Scotland of the East, Shillong is one of the most popular Meghalaya tourist places in the Northeast that is on everybody’s checklist. Far from the busy life, it has forested hills, pleasant climate, scenic beauty which attracts many tourists from around the world. This prepossessing land is a beauty that floats on high over vales and hills, where the tall pine trees are seen fluttering and dancing in the breeze, and the clouds find a space along the margins of a hill unfolding the enchanting blue sky. The mystique land perched on an escarpment is more than enough to leave your imagination spell-bound.
Scintillating Shillong unravels the opportunity for you to explore a number of attractions including Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Elephant Falls, and so on. Here are the top things to do in Shillong that you don’t want to miss during your trip.
Elephant Falls
The dense forests of the evergreen Meghalaya spread all around the state. Meghalaya is also known for its amazing waterfalls. Elephant Falls is the highlight of Meghalaya. It has an elephant-like stone at its foot and hence obtained the name Elephant falls. This falls is one of the most popular falls in the North-East and is one of the most mesmerizing places in Meghalaya.
The majestic Elephant falls is called as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew’ by the Khasi people. It means ‘The Three Step Waterfalls’ since this falls comprises of three wonderful falls in progression. This is also one of the best thing to do in Shillong.
Umiam Lake
The name ‘Umiam’ means ‘water of tears’ in Khasi, and there’s a fascinating story around it. Located approximately 15 km away from Shillong, Umiam Lake is one of the top places to visit in Shillong. Also known as Barapani, Umiam Lake provides you an opportunity to spend an amazing day full of views. Visiting this lake is one of the best things to do in Shillong in December. You can also go for a number of adventure sports such as kayaking, scooting, and skiing. The island on the other shore of the lake is known as the Lumpongdeng Island. In addition, you should also visit the houseboat where you can relax amidst the chirping of the birds. This certainly tops the list of fun top things to do in Shillong.
Don Bosco Museum
Meghalaya is a state with rich culture and heritage, and there is no better place to learn about the culture and the cultural history of Meghalaya than Don Bosco Museum, which has also been acclaimed as one of the finest and the largest museums in Asia.
The museum has 7 floors featuring 17 galleries that display artefacts that will help you take a walk through the culture of Northeast India. Apart from artefacts, the museum also stores wide ranges of artworks, attires, handicrafts, and weapons displaying the culture and lifestyle of the indigenous people of the region.
Don Bosco Museum is the most popular choice among history buffs and culturally curious tourists visiting Shillong, and the reason is obvious. Visit this museum for an excellent dose of Northeast Indian culture. This also falls in one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
If you are interested in witnessing the cultural history of Meghalaya, then you must book our Packages to Northeast including places like Don Bosco Museum, Police Bazar and many more.
Shillong Peak
At the height of 6449 ft or 1965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak is the highest point of Shillong. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, the Himalayas, its waterfalls as well as of the Bangladesh plains. A telescope is available for tourists to get a bird’s eye view. Trekking up to this semi-circular Shillong Peak is highly recommended for the best views but it is often bounded by heavy fog.
It is said that Shillong gets its name from the Shillong Peak itself. Regional tales tell that the patron deity ‘Leishyllong’ resides in the hills and protects the city from all evils. The U Shulong site at the top of the peak is sacred and every spring, a ritual is organised there. The Shillong Peak is situated at the air force base and features a radar station of the Indian Air Force. Due to security reasons, heavy checking is done at the gates, and tourists are asked to deposit their cameras.
Lady Hydari Park
Lady Hydari Park is a verdant tract that stretches up to a kilometre in the heart of Shillong. It is named in the memory of Lady Hydari, who was the wife of Assam’s erstwhile Governor. Meghalaya’s forest department is the administrative authority of this park and looks after its maintenance.
This park consists of sprawling green gardens that are dotted with a variety of blossoming flowers. In addition to well-manicured gardens and lawns, the park has a mini zoo within its premises. A children’s park with swings and open playing areas also forms an integral part of Lady Hydari Park.
Marai Cave
Marai Cave, also known as Krem Marai in local parlance, is a sacred site that finds mentions in several mythological legends and folklore of Meghalaya. Locals believe that descendants of the Syiems, who ruled the Mylliem and Khyrim kingdoms, came through these caves.
There is another story associated with this cave, which states that the only daughter of Shillong Peak’s presiding deity lived here. Several slab-shaped rocks can be seen at the base of this cave, forming its unique and deep structure. While climbing to the cave, visitors come across rich verdure, rocky terrains and agricultural tracts. The frontal portion of this cave commands a panoramic view of Shillong with lofty mountains and urban settlements.
Laitlum Canyons
Perched in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is a less-explored yet enthralling tourist haunt known for its sublime natural beauty. This hilltop is carpeted with lush greenery and covered with dense mist, which together make it a hidden paradise in the hilly state of Meghalaya.
The hilltop overlooks breathtaking landscapes, which include undulating verdant hills, sprawling bamboo plantations and colourful beds of orchids. Visitors can get a perfect panorama of Shillong from this vantage point, which is sure to leave them spellbound. This scenic site is accessible by a long uphill trek that passes through rocky terrains and rich verdure.
All Saints Cathedral
Located near Barik Point, All Saints Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the hill station. Visiting this church is one of the best things to do in Shillong. After being damaged by an earthquake in the year 1897, this church was reconstructed in 1902. Considered to be the main church in Shillong, All Saints Cathedral is known for its wooden colonial-style architecture. During the 1897 earthquake, only the Holy Bible and the baptismal font left untouched at this church.
David Scott Trail
Another one of the top things to do in Shillong is to go for trekking at the David Scott Trail. Discovered by David Scott, this trek begins at Mawphlang and is almost 16 km long. Located at an altitude of 4892 ft, this trail takes five hours to trek. Adorned with gushing waterfalls and tropical trees, this trail unravels the opportunity for you to experience spectacular valleys. This trail resulted in a war between the Khasi people and the Britishers.
Camping
Camping is one of the most popular things to do in Shillong for all nature lovers. Stay in a cozy camp under the sky full of stars and the picturesque hills of Shillong will make your whole experience extra special. You can trek to the most famous spots and can easily set up your camp at the site that appeals to your eyes. The best camping spots in Shillong are the Mawlynnong rainforest, Khasi Hills, and Dawki. Do carry warm clothes as the temperature is chilling at night.
Shopping in Shillong
Home to remarkable shopping spots like Police Bazar and Purbashree Emporium, Shillong is a paradise for all shopaholics. Considered as one of the most entertaining things to do in Shillong for all shopping fanatics, shopping in Shillong will surely be the best part of your vacay. Visit the Khasi emporium and buy bamboo handicrafts that you can take back for your friends and family. Famous for warm clothes and street food, Police Bazar is another great that you should stop by on your shopping spree to satiate the foodie and shopping fan in you.
