Shillong, famously known as the "Scotland of the East", is one of the most picturesque hill stations in Northeast India. Nestled amidst the lush green Khasi hills, the city offers curvy, well-paved roads lined with pine forests, giving it a unique charm reminiscent of European hill towns. With British-era architecture, colonial-era churches, and bustling local markets, Shillong effortlessly combines natural beauty with urban heritage, making it a captivating destination for travelers of all kinds.
Situated only about 100 kilometers from Guwahati, Shillong is easily accessible, making it ideal for weekend trips or longer explorations of Meghalaya. Frequent rains and misty weather add to its romantic and scenic allure. Visitors are advised to carry umbrellas and raincoats, especially during the monsoon months, as the intermittent showers are part of Shillong’s enchanting atmosphere.
Shillong offers a diverse range of attractions that blend natural beauty, culture, and history. From cascading waterfalls and serene lakes to lush parks and panoramic viewpoints, the city and its surroundings offer something for every traveler. The landscape changes with the seasons — misty and lush during the monsoon, blooming with flowers post-rain, and clear and vibrant during winter — ensuring a memorable experience year-round.
Beyond the city, Meghalaya offers destinations like Cherrapunjee (Sohra) with its waterfalls and caves, Mawlynnong — the cleanest village in Asia, Dawki with its crystal-clear river, and Krang Suri, a stunning natural pool with turquoise waters. Exploring these places alongside Shillong allows visitors to experience the full charm of the state, from natural wonders to cultural heritage.
Shillong is approximately 100 km from Guwahati. The drive through Ri-Bhoi district is scenic, with stops at Umiam Lake and other viewpoints along the way. Roads are well-maintained, but during the monsoon, travelers are advised to drive carefully and carry umbrellas or raincoats.
Shillong Airport (SHL) is the nearest, but with limited flights. Most visitors fly into Guwahati Airport (GAU) and then drive 3–4 hours to Shillong, enjoying scenic views along the route.
The closest railway station is in Guwahati. From there, taxis or buses connect to Shillong via the picturesque highway passing through hills and small towns.
Shillong, being in Meghalaya, does not require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Indian or foreign nationals. Travelers can freely explore Shillong and surrounding attractions without any permit formalities.
The ideal time to visit Shillong depends on the experience you want:
Day 1: Guwahati → (Umiam Lake, en-route) → Shillong → Local sightseeing (Ward’s Lake, Police Bazaar, Lady Hydari Park)
Day 2: Shillong → Elephant Falls → Shillong Peak → Don Bosco Museum → Return to Shillong
Day 3: Shillong → Laitlum Canyons → Mawphlang Sacred Forest → Return to Shillong
Day 4: Optional excursion to Cherrapunjee, or Mawlynnong & Dawki → Return to Shillong / Transfer to Cherrapunji
Day 4: Continue sightseeing in Cherrapunji / Shillong → Departure to Guwahati
For more detailed itineraries and Shillong tour packages, check out our Shillong Tour Packages. Customizing the pace and including nearby destinations can make your visit comfortable and enriching.
Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians
Elephant Falls
Laitlum Canyons
Umiam Lake
Shillong is charming throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the monsoon and post-monsoon months (June to October) when the waterfalls and lakes are at their fullest. Spring (March–April) is also ideal for pleasant weather, while November brings the famous Cherry Blossom Festival.
Shillong is famous for its year-round rainfall, pine-clad hills, colonial-era architecture, and vibrant Khasi culture. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, with highlights like Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, and buzzing Police Bazaar.
Shillong is about 100 kilometers from Guwahati, connected by a scenic hill road. The drive usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours, though it may take longer during monsoon due to fog and rain.
No, Shillong does not experience snowfall. Despite being a hill station, the climate is mild, with winter temperatures rarely dropping below 2–3°C. For snow, visitors need to travel to higher-altitude destinations like Tawang or Sikkim.
No special permit is required to visit Shillong or Meghalaya for Indian tourists. However, foreign nationals must register with the local police upon arrival, as per government regulations.
herry blossoms in Shillong usually bloom from late October through mid-November. The annual Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated around this time, attracting travelers from across the world.
Shillong Peak is a military-controlled area and remains closed to visitors on Wednesday. On other days, visitors must carry a valid ID proof to gain entry.
Lady Hydari Park remains closed every Monday. On other days, it is open from morning until evening, making it a popular spot for families and children.
The Don Bosco Museum in Shillong remains closed on Sundays. On other days, it operates from morning till late afternoon, showcasing Northeast India’s rich cultural heritage.
Shillong has a vibrant music culture, with a history of producing legendary bands and hosting popular music festivals. The passion for rock music among locals earned the city its title as the "Rock Capital of India".
The traditional Lewduh (Bara Bazar) is one of the oldest and largest markets in Shillong. It is run mainly by women vendors and offers everything from fresh produce and handicrafts to local Khasi delicacies.
Yes, the Don Bosco Museum is a must-visit. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of all the Northeastern states through galleries, artifacts, and a skywalk offering panoramic views of the city.
Absolutely. Known as the "Gleneagles of the East", Shillong Golf Course is one of the oldest and largest natural golf courses in Asia, set amidst rolling green hills and pine groves.
Lady Hydari Park, famous for its manicured gardens and mini-zoo, remains closed on Monday.
Elephant Falls, located on the outskirts of Shillong, is a three-step waterfall that becomes especially magnificent during the monsoon. Its Khasi name, "Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew", translates to "Three Step Waterfall".
The Cherry Blossom season usually peaks in November, when the city turns pink and hosts the annual Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival.
The Shillong Peak is the city’s highest point, located at about 1,965 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the city, surrounding hills, and on clear days, even the plains of Bangladesh.
Photography is generally not allowed inside the Cathedral, though you can take pictures of the exterior and its beautiful surroundings.
The Air Force Museum in Upper Shillong is maintained by the Indian Air Force. It displays aircraft models, uniforms, badges, and other defense artifacts.
Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, is a large man-made reservoir. Apart from being a major source of water, it is also popular for water sports like kayaking, boating, and water cycling.
Yes, caves like Mawjymbuin Cave near Mawsynram and Arwah Cave near Cherrapunji are easily accessible from Shillong and are famous for their limestone formations.
The Don Bosco Museum remains closed on Sundays and public holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
The Shad Suk Mynsiem festival, meaning “Dance of the Joyful Heart”, is a traditional Khasi festival held in spring to celebrate fertility and gratitude to nature.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is about 25 kilometers from Shillong. It is a protected grove, rich in biodiversity and local Khasi spiritual traditions.
Yes, the Laitkor viewpoint inside the Eastern Air Command premises also offers scenic views, but it requires special permission for entry.
The Umkhrah River flows through Shillong and is a tributary of the Brahmaputra. It passes through lush valleys and is an important water source for the city.
Elephant Falls is named after an elephant-shaped rock formation that used to stand near the falls. The waterfall has three cascading tiers and is a popular spot for photography and picnics.
The Lady Hydari Park is known for its beautiful orchid collection, well-maintained gardens, and walking paths shaded by tall trees.
Cherrapunji is about 55 kilometers from Shillong, roughly a 2-hour drive through winding hill roads surrounded by lush greenery.
The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is the oldest church in Shillong, built during the British colonial era. It is known for its Gothic architecture and peaceful ambiance.
The Laitumkhrah Viewpoint and Shillong Peak are ideal for sunrise views, offering panoramic vistas of the valleys and hills bathed in early morning light.
Mawlynnong, located about 90 kilometers from Shillong, is renowned as Asia’s cleanest village. It is famous for its well-maintained streets, bamboo bridges, and eco-friendly lifestyle.
