Travel from Guwahati to Shillong and Places to Visit in Shillong

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My quest to discovery India took me to the northeast of India. During my week-long trip, I had visited some places in this part of India. I must admit that it was an amazing experience traveling to the Northeast. We traveled from Delhi to Guwahati by air and traveled from Guwahati to Shillong by Road.

Shillong is the capital city of the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, nestled amidst the picturesque Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage.

I was immediately captivated by its enchanting beauty of the area. The rolling hills embraced the city, covered in a carpet of lush greenery that seemed to stretch endlessly. The air felt crisp and refreshing, a stark contrast to the bustling cities I had left behind. I knew I was about to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Exploring Shillong, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the harmonious blend of nature and culture. The panoramic views from Shillong Peak left me spellbound, with the city sprawled beneath me and the distant mountains painting a picturesque backdrop.

Wandering through the streets of Shillong, I was immersed in the vibrant atmosphere. In Shillong, time seemed to slow down, allowing me to appreciate the simple joys of life. The city’s serene ambiance and cool climate provided a welcome respite from the hectic pace of the world.

There are some beautiful places to visit in Shillong and it is worth spending 3 to 4 days there.  

History of Shillong

The history of Shillong dates back to ancient times, with its roots deeply intertwined with the indigenous tribes of the region. The Khasi people, one of the major tribal communities of Meghalaya, have inhabited the area for centuries.

Before the British arrived, Shillong was a small village known as “Leishyllong” or “Leishyllong Peak,” named after the local deity worshipped by the Khasi tribes. The region was primarily rural, with the Khasi people practicing agriculture and leading a traditional way of life.

In the mid-19th century, the British recognized the strategic location and pleasant climate of Shillong and chose it as the site for their summer capital in the eastern part of British India’s Assam province. The establishment of the British administration in Shillong marked the beginning of its transformation into a colonial hill station.

Under British rule, Shillong grew rapidly as an administrative center and a retreat for British officials seeking respite from the heat and humidity of the plains. The British developed the infrastructure, including roads, buildings, and institutions, to support their administrative activities. They also introduced tea plantations and initiated mining operations in the surrounding areas.

The British influence is still visible in Shillong’s architecture, with colonial-era buildings dotting the cityscape. The famous Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, located in Shillong, was established by the Salesians in the 20th century and serves as a reminder of the region’s history and cultural heritage.

After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, Shillong became the capital of the newly formed state of Assam. However, in 1972, Meghalaya was carved out as a separate state, with Shillong becoming its capital.

Over the years, Shillong has witnessed significant socio-economic development and has emerged as a major educational, cultural, and tourism hub in Northeast India. It has become known for its vibrant music scene, producing renowned musicians and bands. Shillong’s natural beauty, pleasant climate, and cultural diversity continue to attract visitors from all over the world.

Today, Shillong stands as a testament to its rich history, blending the traditions and customs of the indigenous tribes with the influences of British colonial heritage. It has evolved into a modern city while preserving its unique cultural identity and serving as a gateway to the natural wonders of Meghalaya.

My Travel from Guwahati to Shillong

I rented a cab for my trip to Shillong from Guwahati. I started in the morning so that I can reach Shillong by afternoon and visit some places in Shillong.

Guwahati to Shillong is 100 km and it takes around 3 hours by road. The journey to Shillong was totally mesmerizing on newly built four lane highway NH 40. It’s scenic drive with winding roads and lush green trees & small hills on both sides.

There were pineapple plantations on the slopes on the way. I stopped at one of the stalls next to a pineapple farm on the road, they were selling cleaned pineapple. I bought a pineapple and it was one of the sweetest and juiciest, I had till date.

The vegetation changed as I moved closer to Shillong. Few km before Badapani air started feeling cooler and I can feel the cold breeze on my face from car’s window. There are Pine trees and fern on sides of the road. These plants and trees grow in cold weather and I saw these in Hill stations of the north of India.

I stopped at Barapani for boating and lunch. This manmade lake is the main source of water for Shillong, its surrounded by hills and trees. A popular picnic spot for people from Shillong as well as Guwahati. Barapani to Shillong is only 21 Km but it took me more than 50 minutes due to winding hilly roads.

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Places to visit in Shillong for sightseeing as a traveler

Umiam lake

This is a man-made water reservoir, which was built to store the water for hydroelectric power generation from the water of the Umiam river. Now the Umiam lake serves as a major tourist attraction to people visiting Shillong. It is also referred as Barapani by locals.

The lake is also a popular destination for water sports activities like kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating.

I stopped at Umiam lake while going to and coming back from Shillong. Here I did boating in the lake.

While going we went to the main lake area, where they have maintained a garden with sitting area and swings etc. Boating facility is also available in this area.
The Umiam lake set with the gorgeous backdrop of hills.

There is a small cafe in the garden area, where you can have basic food, snacks or Maggie.

While coming back from Shillong, I stopped at Orchid lake resort next to the Umiam lake. They serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. I ordered Khasi style non-vegetarian dishes, which were not as good as I had in Chirapunjee but they were nice.

Resort have lake view rooms and it’s a peaceful location to stay in beautiful surroundings.

Ward’s lake

This is another man-made lake is in the middle of Shillong city though it is much smaller then Umiam lake.

The Ward’s lake is surrounded by well-maintained gardens and a boundary wall is made to stop trespassing. There is an entry ticket of 5 INR per person.

There are pathways around the lake and a popular place among locals for morning walk.

During the day this place is frequented by locals, couples, and travelers to enjoy the natural surroundings. There is a small bridge for crossing the lake.
Boating facility is also available inside Ward’s lake and a cafeteria where you can buy food. A nice place to chill for couple of hours.

Don Bosco Museum

Located in the heart of Shillong, museum dedicated to the diverse indigenous cultures of Northeast India, offering insights into their art, history, and traditions.

Museum has some wonderful artifacts, photographs, and items used by tribal people. The photographs and mannequins are used to display the facial features & dresses of the various tribes in the area.

A bigger section of the museum is dedicated to religion, mainly Christianity. It is good but I am not sure if it’s attractive for a traveler.

After visiting this 7 story museum from the basement to top, I went up onto the Skywalk for a panoramic view of Shillong and its surrounding area.

The view from the top was the highlight of our visit to the Don Bosco Museum.

Lady Hydari Park

This park is named after the first lady of the Assam’s first governor during British rule. This beautiful garden is designed in Japanese style and very well maintained.

There are small pools, rhododendron plants, and willow trees. In the open area around pools, I saw ducks and pelicans enjoying the pleasant weather of Shillong.

There is a mini zoo inside the park where they have kept some local birds like mynah, hornbills etc and animals like Jackal, Himalayan black bear, and porcupine Leopard. This is a very tiny zoo with few animals in cages.

A small museum in one hall inside the park has displayed a few stuffed animals, items related to animals and fewphotographs. The museum gives a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Northeast India.

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

This cathedral is little away from the busy areas of the Shillong, situated on a slightly elevation. A church was built here by the first missionaries in this area. The new cathedral of Mary Help was built in 1936.

Shillong has a strong missionary presence. This cathedral is the main area of worship for 300,000 Catholic Christians in the area.

The inside of the church is beautifully made and there are scenes depicting the life of Christ from birth till the death. Some of the decorations used inside is believed to be bought here from Munich in Germany.

The beautiful stained glass windows add to the beauty of the cathedral. Photography is not allowed inside the cathedral. It is painted in grayish blue color, which is different from most churches or cathedrals I had visited.

Shillong peak and view Point

It is also known as Laitkor Peak. Shillong peak is in the military area and vehicles are checked before moving to peak. There is no public transport available to visit the peak.

This is the highest point in Shillong and from the top, I was able to see the whole city. It was a bit smoky but still, I got a decent view of Shillong.

There are a couple of watchtowers on the peak for a better view. These places most remain busy with visitors.

If you want to get yourself clicked in traditional costumes from local photographers in the areas.

There are some shops and food stalls at the top.

Elephant fall

The fall is named so due to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall but this rock disintegrated and washed away during an earthquake in 1897.

Elephant waterfall is a three Step Waterfalls andd surrounded by trees. The first part of fall is quite broad but it becomes thin as it falls from first to second and then to the third part.

The third part of the waterfall is most popular among visitors for clicking photographs.

The best time to visit Elephant waterfall is in monsoon months when it’s full of water. I visited in the winter months and water was less in the waterfall. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes with better grip as steps are uneven at some places.

Best time to visit Shillong

The best time to visit Shillong is during the months of March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and what you can expect during each:

Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Shillong as the weather remains pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C. The flowers are in full bloom, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, trekking, and exploring the waterfalls and natural attractions in and around Shillong.

Summer (June to August): Shillong experiences heavy rainfall during the summer months due to the monsoon season. While the rain adds to the scenic beauty of the region, it can make outdoor activities challenging. However, if you enjoy the misty atmosphere and want to witness the waterfalls in their full glory, visiting during the monsoon season can be a unique experience. Do note that landslides and road closures are common during this time.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Shillong. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. The monsoon rains have subsided, and the landscapes are lush and green. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the natural beauty of Shillong.

Winter (December to February): Winters in Shillong are chilly but not harsh, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 16°C. The region experiences cold mornings and evenings, but the days are often sunny. It’s a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and want to experience the winter charm of the hills. Warm clothing is essential during this season.

It’s important to note that Shillong can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance. Additionally, do check the weather forecast and road conditions before planning your visit, especially during the monsoon season, as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.

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How to travel from Guwahati to Shillong

To travel from Guwahati to Shillong, you have several transportation options available. Here are the most common ways to reach Shillong from Guwahati:

By Road:

Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a popular mode of transport between Guwahati and Shillong. You can find shared taxis at various points in Guwahati, such as Paltan Bazaar and Khanapara. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Private Taxis: You can also hire a private taxi or cab from Guwahati to Shillong. It provides a more comfortable and personalized travel experience. You can book a taxi through travel agencies or online platforms.

By Bus:

Government Buses: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) operates regular bus services between Guwahati and Shillong. These buses are economical but may not offer the same level of comfort as private taxis. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.

Private Buses: Several private bus operators also offer bus services between Guwahati and Shillong. These buses provide more comfort and sometimes have options like AC coaches.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Shillong is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Shillong. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

By Train:

Guwahati is well-connected by rail, and there are no direct trains to Shillong. The closest railway station to Shillong is Guwahati Railway Station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Shillong.

Note: It is advisable to check the current travel conditions and availability of transportation options before planning your trip, as the information provided here is based on general knowledge and circumstances may change.

Tips for visiting Shillong

* If you have road sickness then take the medicine while traveling from Guwahati to Shillong or it’s surrounding areas.

* Book your hotel in advance because Shillong is a popular tourist destination.

* It remains cold throughout the year, so always pack some woolen.

* Food in Shillong is very mildly spiced and easy on the palate.

* Non-vegetarian food especially Pork is most commonly available and it’s served with green vegetables.

* Rice is a staple food and chapatis are not very popular.

* Most shops and food stalls are managed by women.

* Don’t wear a lot of jewelry and expensive items.

* Shillong is rock capital of India and most cafes or restaurants have live bands on weekends.

* Buses and Unmetered yellow top taxis can be used for traveling in the city of Shillong. They charge a nominal fixed price of 10 to 20 INR depending upon the route and destination. These are shared taxi’s so they pick up passengers on the way.

* For full day tour hire a taxi after negotiation and confirm inclusions & exclusions. Also, confirm the start and end timing for the full day tour.

Also read Best places for solo female travelers in India and Most common travel mistakes

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