Places to Visit In Shillong
Shillong Tourist Places
Meghalaya’s capital Shillong is a hill station in northeastern India. Shillong was the capital of the state of Assam until Meghalaya was established in 1972. There are different places to visit in Shillong like Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls. The location, people, and climate all combine to create a friendly atmosphere that makes Shillong an ideal year-round holiday destination. Shillong is encircled with beautiful lakes, cascading waterfalls, enchanting pine forests, and majestic mountains. It is a popular hill station in Meghalaya and is famously known as the ‘Scotland of the East’.
Shillong is a true natural paradise with numerous places to witness, like Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Golf Course, Lady Hydari Park, and many more. Some more attractions include Laitlum Canyons, Nongjrong, and Mawkdok Dympep Valley, which can be explored on the way to Shillong, adding to the lifetime experience and memories of the tourists.
There are various Shillong Tourist Places, major of them are:
-Elephant Falls
-Shillong Peak
-Laitlum Grand Canyons
-Umiam Lake
-Shillong Golf Course
-Ward’s Lake
Besides being an amazing and promising land, Shillong is also famous for its many caves, which attract tourists not only from India but also from faraway places. Shillong is home to some of the longest and deepest caves in the world. The city strongly represents northeastern traditions and rich heritage through various handcrafted items by the indigenous tribe. A close connection with its roots is what makes Shillong culturally rich and one of the most loved destinations by visitors.
Other unique and best places to visit in Shillong are:
–Mawphlang Village
-Nongjrong View Point
-Mawjrong
Owing to its geographical location, Shillong has delightful weather all through the year. Summer is considered to be the ideal time to visit Shillong, enticing tourists from different places to enjoy the clear skies and fresh air and engage in numerous activities like trekking, water rappelling, and so on. Shillong offers abundant opportunities for hiking enthusiasts with various green trails. Get an enriching experience by engaging in talks with local people, going on walks, or shopping in the police bazaar. Along with this, Shillong is a hub of picnic spots like Umiam Lake, Wards Lake, and many more, which let the tourists enjoy themselves and have a great time. All of this makes Shillong a must-visit destination in Meghalaya.
All through the year, tourists visit this paradise to have the best time with their friends, families, and loved ones. Spending quality time in the arms of nature is all one needs to revitalise oneself from the regular hustle and bustle of life.
This blog provides a detailed, curated list of the best places for tourists to witness in Shillong.
Places to Visit In Shillong
1. Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is the beauty of Shillong and the most preferred destination by tourists. The lush beauty and glistening view of the surroundings are fabulous to witness and take in the natural charm of the place. Umiam Lake, which is also regarded as the ‘Barapani Lake’, lies on the way to Guwahati and Shillong. It is located about 19.2 kilometres from the capital city of Shillong. Tourists usually visit Umiam Lake as a stopover on their journey from Guwahati to Shillong, appreciating the region’s fantastic panoramic views and lush greenery. Tourists often pause to click some memorable pictures of them with their loved ones in this picturesque spot. Umiam Lake is undoubtedly a paradise for photographers to click unique snaps of the region.
Being located on the National Highway 6 (Guwahati-Shillong Road), Umiam Lake has an excellent connection that can be accessible from all locations. Various beautiful places can be spotted on the way to Umiam Lake as well.
Umiam Lake is a part of Umiam Dam, built by the Assam State Electricity Board with the purpose of hydroelectric power generation by storing water. The lake is spread over a major area of about 220 square kilometres and is a very important water source for irrigation, fishing, and drinking water. As far as the eye could see, one could spot a stretch of clear water surrounded by hills on all sides. Visitors love spending time in the garden adjacent to the lake, which is a wonderful picnic spot where visitors can relax amidst nature and engage in activities like boating and kayaking. With the charm that Umiam Lake holds, it is often compared with the clear and enchanting lakes of Scotland which indeed makes this beautiful lake one of the most popular Shillong tourist places.
All in all, Umiam Lake is a perfect destination to begin the excursion in Shillong. Without a doubt, this place entices tourists with its alluring beauty and provides the calm from the fast pace of life. Thus, a visit to Umiam Lake is a must when visiting Shillong.
2. Seven Sisters Waterfall
Visitors to Cherrapunjee should not miss the Seven Sisters Falls, the most beautiful waterfall. Locals call it Nohsngithiang Falls or Seven Sisters Fall because of the seven streams that flow from the top of the cliffs. Shillong visitors should not miss these falls, which are especially beautiful during the monsoon. The best time to see the falls is during the rainy season.
On top of the mountain, there is a platform where visitors can get a full view of the falls and a park to relax and enjoy the scenery. It is one of the top places to visit in Shillong and is well-known for its name. You can plan your visit around June and July during the rainy season to fully enjoy the beauty of the falls. They are open all year round. Therefore, the Seven Sisters Falls is among one of the most loved Shillong tourist places.
3. Cathedral Church
The Cathedral Catholic Church is located between Dhankheti and Laitumkhrah in Shillong. Built at the place where Shillong’s very first church was built, it is also famous by the name ‘Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians’. The church is encircled with lush greenery and designed in a grotesque architectural style. This church is under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong, which is also in charge of overseeing comparable houses of worship in the Khasi and Jaintia highlands. The church became a shrine in 1980. Being one of the notable places to visit in Shillong, The Cathedral Catholic Church is a must-visit.
Sand fills rock trenches to make the Cathedral Catholic Church earthquake-proof. Its base stands strong. It sits on a verdant hill with fancy blemish glass and soaring arches. The first archbishop of the city, Hubert D’Rosario, rests near the altar. The art inside the church showcases the stories and lives of the saints from the sacred scriptures. A subterranean grotto church, dug into the hill, honours Our Lady of Lourdes. On clear days, you can see the Brahmaputra River and the snowy Himalayas from up there.
The church is open to visitors from 7 a.m. in the morning until 6:30 p.m. in the evening. Therefore, it is considered as one of the significant Shillong tourist places.
4. Nohkalikai Falls
One of Shillong’s top attractions is Nohkalikai Falls, one of India’s tallest waterfalls. It stands 1,115 feet (340 meters) tall. The water falls below creating a plunge pool. Nohkalikai Falls is open to visitors all year, but the best time to visit is during the monsoon, when the waterfall is at its most beautiful state. The falls provide a calming view during this time. At the summit of the slope, rainwater collects to feed Nohkalikai Falls, which is situated close to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth.
You can get the best views of the waterfall, surrounding vegetation, and the lovely valley from the viewing gallery. This is among the top Shillong tourist places which should not be missed by the visitors. Therefore, Nohkalikai Falls is a must-visit destination when in Shillong.
5. Double Decker Living Root Bridge
The Khasi tribes of the northeast created the stunning Double Decker Living Root Bridge, one of Meghalaya’s unique and most beautiful living root bridges, using the roots of ancient rubber trees. Situated at Jingkieng Nongriat, a short distance from Cherrapunjee, this remarkable location never fails to attract trekkers. The roots grow in such a way that they form a bridge at the top of a river, creating a path for the local people to cross the river easily.
This place is also ideal for trekking. The entanglement of roots forms two bridges, transforming into a double-decker root bridge. It amazes and astonishes travellers, making it a unique spot for them to visit. It is among the top and best Shillong tourist places. Travellers never miss visiting this unique Double Decker Living Root Bridge while in Cherrapunjee.
6. Wards Lake
Among the many places to visit in Shillong, Wards Lake is regarded as one of the most popular travel destinations. Located near the Police Bazaar, in the heart of Shillong, it is without a doubt a must-witness site. Wards Lake, which is believed to be 100 years old, has also been famously known as Nan Polok or Pollock’s Lake since the Pre-Independence Era. The then-appointed Chief Commissioner of Assam, Sir William Ward, planned the formation of Ward’s Lake, and the erection of the lake was executed by Colonel Hopkins in the year 1894.
A beautifully articulated stony track surrounds the lake and serves as its highlight. The wooden bridge stands on the sparkling lake, encircled by grassy, verdant slopes, making it an enticing destination. A walk on the appealing bridge or simply standing and gazing at the serene beauty of the lake, feeding the fish, and befriending the ducks can be immensely satisfying. Visitors can relax in the shade of the soaring trees and rejuvenate in the flower garden with its immensely wonderful and unique shades.
Wards Lake is a perfect travel spot to ease into the charm of nature. Tourists can indulge in paddling activities and savour delicious snacks in the nearby restaurant. Autumn is a favourable time to visit the lake and witness the fully bloomed-in cherry blossoms turning the region into a mesmerising shade of pink. A famous event known as the ‘Cherry Blossom Festival’, is celebrated during the time between October and November in the lake’s vicinity. Visitors can even witness a few nearby attractions, like the Botanical Garden and the Police Bazaar.
This must-visit attraction in Shillong is accessible to visitors all year, except Tuesday of every week. The opening times of the lake from November to February are from 8:30 AM in the morning until 5:30 PM in the evening, and from 8:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. from March to October.
7. Police Bazaar
Police Bazaar, located in the centre of Shillong, offers a wide range of products like groceries, luxury goods, clothing, shoes, mobile phones, laptops, and more. It’s one of the top tourist spots in Shillong, and it’s famous for shopping. The market is known for both Western and ethnic clothing. Police Bazaar is the most popular shopping destination for residents and visitors alike. You can find traditional, local, and foreign products here. Many locals and tourists also choose to eat at Police Bazaar because it has a variety of restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines, making it one of the best places to visit in Shillong.
8. Shillong Golf Course
Situated in the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, Shillong Golf Course is regarded as a grand and exceptional golf circuit. It is given the title of ‘Gleneagle of the East’ because of its verdant beauty and picturesque delight by the United States Golf Association and Museum. Initially, it was a 9-hole golf course at a height of 5200 feet in the year 1898. Later, the golf course was transformed into an 18-hole golf course by Captain Jackson and C.K. Rhodes in the year 1924.
Luxuriant rhododendron and pine vegetation encircle the golf course, which lies in a beautiful valley and is the dearest spot for golfers around the country. Humps like sea waves covered all in green, with the placement of pine trees, add to its charm. The place is not just for golfers, but for everyone to visit. The British officers used to connect and compare the golf course with the golf course in Wales. Also, this place holds the record of a few famous British officials who played golf here around 70 years ago. Presently, the place still hosts important golf events. Therefore, Shillong Golf Course is among one of the best Shillong tourist places.
Shillong’s Golf Course is a delight for photographers to witness this largely spanning 18-hole golf course, all enveloped in green. Thus, it is a perfect destination to immerse and relax in the charm of the largely stretching green pitch. A visit to the Shillong Golf Course is recommended when in Shillong.
9. Elephant Falls
Nestled in the periphery of Shillong lies the mesmerising Elephant Falls. The falls got their name from the British during colonial rule after a huge rock with a reflection similar to an elephant was placed at the bottom of the falls. However, this particular rock was wrecked by the earthquake in the year 1897. The Khasi name of this waterfall is ‘Kshaid-Lai-Pateng’, referring to its three levels over which the water cascades.
A barrier close to the waterfalls allows visitors to enjoy the cool sprinkles of water and feel the region’s calmness while ensuring their safety. Boards at each tier of the falls provide historical information, and the steps are abrupt, so it is advised to walk slowly and carefully, especially for children and senior citizens. The first and second tiers of the falls have sitting provisions for resting and gazing at the mesmerising beauty of the falls. Being one of the incredible places to visit in Shillong, Elephant Falls offers the visitors to indulge in photo sessions near the falls, creating and capturing memories for a lifetime.
A children’s park, Matilang Park, connects to Elephant Falls. Known for its verdant beauty, the park is perfect for weekend visits. After enjoying the charm of Elephant Falls, visitors can relax at another destination nearby. Elephant Falls is open to visitors every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10. Don Bosco Museum
The Don Bosco Museum is another popular destination in Shillong. Spending quality time here will be beneficial and enjoyable, as visitors can learn about the rich culture of the different tribes of the Northeast. Their art is represented in the ceremonies, handcrafted statues, a few regional artworks, attire, weapons, and achievements. The restored replica is easy to understand and a boon for children because they can enjoy and learn simultaneously. The museum encourages the heritage of the tribes of northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and many more. There is a skywalk on the 7th floor, which offers a great view of Shillong City and its enchanting surroundings. It is a must-take experience when visiting the museum. The Museum is listed among the notable Shillong tourist places and is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Shillong.
To dive deep into the rich culture and history of the Northeast, Don Bosco Museum is your ultimate destination. For lovers of history, this place is no less than a paradise. The museum is open for excursions from Monday to Saturday, and the visiting hours are from 9:30 a.m. in the morning until 4:30 p.m. in the evening.
11. Shillong Peak
A noteworthy Indian Air Force station in the Khasi Hills, which lies at the soaring point of Shillong, is famously known as Shillong Peak. Resting at an altitude of 6,433 feet and located about 10 kilometres away from the main city, the natural charm of this peak is unmatchable.
The peak provides an aerial view of Shillong city as a whole. It is one of the remarkable places to visit in Shillong. It is advised to carry binoculars in order to witness this picturesque site. Visitors can buy a lot of things of interest from the nearby shops available.
It is a boon for photographers to capture this stretching green beauty from different angles and shots. Visitors can even indulge in a photo session with their loved ones while taking in the beauty of this vibrant peak. Therefore, it’s a must-visit destination in Shillong that offers an abundance of natural allure to its visitors.
Shillong Peak can be visited on all days except Wednesdays of every week. The visiting hours to the peak start from 9 a.m. in the morning until 5 p.m. in the evening, with a charge of Rs. 50 per person for entrance. Therefore, Shillong Peak is a must-see and worth exploring destination.
12. Krang Suri Falls
Visitors to Shillong should definitely see Krang Suri Falls, located in the Jaintia Hills District. To get to the falls, you need to walk down from the parking lot and climb the stairs for ten to fifteen minutes. The bright blue water of the falls is the most interesting part of this place all year round. Krang Suri Falls is a must-see tourist spot in Shillong because its stunning beauty attracts visitors from all over the world making it one of the best places to visit in Shillong.
Besides taking pictures of the beautiful scenery, there are many other activities to enjoy here. You can swim in the pool, but you need to rent a life jacket for a fee. You can also take a boat ride above the falls. It’s a good idea to spend one to two hours during your visit to fully enjoy the beauty of the falls and the surrounding area. Krang Suri Falls is a must-explore and worth visiting destination in Shillong.
13. Dainthlen Falls
Dainthlen Falls is about 10.8 kilometres from the city and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Cherrapunji. It’s also a popular picnic spot in Shillong, Meghalaya, and attracts many tourists. Visitors enjoy a breathtaking view as the waterfall flows between two big boulders. The river spreads out and falls into a narrow canyon near Dainthlen. The name “Thlen” means a big python or snake. You can also visit Sa-I-Mika Park nearby.
The only cost to see the waterfall is the parking fee, which is Rs 20 for two-wheelers and Rs 50 for large cars. There is no other fees, and any time of the year is a good opportunity to visit the falls. Therefore, the falls is among the best Shillong tourist places to explore and is worth a visit.
14. Wei Sawdong Falls
Wei Sawdong is a three-tiered waterfall in Cherrapunji. The name means “square shape.” It connects to the stream from Dainthlen Falls. This place is one of the main attractions in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, offering stunning views. The waterfall is incredibly beautiful and is among the top Shillong tourist places.
To reach it, you need to go down steep hills. Some bamboo branches and stones form the stairs on the steep slopes to help travelers. You can visit this place if you are physically strong, can use bamboo stairs and natural steps, and are willing to climb.
15. Laitlum Canyons
With so many incredible places to visit in Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is another wonderful destination on the list. It translates to ‘End of the Hills’ or ‘End of the World’.’ Nestled at a distance of about 22.6 kilometres from Shillong lies this mesmerising, majestic beauty. It takes about 2 minutes to hike to reach the glorious Laitlum Canyons.
Trekking enthusiasts can engage in an adventurous and thrilling trek along the rocky and luxuriantly thick verdant slopes. Some popular trekking trails include the Smit Village Trek and the Rasong Village Trek. The time of sunrise and sunset is the most favourable time to witness the charisma of the Laitlum Canyon, with mornings mostly being blurry due to thick fog.
The spectacular views of Laitlum Canyons are a delight for photographers to capture the best of this destination. Visitors often stop by to capture amazing pictures with their loved ones, friends, and families. Spending time amidst the prolific emerald and jade valleys with superb weather is a perfect escape from the rush of city life. Thus, this astonishing destination never fails to amaze visitors and is undoubtedly worthy of exploration.
16. Air Force Museum
Situated on the premises of Eastern Air Command in Upper Shillong, the Air Force Museum showcases the history and heritage of the Indian Air Force. The museum displays various medals, uniforms, detained enemy machines, and many more such exhibits. Visitors can see an age-old aircraft and a few photographs that provide a glimpse into the bravery of the Indian Air Force.
It serves as a hub of educational information and hosts interactive sessions for people of all ages. Travellers can learn a lot about various regiments and their responsibilities in protecting the skies. The museum undoubtedly arouses feelings of patriotism and sheer respect. Visitors should carry one piece of identification, which is required at the entrance of the museum. Air Force Museum is among the most significant Shillong tourist places. A visit to this museum is a must, as it stands as proof of the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Air Force.
17. Lady Hydari Park
Many tourists visit this well-known spot in Shillong, the park named after Lady Hydari, the first lady of the province. This large park is in the heart of the city and has many species of plants and a small zoo with different birds and reptiles. The main attraction is the beautiful flower bed. It’s a great place to spend time with family and friends. The park is open to all visitors all through the year, except for Mondays of every month. Visitors can witness this beautiful park from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Therefore, it is one of the significant places to visit in Shillong.
18. Mawlynnong Village-The Cleanest Village in Asia
Mawlynnong Village was felicitated with the label of “Cleanest Village in Asia” by Discover India in 2003. It is often regarded as “God’s Own Garden” and justifies this title as well.
Mawlynnong can be reached by undertaking a drive of approximately 77.7 kilometres from Shillong. Cabs and bus services are another possible option to reach Mawlynnong Village and take in the surrounding beauty of the place.
The village can be visited anytime throughout the year; however, summer and winter are regarded as the best times to witness the local attractions. Monsoons cause a lot of rain, which makes it quite difficult to explore but is a boon for someone who enjoys rain. It is considered to be one of the notable Shillong tourist places.
The Jingmaham Living Root Bridge is the major highlight of Mawlynnong Village. Visitors can indulge in a thrilling trek through the root bridge. The bamboo watch tower is another high spot to witness. Some other famous destinations to visit include Balancing Rock and the Church of Epiphany.
Therefore, Mawlynnong Village has a lot to offer its visitors and has the capability to change the mindset of people with its green and clean ambience. A visit to Mawlynnong Village is a must to encounter nature and its wonders.
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19. Umngot River (Dawki River)
Umngot River, in Meghalaya, is one of the most loved destinations by tourists near Dawki Village. It is also known as the Dawki River. No words can describe the majestic beauty of this river. The water of the river is so crystal clear that almost everything underground is visible.
The river provides kayaking and boating opportunities to the visitors, which makes it seem as if the boat is floating on the glass passage because of its ultra-clear surface. Surrounded by lush greenery and cleanliness, spending quality time and kayaking at the Umngot River is all one needs to calm down the nerves and cherish the atmosphere. The visiting hours for the river are from 8 a.m. in the morning until 6 p.m. in the evening. Therefore, Umngot River is among the best Shillong tourist places and a visit here can be a worthwhile experience in itself.
20. Bophill Falls
One of the spectacular waterfalls in Meghalaya and the least explored is Bophill Falls. Bophill waterfall is close to Dawki, being 5 kilometres away and about 81.6 kilometres from Shillong. It is an extremely beautiful destination cascading down, having a milky white tinge in the Jaintia Hills district.
Visitors can witness the Bophill Falls on their way to Dawki and even indulge in a day’s trip exploring Dawki’s other famous attractions. Visitors are enticed by the view of stretching Khasi Hills on one end and Bangladeshi plains on the other. During monsoons, the place is further adorned with lush green beauty and forms a mesmerising landscape. Visitors can spend quality time here, which will definitely be worthwhile during their Shillong trip.
21. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
In the village of Mawphlang, Meghalaya, a lovely forest enchants visitors. This beautiful and sacred area, as its name implies, lies roughly 27.2 km from Shillong. The Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a virtual treasure trove of nature’s wonderful gifts, forbids anyone from taking even a single leaf. The forest’s immense allure draws large groups of visitors, photographers, botanists, and spiritual people. The area’s well-known features include the peculiar Rudraksh trees and their spiritual influence. The humus-filled grounds and the profusion of ferns, orchids, pipers, and fern allies make the forests an uncommon example of flora. Undoubtedly, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is one of the remarkable Shillong tourist places and is a must visit destination in Shillong.
22. Mawkdok Dympep Valley
Located on the way to Cherrapunji, Mawkdok Dympep Valley is a famous tourist spot in Shillong. From the Mawkdok Viewpoint, visitors can enjoy the valley’s beautiful and natural scenery. Many visitors stay for a while to have tea and some food. The deep valley is peaceful, and adventure seekers can also try zip-lining. You can reach the viewpoint by going down several steps.
23. Nongjrong
Among the various tourist destinations in Shillong, Nongjrong hamlet offers one of the best places to see the dawn and remains one of the least visited. You can take an early tour, and as dawn breaks, clouds shroud Nongjrong Valley, giving you an incredible view. Nongjrong’s magnificent scenery will definitely leave you in awe.
Shillong is about 49 kilometres away from Nongjrong. Nongjrong’s breathtaking scenery mesmerises everyone, and gives a rejuvenating experience. When you walk all the way to the hilltop’s corner to see the clouds more clearly, you won’t be disappointed.
Visiting Nongjrong in the early morning is ideal. You can depart early from Shillong and reach Nongjrong before sunrise to fully appreciate the exquisite splendour of this top Shillong attraction.
24. Mawsmai Cave
Approximately 4 kilometres away from Cherrapunji, Mawsmai Cave attracts tourists as the main destination and the greatest area to visit in Cherrapunji. It ranks among the largest caves in Meghalaya, measuring 1 km long, 4.5 m wide, and 15 m high. The limestone cave is fascinating. You’ll see water constantly dripping from the ceilings and watch stalactites and stalagmites form.
Many tourists visit Mawsmai Cave, a famous spot in Cherrapunji. Inside the cave, you have to bow your head and kneel in some places where the ceiling and floor meet to form pillars. Exploring Mawsmai Cave is an exciting adventure you won’t forget. The cave is open all year, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
25. Mawjymbuin Cave
Mawjymbuin Cave is situated in the East Khasi Hills in the Mawsynram Village in Meghalaya. It is surrounded by a cascading waterfall, thick greenery and abrupt slopes.
The major highlight of this cave is the massive stalagmite near the cave’s opening that is about 15 feet high and 150 feet wide. Deposition of calcium carbonate, dripping of mineral enriched water and weathering for years have created speleothems which are formations of stalactites and stalagmites. This stalactite is placed on Symper Rock, which has a dome-like shape and levelled top surface.
With the unique pairing of the Symper Rock Mawjymbuin cave has perplexed the geologists. The cave consists of many split entries and narrow ways, few of which are pretty difficult to enter. Heavy rains during monsoons, at times block these entries and it becomes a task to explore the cave. So, it is advised not to visit during monsoons, but post monsoons.
Therefore, Mawjymbuin cave has a rich geographical importance which is a cherished trait of the cave. Surrounded by the enthralling beauty, visit to this cave leaves the visitors with the feeling of spiritual tranquillity and calm.
26. Living Root Bridge – Riwai Village
Riwai Village, nestled in the thick forest region of Northeastern state of Meghalaya is a home to a naturally built majestic Living Root Bridge. The root bridge was erected out of the bamboo logs and has flourished out of the rhizomes of the rubber tree (with the scientific name being Ficus elastica tree). The tribal people subscribed to the notion of building the bridge in a natural way to serve their requirement of crossing the river.
Located approximately 80 kilometres from Shillong and 2.4 kilometres from Mawlynnong Village, it is regarded as the most loved destination by tourists. The unique entanglement of the roots is a proof of the wonder of nature. The build of the bridge is extremely strong as it dates back to being over 300 years old and is believed to be getting stronger with each passing day.
There are a variety of budget-friendly lodging options available at Riwai. Indulging in interactions with locals provides an insight to the rich Khasi culture to the travellers. Therefore, witnessing this beauty of Meghalaya where nature showcases its creativity to the extent of building bridges is worth a visit.
27. Mawlynnong Waterfall
Mawlynnong waterfalls contribute to being one of the most striking sites in Meghalaya. Gushing down from a significant height and surrounded all by lush and thick greenery makes it a sight to behold. Taking a dip in the cool, replenishing waters rejuvenates the soul and the body.
Summer and the monsoon are regarded as the best times to witness the falls wholeheartedly. Although monsoons add to the beauty of the falls, it is advised to be cautious during this time.
Mawlynnong lies about 77.6 kilometres away from Shillong, but it is a worth-visiting place for tourists to witness the amazing Meghalaya. There are numerous other attractions close to the falls, like the Living Root Bridge and many more.
Thus, diving in the charm of Mawlynnong waterfalls is highly recommended when touring Meghalaya.
28. Umkrem Falls
Umkrem Falls is a tourist attraction that lies in the Dawki Bazaar in Dawki. During the monsoon season, this waterfall provides marvellous views, which makes it a perfect destination to relax and shed off the stress.
Surrounded by luxuriant hills and verdant valleys with cool waters plunging down and an age-old bridge close by, Umkrem Falls never disappoints its visitors.
Located about 4 kilometres away from Dawki and about 79.3 kilometres from Shillong, this waterfall is worth witnessing and spending time at. Hence, Umkrem waterfalls are a must-visit spot whenever in Meghalaya.
29. Butterfly Museum
The Butterfly Museum, sometimes called the Entomological Museum, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shillong. The butterfly, bug, and moth collections in this private museum come in a wide range of sizes, forms, patterns, and colours, all of which are native to the area. Mr. Wankhar, the owner, is passionate about preserving these moths and butterflies for future generations. Beautiful butterflies, beetles, moths, and other insects are found in abundance at the museum, which is situated near Christian Academy School on the Riatsamthiah Jaiaw. The park is closed every Sunday and is accessible to tourists from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The timings slightly differ on Saturdays, i.e., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
30. Bara Bazar (Lewduh)
Bara Bazar is a perfect place to shop and buy souvenirs from Meghalaya. The market offers an abundance of fruits, spices, vegetables, nuts, clothes, and more. People also know Bara Bazar as ‘Lewduh’. Shopaholics, especially street shoppers, will find it a treat. You can find all essentials in this market, including iconic items like Khasi knives, rare Khasi floor scrubber brushes, and Khasi arrows used by the Khasi people for archery practice. Therefore, you must visit Bara Bazar when in Shillong. Visitors often buy souvenirs to take home.
31. Sweet Falls
Sweet Falls is a spectacular travel destination for tourists to witness in Shillong, Meghalaya. It plunges down from an elevation of 315 feet and is encircled by prolific greenery. It is a delight for visitors to lose themselves in the charisma of the falls and relax in the midst of nature. Another name for Sweet Falls is ‘Kshaid Weitden.’
Cascading down from the rocky ridge, it ushers in a natural setting that allures tourists from far-off places to slow down from the fast pace of life. Tourists can engage in photography, capturing some worth-capturing moments, and can even dive into the cool waterfalls, rejuvenating their senses. Therefore, Sweet Falls is a recommended destination for tourists exploring Shillong.
32. Thangkharang Park
Thangkharang Park in Cherrapunji is a must-see. From here, you can see Bangladesh. You can also see the Kynrem Falls flowing down the slope. The park has two footbridges that offer great views of the high hills, Bangladeshi plains, and green valleys. The park’s lawns and bushes are well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for picnics. Visiting this beautiful spot in Shillong will give you an amazing experience.
Khoh Ramhah Rock stands near the entrance gate and is another famous attraction in Thangkharang Park. The beauty of the place will captivate you, and you won’t want to leave early.
The park is open all year from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Shillong Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions on Places to Visit in Shillong
1. What are some renowned tourist spots in Shillong?
Few of the best tourist places in Shillong are:
Umiam Lake (Barapani): Umiam Lake is the beauty of Shillong and the most preferred destination by tourists. The lush beauty and glistening view of the surroundings are fabulous to take in the natural charm of the place.
Bara Bazar: Bara Bazar is a perfect place to shop and buy souvenirs from Meghalaya. People also know Bara Bazar as ‘Lewduh’.
Shillong Peak: A noteworthy Indian Air Force station in the Khasi Hills, which lies at the soaring point of Shillong, is famously known as Shillong Peak. The peak provides an aerial view of Shillong city as a whole.
Elephant Falls: Nestled in the periphery of Shillong lies the mesmerising Elephant Falls. This is the best tourist spot to relax in the midst of nature.
2. What are some best places to stay in Shillong?
A variety of budget-friendly hotels are available for guests, including standard hotels, deluxe hotels, and super deluxe hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Shillong are Holiday Hills, Hotel Island Park, and Relyn Suite, which are all located in the main city and have lovely interiors at reasonable prices.
3. What makes Shillong so popular?
Shillong is a famous tourist destination. Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawsynram and Jowai are some of the popular places to visit in Shillong. Another highlight of Shillong include its deep caves, soaring peaks, tall waterfalls and rich heritage and culture.
4. How many days are enough for a trip to Shillong?
In general, a 5 day trip to Shillong is enough to explore the major travel destinations wholeheartedly.
5. Is travelling to Shillong affordable?
It is possible to arrange a budget-friendly trip to Shillong. You may find reasonably priced hotels and homestays easily. Budget accommodations might help you save money and have a more inexpensive tour.
6. What are the ideal places to visit in Shillong?
Although, there are numerous places to visit and explore in Shillong. While a few must visit places include Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Don Bosco Museum, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak and many more.
7. What is the best time to visit Shillong?
Summer is considered to be the best time to visit Shillong. The weather is pleasant during this time of the year and visitors are able to witness and explore the places in ease.
8. Is Shillong safe for the tourists?
Absolutely, travellers can feel safe visiting Shillong since it is considered safer than many other parts of India and has a low crime rate. Shillong is a safe destination for tourism, even for female tourists and solo travellers.
9. Which languages are spoken and understood in Shillong?
Shillong’s population is largely English-speaking, therefore communication is straightforward. Hindi is another language that people in the city can speak.
10. Does Shillong offer comfortable lodgings for tourists?
Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels here, depending on their budget. Depending on their needs, guests can reserve regular, deluxe, and super luxury hotels and homestays. There are various accommodations in the main city with lovely interiors and amenities at reasonable prices.
11. What are the nearby destinations to explore while in Shillong?
Some nearby destinations include Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Jowai and Guwahati.
12. Which is the ideal season for visiting Shillong?
There is never a bad time to visit Shillong, but if you enjoy the outdoors, the monsoon season is ideal for you because it makes it possible to see the waterfalls in a beautiful setting. Wintertime in Shillong is the ideal time of year to visit if you enjoy adventure.
13. Is Shillong safe for solo travellers?
It is true that Shillong is a far safer area to go alone than a lot of other well-known Indian cities and towns. In addition, it offers plenty of transportation options and decent lodging options for independent travellers.
14. Is permit required to visit Shillong?
Travellers must create an e-invitation using the Meghalaya Tourism App. The app is available for download on the App Store or Google Play Store.
15. Is Summer in Shillong bearable?
When compared to other Indian states, Shillong’s summers are not as hot and muggy. Furthermore, Shillong experiences consistently good summertime weather. During the summer, the average temperature fluctuates between 25°C (Maximum) and 16°C.