Shillong
Information About Shillong :
A beautiful city encircled by pine trees, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It derives its name from Lei Shillong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. Standing as tall as 1496 meters, Shillong provides relief from the heat across the country. This hill station is known for its picturesque sights and traditions. The soothing climate makes Shillong suitable to visit in all seasons. The light drizzles and the cooling gentle wind adds to the joy of visiting this hill station. This place is also known as the ‘Scotland of the East’. One can find descendants of the Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim tribes.
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is home to numerous waterfalls. The exciting mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, museums, and the zoo are the key reasons why people visit Shillong. Apart from the natural beauty, Shillong also acts as the gateway to Meghalaya, the state famous for heavy rainfalls, caving, tallest waterfalls, beautiful landscapes, and amazing people and culture. Shillong in particular has been in limelight for its jovial people and their culture. Interestingly, Shillong has a very westernized culture and it has a very young feel to it. Shillong is also famous as the music capital of India, as many prominent musicians have hailed from this place. Many music events keep happening throughout the year, making it a very lively place.
Best Time To Visit In Shillong :
The best time to visit Shillong is between September and May as the weather remains pleasant during these months. It does occasionally rain, but it is relatively lesser than in the monsoons season, i.e. between June and August. During the season, the region experiences heavy rainfall, and it might be tough and inconvenient to explore the tourist attractions. The beauty in monsoons is at its peak as the terrain turns into a scenic paradise with lush greenery, lakes, ponds, and waterfalls coming to life. It, therefore, can be an off-season location worth a visit for some.
How To Reach Shillong :
The nearest railhead to Shillong is Guwahati, which is at distance of 100 km. Shillong airport at Umroi connects only to Kolkata, else Guwahati is the nearest major airport. Shillong bus stand is located at the city center and regular bus services to Guwahati are available. Shillong is connected to Guwahati by NH 40 and to the rest of the North-East by NH 44.
1.How To Reach Shillong By Flight :
Shillong Airport has very limited connectivity and only a few flights are operated from there. The nearest major airport to Shillong is in Guwahati, Assam. From there you could either take a bus or hire a cab or self-drive to Shillong.
2.How To Reach Shillong By Road :
NH 40 connects Shillong to the rest of the cities in India. There are both private and government buses that run from most major cities to Shillong.
3.How To Reach Shillong By Train :
The nearest railway station to Shillong is in Guwahati, Assam. From there you could either take a bus or hire a cab or self-drive to Shillong.
Places To Visit In Shillong :
1. Umiam Lake :
Umiam Lake, a mesmerizing man-made reservoir, is located at a distance of 15 kilometers north of Shillong which is the capital of the north-eastern Indian state of Meghalaya. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic Umiam Lake is encircled by lush green East Khasi hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers in the country. The sunrise at the lake is a treat to watch and shouldn't be missed. The Umiam Lake has a park adjoining it which is a hotspot for picnics and frequented by locals for a getaway from their busy schedule.
Umiam Lake
2 . Elephant Falls :
Named after an Elephant stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls are amongst the most popular falls in the North-East, situated next to Shillong. It is a tourists' paradise with three layers of the falls accessible to the layman from different vantage points. The Britishers named this fall so owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. However, the stone disintegrated and was washed away due to an earthquake in 1897. Elephant Waterfalls is a superb place for spending some time in the midst of nature while capturing the incredible moments for your keepsake.
Elephant Falls
3 . Police Bazar :
Police Bazar is the major market of Shillong, and a popular shopping haunts for locals and tourists alike. In addition to an array of restaurants, hotels, and big brand stores, the Police Bazaar also has a flea market section which is pocket-friendly and draws the maximum number of tourists owing to its traditional handicrafts stores, exquisite Meghalaya merchandise, regional apparels, junk jewelry, and the like. The colorful market is thronged by shopping enthusiasts as well as foodies.
Police Bazar
4 . Shillong Peak :
At the height of 6449 ft or 1965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak is the highest point of Shillong. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, the Himalayas, its waterfalls as well as the Bangladesh plains. A telescope is available for tourists to get a bird's eye view. Trekking up to this semi-circular Shillong Peak is highly recommended for the best views but it is often bounded by heavy fog.
It is said that Shillong gets its name from the Shillong Peak itself. Regional tales tell that the patron deity 'Leishyllong' resides in the hills and protects the city from all evils. The U Shulong site at the top of the peak is sacred and every spring, a ritual is organized there. The Shillong Peak is situated at the air force base and features a radar station of the Indian Air Force. Due to security reasons, heavy checking is done at the gates, and tourists are asked to deposit their cameras.
Shillong Peak
5 . Laitlum Canyons :
Perched on the East Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is a less explored but one of the most picturesque tourist and trekking destinations in Shillong. The canyons are located about 21 km south of Shillong which is about a half-hour drive away. Literally, translating to 'End of hills', this exotic viewing site offers the best panoramic views of the whole of Meghalaya embraced by the majestic hills and valleys. The spot is secluded and serene, ideal for quiet and peaceful getaways. It can be visited by families, friend groups as well as couples. To catch this place at its best, visit Laitlum Canyons either during sunrise or sunset.
Laitlum Canyons
6 . Mawphlang :
Mawphlang, home to Meghalaya's Sacred Forest, is a beautiful village situated 25 kilometers away from Shillong, the capital city of the north-east Indian state of Meghalaya. The village lies in the district of East Khasi Hills and is famous for its sacred groves. The village is named Mawphlang as it is one of the several monoliths in the Khasi Hills. The name Mawphlang means Grassy Stone (Maw phlang) and is a land of legendary stories, sacrifices, and unique culture. For the ones who want a glimpse of the tradition, culture, and lifestyle of the Khasis that is fading away in the modern world, Mawphlang is the place to visit.
Mawphlang
