Viridescent visuals, shimmering streams, wondrous waterfalls, and a rocking rhythm encompass the essence of Meghalaya and the splendour of its capital, Shillong. The once-upon-a-time capital of colonial and post-independence Assam became the capital of the newly formed state of Meghalaya in 1972. Since then, Shillong has transformed into an up-and-coming urban cityscape widely famed for its breathtaking natural marvels.

Also called the “Rock Capital of India,” Shillong city is home to rock and football aficionados and prides itself on its flourishing music scene. Presenting a bouquet of buzzing experiences to its visitors, a journey to the capital of Meghalaya is sure to be jam-packed with catching local gigs on the streets, trying the cafe scene, indulging in water adventure sports, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine.

Sounds like a plan? Then, try a Shillong tour this summer. And to make your trip more memorable, check out Zostel Shillong!

Sweet Falls. Photo by @techfrog.in

Best time to Visit Shillong

• Ideal time - October to June as the weather is pleasant with occasional showers.
• Monsoon - The entire state receives heavy rainfall between July to September, which turns the place into a natural paradise. However, tourism during this period poses some challenges.

Places to Visit in Shillong

Like most of Meghalaya, Shillong is home to some cream-of-the-crop natural treasures that will afford you an inimitable immersive experience. Here are some of the places you must visit to make the most of your Shillong trip:

Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures- Aimed at the preservation and promulgation of the indigenous culture in the region, the Don Bosco museum houses an array of tribal artefacts across 17 galleries. These include musical instruments, costumes, daily use objects, and weapons, among others. In addition, the museum also displays various photos and videos documenting life in Northeast India. The Museum sits just 3.5 km from central Shillong.

Ticket: 100 INR per person (Extra for camera)

Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (Sundays closed)

Umiam Lake- Just a 40 min drive from Shillong city centre, the shimmering Umiam Lake, surrounded by the lushly forested East Khasi Hills, offers an enthralling display. Here, visitors can partake in various fun water activities and sports, including boating, cruise boating, and water skiing, kayaking, and speed boating.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (For water sports/activities)

Umiam Lake. Photo by Varun Nambiar on Unsplash

Lum Sohpetbneng- An hour’s drive from Shillong and just 15 min from the Umiam Lake, a short and picturesque hike leads you up to Sohpetbneng Peak, a spot seeped in Khasi folklore. This tranquil place bids you a sweeping panorama of Umiam Lake and the vicinity. In addition, the Khasi people also perform an annual pilgrimage to this place on the second Sunday of February.

Laitlum Canyons- The Laitlum canyons, where “Laitlum” means “End of the Hills,” is a scenic spot just an hour’s drive from Shillong. The majestic gorges blanketed by fleecy clouds are known for a larger-than-life vista, and breathtaking sunset and sunrise views.

Laitlum Canyon. Photo by Hadwt on Unsplash

Police Bazar- A trip to Shillong is incomplete without visiting the Police Bazar for fun souvenirs and mouth-watering street food like momos, tungrymbai, and dohneiiong. Among the items that can be purchased at this market include traditional handicrafts, exclusive Meghalaya merch, traditional apparel, jewellery, and organic produce. This market is situated just a 12 min drive from Zostel Shillong.

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Sunday)

Ward’s Lake- 1.5 km from the city centre, Ward’s Lake, also known as Pollock Lake or Nan Polok, is believed to be over 100 years old. With manicured gardens and fragrant flowerbeds on the sides and an eccentric wooden bridge going across, visitors can enjoy a quiet time by the lake. They can also try a round of paddle boating and spot geese.

Ticket: 10 INR per person (Extra for camera)

Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Ward's Lake. Photo by @techfrog.in 

Shillong Peak- The highest point of Shillong city, just a 30 min drive from the centre, is known for rendering a sweeping panorama of the entire Shillong valley. A short 1-hour hike should lead you up to the Shillong viewpoint.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Note: Visitors will be subjected to heavy checking at the entrance, as the viewpoint is located within the air force premises. Carrying proper identification is recommended.

Mawphlang and Khasi Heritage Village- The Sacred Groves of Mawphlang are noted for their conservation message, deep-seated in the Khasi culture and traditions intermingled with the land and forest. Just a 45 min drive from Shillong centre, these hallowed groves have borne witness to Khasi coronations and sacrificial events over time. Visitors are barred from taking anything from the forest.

The Khasi Heritage Village- Facing the Sacred Groves, the Khasi Heritage Village is a model village representing the tribal lifestyles of the Khasi tribe. During the Monolith Festival, the amphitheatre here screens a range of shows and documentaries. In addition, visitors can view the displayed tribal weapons, daily use articles, and tools.

Ticket: ~20 INR per person. (Extra for camera)

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians- Sitting in the heart of the city, this prodigious cathedral is painted in a striking powder blue colour. It is famed for its beautiful and earthquake-resistant architecture and a vast complex area. Visitors can stroll through the wide area, and view beautiful murals, and altars inside.

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians. Photo by @techfrog.in 

Bara Bazar- The oldest market of Shillong, Bara Bazar, also known as Lewduh, is predominantly run by women vendors. Visitors can buy organic and fresh produce, spices, exotic fruits, apparel, handicrafts, and more. Additionally, the street food here, including pusaw, pu khlein, and pu maloi, is another reason attracting droves of visitors. It’s located just an 11 min drive from the centre.

Waterfalls: In and Around Shillong

In addition to the exuberant music scene of Shillong, the majestic cascades in the city add their melody to its effervescent rhythm. So be sure to catch them live during your visit.

Elephant Falls- Just 30 mins from the city centre, the exquisite Elephant Falls is a definite visit. Known as Kshaid-Lai-Pateng in Khasi, meaning three-step waterfall, visitors can get up-close-and-personal with the waterfall through its railed walkway that starts from the top of the waterfall towards the pool below.

Visitors at Elephant Falls. Photo by @techfrog.in

Bishop & Beadon Falls- Bishop Falls and its disjointed twin brother Beadon Falls, are regarded as one of the highest waterfalls in the country. These three-tiered waterfalls fall into the ravine of the Umiam River and are viewed from a viewing point located 5 km from Shillong city.

Mawlynrei Falls- 11 km from Shillong, the Mawlynrei Falls appears like a long white curtain falling on a rugged wall of rocks. Surrounded by greenery, a short hike leads you to this grand waterfall.

Day Trips Recommendations

Among the finest road networks across India, the roads of Meghalaya were sculpted for road trips. Covering the expanse and connecting you to the less explored parts of the state, here are places that you can take a day trip to when in Shillong:

Jowai- 2 hr from the Shillong city centre, Jowai is famed for a myriad of attractions giving insights into the local history and culture. While visiting, check out Ialong, Myntdu River, Syntu Ksiar, and the Kiang Nong Bah Memorial. In terms of landscape, the Tyrshi Falls, Thadlaskein Lake, and at a slight distance Nartiang Monoliths and the Krang Shuri waterfalls are definitely worth the visit.

Mawphanlur- Just a 2 hr drive from Shillong, Mawphanlur is known for its vast greenery and picturesque scenery. High-altitude viridescent meadows and numerous lakes call this place home. A landscape to inspire your inner poet, hike to the Mawthadraishan Peak and get the bird’s eye panorama of the entire valley.

Mawsynram- Roughly a 2.5 hr drive from Shillong, Mawsynram houses a score of must-visit natural treasures, including the world’s longest sandstone cave, Krem Puri Caves and the picturesque Umkhakoi Lake, with some riveting rock formations on its shoreline.

Kayaking on the Umkhakoi Lake. Photo by-Bishnu Sarangi from Pixabay

Mawlyngbna- Less than 40 min drive from Mawsynram, Mawlyngbna offers its visitors a glimpse into Meghalaya’s idyllic countryside lifestyle and local culture. Additionally, this quaint village houses a diverse topography comprising lush peaks, natural springs, and numerous bursts of waterfalls.

Eri Silk Village- Umden, in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya, was dubbed the first Eri Silk Village of Northeast India. “Eri,” meaning peace, is a form of non-violent production of Silk. Visitors can tour the village and observe the silk production process, buy silk-based goods, sample local cuisine, and explore nearby sights like the sacred groves.

Things to do in Shillong

From adventure activities to sports, sightseeing excursions to cafe crawls, the multifaceted experiences of Shillong should leave your schedule packed with fun and adventure galore. Here are some fun activities that you must try while exploring Shillong:

Golfing and more at Golf Links- Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf on this 18-hole golf course which is open to all. It is also perfect for a stroll and leisure time basking in the uninterrupted vista comprising mountains, lofty pine groves, blue skies, fleecy clouds, and seemingly endless meadows. And the best part, it’s within walking distance from our Zostel Shillong.

Go on the David Scott Trail hike or the Bamboo hike- The David Scott Trail, a 16 km hike, starts in Mawphlang and can be easily covered in 4-5 hours. The hike comprises soul-stirring views, an arched bridge, and a river crossing.

Meanwhile, the Bamboo Trail hike, also called Mawryngkhang hike, starts in Wankhen, a 1.5 hr drive from Shillong city centre. It is an exhilarating hike, definitely not for the faint of heart, as the entire trail involves walking on bridges and ladders made of bamboo. The hike is about 7 km and can be covered in 3-5 hours.

Bamboo Hike. Photo by Raghav VC

Partake in Water Sports- Home to two soothing and scenic lakes, visitors can indulge in water sports in Shillong. At Umiam Lake, one can try speed boating, boating, water skiing, kayaking, and more. Meanwhile, at Ward’s Lake, paddle boating facilities are available.

Take a heritage walk in Shillong- Experience the city’s journey through time with a heritage walk across the city, covering its iconic landmarks. These landmarks will bid you a glimpse into the city’s colonial history through its architecture, parks, and more.

Check out local cafes- Known for its vibrant and expansive cafe scene, a cafe crawl is definitely worth trying while visiting Shillong. (Continue reading for recommendations.)

Check out local music gigs and shows- Famed for its love for rock music and an upbeat music scene, the city is always buzzing with live gigs and shows that are organised daily. So be sure to catch the local music scene across the cafes and streets of Shillong.

Best Restaurants in Shillong

Shillong houses an ever-expanding range of piquant and delectable gastronomical delights, supported by its dynamic cafe scene. Additionally, a sojourn to Shillong is incomplete without sampling its local cuisine. To help you along the way, here are some recommendations:

Lamee Restaurant- Greeting its customers with neat and classic interior decor, Lamee Restaurant specialises in a range of Chinese and North Indian dishes. Visitors should definitely try the momos.

Price for two: 600 INR

Timings: 11 am - 10 pm

Trattoria- This busy and humbly decorated eating joint serves a delectable range of local Khasi flavours. Among the must-try delicacies include Jadoh, Tungrymbai, Doh neiiong, Doh Long, and lunch platters.

Price for two: 600-900 INR

Timings:1 pm - 8pm

City Hut Dhaba- Adorned with aesthetically pleasing decor right from the entryways, this popular eatery is famed for its wide range of North Indian, Chinese, and barbeque delicacies. Tourists and locals alike flock to this restaurant.

Price for two: 600 INR

Timings: 11 am - 9:30 pm

Bamboo Hut Restaurant- Sitting right beside the Police Bazar, the Bamboo Hut Restaurant is a minimally decorated eatery. It is best known for serving a selection of Chinese, North Indian, and South Indian dishes.

Price for two: 500 INR

Timings: 11 am - 9 pm

Qzine Restaurant- Qzine exudes a pleasant ambience along with neat and classic decor. The restaurant specialises in popular North and South Indian delicacies, along with Asian fare.

Price for two: 400 INR

Timings: 10:30 am - 9:30 pm

Dylan’s Café- With the interiors and background soundtrack theme circling the legendary musician Bob Dylan, the Dylan’s Cafe is an eclectic eating joint known to serve a range of breakfast, snacks, and coffee selections.

Price for two: 500 INR

Timings: 10:30 am - 11 pm

Dylan Cafe. Photos by Pranavi Chhikniwala

Café Shillong- Offering an inviting ambience through its quirky and neat decor, Cafe Shillong serves a variety of snack and beverage options, including coffee and hot chocolate, which are popular among the guests. In addition, the cafe also serves Asian fare, along with some ear-pleasing live music.

Price for two: 500 INR

Timings: 12 pm - 10 pm

You and I Arts Cafe- Reflecting traditional Khasi culture through its decor, this place is known to serve authentic local delicacies and a wide range of teas. In addition, many art and craft pieces are showcased here. Some of the must-try dishes here include Putharo Dohjem, Phan Tungtap, Doh Thad, and Pu Tharo.

Price for two: 400-800 INR

Timings: 11:30 am - 6:30 pm

Deja Vu- The overall ambience of this restaurant is elegant, owing to its aesthetic decor, including ceramic plates and bowls bearing a uniform insignia. This place is popular for serving a wide range of Chinese fare with a side of fun live music.

Price for two: 300 INR

Timings: 11 am - 10 pm

JIVA Veg- Among the handful of purely vegetarian restaurants in Shillong, JIVA Veg serves a multi-cuisine fare. The blend of white chairs and yellow tables with bursts of green table mats give the entire place an eye-pleasing and sophisticated vibe.

Price for two: 350 INR

Timings: 8:30 am - 9:30 pm

A bit about Zostel Shillong

Finally unlocking the seven sister states of Northeast India, Zostel has reached Meghalaya with the launch of Zostel Shillong. Within walking distance from the city centre and a stone’s throw away from Golf Links, Zostel Shillong is a lovely villa boasting elegant and sylvan decor. Awaiting you here are cushy accommodations, comfy seating areas, an in-house cafe with outdoor and indoor seating, and a football and rock music themed common room with a see-through ceiling.

Check Zostel Shillong here.

Zostel Shillong. Photo by @techfrog.in

The Common Room at Zostel Shillong. Photo by @techfrog.in

How to reach Shillong

Regarding connectivity, Shillong is close to Guwahati, which is fully connected to mainland India through public transportation. So if you’re heading to Shillong, here’s how you can get there:

By Car: Among the finest road networks in the country, a road trip from Guwahati to Shillong (99 km) is a recommended experience. Self-drive Cars are easily rentable in Guwahati, starting from 1200-1500 INR per day. Drive towards Shillong via the Guwahati-Shillong (GS) road.

By Bus: Daily interstate bus services are available from Aizawl, Silchar, Siliguri, Guwahati, and more towards Shillong, starting from 350 INR.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Shillong is Guwahati Railway Station (97 km), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Patna, and more.

By Flight: There are two airports near Shillong. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport in Guwahati (116 km) is well-connected to major cities. Additionally, from the Shillong Airport (30 km), direct flights from Delhi are available only on Mondays and Fridays.

And that’s all about Shillong, folks! One of the most resplendent locales across India, Meghalaya is truly for the nemophilist in you because, deep down, everyone’s a tree-hugger, and if you disagree, then a visit to Shillong should do the trick.

And you can count on Zostel Shillong to make your Shillong tour easy-breezy.

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