Everything To Know About Shillong Music Festival

Taking place in the heart of the beautiful capital of Meghalaya, the Shillong Music Festival has grown to become one of the most vivacious cultural and musical congregations in Northeast India. It boasts a stunning view of landscapes with elevated rolling hills covered in mist. This boutique festival brings forth a gigantic variety of musical genres. The soulful music in and around breathtaking natural beauty is unforgettable for visitors and has gained worldwide popularity because of its eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary sounds, from minute details addressed to grand gestures—everything that appeals to music lovers across India and beyond.

Location

Photo: ঈশান জ্যোতি বৰা / Wikimedia Commons

The Shillong Music Festival takes place in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, a state in Northeast India. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is renowned for its lush green hills, pleasant climate, and rich musical heritage.

How To Reach Shillong

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There are several ways to reach Shillong for the Shillong Music Festival:

By Air: The nearest airport is Umroi Airport (Shillong Airport), located about 30 kilometres from Shillong City Centre. Visitors can take a taxi from the airport to reach their destination.

By Road: Shillong is well-connected by road to major cities in the Northeast. Regular bus services and shared taxis are available from Guwahati and other nearby towns. The journey offers scenic views of the region’s lush landscapes.

By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Guwahati Railway Station in Assam. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong. The road journey from Guwahati to Shillong takes about 3-4 hours and offers beautiful vistas of the Khasi Hills.

Places In Meghalaya Celebrating The Shillong Music Festival

Here are the places in Meghalaya celebrating the Shillong Music Festival:

1. Shillong

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Shillong, the primary venue for the festival, comes alive with musical performances during the event. The festival typically features multiple stages where local, national, and international artists showcase their talents across various genres, including rock, jazz, folk, and indigenous music. The city’s natural amphitheatres and green spaces provide stunning backdrops for performances. Shillong’s rich musical culture, combined with its cool climate and scenic beauty, creates a magical atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world.

Timings: Usually held in November
Entry Fee: Varies based on ticket type (day passes and full festival passes available)

2. Sohra (Cherrapunji)

Photo: Ankan / Wikimedia Commons

Sohra, formerly known as Cherrapunji and famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, often hosts satellite events associated with the Shillong Music Festival. These events typically focus on showcasing traditional Khasi music and dance forms. Set amidst cascading waterfalls and living root bridges, Sohra offers a unique backdrop for cultural performances. Visitors can experience the deep-rooted musical traditions of the Khasi people while enjoying the area’s natural wonders.

Timings: Events usually coincide with the main festival dates
Entry Fee: Variable, depending on the event

3. Mawlynnong

Photo: Ankan / Wikimedia Commons

Mawlynnong, known as “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” occasionally participates in the Shillong Music Festival celebrations. This picturesque village hosts small-scale musical events that showcase the traditional music of the local Khasi community. Visitors can enjoy intimate acoustic performances and cultural demonstrations against the backdrop of Mawlynnong’s pristine environment and unique living root bridges. These events offer a rare opportunity to experience Khasi musical traditions in an authentic setting, surrounded by the natural beauty that has made this village famous.

Timings: May host events around the same time as the main festival
Entry Fee: Variable, depending on the event

4. Jowai

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Jowai, the capital of the West Jaintia Hills district, sometimes joins the Shillong Music Festival celebrations with its own musical events. These gatherings focus on the rich musical heritage of the Pnar people, a sub-tribe of the Khasis. Set among rolling hills and serene lakes, Jowai provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the distinct sounds of Jaintia music. The town’s natural beauty perfectly complements the cultural performances, offering attendees a deeper understanding of Meghalaya’s diverse musical landscape.

Timings: Events typically align with the main festival period
Entry Fee: Variable, depending on the event

5. Tura

Photo: John Thounaojam / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya, Tura occasionally hosts satellite events as part of the Shillong Music Festival. These gatherings showcase the distinct musical traditions of the Garo people, providing a different cultural perspective from the Khasi and Jaintia traditions. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tura Range, these musical events offer visitors insights into Meghalaya’s diverse cultural tapestry. Attendees can immerse themselves in Garo music and dance while enjoying the town’s scenic beauty.

Timings: May host events concurrent with the main festival
Entry Fee: Variable, depending on the event

Where To Stay

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Shillong offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

• For those seeking luxury, hotels like Ri Kynjai – Serenity by the Lake and Polo Towers offer comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning views.
• Mid-range options include hotels such as The Heritage Club – Tripura Castle and Hotel Alpine Continental, which provide good facilities at reasonable prices.
• Budget travellers can find numerous guesthouses and homestays throughout the city, offering an authentic local experience at affordable rates.

Where To Eat

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The culinary scene during the Shillong Music Festival is as diverse and exciting as its musical offerings. In Shillong, visitors can explore a range of dining options, from street food to fine dining restaurants. Cafes like Dylan’s Cafe and ML 05 Cafe are popular spots for music lovers, offering good food with a side of music memorabilia. The city’s famous Laitumkhrah market is a great place to sample local street food and snacks.

Best Time To Visit

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The Shillong Music Festival typically takes place in November, coinciding with the pleasant post-monsoon weather. This period offers comfortable temperatures and clear skies, ideal for outdoor performances and exploring the city. Outside the festival dates, the best time to visit Shillong is from September to May when the weather is mild and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, as Shillong experiences rainfall throughout the year.

Other Factors To Consider

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Average Cost of the Trip: Budget travellers can expect to spend around ₹1,500-2,500 per day, including accommodation, food, and local transport. Mid-range travellers might spend ₹3,000-5,000 daily, while luxury travellers could spend ₹6,000 or more. Festival tickets are an additional cost, with prices varying based on the type of pass.

Tips for Travelers:

• • Book accommodation and festival tickets well in advance, as Shillong can get crowded during the festival.
  • Carry warm clothing and rain gear, as evenings can be cool and showers are common.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with the Khasi community.
  • Try local dishes to experience the authentic flavours of Meghalaya.
  • Visit nearby attractions like Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, and Don Bosco Museum when not attending festival events.
  • Use local taxis or shared vehicles for transportation, as they’re familiar with the hilly terrain.
  • Carry cash, as some smaller establishments may not accept cards

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The Shillong Music Festival is a captivating blend of music, culture, and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience for music lovers and adventure seekers alike. This immersive event not only showcases Meghalaya’s rich musical heritage but also highlights the state’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. Plan your Shillong Music Festival with TripXL today and embark on a journey that will resonate in your heart long after the last chord fades.

Cover Photo: Wendy Wei / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions