Shillong Travel Guide: Scotland of the East in Meghalaya - Capital Cities of Indian States [Meghalaya]

Perched at about 4,900 feet in Meghalaya, Shillong is the charming capital of the state and one of the most visited hill stations in Northeast India. With pine-clad hills, cascading waterfalls, lively music culture, and friendly Khasi hospitality, Shillong feels like a European hill town with an Indian heart.

This comprehensive Shillong travel guide takes you through its top places to visit, local food, music & nightlife, culture, shopping, and nearby excursions, with insider tips to make your journey memorable.

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Top Places to Visit in Shillong

1. Umiam Lake (Barapani)

A sprawling artificial lake created by a dam, surrounded by lush pine forests. Perfect for boating, kayaking, and watching sunsets.

👉 Travellingcamera’s lake explorations

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2. Shillong Peak

The highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. On clear days, you can even spot the Himalayas.

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3. Elephant Falls

One of the most popular waterfalls near Shillong, cascading down in three steps amidst greenery.

👉 Travellingcamera’s waterfall stories

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4. Ward’s Lake

A heart-shaped lake in the middle of the city, perfect for evening strolls, boating, and photography.

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5. Don Bosco Museum

An excellent cultural center showcasing the traditions, crafts, and history of Northeast India.

👉 Travellingcamera’s museum & art explorations

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6. Police Bazaar & Laitumkhrah

The buzzing commercial hubs of Shillong where you can shop for souvenirs, woolens, and handicrafts, and indulge in local street food.

👉 Travellingcamera’s market trails

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7. Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

A stunning colonial-era church with striking architecture and stained-glass windows.

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8. Golf Course

One of the oldest and most beautiful golf courses in India, often called the Gleneagles of the East.

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Food in Shillong

Shillong is a paradise for food lovers, blending Khasi, Assamese, and global flavors:

• Jadoh – Red rice cooked with meat and spices, a Khasi specialty.

• Dohneiiong – Pork with sesame seeds.

• Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean chutney.

• Street Food – Chowmein, momos, and local pork dishes dominate Police Bazaar.

• Cafes – Shillong has a strong café culture with bakeries and live music venues.

👉 Travellingcamera’s food journeys

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Culture, Art & Music in Shillong

Shillong is often called the “Rock Capital of India”, thanks to its deep love for music:

• Music Scene: Live gigs are common in cafes, and Shillong hosts the NH7 Weekender festival.

• Khasi Culture: Locals follow matrilineal traditions — lineage and inheritance pass through women.

• Crafts: Bamboo products, traditional shawls, and handwoven textiles make excellent souvenirs.

👉 Travellingcamera’s festival & cultural captures

👉 Travellingcamera’s handicraft stories

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Nightlife in Shillong

• Cafes & Lounges: Many spots host live rock, jazz, and blues music.

• Local Bars: Taste local brews and interact with the friendly Khasi community.

• Cultural Nights: Folk music and dance performances add to the experience.

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Shopping in Shillong

• Police Bazaar: Souvenirs, woolens, and Khasi jewelry.

• Laitumkhrah Market: Trendy clothes and thrift finds.

• Handicrafts Shops: Bamboo, cane products, and traditional shawls.

👉 Travellingcamera’s shopping & handicraft trails

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Local Life in Shillong

Shillong offers a balanced blend of tradition and modernity:

• Mornings: Local tea stalls serve black tea with snacks.

• Daytime: Busy markets and schools with uniformed kids dominate the streets.

• Evenings: Locals gather at cafes or enjoy music performances.

• Essence: Shillong is youthful, vibrant, yet deeply rooted in Khasi traditions.

👉 Travellingcamera’s street life captures

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Excursions Around Shillong

• Cherrapunji (Sohra, 54 km): Famous for double-decker root bridges, Nohkalikai Falls, and living traditions.
  👉 Travellingcamera’s Cherrapunji experiences

• Mawlynnong (80 km): Asia’s cleanest village, with treehouses and skywalks.

• Dawki (95 km): Crystal-clear Umngot River, boating with views of the riverbed.

• Mawsynram (65 km): One of the wettest places on Earth.

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Best Time to Visit Shillong

• March–June: Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.

• September–November: Clear skies, post-monsoon greenery.

• December–February: Cold but festive, with Christmas celebrations.

• July–August: Heavy rains, lush but travel can be tricky.

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How to Reach Shillong

• By Air: Shillong Airport (Umroi) has limited flights; better to fly to Guwahati Airport (120 km).

• By Road: Shared taxis and buses connect Guwahati to Shillong in about 3–4 hours.

• By Rail: Nearest railway station is Guwahati.

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Where to Stay in Shillong

• Luxury: Ri Kynjai Resort (by Umiam Lake), Polo Towers.

• Mid-range: The Heritage Club, Café Shillong Bed & Breakfast.

• Budget: Backpacker hostels and guesthouses near Police Bazaar.

👉 Travellingcamera’s hotel & stay reviews

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Why Visit Shillong?

Shillong is not just a hill station — it’s India’s music capital, a hub of Khasi culture, and a gateway to Meghalaya’s natural wonders. From waterfalls and lakes to bustling markets and soulful music nights, Shillong offers a travel experience that is serene yet vibrant.

👉 Explore more about Meghalaya on Travellingcamera: Travellingcamera Meghalaya Stories