Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a mesmerizing hill station in northeastern India, often referred to as “Scotland of the East” due to its rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Established by the British in 1864 as the civil station for the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, it later became the capital of Assam in 1874. Shillong served this role until 1972, when Meghalaya was formed, and it became the state capital. Known for its places to visit in Shillong, the city offers a cooler climate, stunning vistas, and a rich colonial legacy, making it an ideal destination for tourists.
Perched at an elevation of 4,990 feet (1,520 meters) on the Shillong Plateau, the city boasts natural beauty and historical charm. Despite being devastated by an earthquake in 1897, Shillong was rebuilt and has grown into a hub of culture and commerce. Popular tourist attractions in Shillong include Ward’s Lake, a tranquil escape surrounded by lush greenery; Elephant Falls, a magnificent three-tiered waterfall; and Golf Links, a serene spot for nature lovers. These iconic spots make Shillong a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
For those looking for things to do in Shillong, the city offers an exciting blend of activities. Visitors can explore the bustling Police Bazaar, trek to Shillong Peak for panoramic views, or enjoy the serenity of Umiam Lake nearby. Shillong’s unique culture, shaped by its Khasi roots and colonial history, adds to its charm, promising an enriching experience for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, cultural insights, or leisure activities, Shillong has something special for everyone.
Shillong, fondly known as the “Scotland of the East,” is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural charm, offering countless things to do in Shillong. From the serene Umiam Lake, perfect for boating and picnics, to the breathtaking Elephant Falls with cascading tiers, nature lovers will find plenty of places to visit in Shillong. The dramatic vistas at Laitlum Canyons are a haven for trekkers and adventurers. At the same time, the bustling Police Bazaar offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and local flavors like Jadoh and momos. For a cultural deep dive, the Meghalaya State Museum showcases the rich heritage of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or cultural experiences, Shillong has something special for every traveler exploring places to visit in Shillong.
Why Visit: A serene artificial reservoir surrounded by lush hills, perfect for relaxation and adventure activities.
Highlights: Boating, kayaking, water sports, and stunning sunrise views.
Located 15 km from Shillong, Umiam Lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Also known as Barapani, the lake is a haven of tranquility. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including paddle boating, speed boating, and kayaking. The area around the lake is perfect for picnics and photography, with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Why Visit: A breathtaking three-tiered waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape.
Highlights: Scenic trails, photography spots, and cool, misty ambiance.
Located just 12 km from Shillong, Elephant Falls is one of the top places to visit in Shillong. Named after an elephant-shaped rock near the falls (now destroyed), the waterfall is divided into three cascading layers, each accessible by a short trail. It’s a favorite spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Shillong’s natural wonders.
Why Visit: A stunning canyon offering panoramic views of rolling hills, mist-covered valleys, and dramatic landscapes.
Highlights: Trekking, peaceful vibes, and unparalleled photo opportunities.
Laitlum Canyons, meaning “End of the Hills” in Khasi, is a hidden gem about 25 km from Shillong. Known for its untouched beauty and serene ambiance, this destination is ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure. The trek to the viewpoint is moderately challenging but rewards you with breathtaking vistas perfect for photography or simply soaking in the tranquility.
Why Visit: A bustling marketplace in the heart of Shillong, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Highlights: Local handicrafts, souvenirs, street food, and vibrant nightlife.
Police Bazaar is one of the most vibrant places to visit in Shillong. It serves as a hub for shopping enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Khasi handicrafts and tribal jewelry to modern clothing and electronics. The market is also home to various restaurants serving local delicacies like Jadoh and Momos, making it a hotspot for exploring Shillong’s flavors.
Why Visit: A cultural treasure trove showcasing the traditions and heritage of Meghalaya’s indigenous tribes.
Highlights: Over 2,500 artifacts, including tribal attire, weapons, tools, and manuscripts.
Located near Police Bazaar, the Meghalaya State Museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. It’s a must-visit for those who want to understand the roots of Meghalaya’s vibrant traditions. The exhibits include everything from traditional farming tools to elaborate tribal costumes, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of the local communities.
Shillong, the picturesque capital of Meghalaya, is a culinary treasure trove offering a mix of traditional and modern dining experiences. From the cozy ambiance of restaurants like Trelly and the historic charm of Regal, to the vibrant atmosphere of artistic cafes like Dylan’s Café, the city caters to all tastes. For hearty meals with a rustic touch, City Hut Family Dhaba and Highway Shacks bring the authentic flavors of the region to life. Whether you’re craving continental delights, multistate Indian cuisine, or simply looking for a tranquil café, Shillong’s dining scene ensures an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Cuisine: Multicuisine
Vibe: Casual and cozy, perfect for relaxed dining.
Trelly is one of the best restaurants in Shillong, offering a delightful range of dishes at pocket-friendly prices. Whether you’re visiting with friends or family, its warm ambiance and tasty food make it a popular choice among locals and tourists.
Price: ₹200–400
Cuisine: Multicuisine
Vibe: Casual and cozy, perfect for relaxed dining.
Trelly is one of the best restaurants in Shillong, offering a delightful range of dishes at pocket-friendly prices. Whether you’re visiting with friends or family, its warm ambiance and tasty food make it a popular choice among locals and tourists.
Price: ₹200–400
Cuisine: Continental and beverages
Vibe: Relaxed and charming with cozy interiors and great service.
ML 05 Café is a favorite among the cafes in Shillong, offering a tranquil spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a solo coffee break. Its welcoming ambiance and delicious menu make it a must-visit for café lovers.
Cuisine: Multicuisine
Vibe: Artistic and vibrant, with unique Bob Dylan-inspired décor.
Dylan’s Café is one of the best cafes in Shillong, loved for its aesthetic interiors and delicious menu. With a focus on music and art, it offers a perfect mix of great food and a lively atmosphere, making it a standout café in the city.
Cuisine: Indian, Chinese, and barbecue
Vibe: Rustic yet vibrant, featuring flower-decked seating areas and a family-friendly atmosphere.
City Hut Family Dhaba is among the best dhabas in Shillong. It offers a diverse menu and a cozy environment for family meals. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy hearty meals and great service.
Price: ₹200–600
Cuisine: Assamese, Bengali, North Indian, Chinese, Thai, and seafood
Vibe: Casual and welcoming, with a focus on authentic flavors and a variety of cuisines.
Highway Shacks is a standout dhaba in Shillong, offering an extensive menu and catering services. Its homely vibe and delicious food make it a perfect stop for travelers seeking a mix of comfort and flavor.
Price: ₹200–400
Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is a year-round destination offering pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and cultural richness. Surrounded by rolling hills and serene lakes, it’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The best time to visit depends on your interests and the activities you want to enjoy.
Shillong, the enchanting capital of Meghalaya, offers a variety of exceptional accommodations for every traveler. From luxurious five-star hotels in Shillong, like Vivanta Meghalaya and Courtyard Shillong, featuring sleek designs and panoramic city and mountain views, to boutique-style elegance at The Shillong Address, there’s something for everyone. Budget-friendly yet comfortable options like Hotel Alpine Continental and the vibrant Majestic Hotel in Shillong Police Bazar ensure a memorable stay at affordable rates. Whether you’re here for leisure or business, these top hotels in Shillong promise unmatched comfort, modern amenities, and easy access to the city’s cultural and natural attractions.
Vivanta Meghalaya is among the top hotels in Shillong, offering luxurious comfort and modern amenities. Located just 10 km from Elephant Falls and 16 km from Umiam Lake, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking to explore the serene beauty of Shillong. The chic rooms and suites have city views, plush interiors, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Guests can enjoy cocktails at the stylish bar or dine on international cuisine at the elegant in-house restaurant. With its premium services, Vivanta Meghalaya is a leading five-star hotel in Shillong.
Price:₹10,559
5 Star Hotel
Courtyard Shillong is a premium hotel in Shillong, India, offering modern comfort amidst the city’s vibrant setting. Situated close to Ward’s Lake and Laitkor Peak, this hotel provides easy access to Shillong’s popular attractions. The rooms are well-appointed, featuring city or mountain views, while the upgraded suites include separate living areas and balconies. Guests can unwind at the spa, dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy delightful restaurant and poolside bar meals. Its amenities and prime location make it a top hotel in Shillong.
Price: ₹10,021
5 Star Hotel
The Shillong Address is a charming hotel in Shillong police bazar that exudes boutique-style luxury. Its cozy yet stylish rooms are designed to provide a relaxing stay. This hotel is ideal for those exploring Shillong’s cultural and natural attractions while enjoying top-notch amenities.
Price: ₹5,813
4 Star Hotel
Located in the city’s heart, Hotel Alpine Continental is a budget-friendly hotel in Shillong, India, offering convenience and comfort. Its simple yet well-equipped rooms provide free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The on-site restaurant and bar and its proximity to shops and local eateries make it a great option for travelers.
Price: ₹4,058
3 Star Hotel
The Majestic Hotel is a delightful choice for those seeking a comfortable hotel in the Shillong police bazaar. Its individually decorated rooms feature premium amenities, including flat-screen TVs and sitting areas. Conveniently located near Shillong Golf Course and the Catholic Cathedral, this hotel is perfect for leisure travelers. Its warm ambiance and affordable rates make it a popular choice among visitors.
Price: ₹7,257
3 Star Hotel
Jadoh is a traditional Khasi delicacy made with rice and pork, flavored with turmeric and aromatic spices. It is often paired with tungtap, a tangy fermented fish chutney, to enhance its flavor. You can savor this authentic treat at local eateries like Trattoria in Police Bazaar. While exploring nearby Shillong tourist places to visit, a plate of Jadoh is sure to enrich your experience. Its hearty flavors give you a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the Khasi people.
Pukhlein is a sweet, crispy rice cake made from rice flour and jaggery, perfect as a snack or dessert. Its simplicity and crunch make it a must-try when visiting Shillong’s markets like Iewduh or Police Bazaar. Combining this treat with a visit to the nearby Shillong tourist places to visit creates a perfect mix of cultural discovery and indulgence. A stroll through Shillong’s bustling streets while savoring Pukhlein is a true local experience.
Momos are a beloved snack in Shillong, featuring dumplings stuffed with pork, chicken, or vegetables. Perfect for a quick bite, momos are widely available at street food stalls and cafés in bustling areas like Police Bazaar. Adding momos to your food trail while exploring Shillong sightseeing places ensures a delightful culinary break during your adventure. Their popularity in Shillong makes them a must-try for every traveler visiting this vibrant city.
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is well-connected by road and air, making it accessible from major cities in India. While there is no direct railway station in Shillong, travelers can reach the city via nearby rail and air hubs. Local transport options in Shillong ensure convenient travel within the city.
Shillong does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, about 100 km away. Guwahati is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore via express and superfast trains. From Guwahati, travelers can hire a cab or take a shared taxi to Shillong, which takes approximately 3 hours.
Shillong Airport, located in Umroi (approximately 30 km from the city), connects Shillong to key cities like Kolkata and Delhi. Alternatively, the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, 115 km away, offers better connectivity with flights to various Indian cities. Travelers can book a cab or use car rental services to reach Shillong from either airport.
Shillong is well-connected by road via NH-6, offering scenic routes from Guwahati and nearby cities. Regular state-run and private buses operate between Guwahati and Shillong, with options like deluxe and Volvo buses for a comfortable journey. Shared cabs and self-drive rentals are popular choices for a personalized travel experience.
Noida, a bustling hub in the National Capital Region (NCR), offers a variety of local transport options that make commuting convenient for residents and visitors alike. From the modern metro network to traditional auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs, Noida’s transport system caters to all travel needs. The city is also well-connected to Delhi, Gurgaon, and other nearby areas, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking easy mobility.
Shillong’s city buses, operated by the Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC), connect key areas within the city and nearby destinations. These buses are a budget-friendly option for daily commutes and sightseeing trips.
Starting Price: ₹5–10 per km
Cab services in Shillong, including local taxis and shared cabs, are the most popular way to explore the city. Prepaid taxis and private rentals are available for airport transfers and sightseeing tours. Hiring a taxi is a convenient way for tourists to visit Shillong’s top attractions, like Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak.
Starting Price: ₹10–12 per km
Auto-rickshaws are not commonly used in Shillong, as local taxis dominate the public transport system. However, in some areas, you may find auto-rickshaws offering short-distance rides.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 12.Rs
Vehicle rental services in Shillong offer cars, bikes, and scooters for those who prefer exploring the city at their own pace. Self-drive car rental is popular for travelers visiting nearby destinations like Cherrapunjee, Mawlynnong, and Dawki.
Starting at only ₹1500.
Are you planning a trip to Shillong? Here are some valuable tips to make your visit to this “Scotland of the East” an unforgettable experience.
Plan Ahead and Book Early: Shillong experiences a high influx of tourists, especially during the pleasant months from March to June. Ensure you book your accommodations and transportation well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Pack for the Weather: Shillong’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack light woolens even during summer, as evenings can be chilly. Don’t forget a sturdy umbrella or raincoat, especially if you’re visiting during the monsoon season (June to September).
Respect the Culture and Environment: Shillong is known for its rich cultural heritage. When visiting places like the Don Bosco Museum, Mawphlang Sacred Grove, or Umiam Lake, ensure you respect local traditions and avoid littering or disturbing the natural surroundings.
Opt for Hygienic Food Options: To fully enjoy the local Khasi cuisine, such as Jadoh and Dohneiiong, choose reputed restaurants or eateries known for cleanliness. Avoid consuming uncooked food, and stick to bottled or boiled water to stay healthy during your trip.
Explore Safely: It’s advisable to travel in groups, especially when venturing to offbeat places like Laitlum Canyons or Dawki. For popular spots, check entry timings and buy tickets from authorized counters to avoid any inconvenience.
For a more flexible and convenient trip, consider car rentals in Shillong to explore the city and its surroundings, including day trips to Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong. If you’re an adventure lover, opt for bike rentals to enjoy scenic routes and hidden gems. Families or larger groups can rely on taxi services in Shillong, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey through Meghalaya’s breathtaking landscapes.
