Top 10 Best Shillong tourist places

Are you seeking a destination with scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and vibrant culture? Look no further than Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, India. Shillong is known for its picturesque landscape, lively music scene, and delicious local cuisine. In this article, we will look at the top 10 best places to visit in Shillong and why you should add this charming city to your travel bucket list.

Best Places to Visit in Shillong

• Ward’s Lake

Undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shillong, Ward’s Lake is a man-made lake that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. It is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon, take a boat ride, and admire the lush greenery. The lake is surrounded by a beautiful garden that has a diverse collection of plants and flowers.

• Shillong Peak

If you want a panoramic view of the entire city, Shillong Peak is the place to be. Standing tall at an altitude of 1,965 meters, the peak offers a breathtaking view of the city’s landscape. It is also home to the Air Force Radar Station and is considered one of the most strategic locations in the region.

• Elephant Falls

Located on the outskirts of Shillong, Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of 12 meters. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. The waterfall’s name is derived from the shape of the rock at the foot of the falls, which resembles an elephant.

• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

If you want to learn about the culture and heritage of the North East region of India, the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures is a must-visit. The centre has a museum that showcases the various tribes, customs, and traditions of the region. It also has a library, research centre, and auditorium.

• Laitlum Canyons

If you are an adventure seeker, Laitlum Canyons is the perfect destination for you. It is a lesser-known attraction that offers a breathtaking view of the hills and valleys. The trek to the canyon is not for the faint-hearted, but the view from the top is worth the effort.

• Lady Hydari Park

Named after the wife of the first governor of Meghalaya, Lady Hydari Park is a beautiful garden with a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is a popular picnic spot for families and a mini zoo that houses several species of birds and animals.

• Umiam Lake

Also known as Barapani, Umiam Lake is a man-made reservoir that offers several water activities, such as boating, kayaking, and water skiing. The lake is surrounded by hills and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

• Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is a beautiful church that was built in the Gothic style of architecture. It is one of the oldest churches in the city and is known for its beautiful stained glass windows.

• Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Located about 25 km from Shillong, the Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a protected area home to several species of flora and fauna. The forest is considered sacred by the local Khasi tribe and is also a popular spot for trekking.

• Police Bazar

If you want to experience the local culture and cuisine of Shillong, Police Bazar is the place.

Other Notable Places to Visit in Shillong

• All Saints Church

The All Saints Church is a beautiful Anglican church built in 1874. It is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.

• Shillong Golf Course

The Shillong Golf Course is one of India’s oldest golf courses and is considered one of the most scenic. It is located in a valley surrounded by pine trees and offers stunning views of the hills.

David Scott Trail, The David Scott Trail, is a popular trekking trail that connects the towns of Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang. It is named after David Scott, a British administrator who established the trail in the 1800s. The trail offers stunning views of the hills and valleys and is a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty.

• Butterfly Museum

The Butterfly Museum is a unique museum that houses a collection of over 1,600 species of butterflies and moths. It is a great place to learn about the diverse species of butterflies found in the region.

 Best Time to Visit Shillong

The best time to visit Shillong is between September and May when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, should be avoided as heavy rainfall can cause landslides and make it difficult to explore the region.

How to Reach Shillong

By Air:

The nearest airport to Shillong is in Guwahati, about 120 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Shillong.

By Rail:

The nearest railway station to Shillong is Guwahati, about 105 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Shillong.

By Road:

Shillong is well-connected to other major regional cities by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Guwahati or other nearby cities to reach Shillong.

 Where to Stay in Shillong

Shillong offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. You can choose from budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts. Some popular options include Hotel Polo Towers, Hotel Centre Point, and Ri Kynjai Resort.

What to Eat in Shillong

Shillong is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes Jadoh, a rice-based dish with pork or chicken, and Dohneiiong, a pork curry made with black sesame seeds. Other popular dishes include Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean dish, and Pumaloi, made with sticky rice and black sesame seeds.

 Tips for Travelers

Pack warm clothing as the weather can get chilly, especially in the evenings.

Carry a raincoat or umbrella if you are travelling during the monsoon season.

Avoid travelling during the monsoon season, as heavy rainfall can cause landslides and make it difficult to explore the region.

Hire a local guide to explore the region and learn about the local culture and traditions.

Respect the local customs and traditions and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

 Final Thoughts

Shillong is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you want to explore the region’s scenic landscapes, learn about its rich culture and traditions, or indulge in its delicious cuisine.