Shillong Tourism And Travel Guide

You want to experience nature at its best then Shillong is the place. The breathtaking waterfalls, gushing rivers surrounded by lush greenery around will leave you with memories for a lifetime. The vastness and variety the site offers is immense. The falling clouds, pristine water to never-ending valleys and greenery will make you explore the tourism in Shillong. Shillong is not just nature’s beauty but also enthralls you with its history, culture, music and cuisine. The museums enrich you with its collection and information about the Khasi tribe. To make it easier, go through the travel guide of Shillong and get quick snippets of this destination. 

Situated at a high altitude, Shillong does not have an airport or railway station. It is well connected by road from nearby cities like Umroi and Guwahati.

By Air:

The nearest one is Umroi Airport and another one is Guwahati airport. The Guwahati airport is well connected to other cities in India. Umroi Airport near Barapani is 25 km away and Guwahati airport is situated 125 km from Shillong.

By Train:

The Guwahati railway station is the nearest one to Shillong and is 100 km away. Guwahati is connected to various cities.

By Road:

Taxi and bus services are available from the airport as well as railway stations. The reliable mode of transport can be chosen at any point needed.

The weather in Shillong is pleasant during summers, heavy showers during monsoon and chilly winters. So plan your travel according to your preferences.

Summer (March to June):

Summers are not too harsh, with a temperature between 24°C to 15°C. The weather is just right for trekking and camping. Water is pleasant for dips and lakes for picnics. You can witness Shillong clearly without rains or mist.

Monsoon(June to September):

Shillong receives heavy rains during monsoon. Monsoon adds additional flavor to the real beauty of Shillong. Showers will have a say in your holiday plans. Wondering what to do when it rains heavily? Shillong is not just scenic beauty. You can also enjoy the cuisine at Bread Café or Dylan’s Café to experience good music.

Winter (November to February):

Winter in Shillong is quite cold in December and January. The temperature can go down to 2°C during these months. Shillong has much to offer though you might not be able to go outdoors much. The visits to Butterfly Museum, Air Force and Don Bosco museum can keep you occupied for a long time. You can feel the charm in old churches during your visit to Cathedral, All Saint Church and Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Churches. 

Trekking:

The best way to explore a place is on foot. Willing to trek? Gear yourself up. There are quite a few packages available for you to try. The David Scott trail and Double Decker Bridge treks can leave you wanting for more.

River Rafting:

The clear water splashes on you while rafting is terrific. Have not tried before? Nothing to worry, there are guides to guide you through for the first-timers. You can try rafting at Barapani, Dawki and Ranikor which are near Shillong.

Waterfall Rappelling:

Want to challenge yourself in the adventure? Waterfall Rappelling is the right choice. Sliding down the waterfall with just a rope around your body can be a test for awareness at the moment.

Camping:

Bonding with your loved ones without any gadgets could not get better than camping. It will be quite an experience gazing at the skies in the night and to wake up hearing chirping birds. Just being in silence can be relaxing compared to every day busy lives.

Exploring Caves:

Interested to know about primitive ages? Caves are the best places to explore. Shillong has quite a few located nearby. The natural-formed caves are worth exploring. Watching history in the form of rocks in Mawjymbuin Cave, MawsmaiCave and Arwah Cave is awe-inspiring.

Golf:

Golf can get the family together on a lazy day. With a vast expanse of greens, it is a nice place to unwind and connect with your loved ones. The lush green weather relaxes you in no time to play golf or to just walk around.

Rock Climbing:

If you are craving for an adrenalin rush in Shillong, then rock climbing is the adventure for you. The outskirts of the city have some hard rock formations where you can enjoy rock climbing. The perk to the rock climbing apart from experience is the spectacular views from the top. There are organizers from whom you can get an experienced guide for your adventure. 

Shillong has enough variety to choose from. From cafes where local cuisine is served to tingle your taste buds, there are also Indian, Chinese, Italian, Asian and American restaurants. Apart from them, there is street food which is found to be tasty. Apart from Café Shillong, Dylan’s Café you can visit Qzine, Madras Café, Lamee, ML 05 Café to just name a few.

An authentic Khasi and Jaintia meal would complete your experience in Shillong. The local cuisine consisting of meat and rice with minimum spices is sure to delight you. 

Willing to experience the street market, then Police Bazaar and Lewdah Bara Bazaar are the places to go. Police Bazaar is a one-stop market for anyone. You can shop, taste Khasi food in food outlets, and have entertainment. Alongside modern shops, traditional shops are selling exquisite handicrafts from Meghalaya. Lewduh Bazar or Bara Bazar is a place to shop for specialties in the region. It is run majorly by women,and you can find exotic spices, seasonal vegetables, fruits and handicrafts. Bargaining can get you the items at a fair price so be ready to negotiate.