So you're thinking about visiting Shillong? Smart choice! This gem tucked away in the northeastern corner of India has been making waves lately – and for good reason. In fact, Shillong has emerged as one of India's most-searched hill stations in 2025, leaving behind even classic tourist favorites like Goa and Manali. Time Out recently named it one of the best places to visit in Asia in 2026. Not too shabby for a hill town that many folks outside the Northeast haven't even heard of yet!
Welcome to the "Scotland of the East"
Let me paint you a picture: imagine rolling hills covered in pine forests, waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks, crystal-clear rivers that look like they belong in a fantasy novel, and a vibe that's equal parts laid-back and lively. That's Shillong for you. Sitting pretty at about 1,496 meters above sea level in the state of Meghalaya (which literally means "abode of clouds"), this charming hill station serves as the capital of one of India's most beautiful states.
But here's what makes Shillong truly special – it's not just another cookie-cutter hill station. The city pulses with a unique energy that blends indigenous Khasi culture, British colonial heritage, and a surprisingly vibrant rock music scene. Yeah, you read that right. Shillong is known as India's "Rock Capital," and you're more likely to stumble upon a live gig at Police Bazar than a traditional folk dance (though you'll find plenty of those too!).
Getting There: Your Journey to the Clouds
Alright, let's get practical. How do you actually get to this magical place?
By Air: Shillong has a small airport at Umroi, about 35 km from the city. Air India operates ATR42 aircraft to this route, though flights can be limited. Shillong.com notes that buses and taxis are readily available from Shillong to Umroi and back.
By Rail: Here's the thing – Meghalaya has no rail lines. The nearest railway station is Guwahati, which is 104 km away but super well-connected with all major Indian cities. Don't worry though; the journey from Guwahati to Shillong is half the fun! Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) coordinates bus services with train arrivals, running from 6 AM to 5 PM. Taxis and shared Sumos are also available and typically take about 3 hours to reach Shillong (versus 4 hours by bus).
By Road: National Highway 40 connects Shillong with Guwahati via an all-weather road. In Guwahati, government buses leave from the Inter State Bus Terminus at Beltola, while private buses and shared taxis operate from Paltan Bazar. In Shillong, you'll find the bus stand at Police Bazar for government buses and at Polo Grounds for private operators.
Must-Visit Spots in Shillong
Ward's Lake: Your Peaceful Escape
Start your Shillong adventure at Ward's Lake (also called Nan Polok or Pollock's Lake). This century-old artificial lake is surrounded by lush gardens and cobblestone walkways that practically beg you to take a leisurely stroll. Boating is available, and it's a fantastic spot for photography or just chilling with a book. One visitor on TripAdvisor shared: "It was of much historical importance, the lake was in prime location covering vast area. Good place to relax and photo shoot."
Elephant Falls: Nature's Cascading Masterpiece
Just 12 km from the city center, Elephant Falls is probably Shillong's most photographed waterfall – and you'll see why. This three-tiered cascade is absolutely stunning, with well-maintained steps (around 120 in total) leading you down to all three levels. Each tier has its own unique charm and viewing platform. According to TripAdvisor reviews, "Beautiful three step falls with steps all the way down to the third steps. It's not too difficult to go down or to find way up due to railings most of the way." Plan for about 2 hours here – you'll want to soak in the views and snap about a million photos.
Don Bosco Museum: Cultural Time Machine
If you're into culture and history (or even if you're not, trust me on this one), the Don Bosco Museum is mind-blowing. This seven-story building shaped like a traditional basket houses one of Asia's finest collections of indigenous cultural artifacts. It showcases the heritage, traditions, lifestyle, and art of Northeast India's various tribes and communities through interactive galleries. Incredible India describes it as being situated within Sacred Heart Church and representing "the heritage and culture of the various Indigenous tribes and communities."
Shillong Peak: Touch the Sky
Want panoramic views that'll make your Instagram followers weep with envy? Head to Shillong Peak, the highest point in Meghalaya at approximately 1,965 meters (6,446 feet) above sea level. Meghalaya Tourism highlights this as a must-visit spot. On clear days, you can see the entire city sprawled below, the plains of Bangladesh in the distance, and the Himalayas on the horizon. Pro tip: visit early morning for the best visibility and to catch the sunrise if you're an early bird.
One traveler on TripAdvisor raved: "The area is kept neat and properly maintained. The whole panoramic view and lush green close to mountains and cloud was thrilling experience. Nature was so beautiful."
Umiam Lake: Meghalaya's Mini Ocean
About 15 km north of Shillong lies Umiam Lake, a massive man-made reservoir surrounded by hills. This place is paradise for water sports enthusiasts – kayaking, boating, and water skiing are all on the menu. Even if you're not into water sports, just parking yourself at one of the viewpoints and watching the sunset reflect off the water is worth the trip. TripAdvisor users consistently rate it highly: "Umiam Lake offers absolutely gorgeous views and is a must-visit if you are around Shillong."
Police Bazar: The Beating Heart
No trip to Shillong is complete without spending an evening at Police Bazar (also called Khyndailad). This isn't just a market – it's the soul of Shillong. By day, it's a bustling shopping area where you can buy everything from traditional Khasi handicrafts to modern clothing. By night? It transforms into Shillong's entertainment hub. Trodly notes that "Shillong has a vibrant nightlife and visitors can experience an evening of dance, music and good food here. Saturday nights are especially more happening."
You'll find street food vendors serving up local delicacies, musicians performing live sets on the streets, and cafes and pubs opening their doors. The atmosphere is electric, and it's the perfect place to experience Shillong's unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture.
Nearby Destinations: Expanding Your Meghalaya Adventure
Cherrapunji (Sohra): The Land of Rain and Bridges
About 54 km from Shillong lies Cherrapunji, formerly the wettest place on Earth (though nearby Mawsynram now holds that record). But the rain is what makes this place magical – it's created some of the most spectacular waterfalls and unique natural wonders you'll ever see.
Nohkalikai Falls: India's tallest plunge waterfall at 340 meters, with water cascading into a turquoise pool below. The legend behind the name is tragic yet fascinating – ask a local guide to share the story.
Mawsmai Cave: Walk through these naturally formed limestone caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It's well-lit and safe for families.
Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls): During monsoon, you can see seven distinct streams falling side by side – hence the name. Even in drier months, it's breathtaking.
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Nature's Engineering Marvel
Now, this is where things get really interesting. About 78 km from Shillong, near the village of Nongriat, exists one of nature's most extraordinary creations – a double-decker bridge made entirely from living tree roots. The Khasi people have been training the roots of rubber fig trees to grow across rivers for centuries, creating sturdy bridges that actually get stronger over time.
Getting there requires commitment: you'll trek down approximately 3,000 steep steps (one way) from Tyrna village. The journey takes about 2-3 hours down and slightly more coming back up. Is it tough? Absolutely. Is it worth it? 100% yes.
A trekker on Reddit shared: "We trekked to a few stunning waterfalls, visited the living root bridge, and saw some of the most magical landscapes I've ever experienced."
Indiahikes describes it as "one journey which is hard to forget." Many visitors combine this trek with a visit to Rainbow Falls, which is a short hike from the bridge. The falls are spectacular and offer a refreshing dip after your trek.
Pro Tips for the Trek:
- Start early (6-7 AM) to avoid midday heat
- Carry plenty of water and snacks
- Wear good trekking shoes with grip
- Consider staying overnight in Nongriat village to experience local hospitality
- Pack light – those 3,000 steps back up are no joke!
Dawki: Where Boats Float on Air
Prepare to have your mind blown. About 82 km from Shillong is the small town of Dawki, home to the Umngot River – one of the clearest rivers in India. The water is so transparent that boats appear to float in mid-air. Seriously, it looks like Photoshop, but it's 100% real.
Times of India reports: "Dawki, Meghalaya's Umngot River offers a breathtaking spectacle where crystal-clear waters make boats appear to float on air during winter."
Boating in traditional wooden boats costs around ₹800-₹1,500 per boat for 30-60 minutes. The best time to visit is between October and April when the water is at its clearest. During monsoon, the river becomes muddier due to rain, so timing is everything.
Dawki is also right at the India-Bangladesh border, and you can see the border from the river – which adds a unique geopolitical dimension to your scenic boat ride!
Mawlynnong: Asia's Cleanest Village
Just 90 km from Shillong is Mawlynnong, officially declared Asia's cleanest village. And folks, this isn't just marketing hype. The village is spotless. There's no litter, streets are swept clean, and every household has bamboo dustbins. The Khasi community here has maintained incredible environmental discipline.
Highlights include:
- Living Root Bridge: A smaller but equally impressive root bridge accessible by climbing about 75 steps
- Sky Walk: A bamboo viewing platform offering stunning views of the Bangladesh plains
- Balancing Rock: A massive boulder balanced on a smaller rock – defying physics since forever
Tripadvisor users confirm: "The living root bridge near Mawlynnong is a must visit attraction. Viewing this natural wonder involves climbing about 75 steps (one way), which can be a bit challenging but rewarding."
You can easily combine Mawlynnong and Dawki in a single day trip from Shillong, making for a packed but incredibly rewarding experience.
Laitlum Canyons: The Edge of the World
Only about an hour from Shillong, Laitlum Canyon offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Meghalaya. "Laitlum" means "end of hills" in Khasi, and when you stand at the edge looking at the deep gorges and rolling hills stretching to infinity, you'll understand why. There's a steep stairway leading down to Rasong village, home to only about 350 people. The views from here are absolutely surreal, especially during golden hour.
Food: A Culinary Adventure
Shillong's food scene is as diverse as its landscape. You'll find everything from traditional Khasi cuisine to continental restaurants and trendy cafes.
Traditional Khasi Cuisine
Jadoh: This is THE signature dish of Shillong – red rice cooked with pork, turmeric, black sesame, and local spices. It's hearty, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Incredible India describes jadoh as "Shillong's signature dish" and calls it a "culinary adventure."
Dohneiiong: Pork cooked with black sesame paste – rich, aromatic, and pairs perfectly with rice.
Tungrymbai: Fermented soybean curry that's an acquired taste but beloved by locals.
Pukhlein: Sweet rice flour fritters, perfect with tea.
A Reddit user shared in r/Shillong: "Try jadoh, local rice, go to motphran, YMCA there will be a tea stall, it's small, but the food is great."
Street Food at Police Bazar
Police Bazar transforms into a street food paradise in the evenings. Life is a Vacation notes: "Street Food is found mostly around the Police Bazaar area which is in the heart of Shillong with shops and other business establishments close by."
Try momos (dumplings), local grilled meats, steamed corn, and various Chinese-influenced snacks. The food is cheap, delicious, and served fresh.
Cafes and Restaurants
Shillong has a surprisingly sophisticated cafe culture. You'll find everything from cozy coffee shops perfect for working remotely to trendy restaurants serving continental cuisine. Some popular spots include Milano (Italian restaurant) at Hotel Polo Towers, and various cafes around Police Bazar and Laitumkhrah area.
Music: The Rhythm of Shillong
Here's something you might not expect: Shillong is obsessed with rock music. Like, seriously obsessed. The city has produced numerous rock bands and hosts the annual Shillong Autumn Festival, which attracts musicians from across the country.
Walk around Police Bazar on a Saturday night, and you'll likely stumble upon live music performances – everything from rock and jazz to indie and folk. Local pubs like Cloud 9, Polo Irish Pub, and Platinum regularly host live bands. Instagram influencers note: "Also, you can catch live street music gigs at the Police Bazar."
The music culture here is genuine, not tourist-oriented. Locals take their music seriously, and jamming sessions in homes and public spaces are common. It gives Shillong a creative, artistic vibe that's rare among Indian hill stations.
Nightlife: When the Sun Goes Down
Yes, a hill station in Northeast India has a hopping nightlife scene! Hotel Polo Towers confirms: "There are many bars and pubs in Shillong suited to everyone's tastes. Be it a whole night of dancing with your friends, or just kicking back with a few drinks, Shillong's nightlife is certainly refreshing and very diverse."
Popular nightlife spots include:
- Cloud 9: Shillong's only dedicated nightclub
- Polo Irish Pub: Great atmosphere with regular live music
- Tango Restro Bar & Lounge: At O B Shopping Mall in Police Bazar
- The Evening Club: Popular bar with good vibes
- Platinum: Dance club for those who want to party till late
Saturday nights are especially happening, with most venues packed and the energy contagious.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (mid-November to February) is often considered the best time to visit Shillong. MakeMyTrip states: "Winter, from mid-November to February, is often considered the best time to visit Meghalaya. The weather during this time is pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging between 4-16 degrees Celsius."
However, different seasons offer different experiences:
Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, waterfalls at full flow from monsoon rains, pleasant temperature. Perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
Winter (December-February): Cool and crisp, excellent visibility, great for photography. Pack warm clothes as it can get quite cold.
Spring (March-May): Flowers in bloom, comfortable weather before monsoon. Ideal for outdoor activities.
Monsoon (June-August): The wettest period. While landscapes are lush and waterfalls spectacular, landslides can disrupt travel plans. TrekPanda advises: "Avoid visiting Shillong during peak monsoon months (June to August) due to heavy rainfall, frequent landslides, and transportation delays."
Getting Around Shillong
Local Buses: City buses are available for places within city limits. Look for "City bus" signs – "Bazar bus" is for villagers.
Shared Taxis: Black and yellow unmetered shared taxis are the most common way to get around. Fares range from ₹5 to ₹15. Be prepared for the driver to pick up additional passengers en route if you're sharing.
Tourist Taxis: For sightseeing, hire a taxi for the full day. Fix the fare beforehand – hotel staff can give you guidance on reasonable rates. Shillong.com notes that "much of the infrastructure is basic," so having a local driver can be very helpful.
Traveler Testimonials: Real Experiences
Don't just take my word for it. Here's what actual travelers have said:
A visitor on Quora shared: "So a visit to Shillong would be soothing and calm and it will make you forget your stress for a period of time."
Another traveler wrote on TripAdvisor: "Such a beautiful place, right from some movie set. Spent 2-3 hrs and then went to elephant falls. it was bit crowded that day but it is good."
A comprehensive review mentioned: "We had the fortunate experience of meeting Mr. Shivji Rai as our guide during our trip to Meghalaya, and he truly made the journey unforgettable."
Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors
Stay Duration: Plan at least 5-6 days to cover Shillong and nearby attractions properly. Kiomoi Travel suggests: "A common itinerary is a 5 to 6-day trip that includes a day or two in Shillong, followed by 2 to 3 days in Cherrapunji, and a day trip to Dawki or Mawlynnong."
Pack Layers: Weather can be unpredictable. Carry both light and warm clothes, plus rain gear.
Cash is King: While digital payments are increasing, many small vendors and taxi drivers prefer cash. ATMs are available but stock up in advance.
Try Local Guides: They know hidden spots and can share fascinating stories about Khasi culture and traditions.
Respect Local Culture: The Khasi people are warm and welcoming but conservative. Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages.
Book Accommodation in Advance: Especially during peak season (October-February), hotels fill up quickly.
Download Offline Maps: Mobile connectivity can be patchy in remote areas.
Stay Hydrated: The altitude and walking around can be tiring. Carry water bottles.
Photography Permits: Some locations may require permits. Check beforehand, especially for waterfalls and viewpoints.
Try the Local Transport: Shared taxis are an experience in themselves and a great way to interact with locals.
Safety and Practical Information
Shillong is generally very safe for tourists. MakeMyTrip confirms: "Shillong is usually a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay informed about local news and heed any travel advisories."
Standard precautions apply:
- Keep valuables secure
- Don't venture into isolated areas after dark
- Be cautious on wet steps at waterfalls and viewpoints
- Inform someone about your trekking plans
- Carry basic first aid for treks
Why Shillong Stands Out
What makes Shillong truly special isn't just its natural beauty (though that's certainly stunning). It's the unique cultural cocktail – where Khasi traditions blend seamlessly with modern aspirations, where you can trek to ancient root bridges in the morning and catch a rock concert at night, where street food vendors share space with trendy cafes, and where everyone seems genuinely happy to see visitors.
Footloose Camps explains why Shillong emerged as India's most-desired hill station: "In 2025, Shillong, Meghalaya—popularly called the Scotland of the East—has emerged as India's most-searched hill station, surpassing even classic tourist favourites."
Unlike over-commercialized tourist spots, Shillong retains its authenticity. Yes, tourism is growing, but the soul of the city remains intact. The locals are proud of their heritage and eager to share it without turning it into a performance.
Final Thoughts
Shillong isn't just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you're adventure-seeking trekkers, culture enthusiasts, food lovers, music fans, or simply someone looking to escape the chaos of city life, Shillong has something magical to offer.
The misty mornings, the sound of waterfalls, the taste of jadoh, the melody of street musicians, the warmth of Khasi hospitality, and the sheer natural beauty of the region combine to create memories that last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, lace up your trekking shoes, charge your cameras, and get ready to fall in love with the Scotland of the East. Shillong is waiting to enchant you.
Happy travels, and see you in the clouds!
