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Places to visit in Shillong in January are ideal for travellers who want to explore without heavy crowds. The weather makes it easier to visit outdoor spots like waterfalls, viewpoints, and heritage trails. January also allows better road access to places that remain difficult during the rainy months. Markets stay active, museums remain open, and most treks are safe to attempt. This is one of the few months when Shillong offers both convenience and clarity, letting you plan your day trips without sudden changes.
7 Best Places To Visit In Shillong In January
These places to visit in Shillong in January are open, accessible, and perfect for nature walks, local culture, and short getaways.
1. Sweet Falls
Photo: Vũ Bụi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Among the most striking places to visit in Shillong in January, Sweet Falls is a narrow, steep cascade surrounded by thick greenery and deep gorges. The falls drop from a high cliff with a strong vertical flow that remains consistent even during winter. The approach path passes through silent pine woods, and the nearby viewing point offers a clear line of sight. While visitors are not allowed to trek down to the base due to safety concerns, the experience of watching the water cut through the stillness is reason enough to come here. Photographers often choose this spot early in the day for soft natural lighting.
Location: HX74+WJ6, Lynti SweetFalls, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
2. Don Bosco Museum
Photo: Arindambasu2 / Wikimedia Commons
Don Bosco Museum is among the most detailed places in Shillong in January for those interested in the cultures of Northeast India. The museum covers several floors, with each level focusing on a different aspect of tribal life. Displays include clothing, agricultural tools, musical instruments, photographs, and religious objects from all eight states of the region. Descriptions beside each item explain their use in everyday life and festivals. January offers a quieter atmosphere to explore the space without long waits or crowding. On the top floor, visitors can step onto a viewing platform that overlooks Shillong and the surrounding hills. The skies stay clear during this month, making the view easier to enjoy.
Location: Mawlai Phudmuri, Mawlai Mawdatbaki, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Sundays)
3. Elephant Falls
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Elephant Falls remains one of the most popular places to visit in Shillong in January. The site features a three-tiered waterfall set within a forested patch and the concrete path with steps leads visitors down to each of the three falls. The first tier is gentle, the second spreads wide, and the third drops sharply between dark rocks. At the base, the sound of rushing water is loud, but the viewing space is calm enough for sitting or taking photographs. Small signs along the trail share details about the area’s flora and name origin.
Location: Upper, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
4. Wards Lake
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Wards Lake is among the easiest places because of its central location and walkable surroundings. The lake is man-made and is bordered by a garden with flowers, trees, and paved paths. Visitors can walk around the entire lake without rush, as the weather stays dry and the crowds are fewer than during holidays. Paddle boats are available at one end of the lake, and food for feeding fish can be purchased nearby. A wooden bridge runs across the water and seating areas are placed all along the path for those who want to rest or take photographs.
Location: Centre of city, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 8:30 AM – 7 PM
5. Shillong Peak Viewpoint
Photo: debanutosh / Wikimedia Commons
Shillong Peak Viewpoint is one of the best places to visit in Shillong in January for city views. You need to carry a valid ID card as the entry gate is managed by the Indian Air Force. The road ahead is quiet, and vehicles are allowed up to the viewpoint area. A raised platform at the top gives a full view of Shillong, nearby hills, and distant parts of Umiam Lake. The weather in January usually allows clear sightlines through most of the day. The peak remains dry during this season, and travel to the spot is not affected by rain or poor road conditions. There are a few telescopes fixed at the edge for visitors.
Location: Peak Viewing Point, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 AM – 3:30 PM
6. Air Force Museum, Upper Shillong
Photo: Aeroprints.com / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Air Force Museum is one of the most informative places in Shillong in January for those interested in aviation and military history. It has exhibits on aircraft models, uniforms, equipment, and important missions carried out by the Indian Air Force. The museum also includes a section on local culture, with tribal artefacts and photographs from Meghalaya’s history. January is a convenient month to visit as the weather stays stable and the area remains open throughout the week, except Wednesdays. Displays are marked clearly, and the museum staff are usually present to answer questions.
Location: 7th mile, HQ EAC, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
7. Umiam Lake
Photo: Prof. Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
Umiam Lake is among the good places to visit in Shillong in January for outdoor activities. The lake has a large boating area for paddle boats, rowboats, and speedboats. This is all managed by the state tourism department and they provide life jackets, and rides run on fixed charges. January is a steady month for lake visits, with clear weather and safe water levels. The boating area is calm, and visitors are allowed to take short or extended rides. A separate area near the complex is known as the sunset point. People usually start gathering there by late afternoon to sit along the steps and watch the light fall on the water.
Location: MVGW+HHJ, Umiam, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Exploring these places to visit in Shillong in January offers a mix of natural landscapes, cultural depth, and peaceful weather. From sacred forests and historic trails to lakeside walks and museums, each spot stays accessible and enjoyable throughout the month. January provides stable travel conditions without the disruptions of rain or heavy tourist rush, making it easier to plan day trips across different parts of the city and its outskirts. Start planning your Shillong trip with TripXL for reliable travel insights, local tips, and curated recommendations.
Cover Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
