Things to do in Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a lovely city surrounded by pine trees. Its name comes from the Shillong Peak idol Lei Shyllong, which is idolized there. This hill station, which rises to a height of 1,496 metres, is renowned for its climate, gorgeous surroundings, and culture. The “Scotland of the East” is another name for this location. The Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim tribes all have descendants today.
The Meghalayan state capital, Shillong, is home to a lot of waterfalls. The captivating mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, stunningly gorgeous golf courses, cafes, and museums are the main draws for tourists to Shillong. In addition to its natural beauty, Shillong opens doors to Meghalaya, a state known for its caving, largest waterfalls, heavy rainfalls, and great people and culture. Particularly Shillong has received attention for its lively residents and their way of life. Shillong is an interesting city with a very westernised culture and a youthful vibe. Due to the fact that it has produced so many well-known musicians, Shillong is also known as the music capital of India. It is a very lively location with numerous music events ongoing throughout the year.
Things to Do in Shillong
1. Adventure Activities at Umiam Lake
2. Explore Elephant Falls
You may enjoy a quick hike to the top of this three-step waterfall. One of the best things to do in Meghalaya is to enjoy short treks and photography. Every step you take on your journey gives you something special. The first fall is wide and hidden by forests, while the second fall provides you with some picturesque surroundings. However, the third one is the tallest and most well-known one, allowing you to see all the splendour with your own eyes.
The local Khasi people referred to the magnificent Elephant Falls as “Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew,” which means “The Three Step Waterfalls,” since they are composed of three magnificent falls that proceed one after the other. The first of the three waterfalls are wide and concealed by tall trees. Due to the decreasing water levels, the succeeding fall diminishes to thin strands of water and is essentially negligible in the winter. The third waterfall is the tallest and most easily seen with the unaided eye. In the background, clean water can be seen gushing like a sheet of milk and slamming against rocks. One of the most popular sites to visit close to Shillong is this waterfall because of its spectacular surroundings and picturesque vistas.
3. Visit Laitkor Peak, Shillong View Point
4. Stroll around Ward’s Lake
5. Tour the Don Bosco Museum
Take a day out and take in the contests hosted here for musicians, authors, and lyricists if you wish to learn about the native culture of North East India. A seven-story building, the museum is situated in Mawlai. Additionally, Shillong, Meghalaya, is proud of the building’s design. To raise public understanding of the North East Indian region’s distinctive culture, the museum was founded.
One significant cultural hub, not only in Meghalaya but in the entire north east, is the ancient Don Bosco Museum. This hexagonal-shaped museum is one of the greatest in the region’s north east. The seven floors of the museum correspond to the seven north-eastern states. You can get a peek of the seven north-eastern Indian states’ rich culture, history, art, and heritage at this museum. The museum is home to a wonderful collection of artwork, sculptures, and artefacts. The museum also has a meeting room, a media room, and a sizable cultural library. This is the ideal location to learn about the seven northern sister states.
6. Hike at Laitlum Canyons
7. Explore Biosphere of Nokrek
The Brahamputra River, which provides water to several communities, receives the Ganol as it travels west from the southern hills where the Dareng originates. The highest peak in the West Garo Hills, Nokrek, is home to an abundance of unusual plants and wildlife. A highly rare kind of citrus known as Memang Narang can be found on Nokrek Hill. Its literal meaning is “orange of the spirits.” The Memang Narang is regarded as the earliest and source of all other citrus plant species in existence. The first gene sanctuary in the world has been established here in an effort to protect this endangered variety of citrus indica.
The park is around 47 sq km in size and is recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The park is home to a variety of animals, including herds of wild elephants, as well as rare orchids, pythons, pangolins, hornbills, and leopards. This is where the remaining few red pandas reside. Here, it’s also possible to see bird species including hornbills, peacocks, and pheasants. The Simsang River Game Reserve, the Ronbang Dare Waterfalls, and the Nokrek Peak are further notable attractions.
8. Visit Mawlynnong–Asia’s Cleanest Village
9. Horse Riding
10. Relax at Lady Hydari Park
The selection of orchids and rhododendrons will charm and enchant you. You should take your kids there if you can. Enjoy the park with your children, take them to the petting zoo, and snap lots of pictures. Do some boating activities in addition to that. The park also features a small lake where your kids may keep an eye out for ducks and beautiful fish.
11. Visit All-Saints Church
12. Shop at Bara Bazar
13. Experience Rope Climbing
14. Trekking at David Scott Trail
15. Enjoy Camping
16. Experience Golfing at Shillong Golf Course
17. Make the Most of Weekender NH7
18. Have Fun Shopping
19. Journey to Sweet Falls
Even if there aren’t any gates or barricades at the bottom of the fall, it is exceedingly dangerous to try to approach it because it’s likely to be slippery and could result in a tragic fall. Enter the gurgling world of the waterfall, where you can stand at the distance and take in its magnificent splendour while being lightly grazed by the water.
20. Discover Cafés
21. Explore Sky’s Legacy at Air Force Museum
22. Experience the Wonders of Butterfly Museum
Wankhar, Riatsamthiah, who also organises regular programmes for the conservation of the moths and butterflies, owns and operates the Butterfly Museum. If you are travelling with kids, this is a fantastic location to check out.
23. Check out the Strawberry Farm at Sohliya
24. Explore and Shop at Lewduh
This market was formerly a part of the Hima Shillong-Nongkseh capital, but it was moved to its current location later. Mylliem’s Syiem is in charge of overseeing it directly. Every April, the market comes to life with the performance of regional rites, beneath which enormous monoliths known as “mawbynnas” are set up and revered. At Khlieh Iew, the most significant and guarded part of the market, several ceremonies are performed. This ritual is performed in order to appease the deity U Blei Shyllong and to offer prayers for the improvement of the trade and economy in the area.
25. Visit the Rhino Heritage Museum
It is thought that the Japanese prisoners of war were housed in the museum’s building, which was constructed in 1928. Lt. Gen. Shokin Chauhan, the director general of the Assam Rifles, subsequently constructed and restored it. The Rhino Heritage Museum features unique exhibits and images that show off not only military relics but also aspects of the regional culture.
26. Experience the enchanting Spread Eagle Falls
27. Discover the Forest of Malki
Towering trees, particularly British pine, may be seen in Malki Forest, providing shade and a covering for visitors. The forest is perfect for walking or hiking because it has a few routes and is home to a variety of vegetation, including wild flowers, mushrooms, and other species. Additionally, the woodland contains a number of little streams that run and serve as water sources. The greatest time to go is in the early morning when everything is still, the sun is just starting to peek through the trees, and you can hear the sound of birds tweeting. Although it is essential to keep the area tidy and clear of trash, one can also set up a picnic here. An excellent location for taking pictures of the outdoors.
28. Engage in Shopping at Police Bazar
The best spot to rent a hotel when visiting Shillong is Police Bazaar, commonly known as Khyndailad. It is the city’s main retail district. The bazaar is a fusion of the traditional and the contemporary, the elegant and the traditional. People favour it over Bara Bazaar because of its large collection. The markets are thoughtfully organised in the shape of a sizable circle (chowk) in the centre of the police bazaar, complete with plants and trees, and seven lanes leading away from the circle to various locations across the city. Many of the streets in Police Bazaar are off-limits to vehicles, making it a great place to go for some street shopping.
29. Visit the Chrysalis Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to do in Shillong
If you are visiting Shillong for the first time, there are various unique things to do in Shillong that you can engage in:
➤Visit Shillong Peak for enthralling views of the city.
➤Spend a relaxing evening with boating and strolling at Ward’s Lake.
➤Visit Lady Hydari Park for a perfect leisure time with family and friends.
➤Shop and taste local food at Police Bazar.
➤See the wide green fields of the Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest in Asia.
➤Take a short trip to must-see places like Elephant Falls and Umiam Lake for natural beauty.
2. Where is Shillong situated?
Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya, is located in the state’s eastern region and is situated at an elevation of 1,520 metres (4,990 feet) above sea level. Shillong is surrounded by the hills of the Assam Valley (northeast), the Umiam Gorge (north), and the vast Diengiei Hills, making it a must-visit location for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It is very convenient to reach the city because it is only 99.8 kilometres from Guwahati, 267 kilometres from Kaziranga, 567 kilometres from Siliguri, and 607.2 kilometres from Darjeeling.
3. How many days are required for a trip to Shillong?
To see all the main attractions of Shillong, a trip should ideally be at least 5 days. With good planning, you can cover the highlights in 3 to 4 days. You can explore our 5 days 4 nights Best of Shillong Tour Package which lets you explore Shillong completely.
4. When is the best time for visiting places in Shillong for outdoor activities?
Shillong is open for its visitors all through the year. However, the best time for visiting places in Shillong for outdoor activities is summer and winter months i.e. from March-June and October-February respectively which lets the visitors experience the various unique things to do in Shillong. Monsoon is a good time for visitors who enjoy rains and to experience the nature at its peak, though some places can be missed due to rains.
5. What are some unique things to do in Shillong at night?
There are many unique things to do in Shillong at night that let you experience the city in a different way.
➤Take a walk around Police Bazar, which stays lively with shops and street food.
➤Try delicious local dishes and music at cafes like Café Shillong or Cloud 9.
➤Go for a relaxing evening near Umiam Lake and watch the mesmerising sunset.
➤Visit the local night markets to buy souvenirs and try tasty street snacks.
6. What are some adventure activities to do in Shillong?
There are a lot of adventure activities to do in Shillong for adventure lovers. You can go trekking to Shillong Peak, Laitlum Canyons, or David Scott Trail. Adventure seekers also enjoy camping, rock climbing, hiking, rope climbing and many more in the nearby spots.
7. Which are the best places to see at Shillong?
Shillong has many places to visit, but some sightseeing spots you must not miss are:
➤Laitlum Canyons
➤Shillong Peak
➤Elephant Falls
➤Lady Hydari Park
➤Don Bosco Museum
➤Ward’s Lake
8. What are the best things to do in Shillong for couples?
Shillong is a perfect destination for couples because of its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Some of the most romantic things to do in Shillong for couples are:
➤Spend quality time boating at Umiam Lake, surrounded by hills and greenery.
➤Enjoy and spend a relaxing time in the colourful garden of Lady Hydari Park.
➤Watch the panoramic views together from Shillong Peak.
➤Visit Elephant Falls for a calm and refreshing experience.
➤Have a cozy dinner at Café Shillong or other romantic cafes.
➤Take a scenic drive to nearby spots like Cherrapunji for a memorable day trip.
You can also explore some of our Romantic Shillong Cherrapunji Tour Package for 6 Days and 5 Nights or Romantic Shillong Honeymoon Tour Package for 5 Days and 4 Nights which lets you spend a quality time in Shillong.
9. Which are the best places to visit in Shillong and Cherrapunji?
There are many amazing attractions and natural wonders when it comes to the best places to visit in Shillong and Cherrapunji. These two destinations in Meghalaya are known for their waterfalls, gardens, and unique cultural spots.
Best places to visit in Shillong are:
➤Shillong Peak
➤Ward’s Lake
➤Elephant Falls
➤Lady Hydari Park
➤Don Bosco Museum
Best places to visit in Cherrapunji are:
➤Nohkalikai Falls
➤Double Decker Living Root Bridge
➤Mawsmai Cave
➤Seven Sisters Falls
➤Eco Park
10. What exactly are Shillong’s fairs and festivals?
According to the tribes, the festivities differ. The most significant celebrations are Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, and New Year’s Day. One of the major Khasi celebrations is Ka Pomblang Nongkrem, or the Nongkrem Dance. The Khasis also celebrate Shad Sukmynsiem, which is another significant holiday. In July, the Jaintias celebrate their festival, Behdiengkhlam. The Garos celebrate the Sun God in the festival of Wangala.
11. What is the ideal season for travelling to Shillong?
Shillong is best visited between September and May, when the weather is most comfortable. It does rain on occasion, but less frequently than during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August. It may be difficult and uncomfortable to see the tourist attractions during the season when the area gets excessive rain. As the landscape transforms into a picturesque paradise with lush foliage, lakes, ponds, and waterfalls springing to life, the beauty of the monsoon season is at its height. So, for some, it might be a place worth visiting during the off-season.
12. What can one purchase in Shillong?
In Shillong, there are many shops where you can buy handmade items. You can also find shawls and stoles. The state produces lots of organic products like tea, honey, and spices, which you can take home.
13. How can one reach Shillong?
The nearest railway station to Shillong is in Guwahati, about 100 km away. The main airport is also in Guwahati, while Shillong’s Umroi Airport has limited flights only to Kolkata. From Guwahati, travelers can reach Shillong by bus, taxi, cab, or self-drive.
Since Shillong Airport has very limited connectivity, Guwahati serves as the nearest international gateway. Major cities across India are linked to Shillong through NH 40, with both private and public buses available. Within Shillong, the best way to explore is on foot, though shared taxis are also common.
14. Is Shillong a safe destination for tourists?
Yes, travellers can feel safe visiting Shillong. It is safer than many other parts of India and has a low crime rate. Shillong is a safe place for tourists, including women and solo travellers.
15. Is permit required to visit Shillong?
No, a permit is not required in order to enter Shillong, Meghalaya.
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