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Often referred to as “Scotland of the East”, Shillong is located amidst the lush green landscape of Meghalaya. It is also the capital of the northeastern state of Meghalaya and is popular as an alluring hill station known for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and pleasant climate attracting an array of visitors throughout the year. It is not only popular for its day life but has a strong hold on its nightlife culture as well. Relatively modest but Shillong’s nightlife is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues, pubs, and cafés making it a popular destination.
Location
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is situated in the East Khasi Hills district. The city’s location in the picturesque hills and its cooler climate make it a popular hill station and a gateway to exploring the rest of Meghalaya. The city is easily accessible to tourists by air, road, and rail.
How To Reach
Photo:आशीष_भटनागर / Wikimedia Commons
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is in Guwahati, from where Shillong can be reached by road.
By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), around 30 kilometres from the city centre.
By Road: Shillong is well-connected by road to other parts of Meghalaya and the neighbouring state of Assam. National Highway 6 and National Highway 106 are major routes.
Things To Do At Night In Shillong
Shillong nightlife offers a laid-back yet fun nightlife where the visitors can do an array of things from late evening tonight.
1. Visit A Rooftop Restaurant
Photo: Sarah Casey / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Several restaurants and hotels in Shillong have rooftop dining options. Enjoying a meal with a view of the city and the surrounding hills during the evenings sounds magical. Popular rooftop restaurants in the city are The Café Shillong, Cloud 9, Mambo’s Café, The Loft etc.
2. Enjoy Live Music
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Shillong is often referred to as the “Rock Capital of India” due to its rich music culture. The city has a strong tradition of live music, especially rock and blues. Several places in Shillong offer live music performances in the evening. It is advisable to look for events at venues like The Evening Club or Dylan’s Café to enjoy performances by local musicians and bands.
3. Pubs And Bars
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Shillong has a growing number of pubs and bars that offer a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Visitors looking for a fun night involving a few drinks and a scrumptious meal can visit popular pubs and bars in the city which include, The Tango and Piccadilly, what’s better than fine dining and fine wine.
4. Night Markets And Street Food
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For a different kind of nightlife experience, Shillong’s night markets and street food stalls offer a taste of local flavours. The city’s main commercial hub, Police Bazaar comes alive in the evening with various street food vendors. You can enjoy local delicacies like momos, jadoh (a traditional Khasi dish), and chowmein. Apart from this, another area known for its vibrant food scene, where you can find a mix of street food and small restaurants is Laitumkhrah.
Top 5 Places To Visit During Night In Shillong
Shillong nightlife offers a variety of places to explore and enjoy during the night, catering to different interests such as music, dining, and relaxation. Here are a few of them:
1. Cloud 9
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It is one of the most famous nightclubs in Shillong. Located in Hotel Centre Point, the place offers live music, DJ nights, and a rooftop lounge with a stunning view of the city, making it the ideal place to visit for individuals, couples and groups looking to have a fun night out filled with music, dancing and great food in the city.
Timings: 7 PM – 12 AM
2. Laitumkhrah Market
Photo: Chris Slupski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A vibrant and bustling market area located in the Laitumkhrah neighbourhood of Shillong, it is one of the most popular commercial and residential areas in the city also known for its diverse range of shops, eateries, and local vendors. Visitors interested in having a breezy night stroll while shopping for local goods and trying local Khasi delicacies like Jadoh, tungrymbai, and pukhlein are advised to visit this place.
Timings: 8 AM -9 PM
3. Ward’s Lake
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Ward’s Lake, also known as Nan Polok, is one of Shillong’s most popular tourist attractions. This beautiful artificial lake is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by lush gardens with walking paths, making it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists looking to relax and enjoy nature. It is beautifully lit in the evenings, and the serene environment and the illuminated surroundings provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This place is ideal for individuals looking to enjoy Shillong’s nightlife by indulging in peaceful escape rather than party life.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
4. Dylan’s Café
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Named after the legendary musician Bob Dylan, this café is a tribute to his music and spirit. Dylan’s Cafe is located in the Risa Colony area and offers a warm ambience, delicious food, and live music sessions, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back evening. The café offers a diverse menu that includes a variety of dishes ranging from continental to local Khasi cuisine. The cafe also hosts live music performances, featuring local artists and bands and various cultural events like poetry readings, art exhibitions, and open mic nights making it a popular spot amongst artists, writers, and musicians to gather and share their work.
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
5. The Evening Club
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The Evening Club is renowned for hosting live music performances, including local bands and artists. It provides a platform for musicians and performers to showcase their talents. The club may also feature DJs, themed nights, and other entertainment events. Overall, the club has a vibrant and energetic ambience, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for socializing and enjoying music, making it ideal for visitors seeking to enjoy a night accompanied by good food and music.
Timings: 1 PM -11 PM
Shillong nightlife is characterized by its mix of local flavours, live performances, and laid-back ambience, catering to both lively and serene tastes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy music, dine with a view, or explore local markets, Shillong’s night scene has something to offer for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience the perfect blend of vibrant culture with relaxed charm, in Shillong.
Cover Photo: Kovid Rathee / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
