–4 days.

Tips for Visiting Shillong

• Understand the local permits.
• Pay attention to the bookings.
• Bring only the bare minimum.
• Organise the itinerary’s preparations.
• Create a budget for your safety as well.
• Try some regional food.
• Respect for regional customs.

Rainfall in Shillong

• The months of April, May, June, July, August, September, and October experience a lot of rainfall (rainy season).
• The months of January, February, and December are dry in Shillong.
• July has the wettest weather on average, with 19.7 inches (499 mm) of precipitation.
• With only 0.4 inches (11 mm) of precipitation on average, January being the driest month.
• There are 89.4 inches of precipitation on average each year (2270 mm)

Even though Shillong is a stunning location with lots to do, here are some of the attractions that draw many tourists and visitors:

Visit to Bara Bazar

This market, also known as Iewduh Market, is a must-visit if you want to learn more about Shillong’s culture. The streets are lined with a diverse assortment of vendors selling anything from colourful handicrafts to native betel nuts and leaves. You might even find some locally grown produce that is not so common in a few other parts of the country. Purchase one or two to bring a piece of Shillong with you.

Elephant Falls Photography

Shillong Peak is not far from this magnificent waterfall. The waterfall, which has the appearance of a massive elephant, mesmerises with its amazing beauty. The Three Steps Waterfall was the previous name for this waterfall because of the three distinct steps that the waterfalls here descend. The name was eventually modified by the British, though, who believed the neighbouring rock resembled a massive elephant. Since this location is still a very popular tourist site, you will remember it for a very long time.

Camping next to Umiam Lake

You can get an amazing high by camping at the Island in Umiam Lake, which is popular for picnics and adventure sports. There are lots of adventurous things to choose from, like hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, zip line, and many more. The lake is surrounded by stunning, ancient trees that are huge and full of natural beauty. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful, unhurried holiday thanks to the quiet surroundings, the sounds of singing birds, the cool breeze, and the lovely house boats in the lake.

Lunch At Trattoria

The small but popular café Trattoria is located in Meghalaya’s Police Bazar. Despite the cafe’s small size, the food is definitely not lacking! Don’t forget to eat; it’s one of the nicest things to do in Meghalaya. Every food enthusiast will be in culinary heaven. Foods like Jakhaw Khasi, Dohnud, Dohjam, Doh Khelia, Tungtap, and Ja Doh are among the delectable fare that is offered there.

Hiking the David Scott Trail

The David Scott Trail is one of the area’s well-liked hiking trails for both locals and tourists. The trail got its name since it was allegedly discovered by well-known hiker David Scott. Natural beauty and excitement abound on this 16-kilometre trek. On the way up, one may see breath-taking views, lush, majestic woods, cute tribal towns, and stunning waterfalls.

Suggested Tour Packages

Magical Meghalaya Tour

Awesome shillong tour.

7 Days Kaziranga Meghalaya Wildlife Trip

Adventure activities to do in shillong.

Although Meghalaya offers a wide range of exciting activities. The landscape of Shillong, which is rich in forests, waterfalls, lakes, hills, and plains, makes it the Meghalayan hub for adventure sports. The following comprehensive list includes the city’s most exciting activities.

In Shillong, scenic pathways are the way to go. Shillong is a natural wonderland and an explorer’s paradise. On any given walk, you may anticipate seeing rain forests, riverbanks, lush valleys, and of course the renowned live root bridges. Although certain routes may be a little difficult, you’ll discover that the rewards of natural beauty have never been greater!

River Rafting

The North East, with its flowing water and rapids, contradicts the idea that North India is the country’s river rafting capital. For a taste of this exhilarating activity, head over to Umiam Lake, but you’ll need to travel a little further to find one of Meghalaya’s top river rafting locations. Ranikor, which is the preferred location for river rafting, is located just over 2 hours from Shillong.

Kayaking, which is more peaceful than river rafting, is ideal if you want to explore one’s environment and breathe in the beauty of nature. Umiam Lake is the best spot to visit kayaking if you’ve to try it for the very first time. Kynshi River, however, is calling to those with a greater sense of adventure.

Paragliding

The best paragliding locations in Meghalaya is Nongjrong. When you glide at a height of 700 metres, the breathtaking scenery you see below will leave you speechless. No matter how long you stay in the air, you always come back down yearning for more. Paragliding in Nongjrong will be available soon.

Exploring Caves

If you enjoy mysteries, Shillong’s caves will become your new best friend. Cave exploration is a big part of Meghalaya’s tourism sector. Nine of India’s 10 deepest caverns are located in Meghalaya, and they are popular with hikers, geologists, and historians. The mysterious island can be reached through Shillong’s underground exploring. The top 6 caverns to explore are listed below: 1.Mawjymbuin Cave (Mawsynram Village) 2.Krem Mawmluh (Cherrapunjee) 3.Mawsmai Cave (Cherrapunjee) 4.Krem Umshyrpi (Cherrapunjee) 5.Siju Cave ( East Garo Hills)

Shillong Adventure Tour Packages

Wildlife Tour of Kaziranga with Meghalaya

Amazing meghalaya kaziranga tour, guwahati kaziranga shillong cherrapunji tour package, shillong camping tourism packages, best places to stay in shillong, explore our tour packages, jowai tour packages.

Mawsynram Tour Packages

Cherrapunji Tour Packages

Dawki tour packages, meghalaya tour packages.

Shillong Tour Packages

Weather of shillong.

During the colonial era, Shillong’s cold and pleasant environment drew the British. Typically, winter lasts from December through February. Winters are typically fairly chilly and arid. Shillong is best visited during the months of March and May because the weather is often nice and cool. The monsoon begins in June and can bring on non stop rain. The monsoon continues well into August. Another excellent season to visit Shillong is from October to November.

Northeast Tour Packages

Frequently asked questions on shillong tourism.

Within Shillong, buses are available for use in commuting. In the city, there are two different bus types: the Shillong City bus and the Bazar bus. Locals and tourists ride the city bus, while villagers travelling to Shillong take the bazar bus. Although slow, buses are affordable. Taxis are favourable too.

One of the main festivals observed in Shillong is Shad Suk Mynsiem. Thanksgiving dance celebration where people express their gladness via dancing. The three-day Shad Suk Mynsiem festival takes place in Shillong in April.

Shillong has many well-known and distinctive locations, including Ward’s Lake, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Shillong Golf Course.

Following are some of the best and most adventurous trekking trails of Shillong: David Scott’s Trail Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail Living Root Bridge Trail Smit Trail Mawlyngot Trail Weiloi To Umngi Trail Dawki Trekking Umden Village Trek Mawlongbna Village Trekking

When it comes to shopping, Shillong is typically the most popular destination. You can purchase a few trinkets for your loved ones from a number of locations throughout the city. Here are a handful you ought to go to without a doubt: Bara bazaar Police Bazaar Glory’s Plaza Khasi Emporium Purbashree Emporium

The top locations in Shillong to sample the greatest native food are as follows: Cafe Shillong Location: L.P. Building Niit Building, Main Road, Laitumkhrah, Shillong Ginger Restaurant Location: Hotel Polo Towers, Polo Grounds, Shillong Phunga Location: Laitumkhrah Main Road | Opposite Sweety Studio,Near HDFC Bank ATM, Shillong Trattoria Location: Police Bazaar, Shillong City Hut Family Dhaba Location: Earle Holiday Home Oakland Road, Shillong

The capital of Meghalaya is indeed now open to tourists following the outbreak. The Meghalaya Tourism App’s e-invite generator is however required. A negative RT PCR report may be required if you are not fully immunised.

The following can be bought from Shillong with best of the quality. Shawls and Stoles Khasi Scrubs Organic Products Vintage Wear

Springtime officially begins with Sohphie fruit. It is loved by both visitors and residents for its crunch and juiciness up till the end of the summer. But because the fruit spoils quickly, it must be eaten within two to three days.

An inexpensive 5-day trip to Shillong can cost up to INR 25,000 per person, including travel, lodging, sightseeing, and ground transportation.

Foreign visitors from India who are not Arunachal Pradesh residents must get Inner Line Permits (ILPs), which are issued by officials of any Arunachal Pradesh Government office with offices in Guwahati, Shillong, Delhi, Tezpur, Kolkata, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, and Shillong. You could also submit an online application.

Absolutely yes. You can have the route map to explore the beautiful city.

Below are few must-visit destinations in Shillong: After Mawsynram, Cherrapunji Village being the wettest place in the world and located about 56 kilometres from Shillong. It is the oldest Presbyterian Church and is well-known for its orange honey and limestone caves. The largest collection of monoliths in the state may be found in Nartiang, also known as the garden of monoliths. The leaders and royals of the Pnar people are honoured with monuments, some of which are regarded as the tallest in the world. Nongkrem – The Syiem of Nongkrem, whose estate reaches all the way to Shillong, has its seat around 13 kilometres from Shillong. Large crowds attend the traditional Nongkrem Dance Festival, which is held in the fall. Jakrem is a well-known health resort with sulphur water hot springs, and it is thought to have healing abilities. Jowai – Located 1,500 metres above sea level, Jowai is a significant stop on the way to Silchar and Agartala.