12 Best Places to visit in Shillong, Meghalaya [2022 Complete Guide]
How to get to Shillong, Where to stay, What to eat, Places to visit as a local would, What to buy and the Best Cafes. Just Everything you need to know if you are planning a trip to Shillong.
Look out for the bonus 35 places in Shillong, Meghalaya, you need to visit.
I hail from “The Scotland Of The East”, Shillong, a picturesque town nested in the middle of “The Abode Of Clouds”-Meghalaya. Shillong is famous for its torrential rainfall, beautiful hills, scenic beauty, cascading waterfalls, lush green hills, magnificent mountains.
Quite often, many of my friends and acquaintances from different parts of India as well as abroad ask me to guide them as they plan a trip to this beautiful hill station in the North-Eastern part of Incredible India.
So I decided to write this blog to simplify the herculean task of planning a vacation to Shillong and help you make the most of it during your well deserved break in this beautiful, hilly retreat that is Shillong.
With the heat wave at its peak, take a vacation to "The Scotland Of The East ", Shillong. One of the best features about Shillong is its pleasant weather, with temperatures rising to a maximum of 25°C on the hottest of the hot days during the summers.
With its amazing climate, picturesque hills ,warm people and happening rock music, this small and wonderful city has a touch of Western culture embedded in the ancient Tribal community.
Filled with European Cathedrals, Grand Churches, Lush-Green Parks, Cascading Waterfalls and Sophisticated Convent Institutions, Shillong brims with Love, Laughter, Joy and Positivity.
How to utilise your time best in Shillong?
Do not fall for the commercial places to visit in Shillong and discover this wonderful place just as a localite would.
Truth be told, in spite of being a local resident, Shillong and Meghalaya is such a cauldron of amazing places to see, that believe me, even I have not till today seen everything here.
My idea of writing this, was to just highlight the fact that Meghalaya is just not about Cherrapunji or the Umgnot river but there is just so much more to it than meets the eye.
The image down below may look like a wallpaper from the 90tz Windows PC but is actually a place called Chandra Park in Smit, at a distance of 17kms from Police Bazar, the central market of Shillong.
If you are traveling with children or aged parents, there are things that I have included for you too, so you can enjoy lest the trekking and walking.
I will mention the distance to the places to visit (from the Police Bazar, the Central Market of Shillong) in Shillong and the walks included so you can plan ahead accordingly.
Before we start, here are some fun facts about the Scotland Of The East, Shillong, Meghalaya.
Shillong is the Capital City of Meghalaya, one of the Seven Sister States of North East India.
Official languages of Shillong
English, Khasi, Jaintia and Garo [Your main language of interaction here will be English]
Shillong is Renowned / Famous for
Cherrapunji and Mawsyndram [for highest recorded rainfall on the planet.]
Closest Airports of Shillong
Umroi Airport, Shillong, Meghalaya at a distance of 30kms (only charter and helicopter services, and short-haul aircrafts of airliners like IndiGo, FlyBig, Air India operate in this airfield) and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, Assam at a distance of 115kms.
Closest train stations to Shillong
Guwahati Railway Station, Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati, Assam at a distance of 90kms.
Local mode of commute in Shillong
The famous local “Black and Yellow” taxis and tourist cab services. (Note - Ola and Uber do not operate in Shillong), Local buses however the routes limited. Scooties, Bikes and Cars are also available for rent on an hourly basis at affordable prices.
Seasons and weather of Shillong-
Extreme Winter - November to Mid March with occasional snow [Temperatures vary from 0°C to 10°C]
Spring- Mid March to April [Nice, pleasant and breezy temperatures of 15°C to 18°C]
Monsoons - May, June, July, August [Temperatures varies from 15°C to 25°C]
Autumn - Mid August to Mid November. The Cherry blossoms are in full bloom around end October to November [Temperatures of 16°C to 20°C]
[PS - It may Rain all through the year-Any day , anytime, any season so always be prepared.]
Local Flora of Shillong-
Meghalaya can boast of having one of the best orchids in the world, cherry blossoms, jacaranda and bougainvillea trees. A diverse variety of lilies, roses and chrysanthemum flowers are found all through the year. Shillong houses exotic varieties of tropical evergreen Pine Groves and forests with some trees dating back to centuries.
Local Population of Shillong
The majority of Shillong’s population comprises of the indigenous people of the three main tribes- The Khasis, The Jaintias and The Garos along with a substantial population of Bengalis, Assamese, Marwaris, Punjabis. Several people from foreign nationalities have also chosen to settle here because of the weather and cultural competences.
Economy of Shillong
The economy of Shillong is mainly driven by Tourism, Turmeric production, Tea Production, Organic Honey, Authentic Pickles, Chillies, Herbs and Flowers, Cane, Wood and Handloom items.
When To Visit Shillong?
It all comes down to what you enjoy actually, so let me break it down for you-
If you like the sound of the pattering rain on your roof and the smell and feel of the soil post rain then, the best time for you to visit is around end July to October, the waterfalls are full during this time and can be seen almost everywhere.
If you love the cherry blossom and want to enjoy the cherry blossom festival, a peaceful picnic under the cherry blossom trees or perhaps want to witness some of the best and most talented musical artists at the NH7 Weekender Music Festival, then October to November is the time for you. Also the Umgnot river is beautiful and crystal clear around this time of the year.
If you want to experience the extreme yet cozy and snug winters of Shillong or witness a Grand Western Style Christmas and New Year’s celebration all with Decorated Fir Trees, Freshly Baked Christmas Cookies and Yule Log Cake, Lit Up Squares and Santa Clause too then December to February is the time to be.
If you want to beat the heat during the heat wave, and find a pleasant haven you can head there from May onward.
How To Get To Shillong?
Air Connectivity to Shillong
Shillong has a small airport at Umroi, which is around 45 minutes or 30 kms from the main city, few airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, FlyBig (which also operates direct flights from Delhi to Shillong) operate short-haul turboprop flights to Umroi from Kolkata and Guwahati. Charter services and Helicopter services such as Pawan Hans also operate to and from this airfield. Taxis and cab services to the city that charge you around 1000 INR are also available.
However, Shillong has air connectivity mainly through the Guwahati airport or the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Gauhati . It has daily flights from all major airports and operators in India . Tickets may range from 2500 INR to 12000 INR depending on the season.
Shillong will then be a journey of 3.5 hrs or 115 kms from the Guwahati Airport.
From here you can take a Taxi to Shillong, for anywhere between 2500 INR to 3000 INR depending on your bargaining skills.
Shared taxis are also available.
Airport bus shuttles to Shillong are also available. You can check the Meghalaya State Transport website for the detailed timings, fares and tickets in advance.
Railway Connectivity to Shillong
Pertaining to its hilly terrain, Shillong does not have a railway station.
Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Howrah Express and several other trains connect the Guwahati Railway Station to the major cities of India.
From there, cabs connecting you to Shillong are readily available.
Road Connectivity to Shillong
The road trip from Delhi takes around 4 to 5 days if you drive in the mornings and rest at night and it’s super fun if you are traveling with friends.
Where To Stay In Shillong?
Budget Range INR -5000+
There are cozy and luxurious hotels like Hotel Polo Towers (Police Bazar), Pine Wood (Police Bazar), Hotel Heiga (Dhankheti), Hotel Poinisukh (Laitumkhrah). These are the higher end hotels with amazing amenities and are at prime locations.
Budget Range INR -2500+
There are several guest houses, hotels and AirBnBs in Police Bazar, Laitumkhrah and Polo around that range, which are very homely, comfortable and peaceful.
Budget Range of INR 500 to INR 1500
Several guest houses offer bed and breakfast which are pretty comfortable and well located. Several hostels also offer dorms for people traveling on a budget.
Where to stay in Cherrapunjee ?
There are newer places in Cherrapunji like the Jiva Resort or the Orchid Resort which are wonderful and serene places to stay at.
Several hotels and guest houses also provide accommodation and food at Cherrapunji.
Which Are The Best Restaurants In Shillong ?
I will go ahead and list the best Restaurants along with their locations which you should definitely try for their delicious food, brilliant ambience and impeccable hygiene.
City Hut Dhaba Family Restaurant- Police Bazar, Shillong [only boneless chicken is halal here]
Deja Vu - Laitumkhrah, Shillong [only boneless chicken is halal here]
Eden Restaurant - Police Bazar, Shillong [Halal Food]
Dop Wai of Hotel Poinisuk - Laitumkhrah, Shillong [Halal Food]
Quzine Restaurant - Police Bazar, Shillong [Halal Food]
Sky Grill - Hotel Polo Towers, Shillong - Polo Bazar, Shillong [Hookah Service Available]
Pine Cone Restaurant of Hotel Pinewood, Shillong- Police Bazar, Shillong.
Red Rock Restaurant- Hotel Heiga, Dhankheti, Shillong.
Heritage Club - Tripura Castle, Cleve Colony, Shillong.
Jiva Veg - Police Bazar, Shillong.
What are the best cafes and bakery in Shillong ?
Little Chef Cafe and Bakery-New Colony, Shillong - Best Magdeline cakes, Opera Pastries and a wide variety of cheesecakes, cupcakes and freshly baked breads.
Shillong Cafe - Don Bosco, Shillong.
Dylan’s Cafe- Tripura Castle Road, Cleve Colony, Shillong.
The Grub - Laitumkhrah, Shillong.
Cafe Shillong Heritage - Tripura Castle, Cleve Colony, Shillong.
The Blue Ribbon Bakery and Cafe - Polo Hills, Shillong.
Caramel Bakers - Laitumkhrah, Shillong. No seating area but the cupcakes and pastries are a must try.
S K bakery - Laitumkhrah, Shillong- A tiny bakery, but the chicken/mutton puffs/loafs and brownies are to die for.
Smoky Falls Tribe Coffee- Police Bazar, Shillong.
Enchante - Tea room- Lummawrie, Shillong.
Which Are The 12 Best Places To Visit in Shillong?
This is the longest list, I will jot down the names and location of the places that are a must see. With [TOP 12 MUST SEE PLACES OF SHILLONG ] in details, I will also mention the names of a few places that you can visit if you have ample time.
[Bonus 35 Places To See In Shillong]
[Family Friendly - will imply that you can travel there with your parents or small children who cannot trek or walk much.]
[Snacks - will imply that you get eatables like chips, chaats, soft drinks, maggi, bhutta (corn charred over charcoal) and local food in those places]
1. Nohkalikai Falls - Cherrapunji.
1.5 hours or 53kms from Shillong. [Family friendly, Snacks]
Your visit to Shillong is incomplete without visiting the Nohkalikai Waterfalls, it is located at Cherrapunji, around 53 kms from Shillong,
Make sure to reach around noon, as the place may get foggy later and you will be unable to enjoy the view.
This is one place you should not miss, it is accessible for the elderly as well as the young ones as they can comfortably walk and indulge in the magnificent site-seeing.
One needs to pay 50 INR as an entrance fee. You may need to pay extra if you want to video film or use a professional camera.
You will get small restaurants and souvenir shops, if you wish to buy a memoir or a gift for a loved one but make sure to bargain well.
2. Sweet Falls - Shillong.
Just 30 minutes or 10 kms from the main centre. [Family friendly]
How to get to Sweet Falls
It is a very cute yet picturesque falls located just at the heart of Shillong, it is just 30 minutes away from the heart of the city.
Local taxis or tourist cabs will easily take you there.
It is a little past the Madanryting area of Shillong.
You will enjoy the view of the pine trees along the way with several good Instagrammable Spots .
3. Krang Shuri falls - Amlarem, Jaintia Hills.
If you are a travel enthusiast, the pictures of Krang Shuri (which in the Khasi language literally translates to “Krang” meaning Cave and “Shuri” meaning Sword making it “The Cave Of Swords”), must be a common thing in your instagram reel feed.
So here, to break it down for you.-
It takes around 2.5 hours to get there from Shillong, and is approximately 87kms.
To get to the falls from the road is a tedious trek along a pretty steep path, not really suitable for the elderly.
Once you get there the views are breathtakingly amazing with the water gushing from a substantial height forming a glass-like curtain and falling straight into a natural, glistening pool of the most bewitching blue shade anyone can witness in a lifetime.
Swimming is allowed only in certain seasons. Even though a trip to the magnificent Krang Shuri Falls seems incomplete without taking a dip into the ultramarine blue waters, try and avoid getting into the water during the rainy season.
Entry fee varies depending on the season, professional cameras are allowed at extra charge.
4. The Living Roots Bridge - Cherrapunji.
The locals here are famous globally for the art of manipulating tree roots to make bridges, this is a natural-cum-man made wonder nested 3 hours or 90kms away from the city centre which is a site to behold.
A trek along a small path will take you to a marvelous bridge system with a crystal clear, pristine stream of water running under it.
It is a short trek, however it is manageable and the elderly can also trek along the path with ease.
Small shops line along the path to the bridge, selling maggi and other eatables. You can also shop for local souvenirs here.
It is a little beyond Cherrapunji and requires an entry fee as well as a separate fee for professional cameras.
5. Wah Rashi Falls - Syntung.
2.5 hours or 65kms from Shillong City Centre [Family friendly, Snacks.]
Personally speaking this place is my absolute favourite being a localite, with its step pattern falls and easy accessibility it is the one place I like spending my Sundays at, why???
It is not very crowded or commercialised.
It has many beautiful and peaceful picnic spots.
It is a short but beautiful trek with several small streams flowing in the vicinity.
The falls is easily accessible with a few cute waterfall beaches.
You can splash around in the emerald green waters.
Have amusing picnics right next to the falls.
It is a 2.5 hours drive from Shillong to Syntung.
A Small entrance fee is charged.
6. Laitlum Canyon - Shillong.
1 hour or 23kms from Shillong [Family friendly, Snacks.]
One of the best canyons in the world, Laitlum literally translates to “Where The Hills End”, it is a one of the places to visit before you die, however it was brought to focus only after the movie ROCK ON was shot here .
A 1 hour journey from Shillong through the beautiful roads of Smit, this place takes you to an experience of how Scotland would be.
Standing at the edge of the canyon gives you a sense of happiness and euphoria that is inexplicable.
This place is very easy to access and your parents will admire the beauty and your children will love playing in the lush green, open space here.
During dusk, the twinkling lights at the distant villages look like a mystical image out of a children’s fairytale book and is called the “Fairy Village” by locals.
No matter what you do, do not miss out on Laitlum.
As a note of warning, let me add, several mishaps have been reported at the edge of the canyon, so make sure to keep away from the edge and keep a special eye-out for your little ones.
7. Thlu Amwi Falls - Jowai.
2 hours or 78kms from Centre of Shillong [Family Friendly].
This is my second most happy place for a cute Sunday picnic.
It is just 2 hours from Shillong and this falls is comfortable accessible.
You can heartily paddle in the water and have a cookout along the edge of the falls, it is just such a cute place.
Start early to reach by 10 am, play in the water, cook your meal, dine, enjoy and get back.
This might as well become the highlight of your tour.
I Promise, you will love it.
8. Umiam lake - Umiam.
[Family friendly, Snacks]
As you enter Shillong, towards the right you will see the majestic Umiam lake or as it is popularly known “Bara Pani”. It is an artificial lake with its inception during the British era.
It is just 30 minutes or 16kms from Shillong’s Central Market.
You need to spend a day here for sure, take a boat ride and enjoy the sunset, and eat at the local Cafe Orchid.
You can also visit or stay at the Ri Kynjai Resort, which over looks the colossal lake and is on the other bank of the Umiam Lake.
Kids can play at the park which has quite a few rides and your parents and family will love the luxuriant green grounds too.
9. Pdengshnong Lyngkhoi River
[Family friendly, Snacks]
We all know about sea beaches and love them for sure, but what about river beaches? Meghalaya has beautiful river beaches viz Ranikor and Pdengshnong, of which Pdengshnong is the most accessible.
A 1 hour or 35kms drive from Shillong takes you here, enroute Dawki. It feels lovely as you sit here, dipping your feet in water or going for a dip.
Take a calming walk along the beach shore.
Enjoy a picnic or just bask in the sun.
This place with amazing panoramic views is definitely worth the drive.
10. Thangsning Falls.
A 45 minutes or 20kms journey from Shillong Centre and a 10 minutes or 5kms drive from Smit
A Small trek downhill takes you to a gorgeous, outpouring waterfall. Up-close, you can click beautiful pictures here and the feel of the water droplets splashing on your face is amazingly refreshing.
Make sure to wear shoes with a good grip as the road may be a little slippery.
11. Chandra Park Smit
This place looks like a magical place, straight out of a fantasy novel, just 40 minutes or 17kms away from Shillong. You need to add this park to your travel itinerary .
It is so picturesque with the viridian waters lined with the tall and magnificent evergreen trees standing on the verdant hills below the clear, bright blue sky that mere words fall short in explaining its magnificence.
12. Nongkhum Island.
3 hours or 103kms from Shillong’s Police Bazar
This is a large river island en-route Nongstoin, that you need to visit atleast once.
It is a little distant but believe me once you reach there the journey will seem worth it.
You can go boating here or just relish the pictorial view, sitting and relaxing on the banks of the river.
Nongklum Island
SO THESE WERE MY TOP 12 PLACES YOU NEED TO SEE IN SHILLONG!
HOWEVER I HAVE ALSO MADE A LIST OF [TOP 35 ] PLACES YOU CAN VISIT IF YOU HAVE AMPLE TIME.
1. Mawsmai Caves - Cherrapunji.
2 hours or 56kms from Shillong.
2. Monoliths of Nartiang - Jowai.
2 hours or 62kms from Police Bazar, Shillong.
3. Seven Sister Falls - Cherrapunji.
2 hours or 56kms from Shillong [Family friendly, snacks]
4. Elephant Falls - Shillong.
30 minutes or 10kms from Police Bazar Market, Shillong. [Family friendly, Snacks]
5. Dainthlen Falls - Cherrapunji.
2 hours or 52kms from Shillong’s Main Market-Police Bazar.
6. Arwah Caves - Cherrapunji.
1.5 hours or 50kms from Police Bazar.
7. Garden of Caves - Laitmawsiang.
1.5 hours or 47kms from Shillong’s Police Bazar.
8. Mawjymbuin Cave - Mawsynram.
2 hours or 58kms from Shillong. [Family friendly, Snacks]
9. Ward’s Lake - Shillong.
5 minutes or 1.5kms from Police Bazar Market, Shillong.[Must visit inside the city, Family friendly, Snacks]
10. Ka Phan Nonglait Park.
5 minutes or 2kms from Central Market of Shillong, Police Bazar [Family friendly, Snacks]
11. Lady Hydari Park.
5 minutes or 2kms from Police Bazar. [Must visit within the city, Family friendly, Snacks]
12. Wei Sawdong Falls.
2 hours or 55kms from Main City Centre of Shillong- Police Bazar.
13. Bishop’s Falls.
10 minutes or 2.7kms from Police Bazar, Shillong. [Must visit inside city itself, Family friendly, Snacks]
14. Spread Eagle Falls.
15 minutes or 4.6kms from Police Bazar. [Must visit in the city, Family friendly, Snacks]
15. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians.
10 minutes or 2.5kms from Police Bazar, Shillong. [Must visit within the city]
16. Tyrshi Falls.
1.5 hours or 60kms from Police Bazar, Shillong.
17. Mawsawa Falls.
1.5 hours or 50kms from Shillong.
18. Khudoi Falls.
1.5 hours or 55kms from Police Bazar.
19. Wah Umgnot - Umgnot River.
2.5 hours or 83kms from Main Central Market of Shillong- Police Bazar [Family friendly, Snacks]
20. Mawlynnong Village.
Asia’s Cleanest Village. 2.5 hours or 76kms from Shillong. [Family friendly, Snacks]
21. Thadlaskein Lake.
1.5 hours or 51kms from Police Bazar. [Family friendly, Snacks]
22.Eco Park - Shillong.
2 hours or 55kms from Police Bazar, Shillong. [Family friendly, Snacks]
23. Sacred Grove Forest.
45 minutes or 25kms from Shillong’s Main Centre- Police Bazar.
24. Indo Bangladesh Border - Tamabil.
2.5 hours or 88kms from Shillong’s Police Bazar Main Market.
25. Umbir.
40 minutes or 20kms from Police Bazar Market.
26. Crinoline Falls.
15 mins or 5kms from Police Bazar, Shillong.
27. Khudoi Falls.
1.5 hours or 55kms from Shillong’s City Centre- Police Bazar.
28. Rainbow Falls.
1.5 hours or 55kms from Main Market of Shillong, Police Bazar.
29. Lyngksiar Falls.
1.5 hours or 47kms from Shillong.
30. Phe Phe Falls.
2 hours or 78kms from Police Bazar.
31.Wei Sawdong falls.
1.5 hours or 52kms from Police Bazar, Shillong.
32. Blue Heaven Falls.
15 minutes or 5kms from Shillong’s Police Bazar.
33. Kshaid Tymmen Falls.
20 minutes or 9kms from Main City Centre of Shillong- Police Bazar
34. Golf Links, Golf Course, Shillong.
10 minutes or 3.5kms from Police Bazar, Shillong. [Must visit inside the city, Family Friendly, Snacks.]
35.Shillong Don Bosco Museum.
12 minutes or 3.5kms from Police Bazar, Shillong.
What Gifts Do I Take Back Home from Shillong?
Turmeric
Pepper
Cinnamon
Local Woodcraft
Organic Honey
Local ginger
Tea leaves
Miniature decors, mémoires or souvenirs
Knives
Shawls
Authentic Pickles
Local Handloom Items
What Do I Buy For Myself from Shillong?
Gold Jewelry - The Khasi “24 carat” gold jewellery and coral jewellery is beyond beautiful, so if you have a budget do not think twice and buy them.
Leather jackets - Shillong can boast about having the best, most durable leather jackets but size options may be an issue so, take your time choosing.
Shoes - If you love shoes, then you are in shoe heaven for sure, there is no going back.
Woollens - Given the extreme cold weather and amazing fashion sense in Shillong, you will get one of the most fashionable, fuzzy and best woollen wear here.
Silver ornaments - Distinctive silver jewellery is also available and you should definitely splurge on it.
“We Live In A Wonderful World That Is Full Of Beauty, Charm And Adventure.
There Is No End To The Adventures That We Can Have If Only
We Seek Them With Our Eyes Open.”
- Jawaharlal NehruFirstly, I would like to convey my heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful readers of this blog, to the ones who have made it till the end. I genuinely hope that my touch of knowledge and guidance about Shillong, The Scotland Of The East will prove to be valuable, to guide you to make the most of your precious vacation time in this monotonous world, make the most of your hard-earned money and have the break of a lifetime along with your family, friends or solo. I wish and hope that your stay in Shillong, is filled with happiness, warmth, comfort and peace.
I would like to thank all those who helped me put this blog together-
To My Little Sister, for Co-Authoring and shaping this blog into a diamond from an unshaped piece of rock. For being a critique and improvising on the blog with her impeccable vocabulary. Thank You Mehtab Roushan Mazumdar.
To My Darling Husband, for always pushing me to do something more with my leisure time, for guiding and mentoring me in my pursuit of being a quality blogger, and finally for introducing me to the Substack Platform. Thank You Kamran Ali.
To My Dearest Mother, for sharing snippets of her amazing adventures and wondrous chronicles to use in this blog. Thank You Dr R. Sultana.
The Images Used In The Blog Are Actual Images Of The People Mentioned Below And Clicked By-
Me- Dr. Mehjooba Roushan Mazumdar
My Husband- Mr. Kamran Ali
My Daughter- Ms. Airaa Izrein Ali
My Mother- Dr. R. Sultana
My Sister- Ms. Mehtab Roushan Mazumdar
Thank you so much to you all. I am utterly grateful and indebted knowing well this blog would not have been possible without your love and support.
Good work this will help me to explore my state more 😇