Nestled amidst misty highlands, Shillong has been called the Scotland of the East. This charming destination serves as Meghalaya's capital and a picturesque canvas for tourists. As the cultural and administrative heart of the region, it’s a melting pot of cultures. And Shillong Tourism offers a fascinating blend of captivating landscapes, pleasant weather, and rich traditions.
The essence of Shillong lies in its stunning topography of cascading waters, dense forests, and rolling hills. Perched at 1,496 meters above sea level, it has evolved into a premier tourist place in Northeast India. Its culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous tribal communities, British colonial legacy, and contemporary Indian life.
What distinguishes Meghalaya Shillong tourist places from other destinations is their remarkable character. Shillong pulses with musical energy, earning its reputation as India’s Rock Capital while maintaining deep connections to its roots. It welcomes tourists with an unreal charm that feels both serene and lively.
From nature lovers and adventure seekers to culture explorers, Shillong caters to every style. Our carefully curated Shillong Tour packages include everything from comfortable accommodations and hassle-free transportation to guided experiences and local insights. We have also partnered with the top car rental companies in Shillong to ensure a memorable trip experience throughout. Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch.
History of Shillong
The city derives its name from Lei Shyllong, a deity worshipped at the peak that towers over the city. For generations, tribal chiefs governed individual territories, establishing thriving communities across these hills. They maintained social order and preserved ancient customs.
Shillong’s proper establishment began with the advent of the British in the mid-19th century. Impressed by its favourable cool climate, they negotiated with the tribal chiefs for a sanatorium. The hills were also suitable for a road connecting Sylhet and Assam. By 1864, authorities had designated Shillong as the administrative headquarters of Assam.
In 1972, when Meghalaya became a full-fledged state, Shillong retained its status as the state capital. The city has since grown into an educational and cultural powerhouse. Tourism in Shillong serves as a bridge between traditional tribal life and modern development. It’s also the gateway to exploring the natural charm of Meghalaya and the broader northeast region.
Places to Visit in Shillong
Tourist places in Shillong are an exceptional mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Situated within the Garo-Khasi-Jaintia Hills, the landscape ranges from serene to spectacular. Each corner has a story, waiting to be discovered.
Umiam Lake is perhaps the most photographed location on the Shillong tourist places list. Known locally as Barapani, it’s an expansive reservoir on the outskirts of the city. It offers sports activities, such as kayaking and boating, with the backdrop of green hills. Within the city, Ward's Lake is a major tourist attraction, with gardens and walkways around.
Meanwhile, waterfalls define much of Shillong's appeal. Elephant Falls is one of the most popular places to visit in Shillong. Named after an elephant-like stone at its foot, the waterfall drops in three stages. Nohsngithiang Falls (locally called Seven Sisters Falls), with water cascading down a cliff in seven segments, is one of the best tourist places near Shillong city.
Crinoline Falls, with its unique rock formations, adds to Shillong's collection of stunning waterfalls. Beadon Falls adds another option for waterfall enthusiasts. Sweet Falls and Spread Eagle Falls, both nestled in dense forest, provide quieter alternatives.
Then, the Shillong Peak is the highest vantage point in Meghalaya. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. On clear days, you can even spot Bangladesh's plains. The Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Laitlum Canyons and the massive red granite dome of Kyllang Rock are other picturesque green destinations worth visiting around Shillong.
Nature lovers would also love a visit to Lady Hydari Park, a Japanese-style garden with a mini-zoo. It’s counted among the top tourist places in Shillong city. Apart from that, the mystical Mawjymbuin Cave, housing a natural Shivalinga, attracts both pilgrims and adventure lovers. Spiritual seekers also appreciate the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians and All Saints Church.
For insights into Northeast India's diverse tribal cultures, the Don Bosco Museum is one of the best tourist places in Shillong. The Air Force Museum showcases military history with its vintage aircraft, equipment and stories of Indian Air Force operations.
Other Activities and Experiences
Shillong's appeal extends well beyond its famous tourist places. The city and Meghalaya tourist places overall offer various activities that add a new flavour to your Shillong trip.
The city hosts numerous live music performances in cafes, bars and dedicated venues. Bands play everything from classic rock to contemporary fusion, and watching their performance is an absolute must. Traditional Khasi music and dance performances also highlight the region's cultural roots.
Adventure enthusiasts can explore nearby trekking trails. The 16-km-long David Scott Trail is a particularly rewarding option. It takes you through a British-era path, passing quaint Khasi villages, ancient sacred groves, and lush green meadows. Apart from that, Sohpetbneng Peak nearby offers trekking opportunities while providing a bird's eye view of the dense forest and the city.
Shillong Tourism also offers packages for a one-day trip from Shillong to nearby destinations. Cherrapunji, 54 km away, holds the distinction of being one of Earth's wettest places and features the famous living root bridges. Mawsynram (60 km), Dawki (80 km) and Mawlynnong (77 km) are other must-visit tourist places near Shillong in Meghalaya.
For those interested in shopping, Meghalaya Shillong Tourism provides an opportunity to explore regional products. These include traditional Khasi shawls, bamboo crafts and cane products. Other items worth checking out are local honey, organic tea, and spicy pickles. A visit to the local market also allows you to try distinct local flavours. Jadoh, a rice and meat preparation, is a Khasi staple. Dohneiiong, Tungrymbai and momo are a few other must-try dishes.
How to Reach Shillong
Several transportation options allow you to visit Shillong and explore its tourist spots –
By Air: Shillong Airport, about 30 km from the city centre, connects Shillong to other nearby cities. For better flight connectivity, Guwahati Airport is a good option with more operators. It has regular flights from many Indian cities, including Delhi and Kolkata. From the airport, you can hire a taxi from the top car rental companies in Shillong.
By Train: Guwahati railway station (100 km away) offers railway connectivity for Shillong. It has regular trains from across India, including Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. Available transportation for tourist places in and around Shillong is buses, rental cabs and taxis. Within Shillong, auto-rickshaws are available as well.
By Road: A well-maintained national highway links Guwahati to Shillong, connecting the city to the rest of India. Both state buses and private coaches run between the cities, with AC and non-AC options. You can also take a cab/taxi or enjoy self-driving, exploring the winding roads through hills. Dispur is 93 km, Guwahati is 100 km, and Siliguri is 570 km away from Shillong.
Tourism in Shillong is a combination of natural grandeur and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in adventure, spirituality, or simply seeking a cool climate, Shillong Tour packages cater to your needs. We craft customised itineraries that cover your places of tourist interest in Shillong and beyond. Fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with our travel experts.
