Shillong, India
Shillong is the capital city and a prominent hill station of Meghalaya, which is situated in the North-East region of India. Meghalaya is one of the smallest states of India, which literally means “The Abode of Clouds”. Shillong is is the headquarters of the East Khasi Hills district and is located at an elevation of 4,908 feet (1,496 meters) above the sea level. The highest point of the city is at 6,449 feet (1,966 meters). Shillong has been one of the most important tourist destinations of the North East. The city is often referred to as the "Scotland of the East" due to its remarkable resemblance with the Scottish Highlands.
The rolling hills surrounding the city remind people of the European colonizers of Scotland. This hill resort is incomparable in its picturesque beauty and rich culture. A fresh and mild air and a stimulating weather make Shillong a place for all seasons. Shillong tourism attracts the visitors to view its beautiful lakes and waterfalls snuggled amidst its pine forests and luxuriant mountains.
Visit in Shillong
Shillong is one of the most amazing places to be visited in North East region of India. It is studded with places of tourist interest that travelers can explore on their journey to Shillong. Read below details to about the best tourist attractions in Shillong.
Shillong Peak is the most important feature of the city, which some interesting legends to share. The city has derived its name from this hill. It is an ideal picnic spot, which is located at 1965 meters above the sea level and offers fantastic views of the city and the eastern Himalayan ranges. It is said that the main deity of the city Leishyllong has his habitat at these peaks and used to protect the city from here. The views of the city in the evening are mostly gorgeous.
Ward's Lake is a beautiful artificial lake, which is surrounded with an extensive garden. It is also known as Polok Lake and popular for short garden walks and boating. There is a wooden bridge over the lake, which is its main highlight.
Located only 1 km away from the Ward Lake, Lady Hydari Park is another attraction of Shillong city. The park is dedicated to the first lady of the province, Lady Hydari, wife of the Governor of Assam. Inside the park, there is a rose garden and a mini zoo. This zoo is comprised of 73 species of birds, 140 species of reptiles and other mammals.
This museum is located at a distance of 2 km to the north of the police bazaar on the Jaiaw Road. It has a good display of mounted butterflies and beetles from India and abroad.
Elephant Falls is situated about 12 km away from Shillong. The waterfall creates beautiful sights, especially in the rainy season. These are preferred picnic spots among the locals. Elephant Falls is one of Shillong's prime tourist attractions. The waterfall is located in Upper Shillong area within the Eastern Air Command of Indian Air force.
Golf Course of Shillong is the third oldest golf course of India, which was commissioned during British regime. It is an 18-hole golf course that was founded in 1898. The club has a reputation of being the wettest but one of the most beautiful in the world. Of all the Golf Courses in Eastern India, the scenic beauty at the Shillong Golf Club is the most breathtaking and offers the pleasure of sinking into the nature.
Umiam Lake is a beautiful lake situated 16 km away from Shillong. It is also known as Barapani (Big Water) and spread over an area of 11 km². It has the distinction of being primarily an artificial reservoir for the first Hydel power project in the Northeast.
It is an old churchyard housing several gravestones dating back to old era. At this place, British nationals who served in this region during British period are buried here. Their gravestones give an insight into the history.
It is a massive spherical granite rock situated between Mairang and Nongkhlaw of a diameter of 1,000 feet.
This lake is situated en-route Jowai from Shillong amidst luxuriant plains, rice fields and rows of pine and oak trees.
If you are interested in ethnic tribal culture and tradition, visit this government museum. This is an important place to get a quick insight into the life of the tribes of Meghalaya. The museum displays an array of things that demonstrate history, ethnography and lifestyle of the tribes of the region.
This is an imposing Cathedral, which is dedicated to Mary Help of Christians. Just opposite to the Cathedral, there is a beautiful statue of Jesus Christ.
Shillong, India
March to Mid-June, warm and dry
Temperature:35°C –42°C
October to November, receives average rainfall
Annual rainfall -200 cm
November to February, Cool and Chilled
Temperature:13°C –5°C
Sights of Shillong
