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Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, nestled amidst the bewitching hills. Places to visit in Shillong are filled with irresistible charms and natural beauty. Termed as the Scotland of the East, it never fails to charm visitors with its lush landscapes, gurgling waterfalls, and pleasant climate throughout the year. This hill station resonates with culture, be it in the form of its music, festivals, or hospitality. Unravel the essence of beauty in Northeast India in Shillong, which goes perfectly hand in hand with nature and culture.
10 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong
Discover popular places to visit in Shillong, from stunning waterfalls to vibrant markets and serene viewpoints. Explore the charm of Meghalaya’s capital with our essential travel guide.
1. Shillong Peak
Photo: Sujan Bandyopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shillong Peak undoubtedly forms the crown of the capital city of Meghalaya. It overlooks a breathtaking view of the city and its contoured hills. It is at the highest altitude in the region and attracts tourists throughout the year because of its serene views and cool mountain air. This is a visit that has to be made by one and all to drink in the beauty of the “Scotland of the East” and capture unforgettable moments amidst the mist-covered peaks and green landscapes of Shillong.
Location: Located 10 km from the City Centre
Best Time To Visit: October to April
2. Umiam Lake
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Situated a little north of Shillong, Umiam Lake is a placid reservoir surrounded by hills. Renowned for its beautiful surroundings and sporting activities, Umiam Lake offers boating, kayaking, and picnicking in its green surroundings. Be it the lazy boat ride or the view of a splendid sunset across the lake, Umiam refreshingly serves as an outlet from the frenzy of city life and hence is necessary to visit while in Shillong.
Location: 15 km north of Shillong
Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year
3. Elephant Falls
Photo: Ishita Singh 015 / Wikimedia Commons
Located right in the heart of Shillong, nestled among the lush green hills, Elephant Falls is a lovely waterfall that enriches the eyes of the visitor with its serene beauty. This is a three-level waterfall and gets its name from an elephant-shaped rock near the base. It reflects the green landscape and regional natural beauty. The Elephant Falls is one of the major tourist attractions and provides a placid retreat for the visitors who get to see and hear the waterfalls amidst a backdrop of greenery, creating an unforgettable moment at the heart of scenic Meghalaya.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: 12 km from Shillong city
Best Time To Visit: July to September
4. Don Bosco Centre For Indigenous Cultures
Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Over the years, the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, Shillong, has been an epitome of cultural heritage submerged deep inside the rich diversity of Northeast India’s indigenous communities. One needs to pay a visit to the museum to understand the unique traditions, artefacts, and lifestyles of the tribes of this region. One of the most important tourist places to visit in Shillong is Don Bosco Centre, especially for culture and history buffs. It exemplifies the richness of the local indigenous cultures vis-à-vis their fight-back instincts through its exhaustive exhibits and display centres.
Location: Mawlai, Shillong
Best Time To Visit: All over the year
5. Ward’s Lake
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Ward’s Lake is a serene beauty that beckons many tourists with its relaxed spirit and beauty. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and serpentine cobbled pathways that offer a calm retreat amidst the chaotic environment of the city. The pristine waters of this lake provide scope for leisure rides for lovers of boating, while the vibrant flora and fauna that adorn its banks attract nature lovers. One of the best places to visit in Shillong, which provides a great retreat to relax and refresh amidst picturesque beauty; therefore, this place is an excellent point in the Scotland of the East.
Location: Centre of Shillong city
Best Time To Visit: March to June
6. Laitlum Canyons
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the outskirts of Shillong, Laitlum Canyons offer a soul-stirring getaway into Meghalaya’s rustic landscapes and views. It is one of those hidden paradises that offers a soul-stirring view of deep gorges and misty hills, which becomes an unforgettable experience for nature and adventure lovers. Further up, the Laitlum Canyons trekking describes the raw beauty of Northeast India with its pristine landscapes and serene atmosphere. Laitlum Canyons in Shillong is a peaceful getaway to relive nature and enjoy the serenity of the beautiful land.
Location: 20 km from Shillong
Best Time To Visit: October to May
7. Police Bazaar
Photo: Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
Police Bazaar is distinguished for its bright colours as a shopping, eating, and local culture hub. Located right at the centre of the city’s bustle in Shillong, It’s a vibrant market that offers extensive experiences, from traditional Khasi handicrafts and traditional attire to authentic northeastern cuisine in local eateries. Walk through the festive atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists, strolling down the bustling lanes. One of the best places to visit in Shillong, Police Bazaar is doubtlessly one of the most captivating spots for any visitor willing to experience the energetic charm of the city and its holistic cultural diversity.
Location: City Centre, Shillong
Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year
8. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Photo: Daniel Romanson / Wikimedia Commons
For the local Khasi people, this ancient forest has excellent spiritual value because of their ancient traditions and beliefs, saved amidst thick foliage and moss-laden trees. The guided nature trail of Mawphlang enables tourists to come across several sacred groves of trees with rare flora described in Khasi folklore and rituals. Among the top places to visit in Shillong, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a tranquil retreat through which one can soak up thoroughly the mystic ambience that pervades Meghalaya’s cultural and natural heritage.
Location: 25 km from Shillong
Best Time To Visit: October to April
9. All Saints Cathedral
Photo: Simbu123 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
All Saints Cathedral is a strong reminder of colonial architecture and Christian heritage. This Anglican Cathedral of the late 19th century combines beautiful stained glass windows and ornate interiors, marking the historical value attached to the place. The tranquil surroundings of All Saints Cathedral form an atmosphere where one can sit in complete silence and reflect on a problem or pray. The Cathedral is one of the highly treasured places of interest in Shillong, found on the landmark list of every tourist who visits the city to extract the essence of architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.
Location: Shillong city centre
Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year
10. Shillong Golf Course
Photo:Anup Rou / Wikimedia Commons
Sprawling across the lush hills of Shillong, the Shillong Golf Course is one of India’s oldest and most beautiful golf courses. The 18-hole course, laid during British colonial times, is an apt description of green fairways surrounded by towering pine trees, with panoramic views of this hill station. The Shillong Golf Course invites all golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round amidst tranquil surroundings and feel a putt in the lap of nature with its immaculate natural beauty and pleasant weather. One of the best places to visit in Shillong is the golf course.
Location: Shillong city centre
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Shillong is the hub of natural beauty and cultural diversity in northeastern India. Scotland of the East typifies diversity, with panoramic views from Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake’s serenity, heritage richness at Don Bosco Centre, and the mystique of Mawphlang Sacred Forest. Whether it is an easy walk down the busy lanes of Police Bazaar or a round of golf at Shillong Golf Course, every place speaks of this hill station. Book with TripXL for best places to visit in Shillong combines scenic landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality that reassure one on a memorable journey to this hill station.
Cover Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
