Things To Do
in Shillong
Shillong is a picturesque hill station located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, India. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. The city is also famous for its vibrant music scene, with a strong tradition of rock and folk music.
Visitors can explore the local markets, try delicious Khasi cuisine, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the region.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ward's Lake, a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by gardens. Enjoy a serene walk and capture stunning photos of the lush landscape.
Head to the Shillong Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Khasi hills. Enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the natural beauty around you.
Explore the local markets in Police Bazaar for souvenirs and local handicrafts. End your day with a lovely dinner at a local restaurant.
Visit Elephant Falls, one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the area. Take a short hike to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.
Go to the Air Force Museum to learn about the history of aviation in India. Spend some time enjoying the exhibits and the lush gardens around.
Dine at a local café and try some traditional Khasi cuisine. Stroll around the city, absorbing Shillong’s vibrant nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with hills, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
- Pleasant climate throughout most of the year.
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse tribes and traditions.
- Popular tourist destination with various attractions such as Mawsmai Cave and Elephant Falls.
- Known for its vibrant music scene and annual festivals.
- Friendly and hospitable local people.
- Various outdoor activities available, such as trekking and camping.
- Frequent rainfall leading to humidity and occasional landslides.
- Limited infrastructure development, which can affect transportation.
- Issues with waste management and environmental concerns.
- High population density in certain areas, leading to congestion.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Access to healthcare and education may not be as developed as in urban centers.
- Public facilities and amenities may be lacking in some parts.
Best Activities in Shillong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Trek through the scenic landscapes to witness the unique living root bridges in the surrounding villages.
Enjoy water sports such as kayaking, boating, and water skiing on the picturesque Umiam Lake.
Explore the sacred groves in Mawphlang to experience the rich biodiversity and cultural significance of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shillong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shillong
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest viewpoint in Shillong offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
A picturesque waterfall with beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for photography.
A stunning reservoir surrounded by hills, ideal for capturing the beauty of the area.
Food in Shillong
Shillong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Jadoh is a traditional Khasi rice dish cooked with pork, onions, ginger, and bay leaves. It is a must-try for those seeking an authentic local flavor. Recommended place: Try Jadoh at City Hut Dhaba or Jadoh at Trattoria in Police Bazar.
Must-Try!
Doh Khlieh is a Khasi salad made with minced pork, onions, chilies, and local herbs. The dish is bursting with flavors and is a popular choice among locals and visitors. Recommended place: Enjoy Doh Khlieh at Cafe Shillong in Laitumkhrah.
Pumaloi is a traditional delicacy made from sticky rice, black sesame seeds, and jaggery. It is often served during festive occasions and is a delightful sweet treat. Recommended place: Look for Pumaloi at traditional Khasi food stalls in Bara Bazar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shillong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bara Bazar is a bustling market in Shillong where visitors can savor an array of local street food, including momos, fried snacks, and indigenous Khasi and Garo delicacies. It's a perfect place to explore the vibrant street food culture of Shillong.
The Police Bazar Night Market comes alive with numerous food stalls offering an assortment of street food delights. Visitors can relish local favorites like tikki, chaat, and puchkas while experiencing the lively atmosphere of the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shillong, it is important to show respect for the traditional customs and practices of the local indigenous Khasi people. This includes being mindful of sacred spaces, traditions, and rituals.
In Shillong, it is appreciated when visitors dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with the local community. This demonstrates respect for the cultural values and traditions of the region.
It is important to be mindful of language and communication in Shillong. While English is widely spoken, it is respectful to learn a few traditional Khasi phrases and be attentive to cultural nuances in communication, such as addressing people with appropriate titles and showing courtesy in interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Shillong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Shillong, India, is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If the service charge is not included, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.
In Shillong, India, cash is the preferred method of payment in most places. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's always advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Shillong, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and clear skies. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
During the summer season, Shillong experiences heavy rainfall and foggy conditions. It's not the best time for outdoor activities, but the lush greenery and waterfalls are a sight to behold.
Autumn brings cool and comfortable weather to Shillong, making it a great time for exploring the natural beauty, trekking, and enjoying the local festivals.
The winter season in Shillong is chilly, with temperatures dropping low. It's an excellent time for enjoying the scenic beauty, clear views of the hills, and participating in traditional winter celebrations.
Shillong at Night
Hiking in Shillong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trek that follows the route taken by David Scott, offering stunning views of the Khasi hills and lush green landscapes.
Famous for its breathtaking views, this popular hiking spot features narrow ridges and deep canyons, making it a favorite among trekkers.
This trek around Umiam Lake provides picturesque views of the water body, surrounded by hills and lush forests, perfect for nature lovers.
A challenging trek to the village of Nongriat and its famous living root bridges, offering a unique experience through dense forests.
This region offers various trekking routes with stunning views of waterfalls and lush greenery, known for the highest rainfall in the world.
Aiports
How to reach Shillong by plane.
Located in Guwahati, Assam, approximately 100 km from Shillong, this is the nearest major international airport.
Located in West Bengal, around 160 km from Shillong, Bagdogra serves as another important airport in the region.
Located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, this airport is about 600 km from Shillong and offers international flights.
Located in Kolkata, West Bengal, approximately 600 km from Shillong, this is one of the major international gateways in East India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Khasi are one of the dominant ethnic groups in Shillong, known for their matrilineal culture and rich traditions.
The Pnar, also known as the Jaintia, are another significant group in the region with unique cultural practices.
The Naga people, primarily from the neighboring state of Nagaland, have a presence in Shillong and contribute to its cultural diversity.
The Bodo community is another ethnic group present in Shillong, primarily known from the adjoining areas.
The Mizo people, originally from Mizoram, are part of the demographic mix in Shillong.
Bengalis constitute a significant portion of the population in Shillong, often involved in business and education.
The Assamese people, from the neighboring state of Assam, form another demographic group in Shillong.
The Nepali community, mainly migrants, is an important part of Shillong's urban population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Shillong, with a passionate fan base and many local clubs participating in various tournaments.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Shillong, with many local players and teams engaging in both competitive and recreational play.
Basketball is increasingly popular among the youth in Shillong, with several courts available for practice and local leagues organized.
Badminton is widely played recreationally and competitively in Shillong, with various clubs and tournaments held throughout the year.
Field hockey has a dedicated following in Shillong, with local teams representing the region in state and national competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shillong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Khasi cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Shillong offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Visitors can savor dishes like chowmein, vegetable momos, and fresh salads at various eateries.
Travelers with gluten-free dietary requirements can find options such as steamed rice, grilled meats, and vegetable curries at local restaurants. Additionally, communicating specific dietary needs to the chefs can often lead to accommodating meals.