Here’s a complete Shillong travel guide to help you get to know the “Scotland of the East.” Shillong, Meghalaya’s capital, is a major doorway to Northeast India and is perhaps the best gateway city to visit. Located roughly between 1,491–1,496 meters above sea level in the Eastern Highlands of the state, Shillong is the headquarters of the East Khasi Hills District and the capital city of Meghalaya.
This hill station of pine-lined slopes, pleasant weather, waterfall, lakes, British colonial influences, Khasi cultural heritage, vibrant bazaars and a bustling café and music culture serves as an ideal base camp for visiting popular destinations like Cherrapunji (Sohra), Dawki, Mawlynnong, and even living root bridges in the surrounding region.
Visiting Meghalaya for the first time or in search of accommodation options in Shillong (Homestay in Shillong, etc.) or creating an extensive tour of Meghalaya? This comprehensive Shillong guide will put you on the right track.
Quick Shillong Travel Guide
- State: Meghalaya
- District: East Khasi Hills
- Altitude: Approximately 1,491–1,496 metres
- Known as: Scotland of the East
- Nearest major airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
- Shillong Airport: Umroi Airport, approximately 31 km from Shillong
- Best time to visit: October to April for comfortable sightseeing
- Popular attractions: Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Police Bazar, Don Bosco Museum, Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls
- Best base for: Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong and other Meghalaya day trips
For a broader overview of the state, see our Meghalaya Travel Guide →
Top Attractions in Shillong
For those that have one to two days on their hands, Shillong has plenty of things to see while it also works well as a launchpad for Meghalaya excursions if you wish to explore further.
Umiam Lake (Barapani)
Umiam Lake or Barapani is one of the most picturesque places to visit near Shillong. It is a large reservoir next to hills and is a great place to visit when entering Shillong by road from Guwahati.
Umiam Lake was formed after the construction of a dam on the Umiam River during the early 1960s for a hydroelectric power project. It has now become a major recreational and scenic attraction. ‘Meghalaya Tourism’ states that Umiam Lake is situated at about 15 km away from Shillong and is accessible by road through NH6
The visitors can take rest at various viewpoints located around the lake and enjoy the scenery, click photographs of the hills and take rest while traveling from Guwahati to Shillong. The lake is also associated with boating and other recreational activities.
Travel tip: If you are travelling from Guwahati to Shillong by road, Umiam Lake makes an excellent first sightseeing stop before continuing into the city.
Ward’s Lake
This beautiful creation in central Shillong is among the easier places to factor into your itinerary. The man-made lake itself is lined by walking paths and manicured gardens and if you feel the need for some time on the water, you can also take one of the many available rowboats out for a spin. The Meghalaya Government states “Ward’s lake is a popular picnicking spot among residents and tourists of the town, the short garden walks and boat rides offer rest and amusement.”
Ward’s lake is a perfect outing for families, couples, and travelers wishing to get away from the commercial hub of the city for a little while.
This also conveniently teams with other popular city-based activities on a half-day city tour of Shillong.
Police Bazar Shillong
To get the pulse of the commercially functioning Shillong city, there is no other place than Police Bazar Shillong to be at. The name Khyndailad is also known with the Police Bazaar and it’s certainly the primary shopping and foodie haunt in Shillong. It encompasses everything from attire shops, to cafes, diners, hotels, ethnic wares to stalls selling at the roadside.
In practical terms, Police Bazar is a convenient destination for accommodation as several places to stay crowd into the centre of the locality.
For visitors, Shillong Police Bazar serves more purposes than just shopping, rather it’s a vital stop to mingle with the pulse of the city, indulge in food, shop souvenirs. Look out for locally made handicraft items; bamboo & cane crafted products, ethnic wear and garments, Meghalayan curios etc. And if you are a foody, then there are no shortages of good food with ranges of Khasi cuisine as well as varied cuisines that include Indian, Chinese etc along with some very good cafe’s as well. Due to some overcrowding here at any point of the day be it in the evening, avoid hustling.
Visiting in the late afternoon & getting a nice dinner in and around is just perfect.
Tip: If shopping is important to you, carry a little extra time for browsing rather than treating Police Bazar as a quick photo stop.
Don Bosco Museum
The Don Bosco Museum, also under the auspices of the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, is also by far one of the best places to get a feel of the various cultures of North-east India in Shillong.
A variety of galleries display indigenous culture including costumes and ornaments, agriculture, basket-making, how homes are built, language, musical instruments, art, religion and traditional technology.
An enjoyably different experience – relevant to tourists seeking cultural insight as well as Meghalaya’s natural wonders.
The museum is open all week, generally Monday through Saturday, and has hours depending on the time of year. Official museum info presently states hours as: 9:30am–5:30pm summer, 9:30am–4:30pm in winter and closed Sundays and for some holidays. Please always check the official site before a trip, since hours can change.
The building is placed on an elevated site, so while on the skywalk there are also some view points. So this is another reason to keep the building in the Shillong route.
Allow: Around 1.5–2.5 hours for a relaxed visit.
Other places to see in Shillong Meghalaya
If you find yourself with a little more time, you may want to consider Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Golf Links, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians and Shillong Heritage Walk. Asho Meghalaya Tourism 10 have also listed many of these among Shillong’s main attractions.
For a more detailed attraction-by-attraction list, see our Shillong Tourist Places Guide →
Where to Eat in Shillong
Shillong has emerged as an eclectic food town thanks to Khasi influences and global cuisine. Sampling local Khasi fare is a highlight, but locals also recommend browsing Police Bazar and residential neighborhoods such as Laitumkhrah for a variety of cafes and eateries.
When you go in for local cuisine, sample Jadoh-another Khasi rice dish-and other local dishes like Tungrymbai. This too is listed in Incredible India under the list of local food in Shillong.
City Hut Family Dhaba
City Hut Family Dhaba at Police Bazar is a good choice for travelers looking for an extensive menu from a place located in the heart of the town. As its official website states, the menu has Indian, Chinese, barbecue and ice cream varieties with many sections of diners. Its address is situated at Earle Holiday Home in Oakland Road, Police Bazar.
But it can work quite well for families, or groups, where everyone wants something a little different than a local menu.
What else to eat in Shillong
More food choices are available at the many cafes and restaurants around Police Bazar and Laitumkhrah. You may opt for Khasi Bazar, Vegetarian, North Indian, Chinese, Bakery, Coffee & modern cafe menu based on your choice.
Food tip: Don’t restrict yourself to known Indian cuisines. Shillong is one of the best places in Meghalaya to sample local Khasi tastes before venturing into smaller towns and rural areas.
Where to Stay in Shillong
Shillong has accommodation options to suit all budgets, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to boutique inns and homestays in Shillong.
Police Bazar is one of the easiest and most central areas for visitors as there are many restaurants, shops and transportation available. According to Meghalaya Tourism, Hotels/Guesthouses/Homestays are available all over Shillong including Police Bazar.
If the space is a little more subdued for you, then look away from the centre of everything. Non-Police Bazar areas are more residential and comfortable if you are happy sacrificing proximity to the shops.
Which area is best for your trip?
- Police Bazar: Best for first-time visitors, shopping, food and convenience.
- Central Shillong: Good for sightseeing and easy access to city attractions.
- Laitumkhrah: Suitable for travellers interested in cafés and Shillong’s contemporary food scene.
- Homestays: Best for travellers seeking a more local and residential experience.
- Higher-end hotels: Ideal for families and couples prioritising comfort and facilities.
For a detailed comparison of properties, locations and budgets, see our Hotels in Shillong Meghalaya Guide →
Shillong Weather Guide
Shillong has a relatively cool, comfortable hill climate compared to most of the Indian plains but there is a significant effect of rain.
However the best time to visit Shillong for sightseeing is preferably October to April. Meghalaya Tourism suggests the weather conditions are better and the visibility is clearer during these months. It tends to be more moist during June to September due to the monsoon prevailing in the region.
October to November
One of the most ideal times to see the sights. The land is green after monsoons, and outdoor pursuits are suitable.
December to February
Winter: The days are cooler, mornings and evenings are frigid so make sure you have ample warm layers especially when venturing outside the city.
March to April
Spring is also a great time to visit Shillong and neighboring tourist destinations. The temperature is slowly increasing but it is mostly pleasant as it is a hill station.
May to September
Rain is another consideration. Meghalaya is a monsoon state and the image of green landscapes is not a false one, but heavy rain can hamper road journeys, trekking, and sightseeing outdoors. Meghalaya Tourism suggests to take note of the weather forecast and to pack rainproof clothing and anti-slip shoes when traveling in the rain season.
Shillong weather tip: During the monsoon, don’t over schedule yourself. Leave some time for traveling by road and have some indoor activities ready in case rain puts a damper on sightseeing plans.
How to Reach Shillong
The road is the most common mode of communication to Shillong, Guwahati being the main entry point through which most people access the city either by rail or air.
By Air
Umroi Airport is located in Meghalaya and is 31 km away from Shillong according to Meghalaya Tourism. The official website of the Airports Authority of India was found to have the airport at umroi and taxi services listed as one of the transport alternatives to this airport.
Sometimes, flights are not available on certain schedules. In such cases, it is easier for the tourists to fly to Guwahati Airport in Assam and make an overland journey to Shillong.
According to Meghalaya Tourism, Guwahati Airport is about 119 km from Shillong.
By Road
Journey from Guwahati to Shillong on the way is one of the most travelled routes of entering Meghalaya. Meghalaya Tourism mentions that SF Shillong 100 km south of Guwahati by the NH6.
Get there by private taxi, a shared cab or on a bus, according to your comfort and budget.
The whole trip is an experience, especially as the road rises into the lush hills of Meghalaya. A natural point of interest on the way is Umiam Lake,
For a detailed transport guide, see How to Reach Meghalaya →
Shillong as Your Base for Day Trips
Possibly the best thing about Shillong is its location. It can serve as a perfect base to visit a number of major Meghalaya attractions, although a few are best visited with an overnight stay.
Shillong to Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Cherrapunji, called by the locals Sohra, is probably the most popular trip from Shillong. The area is known for its waterfalls, caves, high precipices and living root bridges.
A day trip can take in several major viewpoints and waterfalls but travelers with more time should try to spend a minimum of one night in Sohra.
Read our complete Cherrapunji Travel Guide →
Shillong to Dawki and Mawlynnong
Dawki, The Umngot River is a highlight here. While Mawlynnong.. The village gardens and the living root bridge experience..is a shining star of Mawlynnong..
Both can be piggybacked as a long day trip from Shillong (do remember that both are a bit too far away for that). Given this distance, it will be best to start early. For the lazy types, planning for an overnight stay between Dawki and Mawlynnong might be a good idea.
Read our Dawki & Mawlynnong Travel Guide →
Living Root Bridges
Meghalaya is home to some of the world’s most unique, unspoiled natural and cultural attractions: the living root bridges. The most well-known solution is around the Sohra area, while it takes a bit further to access some of the other examples and for trekking.
Certainly if a visit to a living root bridge is a primary concern and highlight of your trip, then sorry to disappoint but do not assume the bridges are all conveniently located near Shillong.
How Many Days Are Enough for Shillong?
For a first visit, 2 days in Shillong is enough to cover the main city attractions at a comfortable pace.
A simple plan could look like this:
Day 1:
Umiam Lake → Ward’s Lake → Police Bazar → local food and café exploration
Day 2:
Places to visit around Shillong Don Bosco Museum Shillong Peak Elephant Falls other city attractions
Use shillong as base and do one or two day trips to West Khasi hills including Sohra, Mawphlang or Laitlum if you have 3-4 days.
To extend your Meghalaya holidays, I would suggest joining the capital with the rest of Meghalaya, for example Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki or another destination.
Final Tips for Visiting Shillong
The best way to enjoy Shillong is to have a little bit of spare time. You need to be prepared for the weather to change, for the roads to turn a short drive into a lengthy one and for houses and attractions outside the city to be furthest away than you imagined.
A few practical tips can make your trip smoother:
- Carry a light rain jacket even outside the main monsoon season.
- Pack warm layers for winter evenings.
- Keep comfortable, non-slip footwear for sightseeing.
- Stay near the Police Bazar if convenience is your priority.
- Consider a homestay in Shillong for a more local experience.
- Start early for day trips to Sohra, Dawki and Mawlynnong.
- Check weather and road conditions before long excursions during monsoon.
- Keep some time for local food and café hopping instead of visiting only viewpoints.
- Book accommodation ahead during the October–April peak travel period. Meghalaya Tourism also recommends advance accommodation and transport bookings during busy periods.
FAQs
What is Shillong famous for?
Shillong is renowned for its picturesque hill sceneries, agreeable climate, pine forests, waterfalls, lakes, Khasi culture and music, the colonial impact and so on. It is also called the Scotland of the East.
What is the best time to visit Shillong?
The most comfortable period for sightseeing is around October to April. The weather is much wetter during the monsoon months, but there will be verdant foliage and impressive waterfalls.
How many days are enough for Shillong?
Shillong’s main attractions can be visited comfortably in a couple of days. Three to four days are necessary if you want to visit some more places nearby or just travel at a slower pace.
Is Shillong good for a family trip?
Yes, Shillong offers a lot for families – Ward’s Lake, various parks, museums, lookout and sightseeing destinations with easy access.
Which area is best to stay in Shillong?
Police Bazar is one of the most convenient places for first time visitors because of its convenient location, restaurants and shopping and hotels. Other places better suited for travellers seeking a more homely,conventional environment are homestays and less central areas.
Can I visit Cherrapunji from Shillong?
Yes. Cherrapunji (Sohra) is the most accessible day trip from Shillong. But if you wish to see many waterfalls, caves and root bridges at your leisure then it is better to stay overnight at Sohra.
Is Umiam Lake in Shillong?
The Umiam Lake is not really a part of Shillong but is just around from the city centre. According to Meghalaya Tourism the lake is around from Shillong in Ri Bhoi District.
Plan Your Meghalaya Trip from Shillong
Shillong is not just a faltering stop on a Meghalaya tour. It’s a destination in its own right, uniting hill station sights, Khasi life, cuisine and shopping with the city experience and proximity to some of Nil Pradesh’s most breathtaking scenery.
Take a few days to visit the lakes, museums, markets and viewpoints of the capital city,then use Shillong to access Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong and Meghalaya’s renowned living root bridges.
To have a bigger picture, begin with our Meghalaya Travel Guide Internal link to Pillar Article, then go through the Meghalaya Cherrapunji Guide, Dawki & Mawlynnong Guide, Hotels in Shillong Guide and How to Reach Meghalaya Guide to make your trip a perfect one.
Conclusion
Shillong Meghalaya blends misty hills, scenic lakes, Khasi culture, vibrant markets, and unforgettable day trips. From Umiam Lake and Police Bazar Shillong to Cherrapunji, Dawki, and Mawlynnong, there’s plenty to explore. With pleasant weather, convenient connectivity, and accommodation for every budget, Shillong is the perfect base for discovering Meghalaya.