Imagine a place full of breathtaking beauty, where music and festivities are an integral part! If you are looking for a one of its kind place to visit on your next vacation, the “Eastern Scotland”, Shillong has to be on the list. Offering a unique blend of traditional and cosmopolitan worlds, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, was founded in the second half of the 19th century. Known for its scenic beauty, pleasant weather and festivities, the city is a popular tourist destination. The places to visit in Shillong are filled with colonial history, quaint cafes, tourist spots and lakes. For affordable stays, don’t forget to check out budget-friendly hotels in Shillong with top-notch amenities.
Let’s dive into this scenic world of Shillong and explore some of the best tourist spots that get imprinted in the core memory of every traveller.
7 Best Places to Visit in Shillong!
- Shillong Heritage Walk
Called “a chip off the British Isles” by the British, Shillong was developed by them into an administrative and leisure retreat. The beautiful houses, churches, administrative buildings, estates, clubs, parks and gardens built during the era are similar to the ones in England. You can witness these European architectural marvels on the Shillong Heritage Walk.
A 3-hour guided tour into the realm of the British is a unique experience, you must seek out on your trip to the city. The heritage walk through the buildings and parks while listening to the stories about their past takes you back in time.
- Phan Nonglait Park
Formally known as the Lady Hydaru Park, Phan Nonglait Park is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. The breathtaking flower beds and well-maintained lawns provide a vibrant scenery on a recreational getaway.
Watching the pelicans in the lake is an amusing sight to behold. You can enjoy leisure walks and picnics while admiring the beauty of the park.
- Ward’s Lake
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Shillong is the charming Ward’s Lake, with an elegant wooden bridge, flower gardens, lofty trees and grassy slopes on the lakeside. This hundred-year-old lake is named after William Ward, a Chief Commissioner from the British era. Encircled by a stone path, the lake is a popular picnic spot, where you can enjoy boating, grab a bite at the restaurant overlooking the bridge.
Whether you are on a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.
Moreover, you can easily find affordable, couple-friendly and family-friendly hotels in Shillong near the lake.
- Don Bosco Museum
A seven-storeyed, vibrant monument, the Don Bosco Museum is a symbol of the rich heritage, where you get a glimpse of different North-Eastern communities. A fascinating place for history and cultural enthusiasts, the building is a treasure trove of well-researched artefacts on the neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Myanmar and Nepal.
Once you enter the building, you are greeted by the traditional wear of different North-Eastern communities and then you will witness a photography section roaded with rare photos from the past. There are various galleries on art, music, housing and weapons offering you insight about the culture, history and tradition of not only the state but also the neighbouring countries.
- Elephant Falls
For nature lovers, the state of Meghalaya is filled with cascading waterfalls, and one such beautiful fall is located on the outskirts of Shillong, the Elephant Falls. A result of a mountain stream dropping over multiple levels through the forested slope, the waterfall is one of the serene places to visit in Shillong.
Walking on the railed walkways around the waterfall lets you feel the spray of cool water and hear the thunderous sound of the fall. The pool at the bottom of the fall is a perfect spot to enjoy, relax and rejuvenate with friends and family.
- Golf Course
One of the largest and charming natural courses in the country, Shillong Golf Course is a famous tourist spot in the city. Also known as the Glen Eagles of the East, it is a perfect spot for leisure walks and photoshoots. The open meadows, pine groves, quaint bridges and food stalls attract locals and tourists.
If you wish to play Golf, you can get in touch with the Shillong Golf Club and enjoy a round or two in this breathtaking golf course. The travel desk available at numerous hotels in Shillong will help you enjoy your trip without a hassle by providing all the required information.
- Police Bazaar and Bara Bazaar
A trip to any tourist destination is never complete without shopping your heart for handicrafts, souvenirs and handlooms. Police Bazaar, along with Bara Bazaar, are the bustling markets filled with shops, stalls and boutiques selling traditional, unique local products. From traditional Khasi dresses, handwoven shawls to handicrafts and organic spices, you will find an endless variety of items to take back home as souvenirs.
Once done with shopping, you can reenergise yourself by having delicious local delicacies of Shillong available at the restaurants and stalls in the markets. Jadoh, a flavourful Khasi rice dish and Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean chutney, are a must-try in Shillong. Furthermore, it is the perfect place to book a stay as the hotels near Bara Bazaar Shillong offer easy access to the shopping centers, restaurants and transit points.
Therefore, the places to visit in Shillong offer endless possibilities of sightseeing, culinary adventure, historic tours and much more. The best time to visit Shillong is between September and May when the weather is pleasant. If you wish to witness the city in its festive mood, then the Shillong Autumn Festival in October or November is the best time to explore the city. The festival lets you immerse yourself in the local music, art and cuisine, for the best experience of the city.
Guwahati is the popular nearby city, also connected with most of the Indian cities. You can plan for the relaxing and comfortable stay in the Treebo hotels in Guwahati. These affordable hotels not only offer a comfortable and hygienic stay but also offer easy access to the tourist attractions and transit points, making your trip hassle-free and convenient.