Shillong

Shillong is a hill station and the capital city, located in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya. Shillong is situated at an altitude of 1496 m above sea level and has a population of over 143,007 people. Shillong is also known as the 'Scotland of the East' because it is believed that, in the past the European settlers were reminded of Scotland by the waterfalls and hills surrounding the town. The city enchants you with its bewitching lakes, wondrous waterfalls springing from the mountains and pine tree woods, English style cottages and even an 18-hole golf course. You will also find that the architectures and buildings in Shillong, along with the eating habits of the local people, till date reflect the British legacy. Most of the houses are built with slanting roofs, numerous windows and wooden floors as this place experiences heavy rains and frequent earthquakes.

Majority of the people living in Shillong belong to the Khasi tribe who have a matriarchal society which has women as a head. In order to get a glimpse of their matriarchal culture, you can visit Bara Bazaar, run entirely by efficient, enterprising women who are accustomed to selling everything.Shillong Peak, is among the most frequented picnic spots in the region, standing at an altitude of 1,965 m above the sea level. You can trek up the hill to watch the panoramic view of Himalayan ranges and the hill station. Various scenic waterfalls such as Spread Eagle Falls, Crinoline Falls, Elephant Falls, Beadon Falls and Bishop's Falls add beauty to Shillong. The waterfalls around the city are at their best during monsoons with revival of seasonal waterfalls. Besides waterfalls, natural wonders such as limestone caves can also be visited.

Tourists can also pay visit to churches such as the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Grotto Church and the All Saints Church which are also counted amongst the most popular churches in India. St. Mary's Christian Cathedral, Dhankheti has beautiful stained glass windows and a chamber carved of a single rock. The historical testament also hosts a special nine-day devotion event every month in Shillong. You can explore traditions and cultures of the eastern states and tribes at the Meghalaya State Museum, which displays artifacts from the tribal era in Shillong . Umiam Lake, 17 km from the city allows adventurers to indulge in water sports. The boat races held in Umgot River are popular among locals and tourist alike.

The land of Shillong with its dark woods, streams running down the hillsides, natural caves, sparkling waterfalls and the beautiful cottages makes you spell bound. You can find harmony in the music of the tribal songs that is flows through the countryside. Shillong is the place to visit if you are looking to relax and rejuvenate yourself, far away from the rush of the cities. Visit Shillong and capture the beauty of Shillong in you camera

Fast Facts

Weather

Summer 15 to 36 C
Winter 4 to 24 C

Best Season

Sept - May

Getting to Shillong

AIR

Shillong airport at Umroi connects only to Kolkata. Guwahati is the nearest major airport, which is nearly 100 km away from Shillong. Guwahati Airport is well connected to many major cities in India, including Delhi, Agartala, Aizwal, Kolkata and Imphal. Delhi and Kolkata are the international airports close to Guwahati, both are nearly 1100 km from Guwahati. International travelers can connect to Guwahati through Kolkata or Delhi.

RAIL

Nearest railhead to Shillong is Guwahati, which is at distance of 100 km away. The Paltan Bazaar Railway Station in Guwahati is a major railway junction on the North-East Frontier Railway. Guwahati is well connected with all the major railheads of India.

ROAD

Shillong bus stand is located at the city center and regular bus services to Guwahati are available. The State Road Transport Public buses and the private tourist bus providers operate bus services from Shillong to the many cities in Meghalaya and the neighboring state. The bus stand is located in the heart of Shillong.