Shillong
The Soul-Filling Escape in the Scotland of the East

Location & Approach

• Location – Nestled in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Northeast India

• Coordinates – approx. 25.58° N, 91.89° E.

 

Surrounding Region – Home to Shillong Peak (Meghalaya's highest point at 1,961m), with key towns like Cherrapunjee (Sohra), Mawlynnong, Mawsynram, and Dawki nearby.

 

Approach into Shillong

• By Air – Umroi Airport (limited connectivity); Guwahati Airport (major hub) is ~4 hours away.

• By Rail – Nearest major station is Guwahati (approx. 3-4 hours drive).

• By Road – Well-connected by national highways.

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Weather & Best Time to Travel

 

Climate – Shillong generally experiences a mild climate.

• Summer (May-October) – Warm and muggy, with average daily high temperatures above 70°F (21°C). August is the hottest month.

• Winter (December-February) – Cool and mostly clear, with average daily high temperatures below 61°F (16°C). January is the coldest month.

• Wet Season (April-October) – Significant rainfall, with July being the wettest month.

 

Best Time to Travel

• October to March – Ideal for exploration with pleasant, cool, and dry weather.

• March to June – Lush green, clear skies, perfect for adventure.

• Monsoon (July-Aug) – Beautiful for rain lovers, but outdoor activities may be limited.

 

Best Things to See & Do

Shillong offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventurous pursuits designed to fill your soul.

 

Nature & Serenity

• Shillong Peak – Panoramic city views from the highest point.

• Elephant Falls – Majestic three-tiered waterfall amidst lush greenery.

• Ward's Lake – Tranquil boating and strolls in the city's heart.

• Laitlum Canyons – Sweeping vistas of rolling hills and gorges, ideal for light treks.

• Umiam Lake – Sprawling reservoir for water sports and scenic beauty.

• Mawsynram & Cherrapunjee – Explore the wettest places on Earth, with stunning waterfalls and living root bridges.

 

Culture & Sacred Spaces

• Don Bosco Museum – Dive into the indigenous cultures of Northeast India.

• Colonial Architecture – Discover Shillong's British past on heritage walks.

• Local Markets – Immerse yourself in Police Bazaar and Laitumkhrah Market for traditional crafts and local life.

• Mawphlang Sacred Forest – Experience an ancient,biodiverse forest steeped in local folklore.

• Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians – Admire one of Shillong's most beautiful churches.

 

Trek & Adventure

• David Scott Trail – Embark on one of Meghalaya’s oldest and most exciting treks.

• Living Root Bridges – Witness these natural wonders in nearby Nongriat or Mawlynnong.

• Boat Cruising on Umngot River (Dawki) – Glide over crystal-clear waters.

• Caving – Explore Meghalaya’s mysterious cave systems.

• Riverside Camping – Serene experiences in places like Shnongpdeng.

 

Informational & Experiences

• Must-Try Local Dishes – Savor Jadoh (rice with meat), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry), Doh Khlieh (meat salad), and local fruit wines.

• Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival (Nov) – Experience music, fashion, and culture amidst blooming cherry trees.

• Cultural Homestays – Connect deeply with local traditions.

• Ethical Souvenirs – Support local artisans by purchasing bamboo and cane products.

 

Curated Stays for a Deeper Connection

• Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong – Luxurious with local cultural touches and diverse cuisines.

• The Heritage Club, Tripura Castle – A historic stay in a former royal palace.

• Ri Kynjai - Serenity By The Lake – Spectacular views of Umiam Lake and unique architecture.

• Cafe Shillong Bed and Breakfast – Relaxed vibe, excellent coffee, and authentic Khasi dishes.

 

Travel Tips

• Pack Smart – Layers for varying temperatures, raincoat/umbrella for sudden showers, and comfortable shoes for exploring.

• Hydrate – Always carry a reusable water bottle.

• Respect Local Culture – Dress modestly, especially at sacred sites. Ask permission before photographing.

• Engage Locally – Use shared taxis, try local transport, and don't hesitate to bargain respectfully in markets.