Shillong

Shillong became the capital of Assam in 1874 after Assam was made a separate province in 1866. In 1874, Shillong started to see more urbanization and in the year 1878, the town got its first recorded Municipal Board that helped set up water supply to homes and streets paving etc.

The British invited educated Indians from other provinces to settle in Shillong so as to run the administration effectively. In order to get this easy life, many people accepted it happily under all conditions but they also brought with them their languages, culture and dress which mixed with local cultures giving rise to a new type of culture called Anglo-Indian Culture.

We can still find some houses bearing English architecture in old colonies where retired ICS officers lived. One of the earliest places where this culture had taken roots is Polo Bazar which was later known as Laitumkhrah. Here, some English people who settled in Shillong built their station (the place where someone stays while travelling) and spent most of their time outside on work but when they used to return home for lunch or sometimes stay, they built bungalow like houses with all amenities of that era right from water-supply, electricity etc. Today some of these houses can still be found with English names written over them (ex: “The Elgin”) while others are occupied by localities.

After partition in 1947, people from Bangladesh started migrating to Shillong especially Sutnga Saipung and Sonapur areas. Since then, the city has seen an unprecedented rise in population that doubled many times over making Shillong one of the densely populated cities of India today.

Shillong's cosmopolitan character is evident in the city's distinctive culture, which is a blend of India's myriad traditions. Every celebration is celebrated with enthusiasm in Shillong, where travellers will encounter cuisines from across India and the world.

Rightly named as the "Rock Capital of India," Shillong has earned a well-deserved reputation due to its passion for music and has been the home of many legendary musicians. Shillong is home to a wide range of characteristics, from quiet residential lanes to bustling downtown areas to serene lakes, and swaying pines.

The Shillong hangout scene is gaining popularity. The beautiful, tree-lined Ward's Lake and the sprawling Golf Links — a popular outdoor recreational area for residents - are two of the attractions on offer. Shillong has a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays located throughout the region, especially in the Middle of the Police Bazaar, also known as "Khyndai Lad," which translates to "Nine lanes."

If you want to learn more about the history of Shillong, we recommend taking the Shillong Heritage Walk, which provides you with information about Shillong's history.

Tourist Places Near Shillong

Shillong Peak, a two-kilometre walk from the centre of Shillong, offers a panoramic view of the city with hills as the backdrop. It is without a doubt one of the most breath-taking locations to visit in Shillong. The IAF administers the region, and you must present identification at the entrance.

You'll want to bring a decent camera with you since the air may become hazy. However, there is a telescope set up for closer inspection of the town. Take some time to explore and enjoy a cup of piping hot tea from one of the local tea shops.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 11 Km

Laitlum Canyons – Land's End

Also known as Land's End, this is where you'd feel you have reached the end of the Earth. Laitlum is a beautiful little village in the Chimbu Province. The deep gorges and magnificent hills rising in the distance provide an awesome backdrop for this peaceful community. You may spend hours trekking through the meadows or just sitting on the grass and appreciating nature's handiwork.

Shillong's sacred hill, Pahur Barail, is nonetheless well worth seeing. The mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding villages and lush forests. While it isn't difficult to reach, it does require a good bit of hiking. It's no longer uncommon or unwanted, having become one of Shillong's most popular tourist destinations. Head down 3,000 steps to Raslong if you're looking for a heart-racing adventure. The elderly and disabled residents of this ancient sanctuary were able to effortlessly climb up and down the greasy, winding stairs without difficulty. You'll be amazed, as well as a little envious!

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 4 Km

Tura National Museum

This museum showcases exhibits related to Garo tribes, Naga tribes and Jaintia tribes apart from their respective cultures. The museum also displays artefacts used by these tribes during festivals, dances/rituals they perform, etc. It is on a hilltop that looks like a fort due to its architectural style.  You can get a panoramic view of Shillong city from the museum.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 7 Km

Sacred Grove – Protected Forest

A lovely little hamlet with ancient trees and meadows in the middle of Mawlai is a haven away from the metropolis. The Sacred Grove is a sacred grove in Shillong that is protected by a local deity. You are free to explore the local flora and fauna, but you are not permitted to remove anything from the park. This includes leaves, pebbles, twigs, etc.

For a long time, the Sacred Grove has been one of Shillong's most popular areas to visit, especially for nature walkers. Local guides will lead you in and tell intriguing stories about local history.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 27 Km

David Scott Trail – A Trekker’s Paradise

Here's a little something for those who like an adventure. This is one of a kind for people looking for an outstanding trekking experience, as it follows the route taken by David Scott in his attempt to climb Mount Everest. The David Scott Trail was once a track that linked Assam to Bangladesh in the nineteenth century. This is one of the more challenging trekking routes in Shillong because it lacks any sort of signage.

It's vital to obtain local assistance to ensure your trip goes as planned. The trekking tracks meander through a series of waterfalls, dense jungles, magnificent mountains, mystical groves, and pristine streams.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 27 Km

Kyllang Rock – Rock Formation

A stunning granite rock formation located approximately 50 kilometres from Shillong and 10 kilometres from Mairang in West Khasi Hills is a great place to explore - steps have been constructed so you don't need any climbing abilities. The top of the rock is thought to be unplumbable owing to a magnetic field, according to local folklore. We advise you not to try it anyhow, however! Once you've reached the top, relax and breathe in the fresh air. Bring a decent camera for distant village views with a long lens.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 8. Km

Nongriat – Hot Tourist Place

Nongriat is one of the most popular attractions in Shillong and the surrounding region. It's home to the amazing living root bridges, which are natural and man-made wonders that will seize your breath away. The village of Tyrna is reached by approximately 3,000 steps that descend from the mountain. The trip itself is nice, but the finish-line payoff makes it worthwhile. Three living root bridges may be found at the bottom of the slope, one of which is a double-decker.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 65 Km

Mawlynnong – The Cleanest Village in India

Mawlynnong is located around 80 kilometres from Shillong. It's long been known as one of the cleanest villages in India, thanks to its residents' high standards. A great way to discover Mawlynog is by joining a homestay program at local family homes. These low-cost accommodations offer tours that provide tourists with an insider's perspective on the village culture and traditions.

You will have your own guide who can also recommend some low-cost places to eat, drink, shop for souvenirs, etc., depending on what you are looking for.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 80 Km

Nongkhnum – Pristine High-altitude Island

Nongkhnum Island is a stunning high-altitude island in the East Khasi Hills district. There's very little on Nongkhnum apart from raw natural beauty and serenity. It's not easily accessible, but that makes it more peaceful than usual. During the monsoon season, tourists can only get there by hiking or riding elephants through the surrounding villages and tribal settlements that are home to some of the most fascinating people in India.

The best time of year to visit is around April and May when many local festivals take place on Nongkhnum Island.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 100 Km

Nohkalikai Falls – A Pool of Sorrow

The sight of India's tallest plunge waterfall is a sensory marvel, particularly during the monsoon. Nohkalikai Falls, one of Shillong's most popular attractions, plunges into an ultramarine pool hundreds of feet below. There are several other waterfalls in the area, including Mohkimhai Falls and Satpukur Waterfall.

Owing to its sheer size, Nohkalikai falls proves very slippery and dangerous. The water is so cold that standing near the edge for too long causes your clothes to freeze. Attempting to reach the bottom of the waterfall can be hazardous because it's a steep drop into an unnatural pool.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 54 Km

Shnongpdeng – Paradise on Earth

To discover an area as beautiful as Shnongpdeng, travel east to Jaintia Hills and beyond the town of Dawki. Shnongpdeng is very near to the Bangladeshi border, and if you take a direct route without turning onto the road leading to the village, you'll reach the border crossing station.

Along the river Umngot, Shnongpdeng is a little paradise for explorers, with camping, trekking, and kayaking options. The population is known for its friendliness, and there are pleasant homestays where you can stay overnight.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 89 Km

Cherrapunjee – Most Popular Tourist Attraction

At a distance of 54 kilometres from Shillong, Cherrapunjee, known for its living root bridges, is accessible by bus or taxi and takes around 2 hours to get there. Cherrapunjee is a lovely location to visit since it offers natural attractions like the living root bridge. The stunning views will make up for the lost time, and this town is beautiful in itself.

There are various waterfalls that may be seen after seeing the magnificent living root bridges in Cherrapunjee, which is the main sight. On your next excursion, hire a vehicle and go to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunjee from Shillong.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 54 Km

Jowai – Quintessential Town

Jowai is a beautiful hill station in Meghalaya. It is about 70 kilometres from Shillong and is an excellent weekend getaway from the capital city. It is located 2 hours away from Shillong, and the route is quite lovely. Invite a group of friends and travel to Jowai, a charming hill town this weekend. Jowai is a tiny border town in Bangladesh, located just 50 kilometres from the country's northern boundary. It's a beautiful little town with some of the region's most lovely waterfalls.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 66 Km

Nohsngithiang Falls – The Seven Sisters Falls

This is a well-known waterfall in Cherrapunjee, and it is known as the Seven Sisters Falls. These falls are ideal for escaping into nature owing to their location 2 hours drive from Shillong. Visit the falls in the morning, on your way between the cities.

There are a few sites near Shillong, Meghalaya that isn't worth missing out on, as they have something absolutely breathtaking at every mile. This is a seven-sectioned waterfall, also known as the Seven Sisters Falls.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 98 Km

Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary – Natural Naturscape

If you're looking for a getaway to relax and reconnect with nature, Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent choice. This wildlife refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts, not far from Shillong. The Wildlife Sanctuary has a natural lake named Birbah to the south.

In the sanctuary, there are two man-made lakes that are too close to this natural lake. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cool and dry. It's a better choice to visit during the winter months because of the mild climate.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 75 Km

Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden – Exotic Flora And Fauna

This is another thing to see when in Shillong. This amazing zoo in Guwahati is 3 hours away from Shillong. If you're looking for a way to entertain your kids near Shillong, this zoo is ideal. The zoo, which covers approximately 130 hectares, offers wonderful biodiversity of both flora and fauna. Since 1958, the zoo has provided visitors to the region. Visit the zoo to learn about the various plant and animal species.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 93 Km

Umiam Lake – Exotic Landscape

Shillong is home to numerous fascinating attractions. One of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring locations is Umiam Lake, which is located near Shillong. This lake is in the vicinity of Shillong. It's a man-made reservoir with some of the most breathtaking and breathtaking views imaginable. This dam was built to produce hydroelectric power, but it has since become a popular destination.

Locals and tourists alike find peace and serenity at this location. The area around Uliaim Lake has a thick, lush jungle that gives the entire region the appearance of a fairytale. There are numerous optional activities available.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 17 Km

Elephant Falls – A Refreshing Presence

The unusual-shaped stone that used to be sitting at the base of the falls gave Elephant Falls its name. That rock, however, was swept away during an earthquake. Elephant Falls, one of Shillong's most beautiful tourist destinations, is reachable from three different locations. The falls are a wonderful place to relax and unwind after a long day at work. The Falls are a sight to behold, and they certainly don't disappoint.

The Elephant Falls are called "three-step waterfalls" because the first one is wide, nestled in the lush greenery, and the second is made up of thin strands of water.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 12 Km

Mawsynram – Wettest Place In the World

Mawsynram is the wettest place on earth, followed by Cherrapunji. This destination, which fulfils the needs of nature enthusiasts, is a nature lover's paradise. This location exudes romance from every corner and offers agreeable weather throughout the year. Mawsynram, a lovely tourist destination near Shillong, is certainly worth seeing. The name was inspired by several megaliths discovered in the Shillong Hill area.

The city's fame stems from a stalagmite formation that formed into a 'Shivling.' Thick grass is employed by the locals to soundproof their homes from the tremendous rains.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 61 Km

Sweet Falls – Steeped with Haunted Legends

Sweet Falls is the best of the lot. It's one of the most fascinating attractions in Shillong. The Sweet Falls are stunning, but they are also dangerous. As a result, only professionals and thrill-seekers should visit the falls. The route to this fall is hazardous and strewn with slippery pebbles, but the conclusion is well worth the effort.

The locals believe that the odd-numbered groups always return in even numbers, and several of these falls have a haunted backstory. The locals think that the odd-numbered groups always come back in equal numbers! For a picnic, there is often a peaceful atmosphere created by the chirping of birds, flowing freshwater, and the tranquillity oozing from the verdant vegetation.

Distance From Shillong: Approx. 54 Km

Best Time To visit Shillong

Shillong is a year-round destination, being in close proximity to the Himalayan Mountains makes this place an attractive tourist hotspot. It has pleasant weather conditions throughout the year with summers being warm and winters being chilly with fog making it damp.