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21 Tourist Places to Visit near Shillong

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Here is the list of 21 21 tourist places to visit near shillong, 1. khasi hills, shillong.

Named after the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, the Khasi Hills are part of the Garo-Khasi range, and a part of the larger Patkai hill range, a series of hills found across the Indo-Myanmar border in the northeast region of India. With deep lush valleys and conical peaks, these hills are famous for housing the Sohra or Cherrapunjee scarp, one of the regions with the highest annual rainfall in the world.

Distance from Shillong: 46 km

2. Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Cherrapunjee

Hidden deep in the lush, green forests of the wettest place in India: Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya; one can find the magnificent Jingkieng Nongriat Double Decker Living Root Bridge; more commonly known as the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge or simply just the Double Decker Root Bridge.  This area is famous for root bridges made of Indian Rubber Tree, but the Double Decker Bridge is the most famous of all due to its large size.

Distance from Shillong: 70 km

3. Dawki, Cherrapunjee

A small border town in the Jaintia Hills, Dawki and its famed river Umngot is a must visit if in Meghalaya. Sandwiched between India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a major center of trade between India and Bangladesh. The small city, besides being a trade hub is also famous for its tourism scene, with many people flocking to the city in order experience a boat ride in its famed Umngot River and enjoy the nearby sights and sounds

Distance from Shillong: 81 km

4. Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Cherrapunjee

The fourth highest waterfalls in the world, Nohkalikai falls plunge some 335 meters from a verdant cliff to the ground giving the portrayal of immense and natural magnificence. The pride of the state of Meghalaya, the falls are one of the most beautiful and grand waterfalls in the country. Tucked in between evergreen rainforest of the Khasi Hill and flowing with all its majesty and might, the falls plunges into a lagoon which is as blue as the afternoon sky.

Distance from Shillong: 54 km

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5. elephant falls, shillong.

Named after an Elephant like stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls are amongst the most popular falls in the North-East, situated next to Shillong. It is a tourists' paradise with three layers of the falls accessible to the layman from different vantage points. The Britishers named this fall so owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall.

Distance from Shillong: 12 km

6. Kyllang Rock, Shillong

Some 78 km away from Shillong, a unique giant rock made out of red granite, Kyllang Rock is a giant dome placed in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The Rock which is 5400 ft above sea level and has a width of around 1000 ft is a mammoth block of granite which is part of the Khasi folklore and seems beautiful in its shape. A hike to the top of Kyllang Rock allows you to treasure the marvellous landscape of the surrounding area.

Distance from Shillong: 52 km

7. Jaintia Hills, Shillong

Part of the former Jaintia Kingdom, the Jaintia Hills is a land of majestic hills filled with rich natural vegetation and mineral deposits. It is situated in Meghalaya and is part of the Patkai hill range that extends across the Indo-Myanmar borders. A relatively smaller hill district as compared to the Khasi and Garo Hills, the Jaintia Hills still amazes travellers with its pristine lakes and lush greenery.

Distance from Shillong: 75 km

8. Balpakram National Park, Tura

Located near the Garo Hills in Meghalaya in India about 3,000 feet above the sea level, the Balpakram National Park is a famous national park which is well known for its pristine beauty. The word Balpakram means the 'land of perpetual winds', and the national park is blessed with charming grace and breathtaking scenes.

Distance from Shillong: 218 km

9. Nongpoh, Meghalaya

Known For : Thrills Fun Park Umiam Lake Lum Nehru Park

Nongpoh, Meghalaya is a petite town to be found to the North of the East Khasi Hills. Situated very close to the gorgeous Brahmaputra plains, this location is quite a favourite as a stopover before reaching Shillong . Nongpoh is the administrative headquarters of Ri-Bhoi district of the Indian state of Meghalaya which in turn makes it a very significant town of this state.

Distance from Shillong: 53 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

6 Nongpoh Attractions

10. Jowai, Meghalaya

Known For : Tryshi Falls Nartiang Monoliths Krang Suri Falls

Located in the Jaintia Hills district, Jowai is famous for its scenic setting and breathtaking views with the perfect mix of heritage and culture. Located in the Jaintia Hills district, Jowai is famous for its scenic setting and breathtaking views - like all other cities of the state. The place is a rich mix of heritage and cultures which reflects in the lifestyle of the town folks.

Distance from Shillong: 63 km

Best Time: October to Mid May

12 Jowai Attractions

11. Mawjymbuin Cave, Shillong

Mawjymbuin Cave is situated in Mawjymbuin village in Mawsynram (the wettest place on earth) in Cherrapunji and is a religiously significant site. Made of calcareous sandstones and having numerous stalagmites (formed as a result of calcium carbonate depositions, weathering and dripping of mineral enriched liquid), the 209-metre high cave is of special interest to geologists who conduct special researches here.

Distance from Shillong: 59 km

12. Mawlynnong, Shillong

Mawlynnong is a small village situated around 90 km from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya and is also known as God's own Garden. It was declared as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 by Discovery India which certainly which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Indian state.

Distance from Shillong: 78 km

13. Sohpetbneng, Shillong

At 1343m above sea level, an ideal location to meet nature. Sohpetbneng means 'navel of heaven' in the local language and is truly heaven - with the breathtaking view of Shillong it offers.

Distance from Shillong: 20 km

14. Kyllang Rock, Shillong

15. diengiei peak, shillong.

Situated on the western side of Shillong lies the Diengiei Peak, 6200 ft in altitude, just 200 ft shorter than the tallest peak in Shillong, the Shillong Peak. For a height of about 1000 ft, the gradient of Diengiei Peak is very steep and precipitous which makes for excellent mountain climbing. Other adventurous sports like rock climbing and rapelling can be done here.  

Distance from Shillong: 42 km

16. Jakrem, Shillong

Jakrem is a famous hot water spring of sulphur, located about 64 km from Shillong. Popular as the land of hot springs amongst the locals. Jakrem is blessed with sulphur springs believed to have curative medicinal properties. The site has slowly developed into a health resort which is visited by people from far and wide to take a dip in the hot spring and spend some time detoxifying themselves. Jakrem is also a favourite picnic spot in the region during the winter with bathing compartments built for the public.

17. Mawphlang, Shillong

Mawphlang is a beautiful village situated 25 kilometres away from Shillong, the capital city of the north-east Indian state of Meghalaya. The village lies in the district of East Khasi Hills and is famous for its sacred groves. The village is named Mawphlang as it is one of the several monoliths in the Khasi Hills. The name Mawphlang means Grassy Stone (Maw phlang) and is a land of legendary stories, sacrifices and unique culture.

Distance from Shillong: 26 km

18. Nohsngithiang Falls, Shillong

The Nohsngithiang Falls, located at a distance of about 4km from Cherrapunjee, is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and a major tourist spot in Cherrapunjee. Since it is situated in the Mawsmai village of the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, it is also known as Mawsmai Falls. The Nohsngithiang Falls falls from a height of about 1033 feet, segmented into seven different sections, giving it the epithet of Seven Sister Waterfalls. 

Distance from Shillong: 57 km

19. David Scott Trail, Shillong

Named after David Scott, a British officer, the David Scott Trail is an old and one of the most popular trekking routes in Meghalaya. It is a 16 kilometres long trek which stretches from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang, both villages known for their history, culture and folklore. A centerstage of Khasi culture, Mawphlang is one of the settlements in the Khasi hills named after monoliths and having sacred groves.

Distance from Shillong: 51 km

20. Mawsynram, Meghalaya

Known For : Mawlyngbna Mawjymbuin Cave Nohalikalai Falls

Acknowledged as one of the wettest place in the world, the mesmerizing village of Mawsynram is a nature lover's delight and the perfect destination to behold the beauty of the rains. Mawsynram trounces Cherrapunjee by a slight margin in being the wettest place in India. A rain lover's paradise, Mawsynram is one of the best tourist attractions of India.

Distance from Shillong: 60 km

Best Time: June - August; November - February

7 Mawsynram Attractions

21. Umiam Lake, Shillong

Umiam Lake, a mesmerizing man-made reservoir, is located at a distance of 15 kilometres north of Shillong which is the capital of the north-eastern Indian state of Meghalaya. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic Umiam Lake is encircled by lush green East Khasi hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers in the country.

Distance from Shillong: 16 km

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• 25 Places to Visit in Shillong

Shillong Tourist Places

We have curated a list of the most exciting places to visit in shillong:, quick navigation.

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls is a sight to behold and can be visited with family on a picnic or with friends for a weekend outing. The waterfall got its name from a rock at its bottom that appears like an elephant. Three separate cascades from these wonderful waterfalls enveloped in lush greenery that the surrounding area features.  While the soothing sound of the crystal clear water brushing through the rocks calms your senses, the spectacular site of the falls is a treat to your eyes. If you are on a quest to unravel the best of the natural wonders in the region, Elephant Falls is easily among the best places to visit in Shillong . Location: Upper Shillong, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 12 km Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: INR 20 per person Explore the tranquil beauty by booking   Day Excursion To Dawki From Shillong

Shillong Peak & View Point

Laitlum Canyons

Police Bazar

Don Bosco Museum

One of the best places to learn about the tribal culture and cultural history of Meghalaya is the Don Bosco Museum. The museum features an impressive collection of indigenous articles and artefacts that depict the cultural richness of the region which gives overlook to the whole of  North East India. The museum has seven floors and encompasses a total of 17 galleries that have artefacts, paintings, figures, sculptures, and much more on display. Don Bosco Museum is believed to be Asia’s largest museum of indigenous cultures of its kind and is one of the best tourist places in Shillong for Indian and foreign tourists. Location : MawlaiPhudmuri Distance from Shillong Bus stand : 2.8 km Timings : 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed on Sundays. Entry Fee : INR 50 per person To experience the best of northeast India in best deals and offer, check out our Northeast holiday packages now.  Explore this unexplored land and discover breath-taking beauty. Book Now:  Sikkim Family Tour Packages                      Sikkim Group Tour Package

Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

Founded in the year 1936, this cathedral is a prominent religious place in Shillong, famous for its unique and striking architecture. The church is an exemplifying example of Gothic Revival Architecture, and thus a great choice for the patrons of architecture. Perched atop a hill, this church delivers a feeling of serenity along with spirituality. The tall arches, stained glasses, and artwork portraying the scenes from the holy scriptures enhance the overall appearance of the cathedral, making it one of the most stunning tourist places in Shillong. Location : Laitumkhrah, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 4 km Timings: 7 AM to 6:30 PM Entry Fee: Entry is free You May Also Like:  Meghalaya Tour                                    Meghalaya Honeymoon Package

Ward’s Lake

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All Saints Cathedral

Sweet Falls

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State Museum

One of the best tourist places in Shillong to experience the cultural diversity of the region, State Museum, more commonly known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum is a must visit a place. The museum has a wide collection of traditional tools, traditional music instruments, dinosaur models, antiques, jewelry,  etc. are on display here. The museum is an important center for the studies of culture and history in the region. If you are a patron of history and culture, you will have a great time at the museum since it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Location: Secretariat Hills, Shillong Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 3.2 km Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM Entry Fee: INR 5 per person Check This Out:  Sikkim Packages From Mumbai                               North Sikkim Tour Package From Gangtok

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Best of Gangtok

Mawphlang Village

David Scott Trail

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Mawjymbuin Cave

Rhino Heritage Museum

Best of Meghalaya

Botanical Garden

Bishop Falls

Bishop Falls is the 22nd highest waterfall in the country, plummeting from a whopping height of 443 feet. The waterfall is three-tiered and is accompanied by another majestic fall named Beadon Falls. The streams from both the falls contribute to the waters of Umiam River. Rugged terrain and lush jungles surround the fall, making it a sight worth freezing in frames. Due to its proximity to the main city area of Shillong, Bishop Falls is a popular picnic spot and is visited by locals on weekends for a respite from the city life. Location: Mawprem, Shillong

Distance from Shillong Bus stand: 5 km

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee: Entry is free You May Like:  Gangtok Tour Package From Siliguri                           Darjeeling And Gangtok Tour Packages From Kolkata

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Shillong Top Attractions

Laitlum Canyon, located near Shillong, Meghalaya, is a hidden gem and a nature lover's paradise. The name "Laitlum" translates to "end of hills," and the canyon lives up to its name with its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing views. This scenic destination offers a stunning panorama of deep gorges, lush green valleys, and mist-covered hills that stretch as far as the eye can see.Laitlum Canyon is a relatively lesser-known tourist spot, which adds to its charm as it remains unspoiled and serene. Trekking enthusiasts can indulge in exciting trails that lead to the canyon, allowing them to witness the natural beauty up close. The experience of standing atop the cliffs, surrounded by the serene ambiance and awe-inspiring vistas, is truly unforgettable.Visitors can also soak in the local Khasi culture as they interact with the friendly villagers who reside in the nearby villages. Laitlum Canyon is a perfect escape from the bustling city life, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and experience tranquility in the lap of Meghalaya's pristine landscapes.

The Don Bosco Museum, located in Shillong, Meghalaya, is an exceptional cultural and educational institution that offers visitors a fascinating insight into the rich and diverse heritage of Northeast India. Named after Saint John Bosco, an Italian saint known for his dedication to youth and education, the museum is a sprawling seven-story building that houses an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and information about the indigenous tribes and communities of the region.The museum showcases the traditions, customs, art, and lifestyle of the various tribes through well-curated galleries, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. It covers a wide range of subjects, including ethnography, archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. Visitors can explore the unique architectural design of the museum, which resembles a cone-shaped traditional house of the local Khasi tribe. As they ascend the levels, they delve deeper into the cultural tapestry of Northeast India.The Don Bosco Museum is not only a repository of cultural knowledge but also a platform for research and academic activities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the vibrant heritage of Northeast India.

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29 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Shillong

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#5 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 17 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Umiam Lake is a vast and serene reservoir located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Also known as Barapani Lake, it is one of the beautiful lakes in Meghalaya and among the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Umiam Lake was formed by damming the Umiam River by Assam State Electricity Board in the early 1960s. The main purpose of the dam was to store water for hydroelectric power generation. Spread over 220 sq. km, the lake is encompassed by sprawling meadows and undulating hills that are carpeted with lush greenery. Apart from being a source of power generation, potable water, fishing and irrigation, Umiam Lake is a popular tourist destination of the region. Umiam literally means 'water of tears' in local Khasi language, and there's a fascinating story around it. According to the legend, two sisters in the heaven decided to visit Meghalaya. To shape up their plan, they left together to reach the destination. During the journey, one .....

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Mawphlang Sacred Grove

#6 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 27 km from Shillong, Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a reserved forest located at Mawphlang village near Shillong, Meghalaya. Also known as Lawkyntang, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and among the best places to experience Shillong Tourism. Situated in the East Khasi Hills, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is preserved by the natives since ancient times as a part of their religious beliefs, in which forests are considered as a sacred entity. Covering over an area 80 hectares, the Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a treasure trove of rare medicinal trees and plants like the English yew, the Chinese su�mac, chinquapin, etc. It is also home to several species of trees that work as climate indicators like Japanese blue oak and graffiti. In total, there are about 450 species of trees and plants in this forest as well as rare species of animals and birds. According to the locals, the sacred forest is protected by the Lyngdoh clan, who believe that the deity Labasa resided .....

Don Bosco Museum

#7 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures is a well-known museum situated within the Sacred Heart Church premises in Shillong. Also known as Don Bosco Museum, it is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the must visit Tourist Places in Shillong. Opened in 2003, Don Bosco Museum is a privately owned museum under the control of Salesian order of the Catholic Church which enlightens the history and culture of the north eastern states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. It is a three-in-one institution that combines a museum with a research and publication center. With its vast collection of artifacts spreading over several galleries, the museum acts as the cultural and historical treasure trove of North-East India. The Museum is a hexagonal shaped seven-storey building brimming with art & culture. It houses 17 well-laid out galleries of the international standard containing .....

#8 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 1 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Ward's Lake is an artificial lake located in the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. Also called as Pollock's Lake, it is one of the beautiful lakes in Shillong and among the popular Shillong Tourist Places. The lake is named after Sir William Ward, the then Chief Commissioner of Assam, who initiated the plan for the construction of this lake. Later, the lake was built in the year 1894 by Colonel Hopkins. The lake was designed by Fitzwilliam Thomas Pollock, a famous engineer in the pre-independence era. The history of the lake says that a Khasi prisoner made special efforts to beautify the lake surroundings and his role is remembered even today by the locals. The horse shoe shaped artificial water body is surrounded by lush green gardens. There is a cobblestone pathway along the periphery of the lake making it an idle place for walking. In the middle of the lake is a wooden bridge from where one can enjoy a lovely view of the lake .....

Elephant Falls

#9 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 12 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Elephant Falls is a stunning waterfalls located in the outskirts of Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. It is one of the prominent waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the prime places to visit in Shillong. The waterfall is located in Upper Shillong area within the Eastern Air Command of Indian Air Force. The Khasi tribe named it Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew, meaning Three Steps Waterfalls. Britishers named it Elephant Falls during their regime owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. However, the rock was destroyed due to an earthquake in 1897. Located quite close to Shillong Peak, the Elephant Falls is a 3 tier waterfall. The first fall is very broad and is hidden among the trees. The second fall is quite domesticated and in the winters (and drier months) it looks inconsequential. The third fall is the tallest and most spectacular with crystal clear water falling over sharp rocks of myriad .....

Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians

#10 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3.5 km from Shillong Bus Terminal, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is a Roman Catholic Church located in the Laitumkhrah locality of Shillong. Also known as the Cathedral Catholic Church, it is the principal place of worship in Shillong and among the most famous places to visit in Shillong. Dedicated to mother Mary, the Cathedral Church of Mary Help of Christians was built by the Germans in 1913. According to history, the construction of the present shrine was built after the first church got destroyed due to a fire accident in 1936. It got the status of a shrine in 1980, on completion of the Catholic Church's 100 years in North East India. This church falls under Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Shillong and is the principal place of worship of about 300,000 strong Catholics of Ri Bhoi and East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. Situated atop an emerald-colored hill, the church was constructed in Gothic style of architecture. The church is quiet a big .....

Shillong Peak & Viewpoint

#11 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Shillong Peak is an enchanting vantage point located at Laitkor area of Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated in the outskirts of the Shillong, it is one of the popular viewpoints in Meghalaya and among the prominent places to experience Shillong Tourism. Placed at an altitude of 1,965 m (6,446 feet), Shillong Peak is the highest peak in Meghalaya. According to historians, Shillong is named after this hill. As per the locals, the patron deity 'Leishyllong' resided at the hill and protects the city against all evils. Besides, the top of the Shillong Peak has a sacred spot that is dedicated to U Shulong and special rituals are organised here in each spring to honour the spirit of U Shulong. The peak offers an enchanting 360 degree view of the entire Shillong city, surrounding waterfalls, the Himalayan Range, Bangladesh Plains and the lush greenery nearby. At the peak there is a high tower with a telescope. An ideal retreat for visitors, .....

Air Force Museum

#12 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Air Force Museum is a museum located in Upper-Shillong of Meghalaya. Situated near Elephant Falls, it is one of the popular museums in Meghalaya and among the top places to visit in Shillong. The Air Force Museum forms a part of the Indian Air Force's Eastern Command in Shillong. This museum is a tribute to the glorious past of the defense of our nation. It hosts aircraft models, actual machines and technology demonstrations used by the IAF Eastern Command. The museum displays the uniforms worn by the air force pilots, missiles, rockets, pictures of Indo-China War and Indo-Pakistan War, medals and miniature models of air crafts. The huge MI 4 helicopter, played a central role in the 1971 war, is displayed in the museum lawn and makes for a remarkable sight. Another attraction is the Streak Shadow Microlight that's a part of the famous Microlight series. This splendid aircraft took its first flight in 1988. Caribou DHC 4, the .....

Wankhar Entomology Museum / Butterfly Museum

#13 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Wankhar Entomology Museum is a specialized museum located in Riatsamthiah area of Shillong. Also known as Butterfly Museum, it is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the top places to visit in Shillong. Established during 1930s, it is a private museum owned by the famous Wankhar family of Shillong. Legend says that, MR. Siddhartha Kumar Sarkar, a Bengali entomologist from Kolkata went to Shillong and married a Khasi lady with surname Wankhar. They took initiative to collect various species of insects and butterflies. Now, the granddaughter of Sarkar namely Ms. Rozalin has been taking care of this museum. Being the only known museum in India devoted to moths and butterflies, it has a rich collection of 1600 types of butterflies and moths from all over the world. Colourful insects and similar endemic species found in nearby regions can also be seen at the museum. Wankhar Entomology Museum has also played an important .....

Meghalaya State Museum

#14 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Meghalaya State Museum is a well preserved museum located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated in the State Central Library complex, it is one of the most popular museums in Meghalaya and among the popular Shillong Tourist Places. Functioning under the Art and Culture Department of Meghalaya, the Museum was established in the year 1975 and was renamed as Williamson Sangma Museum in 1999 as a mark of respect to the Father of Meghalaya. The Museum displays lifestyle and cultural diversity of various tribes of Meghalaya. The museum is divided into two galleries, which are dedicated to different tribal groups of Meghalaya. Visitors can see wooden crafts, tribal dresses, exquisite ornaments, traditional weapons, utensils, pottery items and musical instruments of Jaintia and Khasi tribes in the first gallery. The specialties of this gallery are the Muga cloth, hand-woven baskets and Wein pottery. The second gallery belongs to Garos has .....

Beadon-Bishop Waterfalls

#15 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Bishop and Beadon Falls are twin waterfalls located at Suna Valley of Shillong in Meghalaya. Situated on NH-40 at Mawprem, these are the best waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong. With a height of 135 meters (443 feet), Bishop Waterfalls is a three tiered fall formed by the river Umshyrphi. The Bishop Falls is quite popular as the cascading water looks like a white ribbon, flowing down from the hill. It is regarded as one of the highest waterfalls in India. The Beadon Falls is called the twin brother of the Bishop Falls as both rush down the same steep slope along Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills within a short distance from each other and can be viewed from the viewpoint across a deep ravine at Mawlai. Unlike other waterfalls in Shillong, the Beadon falls is long and narrow, falling from a height of about 100 feet into Umiam River. Its flow is obstructed by dark coloured rocks and heavy green .....

Mahadev Khola Dham

#16 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Mahadev Khola Dham is an ancient Hindu temple located in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the oldest temples in Meghalaya and among the famous places of pilgrimage in Shillong. Believed to be about 150 years old, the Mahadev Khola Dham is a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, the temple is built at the spot where Lakhiya Baba, a sage was decided to stay and meditate. A subedar-major of 8th Gorkha Regiment dreamt of the sage mediating with a trishul (trident) in his hand and a rudraksh' necklace around his neck. The very next day, the man searched for the sage and found him at the place where the mandir' stands today. During the course of excavation for construction of the temple, the subedar-major found a huge shivling and thus the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The present temple was built by several persons after independence, but the earlier one was built with the permission of the then British government. .....

Ever Living Museum

#17 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 10 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Ever Living Museum is a private museum located in Mawshbuit area of Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the most popular museums in Shillong and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Established in 2015, the Ever Living Museum is a living testimony of one's love for nature, culture, tradition, and history. The Museum is owned and operated by retired Meghalaya government engineer Kyntiewbor War. It has three components - the main museum, stone museum and a garden. Set in a beautiful orchid garden, the Ever Living Museum is an ethnographic museum that houses objects of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. The main museum, which is made of concrete, houses both ancient and contemporary weapons used by the tribes of Meghalaya. Besides, there is the joyous scope to discover musical instruments, which include drums, gongs, pipes, bamboo and iron mouth organs, concertina, and other string and bamboo instruments of Meghalaya. There .....

#1 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 8 km from Dispur, 95 km from Shillong, 110 km from Nagaon, 159 km from Tezpur, 360 km from Agartala, 414 km from Dibrugarh, 452 km from Imphal, 467 km from Darjeeling, 504 km from Gangtok, 786 km from Darbhanga and 923 km from Patna, Guwahati, also known as the 'City of Eastern Light', is the largest city in the Indian state of Assam. Situated on the banks of Brahmaputra River, Guwahati is one of the fastest growing cities in India and among the popular places to experience Assam Tourism. Considered to be the gateway to north east India, Guwahati is situated between the southern bank of Brahmaputra River and the foothills of the Shillong plateau. Dispur, a part of Guwahati, serves as the capital of Assam. The city derives its name from two Assamese words 'Guwa' meaning betel nut and 'Haat' meaning market. The city is regarded as the cultural hub of North Eastern India and is also the second largest metropolis in eastern India after Kolkata. There have been ..... Distance (From Shillong): 98 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Cherrapunji

#2 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 54 km from Shillong, 80 km from Mawsynram, 84 km from Dawki, 146 km from Guwahati, 292 km from Tezpur, Cherrapunji or Cherrapunjee is a small sub divisional town in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is one of the wettest places on the earth and among the must visit places in Meghalaya as part of honeymoon tour packages . The original name for this town was Sohra, which was pronounced 'Churra' by the British. This name eventually evolved into the current name, Cherrapunji, which means the 'land of oranges'. According to the history, Cherrapunji is the traditional capital of a Nongkhlaw hima, an independent Khasi state. Between 16th and 18th centuries, the local residents were ruled by their tribal Syiems (chiefs) of Khyriem in the Khasi Hills. Tirot Sing was the last important Syiem of this area, who later admitted to the British in 1883 and ruled this place till independence. Receiving an annual ..... Distance (From Shillong): 54 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#3 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 30 km from Mawlynnong, 57 km from Jowai, 71 km from Nongkrem, 80 km from Shillong, 84 km from Cherrapunjee, 95 km from Mairang, 172 km from Guwahati, 205 km from Kamrup, 223 km from Morigaon, 265 km from Barpeta, Dawki or Dauki is a small town in West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. Situated on the banks of Umngot River, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya. Sandwiched between India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a border town in Jaintia Hills. It is also a major center of trade between India and Bangladesh. Dawki-Tamabil is one of the few road border crossings between India and Bangladesh which is mainly used for coal transportation to Bangladesh and also other places of India. The crystal clear Umngot River of Dawki is a major attraction that marks the natural separation between the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Besides being a trade hub, this small town is known for its immense natural beauty. Umngot River, Umngot Bridge, Jaflong Zero Point ..... Distance (From Shillong Bus Stand): 80 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong Bus Stand - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#4 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 60 km from Shillong, 63 km from Nongkrem, 81 km from Cherrapunjee, 104 km from Mawlynnong, 107 km from Dawki, and 152 km from Guwahati, Mawsynram is a scenic village located in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is the wettest place on the earth and among the best places to visit in Meghalaya. Situated at an altitude of 1400 m, Mawsynram is the rain lover's paradise as it receives the highest rainfalls in India. With 11,872 mm of rainfall received annually, Mawsynram beats Cherrapunji by a slender margin. Cherrapunji receives 11,777 mm of rainfall. The rains are so intense in Mawsynram that the villagers use thick grass to sound-proof their homes from the thunderous rain. The 'Maw' in Mawsynram is a Khasi word meaning 'stone'. It symbolizes the unique megaliths unearthed in the Khasi Hill area. Apart from rains, Mawsynram is also known for lush green vegetation, floating clouds, roaring waterfalls and the colourful orchids. Mawjymbuin Cave, Mawlyngbna ..... Distance (From Shillong): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Shillong - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Laitlum Canyon

#18 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 8 km from Smit and 24 km from Shillong, Laitlum Canyon is a picturesque mountain ridge situated near Smit in Meghalaya. Perched atop the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, it is one of the top places of trekking in Meghalaya and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored yet enthralling tourist spot known for its sublime natural beauty. The word Laitlum means 'The end of hills' and this beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. Also referred to as the 'Smit Valley' by the locals, the hilltop overlooks breathtaking landscapes which include undulating verdant hills, sprawling bamboo plantations and colourful beds of orchids. The canyon is covered with a white misty blanket and is known for the best bird's eye view of Shillong. The scenic hill slopes of Laitlum are often called the Amphitheatre of Meghalaya. The hill slopes are painted in a multitude of hues from earthy brown to soft pink and vibrant orange at sunrise .....

Sweet Falls

#19 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Sweet Falls is a gorgeous waterfall situated near Happy Valley in Shillong, Meghalaya. Also called as Kshaid Weitden, it is one of the stunning waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the popular places to visit in Shillong. Falling from a height of 315 feet, the Sweet Falls is unbroken and the water falls down with a tremendous force. The milky white stream and the surrounding green vegetation make it one of the most scenic waterfalls in Shillong. Naturally, the force of the water makes it impossible to bath or stand directly underneath the falls. Often referred as 'most beautiful' yet 'most dangerous' waterfall in Shillong, tourists are prohibited to enter into the waterfall but can be seen from a viewpoint near Happy Valley. Numerous suicides and accidental falls have been occurred at the sweet falls. The locals firmly believe that the fall is haunted. In fact people say that 'go in groups of odd numbers to the sweet falls and you .....

All Saints Cathedral

#20 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2 km from Shillong Bus Stand, All Saints Cathedral is an ancient church located near Police Bazaar in Shillong. Situated opposite to State Central Library, it is one of the oldest churches of Shillong and among the best places to visit in Shillong. The church was originally built in 1877 during the British Raj and was completely damaged in the year 1897 due to an earthquake. Later, a new church was constructed in 1902. Being the main church of the Shillong, this church is the perfect place to spend some peaceful time along with the Lord's blessings. Built in colonial style of architecture, this church has a beautiful wooden structure and a few stained glass paintings. Daily religious masses are organised at the church, amongst which the morning mass on Sundays is attended by a large number of people. Timings: 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM

Lady Hydari Park

#21 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 2.5 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Lady Hydari Park is a public park located at the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. Also known as Phan Nonglait Park, it is the only park with zoo in Shillong and among the best places to experience Shillong Tourism. The park is named after Lady Hydari, the wife of Governor of Assam. The park is designed in a Japanese garden style which sprawls over an area of more than a kilometer. The landscape dotted with small ponds, rhododendron plants and willow trees with its leaves almost touching the ground are all unmistakably Japanese inspired. Often considered as the best maintained park in Shillong, it encompasses a wide variety of local flowering plants and orchids. The park also features a mini zoo that comprises 73 species of birds, 140 of reptiles and other mammals. Besides, the park also houses a deer abode within it. A small house inside the park also houses a museum which displays the rich biodiversity of the state including .....

Rhino Heritage Museum

#22 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 3 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Rhino Heritage Museum is a war museum situated near Military Hospital in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the museums in Shillong and among the best tourist places in Shillong. Rhino Heritage Museum is one of the most prominent war museums in North East India. The museum was built in the year 1928 and it is said that Japanese prisoners of World War 2 were kept imprisoned here. Recently, the building was renovated and inaugurated by Lt. Gen Shokin Chauhan, director general, Assam Rifles. The museum has many historical photographs related to the military as well as things related to the local culture. The newly renovated Rhino Heritage Museum will showcase the rich history of headquarters 101 area and its units. It will also provide viewers an insight towards the participation of headquarters 101 area in the 1971 Indo-Pak war which led to the birth of 'Bangladesh'. The museum also has a dedicated corner for displaying the rich .....

Kyllang Rock

#23 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 57 km from Shillong, Kyllang Rock is a massive red granite dome-shaped rock located at Mawshut in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. Locally, known as Lum Kyllang, it is one of the unique tourist places in Meghalaya and among the interesting places to visit near Shillong. This monolithic structure stands 5400 feet above the sea level and has a width of 1000 feet. It is a mammoth block of granite which is part of the Khasi folklore and seems beautiful in its shape. The Bright red granite is claimed by the geologists to be several million years old. The rock can be approachable from its northern and eastern sides but remains unapproachable from the southern flank. The southern side of Kyllang Rock is laden with massive detached blocks of rock while the northern part of the rock is enveloped with dense forests. Surrounded by age old Red Rhododendrons, Kyllang Rock is believed to have magnetic properties. Due to this magnetic field, anything doesn't fall .....

Khasi Heritage Village

#24 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 27 km from Shillong, Khasi Heritage Village is a model village situated at Mawphlang near Shillong. Situated opposite to Mawphlang Sacred Forest, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Spread across almost 8 acres, the Khasi Heritage Village has been created to showcase the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi tribes. The village has houses built in the conventional Khasi style with bedrooms, kitchens, storehouses etc. A museum is also kept to display artifacts, tools, and weapons, traditional daily and occasional items that were extensively used by the Khasis. It also has a section for archery with the traditional bows and arrows displayed for visitors. There is a long suspension bridge inside along with an amphitheater that screens documentaries and holds stage shows during the famous Monolith Festival. Initiated by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, the Monolith Festival is usually held in March every year. The main aim of the festival .....

Shillong Golf Course

#25 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 4 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Shillong Golf Course is located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Shillong Golf Course is one of the finest golf courses in India and among the best places to visit in Shillong. Situated at an altitude of 5200 feet, Shillong Golf Course was established as a 9-hole golf course in 1898 by the British Civil Service Officers. It was converted into 18 Holes in 1924 by Capt. Jackson and C.K. Rhodes. According to first survey in 1933, Shillong Golf Course is the third oldest Golf Course in India. Covering an area of 5873 yards, and with a par of 70, the tight fairways at the Golf course of the Shillong Golf Club are made of an indigenous species of local grass which give a solid effect on the soil thus making it challenging for the golfers. The sixth hole, at a distance of 594 yards, is the farthest amongst all the golf courses across India and reaching it proves to be quite a task for the golf players. The course is located in a scenic valley .....

Sohpetbneng Peak

#26 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 7 km from Umiam Lake and 25 km from Shillong, Sohpetbneng Peak is a mountain peak located in Shillong, Meghalaya. Considered as 'Navel of Heaven', it is one of the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Stands at an altitude of 1,343 m, the location provides a mesmerizing bird's eye view of the dense forest and the city of Shillong. The peak is associated with mythological tales and is revered by the Hynniewtrep community which includes communities like Khasi, Jaintia, Bhoi and War Tribes. Also known as U Lum Sohpetbneng, the place is believed to hold a golden tree at the peak which the native Hynniewtrep tribe of Meghalaya has worshipped to be the bridge or ladder between earth and the heaven. The Sohpetbneng Peak is a scenic getaway that holds historic as well as spiritual significance. There is an annual tribal festival that is held on the first Sunday of February, when the Seng Khasi people would reach the peak to perform their rituals and rites, and .....

Diengiei Peak

#27 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 22 km from Umiam Lake and 40 km from Shillong, Diengiei Peak is a mountain peak in Shillong, Meghalaya. Situated to the west of the Shillong plateau, it is one of the highest peaks in Meghalaya and among the popular places of trekking in Shillong. At an altitude of about 6200 feet, Diengiei Peak is the second highest peak in Meghalaya which is just 200 feet shorter than the Shillong Peak. Known for its scenic beauty, the peak offers breathtaking view of the green hills, Umiam Lake and mountains of the East Khasi Hills. One can also see several small villages in the form of tiny dots at a distance. At the top of the Diengiei, there is a huge cup-shaped hollow which some geologists believe to be the crater from an extinct pre-historic volcano. For a height of about 1000 feet, the gradient of this peak is very steep and precipitous which makes for excellent mountain climbing. The other adventurous sports like rock climbing and rappelling can be done here. There .....

Police Bazar

#28 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 1 km from Shillong Bus Stand, Police Bazar is the main market area located at the heart of Shillong in Meghalaya. It is one of the best places for shopping in Shillong and among the top places to experience Shillong Tourism. Police Bazar is a one-stop market for every kind of tourists visiting Shillong as it is a modern market that has a number of hotels, shops and eating joints. It offers several kinds of opportunities for shopping and entertainment. Along with the modern shops, one can also find an array of traditional shops selling exquisite handicrafts from Meghalaya. The market is considered ideal for leisure seekers, shopping enthusiasts and food lovers as it has enough facilities for everyone. A lot of bargaining skills are needed when purchasing from street vendors. This place is overflowing with people all through the day, and is easily reachable from all parts of Shillong by taxis, buses and supplementary transport service. Timings: 10 AM .....

Wahrashi Falls

#29 of 29 Places to Visit in Shillong

At a distance of 63 km from Shillong, Wahrashi or Wah Rashi Kshaid is a stunning waterfall situated at Syntung village near Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the top waterfalls in Meghalaya and among the best places to visit near Shillong. Formed over Wah Rashi Kshaid River, the little known Wahrashi Water Falls is a congregation of eight waterfalls. Encircled with cluster of sacred hills, only tier 3 of the waterfall is made accessible to the public. The other levels, although visible, are not accessible. There are some viewpoints for the visitors to get the better views of the waterfalls. The area surrounding the waterfalls is mostly marshy land with a lot of wild vegetation, with pitcher plant saplings growing in abundance. The road to Wahrashi is extremely bad and only Heavy vehicles like Trucks, Buses, Sumo, Jeeps, SUVs and other 4x4 wheel drive vehicles can easily go through the road. This makes it very difficult for common people to access the waterfalls. The path from .....

Most Asked Questions on Shillong

Shillong can be visited at any time through out the year, however, September to May is the best time to visit Shillong. During these months, the weather is extremely pleasant with moderate rainfall. Shillong looks beautiful and refreshing during the monsoon season (June-August), but torrential rain may disrupt travel plans..

Shillong usually requires at least 2 full days to visit the most important attractions. Shillong can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Cherrapunji, Dawki, Guwahati and Kaziranga National Park by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Shillong trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Shillong tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 6000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8500 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Shillong like Umiam Lake, Mawphlang Sacred Grove, Don Bosco Museum, Wards Lake, Elephant Falls, Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians, Shillong Peak & Viewpoint, Air Force Museum, Meghalaya State Museum, Beadon-Bishop Waterfalls, etc.

Shopping in Shillong can be a great experience if you know the right things to buy. Some of the famous things to buy in Shillong are Scottish Cloth, Shawls and Stoles, Organic Products, Bamboo Handicrafts, etc.

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Top 25 Places to Visit in Shillong

Away from the mainland, Northeast India is a hidden treasure of unparalleled beauty waiting to be explored. Shillong, a quaint hill station in Meghalaya, is definitely one of its brightest jewels. Famously known as the Scotland of East , Shillong is not merely the Capital of Meghalaya but also the Rock Capital of India . An abode of tranquil and serene valleys, waterfalls, parks, caves, and awe-inspiring landscapes, it also grooves to the loudest and most happening musical festivals in the nation.

Away from the scorching heat and chaos prevalent in the cities, Shillong, with its misty drizzles and pleasant gashes of wind, will wake your senses to hidden life. Brimming with modernity and a house of some of the oldest tribes at the same time, Shillong is a rare amalgamation of the past and the present. Come and experience what paradise on earth feels like in the “ Abode of Clouds ”.

Shillong is a celebration of culture, history, nature, and life; a celebration that you just cannot miss being a part of. There is no dearth of heart-capturing places to visit in Shillong. If you are waiting for a sign to take that leap of faith, cancel all your deadlines, and treat yourself with a rejuvenating and soulful retreat in the valleys, this is it.

Shillong is not just a place but rather a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will make you have a long and silent conversation with your solitude. Shillong tourist places definitely need to be on the top of your bucket list!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Shillong: March to June

Shillong in summer.

The pleasant and moderate climate of summers (18-22 degrees Celsius) makes the months of March to June the best time to visit Shillong. You can enjoy the lush greenery of the blossoming valleys in this season. From boating to trekking to Shillong sightseeing, there is perhaps no better climate to explore Shillong tourist places than the summer season. You can also enjoy the summer annual tribal thanksgiving festival, Shad Suk Mynsiem , by visiting this gem of place between the months of March to June.

Shillong in Winter

While the chilly weather and unpredictable winter showers make winters an off-season in the town, adventurers and nature lovers find their way to explore this beautiful place even in the biting cold. Months from October to February stand as the best time to visit Shillong if you want to enjoy Wangala , Autumn , as well as Nongrem Dance Festivals . The frosty valleys and trekking trails bring out a unique glory when it comes to Shillong sightseeing.

Shillong in Monsoon

The gods of rain are a bit too generous on Shillong. The area receives around 3300 mm of rainfall every year. While this makes the down prone to floods and blocked roads, the monsoon might be the best time to visit Shillong for you if you are a lover of rains. Brimming with greenery and serenity, Shillong is a romantic spectacle to treasure during the months of July to September . It brings out an unseen sight of picturesque Shillong tourist places.

From a plethora of mesmerizing Shillong tourist places, HikerWolf has chosen 25 best places to visit in Shillong for you:

1. Elephant Falls

Situated 12 km away from Shillong, Elephant Falls, one of the most alluring Shillong tourist places, will leave you spellbound by its astoundingly beautiful sight. It is named after an elephant-shaped rock at the foot of the fall. The rock, however, eroded and withered out of shape after an earthquake occurred in 1897.

It is popularly known in the Khasi tribe as the ‘ Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ , translating to ‘ The Three Step Waterfalls’ . With three consecutive crystal waterfalls in the backdrop of earthy rocks, the falls stand as a renowned Shillong tourist spot.

The first layer of falls, nestled between evergreen trees, mark a wide area by its flow. The second waterfalls are rather bleak and trace a narrow stream, especially during winters. The third waterfalls, with its unhindered flow of pristine water from the mouth of dark rocks, become the central attraction of the place. All three layers of waterfalls join together to form a stellar sight of refreshing and blossoming beauty. A natural delight tucked in emerald greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Highlights:

The three-tier falls in fern rocks

INR 20 per person

10 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week except on Sunday)

Best Time to Visit:

July to September

3. Umiam Lake

A gorgeous by-product of the construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Umiam River, Umiam Lake is a serene man-made reservoir that forms the perfect picnic spot for tourists from across all geographies. This makes it one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Spreading across 222 square kilometres of land, the lake is surrounded by lush green Gulmohar trees and is nestled amidst lofty valleys. Bustling with exquisite flora and fauna as well as indigenous locals, the lake will give you a kaleidoscopic view of the natural beauty and rural and tribal lifestyle of the region.

An absolute paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts, it is a delight when it comes to Shillong sightseeing. The sunset and sunrise views on the periphery of this lake are sights to behold. Along with its picturesque setting, it also offers tourists an array of water sports and adventures. This makes it one of the most prominent Shillong tourist places.

Kayaking, cruising, boating, and other water activities.

INR 20 for Kayak/ Pedal Boat/ Canoe

INR 50 for Scooter

INR 50 for River Bus

INR 100 for Yachting

INR 200 for Skiing

9 A.M. to 5 A.M. for water sports

March to June

3. Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum Canyons, nestled in the East Khali Valleys, is a well-kept secret of the town and is thus amongst the treasured Shillong tourist places brimming with tranquillity and peace. Literally translating to ‘ The End of Hills’ , Laitlum Canyons gives a panoramic view of the hills. Away from the mayhem of city life, this unexplored hilltop in lush green meadows will be the perfect spot to dwell into the deepest parts of your solitude. It is one of the best places to visit in Shillong. The bird view of the beautiful city will make you forget all your problems and will make them appear so small in front of the majestic valleys. Come and lose yourself in the silences of nature, perhaps you’ll hear them talking back to you!

The bird view of Khasi Valleys- a cherished Shillong tourist spot

No entry fee

Remains open throughout the day

4. Don Bosco Museum

Shillong is an abode of indigenous culture and traditions practiced by many diverse ancient tribes. If there is a place that captures the majestic history and heritage of Shillong, it is the renowned Don Bosco Museum, one of the most famous Shillong tourist places. Famously known as the largest museum of indigenous culture in Asia, it stores important relics and artifacts that tell a tale of the cultural history of Northeastern India.

Constructed in a hexagonal style with seven floors and over 17 art galleries, this museum has been visited by eminent personalities such as the princess of Thailand as well as notaries from the Rajya Sabha. Adorned with sculptures, paintings weapons, figures, as well as other artifacts and relics, it also hosts various recreational events and competitions inviting historians, scholars, writers, lyricists, as well as musicians from across the world. One of the most prominent places to visit in Shillong, it is a renowned Shillong tourist spot.

Snippets of north-eastern communities

INR 100 for an Indian Adult and INR 200 for a Foreign Adult

INR 50 for an Indian Student and INR 150 for a Foreign Student

9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. in summers and 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. in winters (remains open throughout the week except for Sundays and national holidays)

Throughout the year

5. Shillong Peak

If you want to get a kaleidoscopic bird view of the beauty that Shillong entails, perhaps there is no better hilltop than the majestic Shillong Peak to serve your needs. Perched at an altitude of 1965 meters above sea level, Shillong Peak stands as the highest point in Shillong. Covered with misty fog, it definitely is a major reason behind the naming of Shillong as an abode of clouds and is thus amongst the best Shillong places to visit.

According to a popular legend, the peak is said to be the home of ‘ Leishyllong ‘, the supreme patron deity revered in Shillong. It is believed that the deity overlooks and protects the city from the hill peak. Attracting devotees, spiritualists, as well as nature lovers, Shillong Peak is a slice of heaven that will give you an unparalleled experience of serene divinity. It thus is a prominent stop for Shillong sightseeing. Located at the Air force base, it also hosts the radar station of the Indian Air force. Undeniably, it bags a position in the list of Shillong tourist places.

The radar station of the Indian Airforce- a renowned Shillong tourist spot

9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

6. Ward’s Lake

Named after Sir William Ward, the chief commissioner of Assam who played a central role in commencing its construction, Ward’s Lake is a renowned Shillong tourist spot. Famously known as the Pollock’s Lake by the locals, Ward’s Lake is adorned by rich flora and vibrant flowerbeds. Constructed in 1894, this 100-year-old lake still stands as the unblemished and untouched jewel of Shillong.

Boating in this horseshoe-shaped lake will bring you in the close proximity of diverse fishes that make this lake beam with life. From feeding the colorful fishes to taking a stroll around this crystal mirror-sheet lake, Ward’s lake is a perfect retreat into the prime bounty of nature. A prominent destination for Shillong sightseeing, Ward’s Lake is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Paddle boating in the lake

INR 10 per person

8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (November to February) and 8:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. (March to October).  It remains open throughout the week.

June and July

7. Air Force Museum

Shillong is a hub of eminent museums that bear testimony to the rich culture, heritage, history, as well as technologies that the country possesses. One such exquisite museum that tells the brave tale of India’s defense history is the Air Force Museum located in the Upper Shillong region.

From the snapshots of Indo-China and Indo-Park Wars to uniforms of air force pilots to microscopic models of air crafts to rockets, missiles, and other items, the Air Force Museum will educate you about the Indian Air force and its brave flying warriors and glorious history. Also encapsulating a souvenir shop and a cafeteria, the air force museum complex is amongst the renowned places to visit in Shillong.

The python skin on display

9:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

8. Shillong Golf Course

Perched in the East Khali district at a height of 5200 feet above sea level, Shillong Golf Course stands as the largest, finest, as well as a most ancient golf course in the whole wide world! It was constructed in 1898 as a 9-hole golf course and was later transformed into an 18-hole golf course in 1924 by Captain Jackson and C.K. Rhodes. Ever since 1924, this golf course is renowned with the title – Gleneagles of the East.

Adorned with dense rhododendron and pine trees, it is not just a haven for golf enthusiasts but also for nature and peace lovers. Its picturesque and enormous sight is one to treasure and thus it stands as the pride of Meghalaya. A delight for a playful, fun, and sporty retreat, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Flowering Pine and Rhododendron trees

8 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

9. Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

Located between Dhanketi and Laitunkhrah, Mary Help for Christian Cathedral is one of the most picturesque churches in the city and is also amongst the most sacred Shillong tourist places. Constructed on a steep plateau to be earthquake resistant, it is decorated with grand glass windows and towering arches.

Established in 1980, it stores the grave of Hubert D’ Rosario, the first Archbishop of Shillong. An affirmation of Gothic revival architecture, the church is adorned with Holy Scriptures and artworks that depict biblical tales as well as the lives of renowned holy saints.

Glimmering with spirituality and serenity, the church is named after Holy Mary, the mother of Lord Jesus Christ. Standing as a divine abode in the backdrop of grandiose snow-covered mountains and pious Brahmaputra River, it is a treasured spot for Shillong Sightseeing and thus is one of the best places to visit in Shillong for a divine and spiritual retreat.

The grave of Hubert D’ Rosario

7 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

10. Police Bazar

If you want to get a vivid view of the bustling life in Shillong, there is no better place than Police Bazar for you. One of the liveliest market centers in Shillong, Police Bazar has got something for everyone. From modern stores to ethnic, traditional, and classic handicraft stores to a flea market, Police Bazar captures the soul of Shillong with all its varied diversities.

Built around the main circle, it is connected to the city by 7 roads that branch out from the central chowk. The flea market is renowned to be a pocket friendly experience if you want to treasure traditional handicrafts and ethnic junk jewelry of Meghalaya.A colourful, vibrant, and lively market, it is not just a popular destination for shopaholics but also foodies as it is an abode of some of the most delicious local cuisines and delicacies of Meghalaya. Come and get lost in the fervour of tradition, culture, and life beaming in this market of Shillong. Without a doubt, it is one of the most stellar places to visit in Shillong.

The flea market- a favorite Shillong tourist spot

8 A.M. to 7 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Also, read about the 15 Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

11. Sweet Falls

Imagine the musical sound of thrashing water amidst dense green forests reverberating with the mellifluous chirping of birds. Sweet falls is an ethereal destination for nature lovers and enthusiasts and is thus amongst renowned Shillong tourist places. One of the most stellar waterfalls with astounding beauty, it also is one of the most dangerous and accident-prone waterfalls in Shillong. Situated at a height of 96 meters, it has been a witness to a number of tragic deaths and suicides. It thus stands unfit for directly bathing under its fast rushing water.

To add to its mystery, it is also believed to be a haunted place by the locals. According to a popular legend, groups visiting in odd numbers are often found to return with lesser members in even numbers. A picturesque and sublime site, it is located in the close earshot of Butterfly Museum and mini zoo. With its haunted reputation and dangerous eventualities, it is less visited. With a scarce crowd, however, you can make the most of the serene greenery and sublime beauty that envelops this place. As suggested by its name, it is a sweet and refreshing getaway and thus, is bags its name in the list of eminent Shillong places to visit.

The cloudy view of majestic falls

INR 70- Vehicle Entry Fee

10 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

12. All Saints Cathedral

In the close proximity of Police Bazaar (a prominent Shillong tourist spot) and opposite to the Central Library in Shillong, All Saints Cathedral stands as one of the most ancient and yet one of the most beautiful and well-maintained churches in the city of Shillong.

Constructed around 1902, it was built by the British Empire and thus bears testimony to Victorian architecture and designs. With its wooden architecture and intricately carved religious symbolisms, it holds great value for history and beauty lovers as well as devotees from across all geographies. All Saints Cathedral is a treasured stop for Shillong sightseeing. Shimmering with tranquil spirituality, this quaint abode of unparalleled divinity is one of the best Shillong tourist places.

The wooden architecture and religious carvings

8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Throughout the Year

13. Wankhar Entomological Museum

Owned and maintained by the members of the Wankhar family, Wankhar Entomological Museum is also famously known as the Butterfly Museum. One of the most renowned Shillong tourist places, it is located on Riatsamthiah Jaiaw and in close proximity to the Christian Academy School.

Housing more than 1600 species of butterflies, moths, beetles, and other insects, it is a colorful sight to behold and is a unique destination for Shillong sightseeing. To promote the awareness for conservation of exotic and endemic insects, Wankhar Entomological Museum also hosts recurrent special breeding programs for the conservation of the insects. A one of its kind traveling destination, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

exotic specimens of moths, beetles, butterflies, tarantulas, and millipedes from different countries.

INR 50 per adult (national), INR 30 per student (national), and INR 100 per foreigner

11 A.M. to 4 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Sunday)

14. Lady Hydari Park

Brimming with ducks and wishes, Lady Hydari Lake is an exceptionally picturesque lake that stands as the favorite picnic spot for nature lovers and as a renowned name amongst Shillong places to visit. It gets its name from Lady Hydari, the wife of the Governor of Assam and thus famously revered as the first lady of the state.

Built-in Japanese style, it is dotted with orchid, willow trees, as well as rhododendrons trees. With beautiful ponds, enamoring lawns, and a mini zoo and museum, it is an ideal recreational destination to enjoy with family. Boating in the ponds of this park will give you an astoundingly beautiful view of greenery blossoming with life. A treasured place for Shillong sightseeing, it is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Shillong.

Boating and other recreational activities

INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child below 5 years of age, and INR 5 per senior citizen

8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Monday)

15. Bishop Falls

The highest waterfall in Shillong and the 22 nd highest waterfall in India, Bishop Falls flows from a height of 443 feet. This three-tier waterfall merges into the pristine Umiam River making its way through the dense valleys. With a hydroelectric powerhouse at its base, it is a beautiful sight with foamy water streams traversing through dark rocks.

The twin brother of Beadon Falls, Bishop Falls is the second of two waterfalls falling into the same water base.  Stranded away into prime remoteness of nature, it is not connected to any motorable road and can only be viewed from the Beadon-Bishop View Point. A refreshing getaway from the chaos of city life, it will make you experience the sublimity of nature like never before. A door into your spirituality, Bishop Falls is a charming destination for Shillong Sightseeing and is one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Beadon-Bishop ViewPoint- a favorite Shillong tourist spot

8 A.M. to 6 P.M.

16. Rhino Heritage Museum

Rhino Heritage Museum is a renowned war museum that tells the stories of wars fought by the brave soldiers of the nation as well as of the highly developed defense weapons that the nation has employed in the past wars.

From the relics of uniforms of martyred soldiers to their medals to the weapons produced by Japan in World War II, it houses various historical and war artifacts. First constructed in 1928, it is said to have been a prison for Japanese prisoners of war. It was transformed later into a war museum by the director-general of Assam Rifles, Lt. Gen Shokin Chauhan.

Its galleries house displays of not just war relics but also local and tribal heritage and culture. The central attractions of the museum are the multiple photographs of soldiers and army personnel, weapons employed by the Japanese army during the Second World War, rifles made in Iraq and China, as well as the great Caribou fighter plane employed in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Encapsulating tales of gory wars, grand weapons, and brave soldiers, it attracts history lovers, students, as well as tourists from across all geographies. A profound conversation with the past, it stands amongst the most famous Shillong places to visit.

The weaponry of the Japanese Army- a central attraction for Shillong sightseeing

Paid for all visitors. Special discount for senior citizens, students, as well as retired army men.

9 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Thursday)

17. Mawjymbuin Cave

Imagine walking through a dark cave marked with a quiet flow of bleak water streams and wonders of sandstones and geological formations. Mawjymbuin Cave will enrapture you in the beauty of natural wonders and unseen treasures. Located in Mawsynram (the wettest place on earth), Mawjymbuin Cave is an alluring sight that holds great significance to religious devotees, geologists, as well as nature lovers.

The cave contains a rock structure resembling Shiva Linga that arose from the earth. The Shiva Linga is worshipped by devotees from all geographies who revere this cave as a holy abode of a great deity and thus consider it a pilgrim. With a height of 209 meters, it has many entrances and passages, some of which are very narrow and bleak. Adorned with sandstones and multiple stalagmites, it is a sought-out destination for geologists and researchers from across the world.

With a quiet and tranquil aura, this quaint cave will take you into the depths of your spirituality and thus will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A marvelous site for Shillong sightseeing, it also is one of the most stellar tourist places in Shillong.

The rock shaped like Shiv Linga

Entry Fee :

8 A.M. to 8 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Post monsoon as the passage of the cave is prone to get blocked in heavy rains.

18. Spread Eagle Falls

A waterfall that looks like a mighty eagle spreading its wings? Spread Eagle Falls is a delightful wonder of nature and thus is a scenic sight to devour. The widest waterfall in the city and also amongst prominent Shillong tourist places, Spread Eagle Falls is also known as Urkaliar or Sati Falls. It is nestled in the steep hills of the East Khali District. According to a popular legend, Ka Liar slipped and fell into this waterfall and thus it got its name as Urkaliar falls. With water gushing out of the crystal rocks and the thunderous flow breaking the profound silence of the hills, Spread Eagle falls is a paradise for nature lovers as well as photography enthusiasts as a quintessential Shillong sightseeing destination. Beaming with beauty and fervor, it is one of the most pristine places to visit in Shillong for a soulful retreat into nature.

The eagle-shaped waterfalls- One of the most majestic Shillong tourist places

10 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

May and June

19. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Imagine wandering through the wilderness of a tropical, evergreen, dense, and unexplored forest. The crunch of autumn leaves crushing beneath your feet and the echoing silence of the majestic distant valleys. Mawphlang is one of the most beautiful forests in Meghalaya and also one of the most mysterious Shillong places to visit. It is a forest enveloped with sacred beliefs. It holds great religious value to the Khasi Tribe. They bury the dead members of their tribe in this forest.

One can spot monoliths and stones in the forest used to offer animal sacrifices to holy deities. Labasa is revered as the prime deity of the village and tribal people belonging to the Khasi Tribe offer the sacrifice of roosters and goats as a ritual to worship the deity. They believe that the deity can appear in the form of a tiger. It is also not allowed for visitors to not take anything out from this village.

According to a famous legend, the attempt made by the Indian Army to take logs out of the forest for construction work despite repeated warnings from the tribal villagers was turned futile by some invisible force. Despite multiple attempts, the Indian Army was unable to take the logs out from the village and thus the age-old legend has continued and no one dares to move anything in this primitive and sacred forest. Adorned with rich flora and fauna and biodiversity, it is also a picturesque spectacle. One of the best tourist places in Shillong, it is a fascinating adventure to entail!

The Mystic Forest Trail- An eminent Shillong tourist spot

9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

September and October

20. Mawphlang Village

Situated 26 kilometers away from Shillong, Mawphlang Village, one of the most primitive Shillong places to visit, is an unexplored jewel that holds the rich rural heritage of Meghalaya. Nestled in the East Khali Hills, it literally translates to “grassy stone” used by the tribal people for animalistic sacrifices and rituals. It was a famous center for medical activities and dispensaries and was also the abode of Presbyterian Church of Wales missionary during the 1890s.

Marked by rivers, valleys, forests, and ponds, Mawphlang Dam and the sacred forest groves remain the central attractions of this village. It is an eminent destination for Shillong Sightseeing to get an insight into the unknown rural culture of Meghalaya. It thus stands as one of the best tourist places in Shillong.

Mawphlang Dam and Mawphlang Sacred Forest- Cherished places to visit in Shillong

9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M

October to April

21. State Museum

Perched in the state Library Complex at Laichumiere, the Meghalaya State Museum, also famously known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, is a reservoir of the rich tribal and ethnic culture of the nation. Established in 1975, the museum gives a detailed account of the age old civilizations as well as their unique cultures from both western and eastern parts of India.

Galleries containing traditional musical instruments, jewelry, traditional tools, weapons, and other antique artifacts adorn the museum. This ethnographic museum gives a unique insight into the exquisite cultures and traditions of the Jaintia, Garo, and Khasi tribes. It also encapsulates the dinosaur’s model acquired from the Geological Survey of India, Kolkata to the replica of Ashok Pillars and anthropological life-size model acquired from National Museum, Delhi, and Gauhati respectively.

Beaming with socio-cultural ethnicity, it is a favorite Shillong tourist spot for anthropologists, researchers, historians, students, as well as other visitors. A perfect site for Shillong sightseeing, it will acquaint you with the hidden and unknown lives of the ancient tribes and their sentiments. A hub of culture and profound stories, it is one of the best Shillong Places to visit.

Dinosaurs model

INR 5 per person

10 A.M. to 4 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

22. David Scott Trail

A breath-taking trek through forest covers, rushing rivers, steep rocks, emerald green meadows, mountains, woods, and expansive grasslands, David Scott Trail is a dream for every trekker and thus is amongst the best Shillong places to visit.

Getting its name from David Scott, a British officer of the region, this 16 kilometers long trek connects two villages brimming with an unparalleled culture and unique ways of life. Wandering through this trek will make you stroll through the tribal culture and heritage embedded in the soul of Shillong.

Stretching from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang, David Scott Trail is one of the oldest trekking trails in Meghalaya. It was established in the 19 th century as a pathway connecting Assam and Bangladesh. From the ancient Khasi Villages to the dangling bridge at River Umain to the tomb of Camilla to the Ka Kor Ka Shonmai resting spot, the trek entails alluring places and experiences and is thus quintessential for Shillong sightseeing in order to explore its hidden beauty and culture. A relaxing retreat in the natural meadows, it is one of the best tourist places in Shillong.

Ka Kor Ka Shonmai point- Eminent Shillong tourist spot

6 A.M. to 6 P.M.

23. Sohpetbneng Peak

On the outskirts of Shillong and at an altitude of 1343 meters above sea level, there lies one of the most auspicious peaks in the city as well as one of the best Shillong tourist places, Sohpetbeng Peak. It gives an alluring bird view of a city covered in dense forests. Revered as the “ Navel to Heaven ” in the Khasi mythology and Folklore, it holds great religious and sacred value for the people belonging to the Hinniewtrep Tribe.

With sublime and breath-taking views of the city as well as the profound divinity, the peak is a favorable location for both tourists as well as locals. A perfect spot for Shillong sightseeing, it will make you experience the grandiose city among the clouds. It thus attracts nature lovers as well as photographers from across the world. One of the best places to visit in Shillong, it is a sight to behold.

The panoramic view of the city

24. Mawsynram

Your trip to Shillong cannot possibly be complete without visiting the wettest place on the earth! Mawsynram, located 61 kilometres away from Shillong, is a tropical town marked by generous and wondrous showers. Cuddled in East Khali Hills, at a height of 1400 meters above sea level, it gets its name from the Khasi word “Maw” meaning stone. Dotted with stalagmite formations and earthy stone structures, it is one of the most prominent Shillong tourist spots. Most famous for a rock resembling Shiv Linga in Mawjymbuin Cave , it houses various wonders of nature. The village houses in Mawsynram are covered with thick grass shields in order to protect the inhabitants from the noisy and thunderous rains. A spectacle to treasure, this quaint little town encapsulates the hidden beauty of northeast India and thus deserves to be on your travel list! Undeniably, it is one of the best Shillong places to visit.

Mawjymbuin Cave- One of the most renowned Shillong tourist places

Remains open throughout the week

September to November

25. Lewduh Bara Bazar

Famously renowned as the largest traditional and ethnic market in Northeast India, Lewduh Bara Bazar captures the soul of the city of Shillong and is thus a bustling Shillong tourist spot. Beaming with the culture of the Khasi tribe, one of the most prominent tribes inhabiting Shillong, the market sells Khasi weapons such as Khasi knives and Khasi bow and arrows.

From handicraft items to bamboo artifacts to Scottish Check and handwoven shawls, the market is a hub of exquisite heritage. It also witnesses religious rituals and ceremonies conducted to worship U Blei Shillong , the revered deity of Shillong. Owing to a strong lineage of matrilineal culture, most of the shops are run by women.

Along with housing ethnic, religious, and tribal culture, it also bustles with stores of modern brands. Thus, a perfect amalgamation of modernity with culture, it captures the soul of a society in flux, leaning towards the new ways of the world, yet rooted beautifully in the indigenous life. From traditional souvenirs to lip-smacking delicacies, it has got something for everyone. Bustling with life and a diverse crowd, it is one of the best places to visit in Shillong.

Khasi knives, bows, and arrows

8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

North East India still remains an unexplored mystery. Cut off from the mainland, it houses various well-kept secrets of unseen beauty. One such lesser-known jewel of North East India is the charming hill station of Shillong. From primitive forests, mountains, lakes, caves, and waterfalls to lively music festivals, Shillong is a profound story of the union between nature and culture. Come and listen to the ancient fables of primitive tribes and the modern tales of renowned rock bands at the same time in this mesmerizing town. Some stories, after all, are worth hearing!

1. What is the best time to visit Shillong?

   The pleasant months from September to May are considered the best time to visit Shillong. Monsoons are generally avoided to travel to Shillong as the heavy rains in Shillong often lead to blocked roads and floods.

2. Where is Shillong located?

  Shillong is located at a height of 4,990 meters above sea level in the east-central region of Meghalaya.

3. How to reach Shillong?

  You can reach Shillong both via air and road. If you are traveling by air, you can easily reach Shillong airport which is well-connected with other major cities. You can also avail of bus services available for travel from Guwahati to Shillong.

4. Is Shillong a safe place to visit for tourists?

  Shillong has a low crime rate when compared to other major cities in India and is a safe place for tourists.

5. What are the various tribes situated in Shillong?

  The most prominent tribes in Shillong are the Khasi tribe, Garo tribe, and Jaintia tribe.

6. Does one require any special permits to visit Shillong?

  Everyone, except the natives, needs to obtain a special permit to visit the northeastern states of India. You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Shillong. The permit is issued by the state government.

7. What are the most famous hotels to stay in Shillong?

  Some of the most famous and luxurious hotels to stay in Shillong are Ri Kynjai, Hotel Polo Towers, The Heritage Club, The Pear Tree, and Hotel Alpine Continental.

8. What is Shillong famous for?

  Shillong, prominently known as the Scotland of East, is one of the most beautiful hill stations in north-eastern India. It is known for its picturesque waterfalls, caves, valleys, and lush green grasslands. There is no dearth of tranquil places to visit in Shillong. Away from the mainland, Shillong offers a pleasant cultural retreat as it is inhabited by the indigenous Khasi tribe.

9. How is the internet facility in Shillong?

  You can easily get a fairly stable internet connection in Shillong. Places such as Mawphlang Village, however, have a low internet connection.

10. What are the best mobile networks that provide stable connectivity in Shillong?

  Jio, Vodafone, as well as BSNL are known to provide stable connectivity in Shillong.

11. What is the famous food of the region?

  Khasi food is the most prominent cuisine of Shillong. Pork and rice are considered the staple food of the region. Jadoh is a lip-smacking Khasi delicacy that is a must-try dish for all food enthusiasts.

12. Can I get vegetarian food in Shillong?

  While vegetarian food is not common in Shillong, it has been recently made available at various food joints due to the growth of the tourism industry.

13. Is liquor readily available in the region?

  While there are 10 liquor-free zones in Shillong, there are several government shops and wine shops where you can buy alcohol.

14. How are the medical facilities in Shillong tourist places?

  The largest and most well-equipped hospital in Shillong with over 400 beds is the Shillong Civil Hospital. Many primary health care centers are also located in different parts of the city.

15. What is the type of clothing recommended in Shillong?

  If you are traveling during summers, you must carry light clothes made of cotton material to provide you relief from the scorching heat of Shillong. For winters, you must carry woolen clothes to keep yourself warm in the biting cold. The rains are quite unpredictable in the region, hence, you should also carry umbrellas and rainwear for your Shillong trip.

16. What are the essential things to pack for the Shillong trip?

  You must carry your identity cards, documentation required to obtain the ILP, light clothes, medications, and basic first aid, as well as an umbrella and rainwear.

17. What are the famous markets in Shillong?

  Some of the most famous and busy markets in Shillong are the Police Bazaar, Bara Bazaar, Khasi Emporium, Bhutia Market, and Polo Bazaar.

18. What are the famous souvenirs to buy from Shillong?

  Shillong is famous for its Khasi products, organic fruits and produce, as well as traditional fabrics, shawls, and jewelry.

19. What is the most famous music festival organized in Shillong?

  NH7 Weekender Shillong is India’s most happening music festival organized annually in Shillong. Shillong is popularly known as the Rock Capital of India.

20. Why is Mawjymbuin Cave so famous amongst Shillong tourist places?

  Mawjymbuin Caves are naturally formed caves dotted with stalagmite formations. The natural rock formation shaped like Shiv Linga attracts devotees from across geographies and thus forms the central attraction of the caves.

21. How is the availability of electricity in Shillong tourist places?

   Shillong receives 492.47 MW units of electricity 24*7. The power supply is provided by both the state government as well as CGS.

22. Is Shillong clean?

  Shillong is one of the cleanest cities in India. Following the guidelines of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Shillong has maintained strict no pollution policies prohibiting plastic waste in the state.

23. Is India’s first 18-hole golf course located in Shillong?

  Yes, the Shillong golf course is the nation’s first 18-hole golf course renovated in 1924. Located at a height of 5200 feet above sea level, it is one of the most picturesque and scenic golf courses in the world and is thus sought out by golf enthusiasts from across geographies.

24. What is the amount of annual rainfall received in Shillong?

  Shillong receives an average rainfall of about 88.60 inches every year. Located near Cherrapunji, Shillong is considered one of the wettest places in the world.

25. What are the most famous museums to visit in Shillong?

  Shillong is known for its exquisite museums that provide an insight into the indigenous tribal lives, cultures, as well as their unique histories.  This quaint hill station in Meghalaya has interesting stories to tell for all history enthusiasts, researchers, and anthropologists. Some of the most famous historical places to visit in Shillong are the Don Bosco Museum, Air Force Museum, Butterfly Museum, Rhino Heritage Museum, as well as the Forest Museum.

26. What is the nearest airport to Shillong?

  The Umroi airport is the nearest airport to Shillong city. It is located 25 km away from the Shillong city center. You can book a taxi or cab ride to reach Shillong from Umroi.

27. What currency is in use in Shillong?

  Indian currency, both in cash and card, is in use in Shillong.

28. What are the famous festivals celebrated in Shillong?

  Shillong beams with enthusiasm and zeal as it hosts various cultural, religious, tribal, as well as music festivals throughout the year. The Wangala Festival, Nongkrem Dance, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Behdienkhlam, and the Shillong Autumn Festival are some of the most famous festivals celebrated in Shillong. Famously known as the Rock Capital of India, Shillong also hosts NH7 Weekender Shillong, India’s most happening music festival, every year.

29. What are the prominent languages spoken in Shillong?

  The prominent languages spoken in Shillong are Khasi, Pnar, Garo, as well as the English language. Dominated by the Khasi tribe, Khasi is the most prominently spoken language in the region.

30. What is the condition of roads in Shillong?

  Shillong is marked by unruly roads in various parts of the state. Often blocked by debris and floods during monsoon, the roads become slippery for tourists to travel and thus require careful and steady driving. The Guwahati Shillong road of NH 40 (also known as the G.S. Road) has been recently upgraded to avoid accidents in the region.

Himani Wadhwa

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10 best places to visit in shillong meghalaya for a memorable trip.

Shillong, the quaint hamlet in Northeast India, is the capital of Meghalaya , which is also called “The Abode of Clouds.” It is also the district administrative centre for East Khasi Hills. The town’s surrounding hills are claimed to have given the British a Scottish impression. As a result, they would also call it the “Scotland of the East.” During the British occupation and later till the formation of the independent State of Meghalaya, Shillong served as the capital of composite Assam. Shillong is about 100 kilometres from Guwahati, which can be reached by car along NH 40. The drive takes around two and a half hours and passes through verdant hills and the Umiam lake.

Shillong is an important part of any North East India tour which includes the best tourist destinations to explore in Meghalaya. In this blog, we will discuss the places on the Shillong itinerary, which will help you in making a perfect Shillong tour plan. Treat this article as a Shillong travel guide and start planning a trip to this wonderful hill station. Let’s read now.

Summary of the 10 Most Famous Places to Visit in Shillong

Popular Shillong Meghalaya North East India Tour Packages

• Best of Meghalaya Tour Package
• Meghalaya Tour with Kaziranga
• Best of North East India Tour

Umiam Lake – Places for Water Activities

Umiam Lake is one of the most picturesque locations and the top tourist destination to visit in Shillong. It is surrounded by dense coniferous trees and the East Khasi Hills. This huge man-made lake body, also known as Badapani, was created by damming the Umiam River. A few little islands dot the lake, and Lum Nehru Park, which is nearby, is a great area to wander and have a picnic. Umiam Lake is a key stop on the sightseeing tour of Shillong since it offers exhilarating water sports and entertaining activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, and scooting in addition to its natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in & around

• Water Scootering

Distance from Shillong City: 17 Km

Laitlum Canyons – Deep Gorges with Stunning Views

The Laitlum Canyons, located in Shillong’s East Khasi Hills, may be the most amazing and enjoyable tourist destination. It represents “The End of Hills” or “The End of the World” symbolically. The Laitlum Canyons, which are nestled in the embrace of majestic slopes and valleys, are one such location from which the vast, verdant, and alluring show of Meghalaya could be seen and admired. For lovers of hiking, the countryside, and those looking for peace, Laitlum Canyon is the perfect location. Enjoy breathtaking views of gorges, far-off hills, valleys, and winding mountain roads when you visit this high viewpoint. This is undoubtedly one of the best places to explore in Shillong because of the natural beauty and peace of the area.

Top Things to Do in & Around

• Village Walk
• Sightseeing
• Watching sunrise and sunset

Distance from Shillong City: 21 Km

Elephant Falls – Crystal Clear Cascading Water

Elephant Falls, the city’s most impressive waterfall, is a three-tiered cascading beauty and one of the best places to visit in Shillong throughout the year. Because of a large nearby rock that bears an uncanny resemblance to an elephant, the British gave it the moniker “elephant rock.” The rock was demolished in an earthquake, thus it can no longer be seen. The Elephant Falls are actually “three step waterfalls,” with the first one being a big one tucked away among the lush greenery, the second one being thin water threads, and the third one being the most stunning and clear falls rushing against the background of a dark colour.

Top Things to Do in and Around

• Photography
• Village walk

Distance from Shillong City: 11 Km

Shillong Peak – Witness The Stunning Views of Shillong City

Visit Shillong Peak, the highest viewpoint and one of the top tourism sightseeing places in Shillong for a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding hills and valleys. At 1,961 metres above sea level, this summit provides amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. You must present identification documents at the gate because the IAF is responsible for managing the area. Given that the air can become hazy, you should always have a good camera with you. To gain close-up views of the town, a telescope has been set up. Shillong Peak, one of the top tourist attractions in Shillong sightseeing tour offers views of Bangladeshi lowlands, waterfalls, and Himalayan ranges nearby.

• Birdwatching

Distance from Shillong City: 4 Km

Don Bosco Museum – Extensive Collection of Indigenous Tribal Culture

The Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures is one of the top tourism places in Shillong and extends a warm invitation to all visitors, art lovers, and history buffs. One may see panoramic views of the entire Northeast India in addition to art galleries and large collections of handicrafts, artefacts, clothing, decorations, and weapons utilised by diverse tribes in North-East India. The museum is a seven-story structure with seventeen separate galleries that is housed on the grounds of Sacred Heart Church. This is unquestionably one of Shillong’s top tourist destinations. This museum has 17 galleries spread over its seven levels, including the Agriculture Gallery, the Basketry Gallery, the Ornaments and Jewellery Gallery, the Fishing and Hunting Gallery, and others. These exhibit relics, paintings, and sculptures that provide you with a deeper understanding of the past.

• Museum tour
• Exploring artefacts

Distance from Shillong City: 3.3 Km

Phan Nonglait Park – Japanese Style Park with Flora and Fauna

Phan Nonglait Park, one of the top Shillong tourist places, is situated in the very centre of the city. Every day, thousands of locals and visitors go to the lovely park, which is built in Japanese style. There is a zoo inside the park where you may see creatures like the Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, and Leopard, among others. You will be charmed by the park’s abundantly beautiful ponds and diverse, lush flora and wildlife. Even boating in the lake is enjoyable when the beautiful landscape is around. As Phan Nonglait Park is located in the city it can be reached by cab. It has an entry fee of Rs. 10 which is doubled if carrying a camera.

• Witnessing Flora and Fauna
• Museum Visit
• Exploring Butterfly Park

Distance from Shillong City: 2 Km

Sweet Falls – Birdwatching and Haunted Lore

Sweet Falls is the ideal destination to escape the rush of hectic city life because of its tranquil setting. This location offers you beautiful views of nature and is one of the top tourist places in Shillong. Although there are some dangerous sections and slick stones on the trail leading to these falls, the effort is well worth it. These falls are the subject of a ghostly lore. The locals think the odd-numbered groups always come back in even-numbered groups! A peaceful setting for a picnic is frequently produced by the sounds of birds chirping, fresh water running, and the tranquillity emanating from the lush greenery. Many Shillong residents go to Sweet Falls, which is 94 metres high and known for its lush flora.

Distance from Shillong City: 12 Km

Spread Eagle Falls – Ultimate Place for Photographers in Shillong

One of the best things to do in Shillong is to see Spread Eagle Falls, one of the city’s many captivating waterfalls. It is a perfect location where water babies and nature enthusiasts can go to relax and spend some time in the great outdoors. The only therapy you will require to quiet the restlessness in your thoughts is the sound of flowing water. It is a fantastic location for photographers and is also known as Sati Falls. The falling waterfall’s wing-like design is not only amazing, but also a superb illustration of nature’s artistry. When searching for the popular points of interest in Shillong, take this one into consideration.

• Water activities
• Nature Walks

Distance from Shillong City: 3 Km

Rhino Heritage Museum – Historical Artefacts and Their History

One of the most well-known war museums in North East India is the Rhino Heritage Museum. It is rumoured that Japanese World War II captives were held here. One of the best places to visit with family in Shillong hill station, the Rhino Heritage Museum was founded in 1928. Lt. Gen. Shokin Chauhan, director general of the Assam Rifles inaugurated the renovated building of the museum. Both military-related historical images and items relating to the local culture are shown in the museum. The rich history of the HQ 101 area and its units will be on display at the recently refurbished Rhino Heritage Museum. Additionally, it will give audiences insight into Headquarters 101’s involvement in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. The museum remains open throughout the week except on Thursdays.

• Museum Tour
• Nature Walk
• Exploring historical artefacts

Meghalaya State Museum – Best Place for History Buffs

One of the top things to do for history lovers is to make a trip to Meghalaya State Museum, Shillong, one of the best visiting places. The museum houses a large collection of tribal-era items as well as a significant collection of ancient writings. Visitors can learn more about the tribes of Meghalaya at this cultural museum. The museum, also known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, is housed within the State Central Library complex at Lachumiere and is run by the state government. Visit the museum, which is one of the top-rated places of interest in Shillong to see antique tools, jewels, instruments of music, and dinosaur replicas.

• Learning about tribal tools

Distance from Shillong City: 2.7 Km

Hope this article will serve you the best knowledge in knowing how to plan a perfect trip to Shillong. We also included the details of activities you can do in each place, so that you can spend your holidays in Meghalaya as per your wish to visit places. However, we also have customised Shillong tour packages/Meghalaya tourism packages that you can take into consideration. Lastly, we want to suggest that you not miss any of these places in Shillong if you are willing to exploring North East India from Meghalaya. Every place is worth visiting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which month is best for a shillong holiday trip.

March to June is the best time to visit Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Tourists can enjoy visiting the places in summer as the weather remains pleasant and rainfall is minimal.

What is Shillong famous for?

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya is famous for its natural beauty, waterfalls, lakes, natural caves, heavy rainfall, sacred forests, living root bridges, indigenous tribes, culture and breathtaking landscapes all around.

What is the famous food of Shillong?

Jadoh, is the famous food of Shillong, as well as Meghalaya. It’s a dish of rice cooked in a flavourful mix of spicy and sour along with ginger flower, mint leaves and mixed with pork and meat.

What is the name of the statue?

The statue is referred to as 'Viswas Swaroopam,' which means ‘Statue of Belief.’

How many days are required to explore the best of Shillong tourism sightseeing tours?

Minimum five days are required to explore the best of Shillong tourism sightseeing tours.

What are the best places to visit for couples in Shillong?

Some of the best places to visit for couples in Shillong are:

• Elephant Falls
• Laitlum Canyons
• Ward’s Lake

What are the top places to visit near Shillong?

Some of the top places to visit near Shillong are:

• David Scott Trail
• Nohkalikai Falls
• Cherrapunjee

Published: 08 Nov, 2022

About the author

Nandini Bhattacharya

From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.

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• 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Literally translating into an ‘abode of clouds’, Shillong is a breathtaking hill station that is nestled amidst the paradisaical Garo and Khasi hills. With sparkling waterfalls, manicured gardens, azure lakes, and distinct culture, this alluring hill town beckons you to witness the natural charm of the Northeast at these 31 mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong . Referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East, the natural scenery of Shillong has a striking similarity with the mountains in the east. 

31 Best Places To Visit In Shillong In 2023

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Shillong? A trip to Shillong is not restricted to scenic beauty rather there are numerous adventurous excursions that make your vacay a perfect one! Here are some of the best places visit in Shillong to witness the ethereal beauty of the hill station. Each place listed below will ensure a memorable trip to this majestic city of Meghalaya. Make sure you visit most of them, as it will give you a great idea about the culture and heritage of Meghalaya.

1. Umiam Lake

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Surrounded by thick coniferous forests and East Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong . Popular as Badapani, this is a sprawling man-made water body, formed by damming Umiam River. The lake is dotted with few small islands and the adjoining Lum Nehru Park is an ideal place for strolling and picnic. Along with natural beauty, Umiam Lake is famous for thrilling water sports and fun activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, scooting, and is an important part of the Shillong sightseeing itinerary.

Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 16.5 Kilometers Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm How To Reach: Hire a private cab from Police Bazaar to reach Umiam Lake Tip: When planning your stay in Shillong, do consider booking a room in one of the hotels located near the lake

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2. Shillong Peak

For a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys, visit Shillong Peak which happens to be the highest view point and one of the best places to visit in Shillong . Located at an elevation of 6449 feet and mostly surrounded by fog, Shillong Peak offers 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the distant hills, waterfalls, Shillong city, and plains of Bangladesh. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers and trekkers, this place is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Shillong .

Location: Shillong View Point, Shillong,793004 Distance From The City Centre: 4 kms Timings: All Days – 9 am to 3:30 pm How To Reach: One can take a bus or a private cab from the city centre and reach within 20 minutes. Tip: Carry a valid ID proof for entry beyond the check post

3. Elephant Falls

Counted as one of the most scenic places to visit in Shillong in December , Elephant Falls is a three-tier cascading beauty and the most spectacular waterfall of the city. The Britishers named it so because of a huge adjoining rock, that has an uncanny resemblance with that of an elephant. However, the rock is no longer seen ever since it was destroyed in an earthquake. You can find more information about this place at the Shillong Tourism center. Here at Elephant Falls, Shillong , you can admire the beauty of foamy water dropping in layers, surrounding dense vegetation, and enjoy shopping for souvenirs from local shops located at the entrance.

Location: Upper Shillong, 793009 Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm Distance From The City Centre: 11 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a state-run bus from Police Bazaar.

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4. Laitlum Canyons

Perched in the Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is the most offbeat name in the list of Shillong tourist places . Literally translating into the “end of the hills”, Laitlum Canyon is an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts, nature admirers, and peace seekers. Visit this hilltop viewpoint, and enjoy stunning views of gorges, distant hills, valleys, and zigzagging hilly roads. Owing to the surrounding beauty and tranquility, this is surely one of the perfect places to visit near Shillong for honeymoon couples. Also, trekking around these canyons is one of the top things to d0 things in Shillong .

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings : Anytime Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers How To Reach: From Police Bazaar, drive for about 10 to 15 minutes towards Mawpat road to reach Laitlum Canyons. Tip: Since the destination comprises a steep trek for a few kilometres, people with vertigo and breathing issues should be more careful while exploring the canyons.

5. Mary Help For Christian Cathedral

Featuring high arches and stained glass windows, Mary Help of Christian Cathedral is one of the most famous churches in Shillong . The white marble building along with Mother Mary statue looks grand and elegant. This is certainly the most famous Shillong tourist spot . Inside the Cathedral, there are some beautiful terracotta stations of the cross that showcases life events of Jesus. Perched high on a hill, one can also visit the Grotto Church which carved out the same hill and is located right below the Cathedral. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Shillong .

Location: Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: Monday to Saturday – 7 am to 6:30 pm; Sunday – 8 am to 6:30 pm Distance From The City Centre: 2 Kilometers How To Reach: Take a cab and reach the Cathedral via the Don Bosco Road from Police Bazaar. Tip: If you are visiting on a clear day, do not miss to enjoy the superb vista of Brahmaputra River and Himalayan Peaks from the Cathedral.

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6. Ward’s Lake

During Shillong sightseeing , it is impossible to miss Ward’s Lake. Located at the heart of the city, this is another famous lake in Shillong, also known as Polok Lake. The lake is encircled by a cobblestone walkway, ideal for evening strolls. People visit this Shillong tourist spot , to enjoy the natural beauty, day picnics, watch dancing fountain shows or relax at the cafeteria, located by the lake. The wooden bridge on the lake and sprawling lotus beds on both sides make the place look immensely scenic.

Location: Police Bazaar, Shillong Entry Fee: INR 5 per person; boating and camera charges extra Timings: All Days – November to February – 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; March to October – 8:30 am to 7 pm Distance From The City Centre: NA How To Reach: Ward’s Lake is conveniently located at the heart of the city near the Raj Bhavan. Tip: Buy puffed rice from the entrance gate in case you plan to enjoy feeding the fish.

7. Don Bosco Museum

As one of the best places to visit in Shillong , the Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures welcomes every tourist, art enthusiast, and history buff with open arms. Featuring art galleries, wide collections of handicrafts, artefacts, attires, ornaments, and weapons used by various tribes of North-east India, one can witness panoramic views of entire Northeast India. The museum is located in the premises of Sacred Heart Church and is a seven-storey building with seventeen different galleries. This is certainly amongst the best tourist places in Shillong .

Location: Mawlai, Shillong Entry Fee: INR 50 per person Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Sundays Distance From The City Centre: 5 kilometres How To Reach: From the Police Bazar, embark on the Buddhist Temple Road or Camels Back Road to reach the museum easily. Tip: Once you have seen all the galleries, walk up to the skywalk on the top to enjoy the jaw-dropping vista of Shillong city.

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8. Lady Hydari Park

Named after the first lady of the province- Lady Hydari, this park is one of the most popular Shillong tourist places . The park comprises of a sprawling and manicured garden including beautiful rose beds and a children’s play area. There is a mini-zoo inside the park housing more than 73 species of birds and 100 species of reptiles.

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Mondays Distance From The City Centre: 2 kilometres How To Reach: Drive for 5 to 10 minutes via MG road to reach Lady Hydari Park Tip: Visit the park during the mornings as the locals flock to the park in the evening and it will be difficult to find parking space for those who are travelling by car.

9. Air Force Museum

Located within the complex of Eastern Air Command, Air Force Museum in Shillong is yet another sight of beauty and wonder that makes it one of the most popular places to see in Shillong . With galleries displaying various rockets, missiles, miniatures of fighter planes, badges, rank medals, and awards, this museum attracts all types of travellers throughout the year. This is amongst the most interesting tourist places in Shillong .

Location: 7th Mile, HQ, EAC, Shillong Timings: 9 am to 2 pm; 2:30 pm to 5 pm; Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers How to Reach: Embark on the national highway numbered 106 to reach IAF museum from the Police Bazar. Tip: Carry valid ID proof which is required to enter the museum.

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10. All Saints Cathedral

Considered to be one of the oldest churches in the city, All Saints Cathedral is certainly one of the best places to visit in Shillong . The building reflects a colonial-style architecture along with wooden roofs whereas the internal structures add to the beauty and elegance of the Cathedral. Daily masses are organised here, but most footfall is seen during Sundays. It is one of the most boosted places by Shillong tourism.

Location: Kacheri Road, Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: The church is open on all days of the week from 8:30 Am to 5:30 Pm. Distance From The City Centre: 1.4 Kilometers How to Reach: Drive for about 5 minutes via MG Road from Police Bazar and once you reach the State Central Library, you can spot the church right opposite to it. Tip: Plan well in advance so that you can explore other tourist attractions like Lady Hydari Park, State Museum, and Butterfly Museum that are located in close proximity to the Cathedral.

11. Phan Nonglait Park

One of the best Shillong tourist places , Phan Nonglait Park is located right in the heart of the city. The beautiful Japanese style park attracts a huge flock of locals and tourists every day. You can spot animals like Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, Leopard, etc, in the zoo. The rich flora and fauna and numerous pretty ponds inside the park will win you over. You can even enjoy boating in the lake with enthralling scenery in the background. These is the most loved tourist places in Shillong .

Location: Lachumiere, Shillong Timings: 8 Am – 5 Pm, Monday closed Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers from Shillong Bus Stand How to Reach: It is located in the city and can be reached by cab. Tip: At the entry, you’ll be asked to pay INR 10/- and if you’re carrying a camera then you’ll be charged INR 20/-; make sure you’re carrying change

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12. Sweet Falls

Located in a serene location, Sweet Falls is a perfect place to get away from the hustle-bustle of the fast-paced city life. One of the top places to visit in Shillong , this place offers you scenic views of nature. The picturesque roaring waterfall will make you forget about all your problems in life. Bathing under the waterfall is not allowed due to the intense velocity and height of the fall. However, you may wish to visit Mini Zoo and Butterfly Park in the vicinity. This place is also popular among honeymoon couples visiting Shillong .

Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Timings: Open 24 hours Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: The only way to reach here is to hire a taxi or rental car. Tip: Make sure you’re carrying your own snacks, as there are no eateries around the attraction

13. Sohpetbneng Peak

Image Source If you are looking for ideas for places to visit in Shillong Meghalaya , then you should definitely add Sohpetbneng Peak to your itinerary. Located on the outskirts of the city, the peak offers you the most thrilling views of the city. Its divine, tranquillity, peace, and aura make it a must-visit attraction. The Khasi Tribe is even regarded as the ‘Naval of Heaven’. Do not forget to bring your camera along.

Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong Timings: Open 24 hours Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: Take a taxi to reach the point. You may have to walk a bit to reach the pinnacle. Tip: The location of this peak is just at the periphery of Shillong and you’ll have to take a road to the left when you’ll be around Barapani

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14. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Shillong is blessed with an abundance of nature. Its lush forests are its treasure and this is what makes Mawphlang Sacred Forest one of the top places to visit in Shillong . If you are a nature lover or wish to get into nature’s lap, you have got to devote your time to a forest trip on your North East vacation. You will be surprised to find a wide array of species of plants and trees. Some of them are even as old as 1000 years. You are not allowed to take anything from the forest since it is revered.

Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong Timings: 9 Am – 4:30 Pm Distance From The City Centre: 26 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: It takes about an hour to reach here. Take a cab or taxi. Tip: Don’t forget to take a tour guide along

15. David Scott Trail

Do you enjoy hiking? Then you must head out on the David Scott Trail which is one of the most amazing Shillong tourist places . The 16-km adventurous trail not only offers you the best views of nature but also bestow upon a number of adventure activities. This trail is named after a British administrator, David Scott, who used this path as a horse cart track. If you are looking for an unlimited adventure, make sure you visit this place. It takes about 4 hours to cover 16 km of trail.

Location: Mawphlang, East Khasi Hills District Timings: 6 Am – 8 Pm Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City How to Reach: The start point is Mawphlang where you can reach by car. Tip: You can visit here any time throughout the year but the trail gets a little slippery in the monsoon season and therefore one must be careful

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16. Spread Eagle Falls

Shillong is a land of numerous mesmerizing falls and Spread Eagle Falls is one of the best places to see in Shillong . It is an idyllic spot where nature lovers and water babies can come to spend some time in nature and serenity. The sound of flowing water is the only therapy you will need to calm the chaos in your mind. Also known as Sati falls, it is a great place for photographers. The wing-like shape of the cascading waterfall is not only astounding but also a fine example of nature’s artistry. Consider this one when looking for the best places to visit in Shillong .

Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: Take a private cab. Tip: Be careful around the pool of the falls, as it is quite deep

17. State Museum

State Museum is a modest cultural museum that will give you a short information tour about the various tribes in Meghalaya. Also, known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, this place is a must-visit for those who want to delve right into the cultural diversity of Shillong. Find a collection of traditional tools, music instruments, antiques, jewellery, and dinosaur models on display. If you are a history buff, then you should definitely not miss this place. You may think that museums are boring but if you have nothing else to do, visiting this place might actually turn out to be fun.

Location: Secretariat Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001 Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 10 AM-4 PM, Sat-Sun closed How To Reach: The only way to get around Shillong is by foot or by hiring a private taxi. Tip: To make your visit to the museum hassle-free, it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance via their online portal

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18. Mawphlang Village

Have you heard about the wild and beautiful Mawphlang Forest? The sacred forest is located in the village of Mawphlang. Once you are done with wandering in the forest, then you should take a tour around the heritage village that will give you an insight into tribal life. The village is located in the East Khasi Hills and is surrounded by lush greenery and lofty mountains. The breathtaking landscapes will make your jaw drop in awe. The undulating meadows and layers of mist look so dramatic as if it is right out from a book.

Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya Distance From The City Centre: 25 km Timings: NA How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazaar for a day. Tip: To make your visit to the museum hassle-free, it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance via their online portal

19. Mawjymbuin Cave

Meghalaya is full of surprises and one of the most fascinating things   that exist in the north-eastern state is caves. The best part is that you can visit a few of these caves and wonder at the stalagmite and calcite formations. One such place is Mawjymbuin Cave. This is amongst the best caves in Cherrapunjee . Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic scenery, Mawjymbuin Cave is located near Mawsynram village. There is not even a single reason why you should visit this place except you are claustrophobic. The most prominent attraction inside the cave is a giant Siva Linga made from stalagmites.

Location: Mawjymbuiñ Rd, Meghalaya 793113 Distance From The City Centre: 58 km Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar. You may even take a bus from Shillong to Mawsynram. Tip: For a memorable tour, having a local guide accompany you would be a wonderful idea

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20. Rhino Heritage Museum

Rhinos are an important part of Shillong’s heritage and culture. So, the people of Shillong have dedicated an entire museum to the mighty animals. It is a one-of-its-kind museum and, hence, an interesting place to visit in Shillong. Apart from the sculptures and preservations of rhino, you will also find exhibit weapons and photographs of military operations inside the museum.

Location: Zigzag Rd, Ïewduh, Bara Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004 Distance From The City Centre: 5 km Timings: 9 am–1 pm, 3–5 pm, Thursday closed How To Reach: You can hire a taxi. Tip: For your ease, wear comfortable footwear here and make sure you’re carrying an umbrella and water bottle

21. Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in Shillong known for its impressive collection of special and rare orchids. It is a nice place to take a stroll in the afternoon when you want to spend some quality time with your spouse. If you are visiting Ward Lake, then you should definitely put this on your list too. It is not necessary that you should be doing something all the time on your vacation. Have a few moments of respite and spend some amidst nature and peace at Botanical Garden in Shillong.

Location: Next to Ward Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 3 km Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi to drop you at the Botanical Garden. Tip: This is a great place to visit when you have spare time

19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty

22. Bishop Falls

In case you didn’t know, Bishop Falls are the 22nd highest fall in the country. So, that should pique your interest for visiting this waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall drops from a height of 443 ft. The cascading waterfall is also accompanied by Beadon Falls. So, it is a double threat. If you are coming to see the waterfalls from all the way, then it is best you pack a picnic with you. It is one of the best places to spend some time in nature with your family and loved ones. It gets more crowded on the weekends where locals come to take a respite.

Location: Mawprem, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 5 km Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi or a cab to the waterfalls. Tip: This is an ideal tourist attraction for a sunny day

23. Lumpongdeng Island

Lumpongdeng Island is an idyllic spot in the Umiam Lake ideal for boating and enjoying mesmerizing views of nature. Disconnect from the rest of the world and enjoy a stay on a houseboat if you like. The lake also provides opportunities for camping and trekking. One cannot get enough of the astounding views of the lake and surroundings. You must capture shots of the island and lake in your camera to save it for a lifetime. The island is truly a getaway for peace seekers and photographers.

Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 17 km Timings: NA How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar to take you to Umiam Lake. Tip: Don’t forget to go for a ride in one of the houseboats

24. The Grand Madina Masjid

The GrandMadina Masjid in Shillong is had to miss because of its remarkable architecture. The largest mosque in northeast India, it can accommodate up to 2,000 people at a time. You won’t be able to stop yourself from gazing at the glass dome and glass minarets. Wait till the evening when it is spectacularly lit. There is even an orphanage and library inside the mosque where you can do some goodwill on your trip to Shillong. The museum is one of the most illustrative places to visit in Shillong.

Location: Laban, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004 Distance From The City Centre: 2 km Timings: 5 am to 8 pm How To Reach: NA Tip: To make your visit memorable, visit the mosque at night when it is beautifully lit up

25. Ever Living Museum

A one-of-its-kind museum, Ever-Living Museum is where you will get an insight into the culture of Gairo, Khasi, and Jaintia tribes. You will find coins, instruments, jewellery, utensils, handicrafts, and weapons on display in the museum. Apart from that, there is even a stone collection in the museum where you find a unique collection of fossils, crystals, seashells, and other items on display.

Location: Mawshbuit, Shillong Distance From The City Centre: 9 km Timings: 11 AM – 5 PM How To Reach: Take a private taxi or cab from Police Bazar Tip: You’ll have to go to the outskirts of Shillong to get here

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26. Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong is a serene village that is located in the outskirts of Shillong, nearly 90 kilometres from the city centre amidst the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. It was declared as the cleanest village in Asia in the year 2003 by Discovery India which made it a popular destination in North-East India. The place is known for offering picturesque sights of the lush green valleys. You must surely add this serene place is you sightseeing in Shillong list!

Places to Stay: Pumpkin Kharmawshun Homestay, Ritz Homestay, B.E. KYNMAWLEM HOMESTAY, B.E, Pumpkin Iaikyrsoi Homestay Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 90 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a local bus to Mawlynnong Tip: Do try the local dishes at this village that’ll help you get an insight into its culture

27. Mawsynram

Don’t you want to explore the wettest place in the world on your next trip to Shillong? Yes, Mawsynram has been acknowledged as the wettest site of the world and is known for its exquisite beauty that lures travellers from across the world to this mesmerizing village. If you are looking for a perfect escape on your Shillong trip then this beautiful place will surely enthrall you. The place is known for experiencing the highest rainfall in India .

Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 60 Kilometers How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a local bus to Mawsynram from the city centre in Shillong Tip: For your ease, hire a Khasi guide who speaks English

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28. Nohsngithiang Falls

Nohsngithiang Waterfall is another stunning attraction to visit near Shillong. Located mere 4 kilometres from Cherrapunjee it is the tallest waterfall in India and a major tourist spot. As it is located in the Mawsmai village of Meghalaya, it is also known as Mawsmai Falls. Here, water cascades from a height of nearly 1033 feet making it the epithet of Seven Sister Waterfalls. This is one of the best waterfalls in Cherrapunjee . This is the most beautiful experience of sightseeing in Shillong tours. 

Location: Meghalaya Timings: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM Distance From The City Centre: 97.9 Kilometers How To Reach: You can either hire a cab or take public transport from the city centre Tip: To witness the best sight of the falls, make sure you visit this tourist attraction after the monsoon season

Jakrem is the popular hot spring of sulphur, visited by people from near and far due to its medicinal properties. Apart from being a curative medicinal spot the place is known for offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Currently, it has been transformed into a healthcare resort where travelers from across the globe visit for reviving sessions. It is also a popular picnic spot and you will find numerous tourists having a perfect family time here. 

Location: Meghalaya Timings: Throughout the day Distance From The City Centre: 67.9 Kilometers How To Reach: You can either hire a cab or take public transport from the city center Tip: The route to these hot springs could be bumpy; make sure you’re traveling via car

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30. Kyllang Rock

Located on the western side of Khasi Hills at a height of 5,400 feet, Kyllang Rock is a unique and giant rock that is made out of red granite. To reach this location, one has to opt for a hike where you can savor some of the best landscape views. Moreover, as it is surrounded by red Rhododendrons, it attracts several nature lovers to this place. It will take around half an hour to reach the top. If you are a hiker then this is one of the best places to visit in Shillong, India . Make sure that you do not miss it!

Location : Meghalaya 793120 Distance From The City Center : 58 kms Timings : 8 am – 4 pm How To Reach : You can take a cab and reach Kyllang Rock. Tip: The company of a local guide to this site will work wonders

31. Butterfly Museum

Planning to explore Shillong with your partner? Here is the Butterfly Museum, also known as Entomological Museum, which is counted among the best places to visit in Shillong for couples . It displays an amazing collection of beetles, butterflies, and other insects. For commercial purposes only, the museum also cultivates several butterflies. Along with this, regular programs are held to conserve butterflies and insects. All of this is handled by the owner of this museum, Wankhar.

Location : near Christian Academy School, Riatsamthiah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001 Distance From The City Center : 2.8 km Timings : 11 am – 4 pm How To Reach : The place is not located far from the city centre so you can visit this place along with other tourist places.  Distance From The City Centre: 67.9 Kilometers Tip: The museum is closed on Sundays

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Shillong

What are the most popular things to do in Shillong with children?

Some of the most popular things that you can explore while you are on a trip to Shillong. These include Trekking, Angling, Rafting, Horse Riding, and Kayaking are some of the best things to do in Shillong.

Which are the romantic places to visit in Shillong?

There are many romantic places to explore if you are planning a vacation in Shillong with your loved one. These places include: 1. Laitlum’s Canyons 2. Umiam Lake 3. Ward’s Lake 4. Elephant’s Falls 5. Lady Hydari Park 6. Pioneer Adventure Tour 7. Sweet Falls

What is Shillong famous for?

Shillong has earned its fame because of numerous reasons with its vicinity to the wettest place on earth, quirky guest houses, many natural wonders, and the serene vibes topping the list.

Can I visit Shillong in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, so you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more in Shillong. But don't take our word for it, just make sure you travel in a small group and keep updating yourself about the latest news and guidelines concerning Covid-19.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

The best time to pay a visit to Shillong is anywhere between September to May. All those who wish to experience the monsoon season should visit Shillong from June to August.

How many days are enough for Shillong?

Those who wish to travel around and cover all the major places in Shillong should visit this destination for at least 5 days.

Which are the best shopping places in Shillong?

OB shopping mall, Glory’s Plaza, Raps Mansion, and Paltan Bazar are some of the best shopping places in Shillong.

Which are the most popular local dishes of Shillong?

Jadoh, Tungrambai, Kyat, Ktung, and Ki Ktu are some of the best local dishes that one must try when in Shillong.

Which are things that you should not do in Shillong?

Not making reservations before you arrive in Shillong and not carrying enough cash are two of the things you should not do in Shillong. ATMs here are scanty. Also, do not forget to carry your ID proofs.

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Shillong: The Most Vibrant City Of North East India

• Post last modified: UPDATED ON: June 3, 2020

Shillong wasn’t introduced to me as Scotland of The East. For me, it was just a popular hill station in Meghalaya and also the state capital. When I was in the college, one of my schoolmate was enrolled at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Shillong. He used to tell us the stories from a fashionable city and its gorgeous girls. Since then I wanted to visit the most beautiful hill station in North East India.

इस पोस्ट को हिंदी भाषा में यहाँ पढ़ सकते हैं:  पूर्वोत्तर भारत का ख़ूबसूरत शहर शिलाँग 

Years later, I get an opportunity to visit Guwahati on a four-days official trip. Since Shillong is only 100 km away from Guwahati, it was a natural temptation to be there for a day. However, the things didn’t move as planned and I couldn’t reach Shillong. It was extremely disappointing.

Fortunately, that was not an end. The destiny brought me back to Guwahati. It was not an official trip for few days only but for three years at least. It was opening of another chapter in life. I was relocating to Guwahati, the gateway to the North East India. I was sure about one thing while relocationg- in the next three years, explore each and every corner of the untouched North East India. However, Shillong was still a priority.

Then it happened. I reached Shillong, roamed in the street, enjoyed the local cuisines (but I don’t eat Pork) and visited its tourist attractions. It was a big disappointment at all. There was nothing extraordinary. I planned four days stay, but returned in two days only. A big question was still in the mind; why does Shillong consider as Scotland of The East? What is so special about it? I haven’t been to Scotland. But, I kept visiting Shillong. It took me at least eight to ten visits to get the answers.

1. First Impression of Shillong: A Big Disappointment

2. in love with shillong, 3. places to visit in shillong, elephant falls, shillong peak, ward’s lake, lady hydari park, police bazaar, state museum, butterfly museum, other tourist attractions, 4. how to reach shillong, 5. public transport in shillong, 6. accommodation in shillong.

It had been a month since my arrival (since May) in Guwahati. There was a continuos urge to visit Shillong as soon as possible. But there was a small problem. My family was yet to join me and I couldn’t dare to enter in Shillong without the home minister (my wife). However, the urge to visit Meghalaya was so stronger I couldn’t resist it more. I negotiated a peaceful agreement with my wife and went to Jowai in the Jaintia Hills. I dropped Shillong for another time. What the irony it was! I couldn’t visit Shillong during my maiden trip to Guwahati three years back despite a deep desire. Three years later, when I got a chance to visit Meghalaya, I started with Jowai instead of the customary Shillong-Sohra circuit. After two months, my family united with me in the month of July, and a plan was set for the trip.

One day, in the month of August, we commenced our journey from Guwahati. We reached ISBT in Guwahati to travel by a bus to Shillong and found there was no direct bus available. We waited for one hour and finally boarded a bus going to Agartala. It was supposed to drop us in Shillong. We learnt our lesson that from the next time onwards while going to Shillong, it is better to board a shared vehicle at Khanapara or Paltan Bazar rather than ISBT Guwahati.

Since, it was the monsoon season, a pleasant green cover was everywhere along the Guwahati-Shillong Road. The hilly road was soaked in the rain, mist was rising in the valleys and clouds were hanging over the hills. The smooth well maintained National Highway offered a great picture opportunity at every twist and turn. I didn’t enjoy my motorcycle trip on the same highway two months ago during the dry season, when there is a pale cover everywhere on the landscape.

About four hours after starting our bus journey from Guwahati, we were passing by the Umiam Lake. How many cities in India can boast of such a big and magnificent lake? I think there would be hardly 8-10 cities in the country where a lake spreads its beauty with full grandeur. I have seen such lakes in Srinagar, Udaipur, Hyderabad and Bhopal.

From the beginning of the lake towards the city, our bus moved gradually on an upward slope. The road was covered with pine trees from both the sides. The scenic vista of Umiam Lake and rolling hills was filled with a beautiful sea of clouds. It was raining heavily on the road, and the bus was chugging towards the city. The entire atmosphere was mystic and soothing. Shillong was so refreshing.

Most of the cars, jeeps and buses plying from Guwahati to Shillong unload their passengers at Police Bazaar in the heart of the city. Long-distance buses transport their passengers to Dhankheti. Our bus was also going to Agartala, so we left that bus at Dhankheti. Fortunately, our guest house was also in Dhankheti, so we did not find any difficulty.

For the next two days, we strolled around different tourist places in Shillong. We kept us entertained with many activities like walking in the Lady Hydari Park, boating in the Ward’s Lake and shopping at the Police Bazaar. We visited Elephanta Falls, Golf Links and Umiam Lake. However, we couldn’t admire the panoramic view of the city from the Shillong Peak as the sky was completely obscured by the clouds.

After roaming for two days in the city, we found Shillong very disappointing. The city was definitely fashionable, and the local people were charming, but it was not like a vibrant one. The true ethos of a hill station was nowhere, and it was highly commercialized. We cancelled the rest of our bookings and returned to Guwahati. I waited for three years to reach Shillong and its first look did not impress me at all.

Boring experiences of my first visit and the expensive hotel prices kept me away from Shillong for the next few months. After settling down a little in Guwahati, I started visiting Shillong repeatedly. I didn’t follow the typical tourist routes and never planned anything. Sometimes I only went up to Umiam Lake and then took a diversion towards Barapani Airport. I approached the city from the airport side passing through the various villages where tourists don’t go normally.

Sometimes, I started in the early morning from Guwahati to quietly pass through the city while admiring the beauty of Umiam Lake. Sometimes, I approached the city from Tura Highway, while reaching Mairang through a less travelled road from Guwahati. After various visits, I realised that yes, I missed many amusing activities in Shillong during the first trip. That was the reason for my initial disappointment.

The day also arrived when I started appreciating the changing colours of Umiam Lake from dusk to dawn, the panoramic view of the city from Shillong Peak, Sunday walk through Police Bazaar without honking traffic, the beauty of Golf Links etc. Jalebi and Ice Cream from Police Bazaar became a routine delight. The chronicles of World War II, the stories of vintage Willy Jeeps and the history of a significant military base, Shillong felt absolutely seductive. As I got to know the city more closely, I keep admiring the way a tribal area turned into the fashionable city. It was amusing to experience the passion for Western Music in the local youths.

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Gradually, I recognized it as the most vibrant city in North East India. Now, there is no doubt that I embrace this city, the charming crowd, the refreshing breeze of Ward’s Lake, the birds chirping in Lady Hydari Park, the colours of Umiam Lake and the fashionable youths rocking the musical arena. Shillong is just a fascination.

I acknowledge that the beauty of Shillong lies in its crowd, the disciplined traffic lining up in the streets, the excitement of the young men and women while boating in the Wards Lake, the people roaming around and enjoying the window shopping, the small children jumping with the joy in the Lady Hyadri Park; fashion, music and history are other supplementary ingredients. I understand that the beauty of Shillong lies in the everlasting charm of Umiam Lake, the engulfing mist over the hills and the sudden downpour in the city. Shillong, Scotland of The East, the most vibrant city of North East India.

Elephant Falls is the most prominent attraction of Shillong. It is located on the outskirts of Shillong Cantt, about 12 km from the city centre, on the way to Cherrapunji. Being close to the city, it stays cramped with the tourists. It is a three-steps waterfall cascading down at three levels. The first level is visible soon after descending few steps from the parking area. I find it more charming than the rest of the levels. After descending few more steps, the second level of the waterfall appears, which does not look exciting.

Further down on the steps, you reach to the base of the waterfall. This is the third level of the waterfall and simply mesmerizing. You can step inside the pool in front of the waterfall. Bathing is not allowed anywhere. It is believed that there was a massive rock at the base of the waterfall looked like an elephant, the reason behind the name Elephant Falls. The rock was disintegrated in the earthquake of 1897.

There are lot of shops outside the ticket window, where you can buy local stuffs, handcrafts, souvenirs etc. Many shops are also there selling food items and beverages. You can rent traditional Khasi Attire from one shop adjacent to the ticket counter and get your photos clicked by your camera.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 06.00 PM daily (There is no use to go after 05.00 PM in Winter).

Entry Fee: Rs 20 per person, Rs 20 for mobile or digital camera.

Parking Facility: Available on the payment basis. Rs 20 per vehicle.

Public Transport: Taxis running from Shillong towards Mylliem drop 300-400 m away from Elephant Falls on the main road. After visiting the waterfall, you can again get a shared taxi from the main road.

Shillong Peak is the highest peak of Meghalaya at the height of 1525 m. It offers a spectacular panoramic view of Shillong City. The photography is allowed near the view point, but other than that photography is strictly prohibited in Shillong Peak area.

There are a few shops located near the view point which sell snacks and beverages. Also, there is a shop in which you can rent traditional Khasi attire for Rs 50 per person and get your photos clicked by your own camera.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrzQJlenC4P/

Apart from the view point, all other areas of the peak is highly restrictive. Shillong is the headquarter of Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force. Air force maintains highly sensitive radars and equipment in the area around Shillong Peak to keep our sky safe from the potential intruders.

There is a security check post about 2 km before the view point. You have to get a permission from the security personnel by showing your driving license and the registration certificate of your car. The security staff deposits the driving license while providing you the clearance. You can get back your driving license after returning from the view point.

If you travel by a public transport, expect to walk for one and half km to reach the view point after getting the security clearance. Also, a foggy weather or low clouds may ruin your trip and you may not appreciate the obscured view of the city. Therefore, it is advisable to visit Shillong Peak only during a clear sunny day.

Opening Hours: 09.00 AM to 03.30 PM

Entry Fee: Free.

Parking Facility: Available Free of Cost.

Public Transport: The shared taxis from Shillong to Mylliem drop off on the main road leading to Shillong Peak, about 7 km before the peak. During the tourist season, you may get a shared taxi from the starting point of the Shillong Peak Road. During the off-season, the frequency of shared vehicles may get decrease. A shared vehicle would drop you at the security check post, and you are supposed to walk for one and half km from that post to reach the view point.

You may also walk on the Rhododendron Trekking Trail to reach Shillong Peak in two hours from the main road. While proceeding on the main road towards Shillong Cantt, you will notice the big sign board indicating starting point of the Rhododendron Trek.

Note: If you check on the Google Map, you may find another route to Shillong Peak starting from Laitkor. Please note that the ordinary citizens are not allowed to enter in Air Force area and the view point, if they approach from Laitkor side. It’s better to proceed from the main road (Shillong-Mylliem Road).

This magnificent lake is located along the main road from Shillong to Guwahati, about 12-13 km from Police Bazaar. This is equally famous as Barapani Lake. For the proper view of the lake, you may go to any of the view-points stretch in an area of about 5 km along the main road. There are at least five view points, but one near the Toyota or Mahindra Showroom and another one at Orchid Lake Resort is good to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Many shops are there at the view points selling noodles, biscuits, chips, tea, coffees, corn etc.

Orchid Lake Resort is a nice place to admire the beauty of Umiam Lake while enjoying the lunch.Boating facility is also available once you descend from the Orchid Lake Resort towards the edge of the lake.

Opening hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entry Fee: Free

Public Transport: Many shared taxis and buses run from the city to the lower part of Umiam Lake. Since it is located on the main road from Shillong to Guwahati, therefore public transport is easily available.

This beautiful lake situated just one km away from the Police Bazaar. The entire area is covered with the lawns, the gardens, a restaurant and the lake itself. It is a very nice place to enjoy boating followed by a decent meal at the lake restaurant. A wooden bridge over the lake makes it more spectacular.

Opening Hours: 08.30 AM to 06.30 PM in Summer (March to October). 08.30 AM to 04.30 PM in Winter (November to February). On Saturday and Sunday, the entrance of the lake is closed half an hour late in the evening. Entry is closed on Tuesdays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 10 per person and children Rs 5. Divyang Rs 5 and senior citizens Rs 5 per person. Rs 20 for digital camera. Handycam Rs 100 and professional video camera Rs 200. Boating 25 minutes (2-seater boat Rs 50 and 4-seater boat Rs 100). Boating 45 minutes (2 seater boat Rs 80 and 4 seater boat Rs 160).

Parking Facility: Available outside on a narrow road. Better to avoid. Leave your vehicle at your hotel and use public/hired transport.

Named after the wife of the first British Governor of undivided Assam, the park is spread over a vast area behind the Civil Hospital in Shillong. There are many species of flowers in this park. A children play area is also there with many swings, merry go rounds, slides, scramblers, etc. In another corner, you can observe many birds playing in the water. It is an enjoyable place to spend quality time in a peaceful manner with family and children away from the congestion of the city.

Opening Hours: 08.00 AM to 05.00 PM. The park remains closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 10 per person and children Rs 5. Divyang Rs 5 and senior citizens Rs 5 per person. Rs 10 for digital camera. Rs 50 for handycam and Rs 100 for professional video camera.

Parking Facility: Available but highly congested area. Better to avoid. Leave your vehicle at your hotel and use public/hired transport.

On the outskirts of the city, it doesn’t look like a part of the congested city like Shillong. It is quiet, clean and well-maintained area with lush-green surroundings. You can just walk through the beautiful golf course or try your hand on a golf stick. It is frequently used by the local people for the picnic, yoga and jogging activities.

Entry Fee: Free unless you want to try Golf.

Police Bazaar is considered as the heart of Shillong. It’s a bustling marketplace with heavy rush of the people and vehicles cramming with each other. Most of the hotels are also located in this area. It is the best market in Shillong for the shopping of local stuffs, souvenirs, cloths and electronics items. Many restaurants and road-side food stalls are also there to suppress your appetite.

The Government Museum of Meghalaya is now known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum. Built in the year 1975, the museum has an excellent collection of handicrafts, art, customs, domestic items, furnishing ornaments, traditional utensils, clothing and conventional weapons of the local tribes. There is also a branch of the State Museum at Tura.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 04.00 PM. The museum is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Entry Fee: Adult Rs 5 per person and children Rs 2. Student Rs 3. Mobile camera Rs 10. Video camera Rs 100.

There is also a Butterfly Museum in Shillong, which has a unique collection of colorful butterflies, moths, beetles, etc. This unique collection of butterflies boasts colorful species from all over the world, although most of the species are from Meghalaya.The Butterfly Museum is also known as the Wankhar Entomology Museum. Shortly after crossing the tri-junction of Mawprem on the road from Shillong to Guwahati, there is a board place by of Meghalaya Tourism to show the way to the Butterfly Museum. Located inside a private property, this museum is actually a personal collection made by the family members.

Since this is a private property, there is no formality like a museum. You are supposed to ring the bell, and it depends on the mood of the landlord or the landlady whether they would like to show you the collection or not.

Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 04.30 PM Monday to Friday. 10.30 AM to 01.00 PM on Saturday. The museum is closed on Sundays.

Entry Fee: Indian citizen Rs 50 per person. Foreign citizens Rs 100 per person. Rs 10 rupees for every photo captured with mobile or digital camera.

Parking Facility: Available nearby. Free of cost.

Rhino Museum of the Indian Army, Lush-green campus of the North-Eastern Hill University, Don Bosco Museum, All Saints Church, Air Force Museum, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Sweet Falls, etc. are the other tourist places in Shillong. Apart from all this, there are few more attractions like Laitlum Canyon and Mawphlang Sacred Grooves, located at a reasonable distance from the city of Shillong.

Cherrapunji (Sohra) , the major tourist destination of Meghalaya, is just 53 km from Shillong. Dawki, another significant tourist destination, is just 80 km away. The David Scott Trail Trek can be done in one day from Shillong, and the Bamboo Trail Trek is possible half a day time. I will write about all these destinations in detail one by one in the separate posts.

The best way to reach Shillong is to travel via Guwahati, the capital of Assam. There is one airport in Shillong, approx 30 km away. Air India and IndiGo each operate a flight from Kolkata.

For detail information about the various modes of transportation available to reach Shillong, please read this post:

How to Reach Shillong from Guwahati?

An efficient network of public transport exists in Shillong in the form of the public buses and the shared taxis. Urban buses are available for almost every tourist spot. They are easily available to major areas of Shillong like Iewduh, Police Bazaar, Dhankheti, Laitkor, Golf Link, NEHU etc.

It is more convenient to use shared cars than the buses to move around Shillong. Painted in black and yellow, these cars run frequently in Shillong. You can halt any black-yellow car from the roadside by waiving your hands. They typically charge Rs 10-20 per person to travel within the city limits. You can also hire them to travel independently.

Note: Most of the shops in Shillong stay closed on Sundays. There may be very few vehicles on the road. But the city doesn’t stop at all, at least not like Aizawl in Mizoram or Kohima in Nagaland. Many shops stay closed in the Police Bazaar on Sundays, but food joints and restaurants stay alive. A sizeable crowd of vendors dominate the street selling jackets, clothes, shoes and footwear on the Sundays.

Shillong has a sufficient number of hotels, guest houses and home-stays for night stay. Their rental rates are marginally higher in comparison to the other parts of India. Most of the hotels are located in the vicinity of Police Bazaar and Bada Bazaar. These are the busiest area of the ​city, so living in a populous place may look like a terrible choice. But, if you stay at a hotel in the Police Bazaar area, you may get easy transport to any other place.

There are many hotels and home-stays in Mylliem located on the outskirts of the city on the way to Cherrapunji. Similarly, hotels and home-stays are also based in Laitkor, en route to Laitlum Canyon. It would be better to stay in Mylliem or Laitkor only if you travel by your own vehicle, otherwise you have to come to the city to get a transport every time to visit other places of interest.

You may also like my travel stories from Egypt: Ancient, Mysterious and Everlasting Pyramids of Giza

If you want to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Umiam Lake, Orchid Lake Resort is an excellent option to stay. Since Shillong Peak is a sensitive area, there is no option to stay there. Elephanta Falls does not have the option of for night stay but Mylliem is just two km beyond Elephana Falls where you can get plenty of options.

Apart from all this, there are many hostels (Youth Hostels, Isabella Hostels, Aurobindo Hostels etc.) in Shillong, most of which are located around Police Bazaar. Dormitory facility is available in such hostels at the rate of Rs 250 – 500 per night. They can be an attractive option for the solo travellers.

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Shillong’s vibrancy shines through its bustling markets, lively music scene, and diverse cultural heritage, making it a true gem of the North East. This article beautifully encapsulates the city’s dynamic spirit, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its colorful tapestry of sights and sounds.

Thank you 🙂

I just had to leave a comment after reading your captivating photo story on Shillong! The images you’ve shared are absolutely breathtaking, and they truly capture the essence and beauty of this enchanting place. It’s evident that you had an incredible journey exploring Shillong, and your blog serves as a fantastic guide for anyone planning to visit.

The lush landscapes, serene waterfalls, and vibrant culture of Shillong come alive through your lens. Your detailed descriptions and travel tips are incredibly helpful for those of us who are eager to embark on our own adventure there. After reading your blog and viewing these stunning photos, Shillong has quickly climbed to the top of my travel bucket list.

Your insights on the local cuisine and recommendations for places to visit are invaluable. I appreciate the way you’ve covered both the well-known attractions and hidden gems, making it a comprehensive resource for all types of travelers.

Your blog has not only inspired me but also provided me with a wealth of information to plan my own Shillong adventure. I can’t wait to explore the Living Root Bridges, wander through the picturesque villages, and savor the local delicacies. Your passion for travel and storytelling truly shines through your work, and it’s left me with a strong desire to experience Shillong’s beauty firsthand. Thank you for sharing your incredible experience and inspiring others to explore this hidden gem in India!

Thank you very much. Shillong has some magical vibes. You will definitely love this place. 🙂

Very helpful article

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Best Of Shillong: Must Visit Places For The Authentic Meghalayan Experience

Often referred to as the “Scotland of the East”, Shillong is one of the most picturesque hill stations in the Northeast. With some of the best things to do in Shillong , this hill station offers a myriad of experiences to its tourists. From soaking in the natural beauty to exploring the colonial heritage, the best places to visit in Shillong will definitely captivate you. 

The influences of the British Era are clearly visible in the colonial architectural buildings in Shillong like the parks, museums, manmade lakes and the churches in Shillong . These Shillong tourist places, allow you to soak in vistas and immerse in the heritage of this hill station.

Surrounded by some of the most picturesque valleys of Meghalaya, the cool and pleasant climate with some of the best natural Shillong tourist places makes it a perfect place to go for a natural retreat. With some of the best trekking trails , scenic waterfalls and glittering lakes, Shillong provides ample opportunities to spend some time connecting with nature. 

The tourist infrastructure of Shillong is pretty developed offering a number of stay options for tourists to relax after a day full of sightseeing and fun. Most of the hotels in Shillong are located in the heart of the city, making the sightseeing places easily accessible to its visitors.

Many restaurants in Shillong , offer a variety of cuisines to relish your taste buds with. From international cuisines to the delicious local food of Meghalaya , there are plenty of options for you to try. 

With all this, Shillong truly is a gateway to the Northeastern region of India by providing a window to the diverse culture and natural beauty of North East. So let’s explore some of the Top Places to Visit in Shillong.

Index For Best Shillong tourist places

Top 10 Places to Visit in Shillong 

• Shillong Peak
• Elephant Falls
• Lady Hydari Park
• Mary Help Cathedral
• Don Bosco Museum
• Police Bazaar
• Meghalaya State Museum and Art Gallery
• Khasi Heritage Village
• Sweet Falls
• Spread Eagle’s Falls

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Other Places to visit in Shillong for couples

• Laitlum Canyon
• Bishop Falls

Other Places to visit in Shillong with kids 

• Ward’s Lake
• Air Force Museum

Top 10 places to visit in Shillong

1. shillong peak & sunset view point .

Shillong Peak is at the top of the list of tourist places to visit in Shillong because of its scenic outlook of the beautiful city. You will have to walk for about an hour to reach the summit where a lookout point has been built. Those who love hills and trekking will find this place a paradise with incredible panoramic views of nature.

The distance of Shillong Peak from the main bus stand is approximately 10 km, which means you hardly have to go to any remote location. The locals believe this peak to be the abode of their deity protecting the village which makes it one of the most unique places to visit in Shillong.

Visiting Shillong Peak is one of those moments which you will cherish for your life.

What to Do Here: 

• Some adventurous and fun outdoor activities like mountain biking, trekking, etc.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the hill-scape.

Also Read: Krem Puri: World’s Longest Sandstone Cave in Meghalaya

2. Elephant Falls

The falls are named after the shape and size of the surrounding rocks. The water flows on all sides of the rock to dwindle in drops of water in little streams. People who live near this place call it the “Elephant Waterfalls,” which is a beautiful sight to watch. This waterfall is not very far from Shillong but has been hiding from tourists for quite some. Once you look at it, you will instantly fall in love with this place, and would want to explore more with Shillong sightseeing.

It has become one of the best places to visit in Shillong , offering spectacular views of Umiam Lake. The most suitable time to visit and explore it is around sunset, when visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake and some breathtaking sunsets.

What to Do Here:

• Watch local boatmen rowing and fishing from boats; 
• Hire anyone of the boatmen for a ride through the lake; 
• Take a stroll on the promenade around this lake. 

3. Lady Hydari Park

The children’s play area is one of the highlights of the park. Children can play in the play area while parents can relax in the park. The park also has a small zoo where you can see several regional animals as well as birds. There are plenty of opportunities for photographers and nature lovers to take pictures in the park. 

Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, have a picnic, or just want to appreciate nature’s beauty, Lady Hydari Park is definitely one of the best places to visit in Shillong!

• Take a Nature walk through the well-manicured gardens
• Go for a small picnic with your loved ones
• Click some pictures of the flora and fauna in the park

4. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians

The Cathedral is dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary and is one of India’s largest churches. Its grandeur is enhanced by its tall spires and beautiful stained glass windows. The design of the church combines European and local elements.

The church serves as a focal point for the Christian community of Shillong and has a large seating capacity. The atmosphere of the church is tranquil and peaceful, and it is a popular place for people to pray and meditate.

The cathedral often hosts religious functions and festivals and attracts devotees as well as tourists. It is perched atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a religious traveler or an architecture lover, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Cathedral.

• Capture the neo-gothic architecture of this church with your camera
• Marvel at the surrounding views
• Learn about the history of this place at the information center here

5. Don Bosco Museum

Inside, you’ll find lots of exhibits and artifacts that tell the stories of the people who live there. It’s a great place to learn about the different languages and customs that make Northeast India so special. The Don Bosco Museum has three floors and each floor is dedicated to a different part of Northeast Indian culture. 

You can check out galleries with textiles, crafts, weapons, photography, and so much more. Plus, there are sections that explain the history of Northeast India and the geography of the region. It’s a great way to learn and get a better understanding of Northeast India’s rich heritage, thus making it one of the top places to visit in Shillong.

• Learn about the linguistic diversity of North East
• Shop some unique souvenirs
• Relax in the cafe after exploring the galleries

Also Read: Top 10 Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya for Natural Retreat

6. Sweet Falls

Tourists recognize Sweet Falls as the best place to visit in Shillong around sunset, as you can witness some spectacular sights against the backdrop of Shillong. However, you will also have to watch out for some small forest fires along the way.

The recommended route to view these beautiful waterfalls stretches through 3 km of jungle trail, where you will have to climb up and down a steep path. Many locals visit this place to indulge in activities like hiking, trekking, rock climbing and other adventure activities. You can easily find people willing to hire bikes or trekkers to see this gem of all the places to visit in Shillong.

• Trek through the jungle trails or hire a guide to apprise you of more places to see in Shillong;
• Rock climbing if you are into adventure activities. ( Note that only experienced climbers should attempt rock climbing here.)

7. Khasi Heritage Village

The key objective behind this project is to bring people closer to Khasi history, culture, and tradition, so you can get a closer look at all the daily activities of tribal people and see their artefacts, storehouses, kitchen, tools, and other items of everyday use. This village’s heart lies in a local market surrounded by shops selling traditional Khasi handicrafts like silver jewellery and blankets.

There are also some live demonstrations of Khasi crafts by the locals which are fascinating to watch. Visiting Khasi Heritage Village is an excellent idea if you want to feel the Khasi’s local culture, tradition, values and get some insight into their way of life. What makes this one of the most lov ed tourist places to visit in Shillong is the Monolith Festival of the Khasi tribe.

• Watch traditional culture, dance and other activities; 
• Participate in local activities and learn tribal dance.
• Visit the amphitheatre to watch some notable documentaries on the Khasi tribe; 

Also Read: Resorts In Meghalaya

8. Meghalaya State Museum & Art Gallery

This is a tourists’ favourite among all tourist places in Shillong where you can learn more about the culture of the locals, region’s rich history and traditions. Some significant exhibits include prehistoric artefacts like stone axes and rubbing tools, ancient Khasi sculptures, tribal jewellery made from glass beads and many more exciting collections.

• Explore some rare collections and learn more about their history, craftsmanship and creation process; 
• Witness an interesting collection of Khasi artworks and sculptures; 
• Have a look at the well-maintained artefacts that tell a lot about the culture of Meghalaya. 

9. Spread Eagle Falls

The water glimmers in the sunlight as it falls. The waterfall gets its name from the fact that the water spreads like eagle wings as it descends. There is more to visiting Spread Eagle Falls than a scenic view. It is an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in Meghalaya and the surrounding forests and foliage. It is also a great place for photography and picnics. The lush greenery creates a tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, there are plenty of trails nearby that will take you to the falls. As you make your way through the lush greenery, you’ll get more and more excited to see the untouched beauty of the falls. Make sure to add Spread Eagle Falls to your tour in Shillong to experience the beauty of nature in Meghalaya.

• Hike around the trails to get the best views of the waterfalls
• Enjoy a nice picnic amidst the peaceful ambience
• Go bird watching and bird photography in the surrounding forest

10. Police Bazar 

The most suitable time to visit this place is around sunset, when you can watch some breathtaking sunsets against the backdrop of Shillong. You will find many beautiful and artistic souvenirs during you r Meghalaya road trip in this m arket. It is quite a large market where you can find handicrafts, local outfits and other traditional items.

• Enjoy local food with tasty flavours
• Take away souvenirs and local handicrafts; 
• Watch breathtaking sunset against the backdrop of Shillong.

1. Umiam Lake

The artificial lake was created after constructing a dam under a hydroelectric power project. With the magnificent East Khasi Hills surrounding it, you can enjoy boating and other fun watersports or sit quietly by the lakeside to cherish the stunning sunset. It is located on the banks of Sohra Dam, one of the biggest in northeastern India.

You can indulge in a fishing session or take a quick dip in the cool water. The number of tourists visiting this place is increasing rapidly because of its beauty, and its proximity to Shillong city. The Umiam lake is also surrounded by some of the best resorts in Shillong which makes this one of the top Places to visit in Shillong for honeymoon.

• Boating, swimming, and several other watersports for adventure lovers; 
• Camping/Rent a place to stay overnight; 
• Enjoy the view of the surrounding hills, forests, and waterfalls; 
• Kayak/Canoeing, or hire one and enjoy the calm water of this beautiful lake.

2. Laitlum Canyons

Couples can spend a romantic day in this captivating tourist spot, indulging in a variety of activities while admiring the stunning scenery around them. The sound of the water cascading through the expansive canyons creates an enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for romantic moments.

As you explore this lovers’ paradise, the river will take you by the hand and take you to the top of the hill, where you’ll be able to share some intimate moments while taking in the stunning views of the Meghalayan countryside. You’ll also be able to explore the mysterious rock formations and black lines that add to the intrigue of your journey. It’s sure to be an amazing honeymoon adventure where nature and love come together to create amazing memories!

• Kayaking, rock climbing, and trekking tours through the canyons; 
• Visit this place and watch the breathtaking sunset.
• Enjoy delicious meals on the way back

3. Bishop Falls

When you arrive at the falls, you will be welcomed by the soft sound of the water cascading down from a high point. Couples will be able to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the falls while taking pictures. 

With the lush environment and the light playing on the water, there is no better place to take pictures than at Bishop Falls. Bishop Falls is a testimony to the beauty of nature in Shillong. It is a place for couples to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.

• Marvel at the surrounding valley views
• Capture some beautiful pictures of this waterfall

Other Places to visit in Shillong with kids

1. ward’s lake.

Pedal boating is a popular activity for children and adults, and is a great way to explore the crystal clear waters while taking in the lush greenery. Fish feeding is also a great activity for children, as it introduces them to the wonders of the water. The beautifully maintained gardens and walking trails around the lake are ideal for picnicking, allowing families to spend quality time together and take in the beauty of the natural surroundings. 

With its picturesque wooden bridges and colorful flora, the lake is an ideal place for photographers to take pictures of its beauty. Furthermore, the playgrounds and play equipment ensure that children have an enjoyable and memorable visit to this tranquil oasis.

• Go Paddle Boating in the Lake
• Feed the fishes in the lake
• Children can have fun in the play area

2. Air Force Museum

Children can marvel at the immense size and power of the aircraft while learning about their importance. Additionally, the museum features a variety of informative exhibits, displays, and historical artifacts associated with the Indian Air Force, allowing children to gain a greater understanding of the armed forces and technology that protects India. 

This museum serves as a perfect combination of an educational and recreational experience for families, allowing them to explore together while gaining an appreciation for India’s military aviation legacy.

• Take a Guided Tour of the Museum
• Attend the educational workshops organized by the museum
• Purchase aviation-related souvenirs, books, and toys from the gift shop

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: 1. what are the top tourist attractions in shillong, q: 2. what is the best time to visit shillong, q: 3. what type of accommodation is available in shillong, q: 4. do i need any special permits to visit certain places in shillong.

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Most Alluring Places to Visit Near Shillong

• Travel Tips
• December 12, 2019 in City Tours , Travel Tips
• Best time to visit in Shillong Shillong tourism Tourist places near Shillong
• Rebecca John

Meghalaya or the ‘abode of the clouds’ is a magical land! Abundant in lush forests, gentle hills, pristine rivers, and happy people, the state offers travel gems most people have never experienced before. Its beautiful capital, Shillong, isn’t your average hill station either! A buzzing cosmopolitan city with an aura of relaxed, old-school romance, there’s plenty to soak in when visiting this enchanting place. From pretty streets lined with coniferous trees, colourful markets, an exciting music scene, fantastic food, and a plethora of cultural diversity in its Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes – Shillong brims with beauty. As difficult as it is to tear yourself away from the city, there are several great places to visit near Shillong. Most of them are lovely, short drives from the city, and the ones further away are completely worth the trip! 

Here’s a list of the best places to visit near Shillong to make your trip a memorable one!

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Top 10 Places to Visit Near Shillong:

• Shillong Peak
• Elephant Falls
• Laitlum Canyons
• Mawphlang Sacred Grove
• David Scott Trail
• Cherrapunji
• Nongkhnum River Island
• The Ever-Living Museum

1. Umiam Lake

The Umiam Lake is a sparkling human-made water body, located 16 km from the main town. The lake is fondly called ‘Badapani’ by the locals, who visit the spot for picnics, water sports, or for some quiet time away from the busy Shillong. Umiam Lake is an excellent location for sunset-chasers, especially when the evening skies transform into a canvas of orange-pink hues after heavy rains. Take a boat ride in Umiam lake and around tiny islands dotted with coniferous forests. Tourists can also try canoeing or kayaking when the waters and skies are calm.

2. Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is one of the most famous tourist places near Shillong. It is a view-point at an elevation of 6449 feet with stunning panoramic views of the entire town. Shillong Peak is a short thirty-minute drive from the city through some of the most beautiful roads in the city! You will pass by towering trees that are as old as time, past charming neighborhoods and villages, and vegetable farms with the freshest produce!

3. Elephant Falls

Located 20 min away from Shillong Peak is the beautiful multi-tiered Elephant Falls. Elephant Falls is a marvellous sight with its cascading waters flowing rhythmically down three tiers of rocks before converging into a clear little pool at the bottom. It is a great place to visit outside Shillong for a relaxing day with the family. The waterfall was named by the British after a massive rock nearby that resembled an elephant. The stone was destroyed in an earthquake, but the name lives on till today.

4. Laitlum Canyons

The breath-taking Laitlum Canyons are a must-visit when in Shillong! This ethereal hilltop is a dreamy vantage point with picturesque views of steep gorges, winding stone steps, and green hills that disappear into the horizon. Laitlum, literally meaning ‘end of the hills’ in Khasi could fittingly be the proverbial edge of the world – where all one can see on the horizon is a paradise of green. It is one of the best places to visit near Shillong for a quiet commune with nature or yourself, over a steaming cup of sha saw (red tea). Trekkers and hikers have miles of verdant slopes and rocky paths to explore as well. As you gaze at the dramatic skies over Laitlum, you will know why Meghalaya came to be called the ‘abode of the clouds.’

5. Mawphlang Sacred Grove

The sacred grove at Mawphlang should be at the top of any list of places to visit near Shillong. The Mawplhang Sacred Forest is considered holy by the Khasi tribe in Shillong. The trees in this forest have not been cut for over a thousand years. Tourists are forbidden to take souvenirs from the forest, not even a blade of grass or a rock. The best way to enjoy the stories associated with the wood is through guided walks by the locals. This stunning natural beauty is a 50 min drive from the city.

6. David Scott Trail

If you’re looking for a great but short hike near Shillong, The David Scott Trail is the answer to all your prayers. It is a stunning hiking trail previously used as a horse track by David Scott, a British administrator. The David Scott Trail is 16 km and should take an average of 4 hours to complete.

7. Cherrapunji

If you’re hopelessly in love with the magic of the monsoons, then a trip to Cherrapunji is in order. Visit this heavenly destination even if you’re not a fan of the rains. Why you might ask? Its rolling clouds and other-worldly mist, the ferocious waterfalls, unbelievably green meadows, and legendary canyons – these are just some of the reasons. Cherrapunji is located 53 km away from Shillong. We would recommend staying overnight to make the most of one of the best places to visit near Shillong. 

The legendary Double Decker Living Root Bridge is located close to Cherrapunji. It is a fascinating living and breathing structure, where the roots of trees are artfully trained by the villagers to grow as bridges. These bridges help villagers make their way across raging streams. 

8. Nongkhnum River Island

Located 100 km away from Shillong, the Nongkhnum River Island is an enchanting location discovered as recently as 1996. This beautiful island is formed by the bifurcation of the Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and the Namliang River. The island is uninhabited and seems straight out of a story with sandy shores and captivating grassland surrounding it. It’s one of the most offbeat places to visit outside Shillong and perfect to escape the tourist crowds.

Drive to the picturesque village of Smit, which is 20 km from the city of Shillong. This sleepy village is an important cultural center for the Khasis and headquarters of the Khasi state of Hima Khyriem. Try and plan your visit to coincide with the Shad Nongkrem, an annual harvest thanksgiving dance that takes place every autumn in the village of Smit.

10. The Ever-Living Museum

The Ever-Living Museum at Mawshbuit is around 9 km from Shillong. Visit the museum to witness a rich repository of nature, culture, tradition, and history from across the state of Meghalaya. It is owned and operated by retired Meghalaya government engineer Kyntiewbor War. The museum stands amidst a lush garden blooming with local flora. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit near Shillong – containing rare artefacts from the interiors of the Khasi, Garo, and Jainita hills, as well as other states in the North-East.

Shillong has all the ingredients for the perfect hill station holiday! Whether you’re a culture and history enthusiast, a nature lover, a western music aficionado, or someone eternally on the traveler’s trail – Shillong is undoubtedly the best place for you to be!

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4-day Shillong Travel Itinerary for First Time Travellers

traveller Sounak

Shillong travel itinerary is going to come in handy if you are planning to visit this beautiful capital of the northeastern state of Meghalaya. Meghalaya is a place where you need to be if you h ave ever desired to get close to nature and greenery fascinates you.

A well-defined Shillong travel itinerary will help you explore the best of what this place has to offer. The lush green mountains, lakes, waterfalls, valleys and picturesque villages embellish this place and make it a perfect destination for travellers.

Although many places in India’s northeast are surreal, some of them are quite harsh and inaccessible. Shillong is a place where people of all ages can easily travel and spend quality time. In my current blog, I will share with you a four-day Shillong travel itinerary based on my extensive visits to the region.

The map has been made using Google Maps. These are the places that I covered on my 3 nights,  4 days Shillong Trip Itinerary

Shillong Travel Itinerary

The beauty of Meghalaya needs no introduction. Meghalaya meaning the abode of the clouds is an interesting as well as enriching place to explore. It is the wettest region in India, and Cherrapunjee ( another visitor attraction around 50 km distance from Shillong ) holds the record for the highest rainfall on the planet.

The beauty of Shillong was noticed by early European settlers who named it “Scotland of the East” . Shillong travel itinerary can give you a gist of the flavour that you might experience in the whole state. One can also think of it as the start of exploring the North-Eastern part of India

Although, you can spend countless days in Shillong amidst nature, here I will provide you with a 4-day Shillong travel itinerary. Below is a brief overview of my day wise Shillong trip itinerary.

The Complete Itinerary for Traveling to Shillong

In the following paragraphs, I will introduce you to the places to visit on your Shillong travel itinerary. This will benefit you and you won’t waste time charting a plan on where to go next.

Day 1 of My 4-Day Shillong travel itinerary

It is a good idea to start early in the morning from Guwahati. I travelled to Shillong from Guwahati, so I am taking that as my starting point. If you are starting an afresh trip, it will depend on your flight or train timings. In that case, I would suggest booking a transport option that reaches Guwahati in the morning. The approximate distance from Guwahati to Shillong is 100 km and it would take more or less 2.5-3 hrs.

Before entering Shillong, you will come across Umiam lake. The lake is also known as Borapani Lake locally. It is a man-made lake in the lap of the hills with a mesmerizing backdrop. The size of the lake will leave you awestruck.

There are opportunities for boating on the lake. There are also different water sports for adventure lovers like water skiing, high-speed boat and yachting. A Pedal boat ride on the lake is absolutely worth it if you want to enjoy the ambience in a leisurely way.

The rates of several water sports at Umiam Lake are given below. Note that these are approximate charges and can change with the season.

After the break at Umiam lake , continue on your onward journey to Shillong. After checking-in, to the hotel (or hostel) the rest of the day can be spent exploring the locale and hiring a car (taxi fares given ahead) for the next few days.

I suggest you head out and explore the food junctions at Shillong. Food is something that connects you to the place and gives you a true feel of its roots. Wherever you travel, it becomes an important part of the travel experience and builds up a connection between you and the place.

As I had already mentioned, the North East has a different culture and flavour.  As you enter Shillong, you will surely feel it. The bazaar areas have innumerable stalls of street foods, that sell local delicacies at a reasonable price. If you are a meat-lover, this is the place to be.

Also, there are a number of restaurants, where you can go for a more conventional meal system. Use of bamboo shoots in cooking is a characteristic in this part of the country. You can try the commonly found Chicken with bamboo shoots. There are also several other conventional and vegetarian-friendly places available.

The entire road from Guwahati to Shillong is beautiful. I took this picture in Borapani, a border town between Assam and Meghalaya.

Day 2 of My 4-Day Shillong Travel Itinerary

On day 2 of your trip, you can go sightseeing in and around Shillong. I started my day by visiting Shillong Peak . While most of it is motorable, the last few steps have to be walked through. It is not a difficult walk and people from all age groups can reach the place easily

Morning is the best time is best to visit Shillong peak. It is the highest point in and around Shillong and from this point, you can see the city from a distance. It is around 1900 metres from sea level and people go there to get a panoramic view of the place. You can also see the Bangladesh plains from up here. Sometimes you might find heavy fog at times, but I highly recommend this.

If you are a passionate photographer like me, you are in for a treat. Look for beautiful Himalayan birds on your way.

There are beautiful parks and waterfalls in Shillong which can be visited during the day. Lady Hydari Park, Golf course and Wards Lake are a few you can visit. One important fall around Shillong is the Elephant falls . It is a beautiful waterfall and it continues in several tiers. This is one of the most popular places around Shillong and you might find a number of tourists posing for a photograph in front of the falls.

The afternoon can be spent exploring the local museum and churches of Shillong. There are a number of museums in Shillong. Arunachal State Museum, Meghalaya State Museum and Wankhar Entomology museum are a few you can visit. There is also a beautiful church very near to the city centre, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians. The gothic style architecture along with lush green lawns particularly caught my attention.

The best time to visit Shillong peak is early morning. This is the highest point in Shillong. You can see the entire town from up here.

Day 3 of My 4-Day Shillong Travel itinerary

On the third day, we headed to the David Scotts trail near Shillong. It is an easy trek only a few km away from the city, with amazing views of lush green nature. The hike, although easy, is quite a long one. It is a 16 km stretch with a gentle slope. Guides will be available from the hotel if you need one.

There is a stream which needs to be crossed in between, so you need to be careful. Wear good shoes for the trek .  Since I’d had a bad experience with shoes earlier, this time I carried along with trekking shoes that I got at a great deal. Luckily they turned out well too.

Also, be careful of undulating roads and leeches (more common in rainy seasons). Since the rainy season will make the stones and boulders slippery, it is better to avoid this time. Again, if you are an experienced trekker, you can opt for the same.

A n Alternate Option for Day 3 of Shillong Trip Itinerary: Mawlynnong

An alternate option would be visiting Mawlynnong. Mawlynnong is a beautiful small village around 80 km from Shillong. Dubbed as the cleanest village in Asia, the striking aspect of the village is its women-centric society. The village thrives on the harvesting of betel nuts and almost all work is performed by women. While most tourists skip it due to lack of time, this can be an interesting activity on the Shillong travel itinerary.

Just before reaching Mawlynnong, there is a small village called Riwai. A small trek in Riwai can lead you to a wonder of nature, the Root Bridge . This is the only place in India where you will find living root bridges. It is the phenomenon of the roots of trees acting like bridges across the stream. The trek although not a very easy one, can be completed by people of all ages. (If you are going to Cherrapunjee as a next stop, you will also find root bridges there as well.)

When I saw the movie “Avatar” recently, I was reminded of the root bridges of the North East. Never in my wildest imagination, had I thought that only roots can make routes across a stream. To me, it signifies the flow of life, the flow of spontaneity. It denotes the spiritual connection that runs across all of Nature and within all its creatures.

Mawlynnong has several homestays and if you would like, you can spend a night here. One of the guesthouses (Llajong Guest House) also has a treehouse as accommodation which is a fascinating place and is worthy of spending some time.

Mawlynnong has been awarded Asia’s cleanest village. On the way to the village make sure to see the natural root bridges at Riwai.

Day 4 of the 4-Day Shillong Travel Itinerary

This was my last day at Shillong. We checked out of the hotel with a packed lunch and headed towards the Cherrapunji . There are going to be a few pit stops along the way. The first one can be a viewpoint for the valleys of Khasi hills. As far as you can see, there are overlapping green valleys. It is one point not to be missed and after returning from the trip, this one will be a treasured photograph.

Make your second stop at a famous waterfall – the Nohkalikai Falls . The falls have made it to the cover of many travel magazines. Although there is a conventional gate to enter the viewing point (for which you have to pay), the waterfall can be seen from quite a distance. It also has an interesting but unfortunate story associated with it.

After spending an hour at the place with a small snack, you can head to another place close by which is the Nohsngithiang or Seven Sisters falls. Although the name is ‘Seven Sisters’ you will not be able to actually find seven falls, unless you are visiting during the monsoons. If you want to see these waterfalls at their full roar, visit during monsoons.

As you enjoy the wondrous Khasi hills and the beauty of nature, evening approaches. Watch the sunset across the fields and crimson light enlightens the sky across the hills. It is time to enter Cherrapunjee.

Many people just visit Cherrapunjee like a sight-seeing on a to-and-fro basis from Shillong. It is actually possible, however, that the essence of Cherrapunjee will be better absorbed if you stay at the calm of Cherrapunjee  Holiday Resort for a couple of nights.

I highly recommend that travellers should couple a 2-day stay at Cherrapunjee along with Shillong 4-day trip. You can also travel to Dawki if you have time- In case you can don’t know much about this place, check out this 2-minute video of what to expect in Dawki .

The Nohkalikai Falls have a celebrity status of their own. These splendid falls have made it to the cover of several travel magazines.

Places that couldn’t make it to this Shillong Travel Itinerary

There are certain other places, which couldn’t make it to this Shillong trip itinerary but are definitely worth a visit. If you have a couple of days more, you can add these to your Shillong itinerary as well.

Approximate Shillong Trip Budget (for 2 people)

If I had to rate the budget aspect of my trip to Shillong, I would say that it was moderate. The important thing to remember when travelling in the hilly regions is that the costs of transportation are typically going to be high, owing to the difficult terrain and inadequate public transport.

I realized that we could have cut down on the costs way more if we were travelling in a group of four or five . Below is the breakdown of the costs we incurred on the trip.

The landscape around Shillong is truly stunning. The best way to observe and enjoy this beauty is to hire a full day Taxi. The taxi will take you to different points of interest in and around Shillong. You can hire one easily from Shillong and bargaining does help. 

Frequently Asked Questions about travelling in/to Shillong

Now that I have discussed the detailed Shillong travel itinerary and budget, here are a few other frequently asked questions about travelling to Shillong.

How much time to spend in Shillong?

It would be best to have a plan of a 3-4 day Shillong travel itinerary. Places to visit in Shillong are easily accessible by car. For a few places, you might have to hike a bit. So, depending on your taste, you can choose to drop a few places from the list. Shillong also has the typical ‘laid-back’ ambience which makes it a wonderful travel-friendly spot. Whatever you choose, spending some quality time in the lap of Nature will make it worth the visit.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

There is no particular “best” time to visit Shillong because the place has a high altitude with lovely weather. Winters can be a bit on the harsh side (from an Indian perspective) and summers are cool. It is best to avoid the holiday season when you might find each spot crowded and hotels running full. October-November (before the winters) and February-May (after the winters) can be a good times to make a Shillong travel itinerary. Having said this, one can plan to visit Shillong and adjacent regions in monsoons when the waterfalls are at their roaring best and lakes in their mesmerizing natural shades.

How to reach Shillong?

The best way to reach Shillong is through Guwahati, which is in Assam. Guwahati is a major city in Assam with good railway and flight connectivity. You can reach Guwahati through either of these transportation options. You can explore a bit of Guwahati and/or other places of Assam before ascending to the hills of Shillong. 

There are several options for reaching Shillong from Guwahati. I have elaborated on each one of them below.

The government also provides a 30-minute helicopter ride to Shillong from Guwahati. The Guwahati to Shillong helicopter fare is about 1500 INR per person. The first ride starts as early as 9 am and goes up till 1.30 pm. 

I also spotted several shared taxis (including Tata Sumo), which charged between 300- 400 INR per seat. There are also government and private buses travelling from Guwahati to Shillong but I heard that they took a lot of time. The tickets can be booked at Meghalaya Tourism Information Centre, Guwahati Airport/ Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Borjhar. You should call the office beforehand to check the availability. Contact number- 0361 284 1909

I suggest starting from Guwahati (either as a fresh trip or as a continuation trip from Guwahati) early in a taxi. A small car would charge a price of 1800 INR while a Guwahati to Shillong Tata Sumo fare would be around 2000 INR. SUVs generally cost double. Depending on your nature of comfort level and the number of people you will be able to book a cab. There are several online portals for booking such cars.

I would suggest choosing a taxi option. It would be much more convenient if you wish to make stops in between like I did at the lake

Should I take the Guwahati-Shillong Tour Packages?

You will find several travel agents advertising customized trips to Shillong from Guwahati. Since these are part of packages, these will always be a bit expensive. So, if you are on a budget, best avoid these. You can easily explore Shillong and places nearby on your own.

Where to stay in Shillong?

Shillong is one of the top tourist spots that attract visitors all the year-round. It accommodates a number of hotels which range from budget to luxury. Common booking websites will show you a number of options.

I would suggest you book before reaching Shillong, especially between October to March, when the number of travellers increases manifold. It is also a good idea to stay in the city centre so that transportation is not a problem.

Based on my own experience, I would suggest these two places to stay:

What are Transportation options in and around Shillong?

While in Shillong, you will need to have a car along with you if you want to enjoy the places in their true sense (that of course if you are not bound by a budget). Hiring cabs or small cars for the whole day is a good way to deal with it. There are a number of taxi rentals available. The best option is to just walk to the taxi stand and bargain for a few quotes.

This table below will give you a brief idea of the taxi fares in and around Shillong:

How much will a 4-day trip to Shillong cost?

On average, a Shillong trip for 4 days (from Guwahati) will cost you around 8000-10000 INR. I have given a breakdown of my costs above. Also, as I said, you can cut down on the costs if you travel in a group.

Is Shillong safe for travellers?

Yes, Shillong is a safe place to travel for all kinds of travellers including solo female travellers. The main reason for this is that their society is matriarchal. However, I would advise you not to be late out at night. This is because the majority of places are deserted by 9 pm and you won’t find most places open.

Is Monsoons a good time to visit Shillong?

Monsoons are a wonderful time to visit Shillong. During monsoons, you can witness the waterfalls in their full force. The rainy season brings out the best in Shillong.

Here is a quick look at the essentials of travelling to Shillong for the first time. Pin it your board on Pinterest for later reference.

Few Interesting Facts about Meghalaya

Before I end this blog, here are a few things I found pretty interesting about Meghalaya. I couldn’t resist adding them here.

Shillong is a place that embraces you with all its natural affections. The lush green mountains, the running waterfalls and the lovely weather all symbolize the celebration of life. As in Khasi tradition, people express a lot of respect for womanhood giving her an important role in family and society. By the same tradition perhaps, they respect Mother Nature. It is very easy to fall in love with this quintessential hilly ambience; however, it is difficult to get rid of the addictive affection of Shillong.

Happy Wayfaring 🙂

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Top 7 Places to visit near Shillong for an Idyllic and memorable vacation

Situated in the heart of undoubtfully what is the most beautiful part of India, Shillong should be in your bucket list for sure. You can look forward to amazing touristy places to visit in Shillong. Be prepared to be mesmerised by natural wonders like waterfalls, serene lakes and viewpoints. Aptly called the “ Scotland of the East “, this place is also known as “Rock capital of India.”

Surely there are a plethora of top beautiful places to visit and experience a potpourri of culture in this city. This is to say, we bring to you a list of top 10 must-do activities in the beautiful city. You can look forward to including them in your list when you are planning for a trip to this place.

Top 7 places to visit near Shillong

• Visit Elephant falls in Shillong a must-visit near Shillong.
• Get a birds eye’s view from Shillong Viewpoint, Laitkor peak.
• Umiam lake, a must-see place near Shillong.
• Take a trip to Mawlynnong the Cleanest village in Asia one of the top tourist places to visit near Shillong.
• Witness the Nohsngithiang or Seven Sister Falls, one of the highest waterfall in India.
• Visit Mawjymbuin caves a must-go places near Shillong and Trek to the Nongriat double-decker bridge.
• Visit Dawki for the crystal clear waters.

1. Visit Elephant falls in Shillong a must-do near Shillong.

Probably the most scenic spot in Shillong, the falls gets its name from the elephant-shaped stone in the base of falls. Located in the outskirts in Upper Shillong, you can conveniently visit the falls as a short day trip. One of the Best Places to visit near Shillong, this should be on the top of your list.

How to Reach: Use a cab or public transport from the city centre. Timings: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Distance from city centre: 12 km | 1.5 Hrs . Best time to Visit: June to August .

Also read: Best time to Visit Shillong

2. Get a birds eye’s view from Shillong Viewpoint, Laitkor peak.

Locally known as Shillong peak, Laitkor is a fantastic viewpoint bound to give you a magnificent view of the city. You will pass through the beautiful Air Force station on the way to the peak. Also, there are a few souvenir shops and eateries in the vicinity which you can check out.

How to Reach: You can take a can from Police Bazaar. Buses are also available. Timings : 9.00 am to 3.30 pm. Distance/Duration from city centre : 4 km | 45 mins . Best time to Visit : Feb – May and Sep – Nov .

Also read: Laitlum Canyon, Shillong

3. Umiam lake, a must-see place near Shillong.

A serene and peaceful getaway from Shillong, Umiam or Barapani lake is a place to relax. Surrounded with rows of pine and cedar forests – this place is as close as you can get to nature. Also, there are options for basic watersports like boating, speedboat ride etc. You can easily spend the better part of the day. Expect an ideal place also to have a cosy family lunch amidst the green and blue.

How to Reach: Recommended to take a half-day or full-day cab from Shillong. Also can be done en-route Guwahati to Shillong by a little detour. Timings : 8.00 am to 5:00 pm. Distance/Duration from city centre : Shillong (17 km | 50 mins), Guwahati (80 km | 2 hr 30 min) . Best time to Visit: All around the year except the rainy season (June – Aug) .

Also read: Trekking in Shillong

4. Take a trip to Mawlynnong the Cleanest village in Asia, one of the top places to visit near Shillong.

A must-visit among the top mesmerizing places to visit near Shillong, experience a place which is an epitome of cleanliness. Mawlynniong , a quite charming village overlooking a valley, is a place that you will always remember. Overlooking a valley, another side of which is Bangladesh plains, it has won Asia’s cleanest village title two times.

You can also choose to stay overnight for a day or two to experience the culture up-close in a homestay. Also suited for the budgeted traveller, this place is bound to take you closer to your roots and see a different world closer to nature. Don’t forget to check out their fresh, natural delicacies also. Primarily their meal comprises of Rice and smoked/curried chicken with farm-fresh vegetable all home-grown, from which you get to choose.

How to Reach: Cab from either Shillong city centre or Cherrapunji. Timings : NA. Distance/Duration from city centre: Shillong (78 km | 2 hr 30 mins). Best time to Visit: All around the year except the rainy season (June – Aug) .

5. Witness the Nohsngithiang or Seven Sister Falls, one of the highest waterfall in India.

An absolute delight to eyes, especially during Rainy seasons, you will genuinely witness nature’s true beauty and wonder here. Very conveniently connected along a national highway, you can visit this place as a day trip. If you are lucky, you might see a series of seven parallel waterfalls cascading together down the hills. There is a spot where you can park your car and spend some time admiring the falls. Also, in almost all rainy days, be mesmerised by the presence of a perennial rainbow. This is a must-visit near Shillong. Tip: On the way, you can cover Cherrapunji and Māwsynrām also the rainiest place on earth.

How to Reach: Cab from either Shillong city centre or Cherrapunji. Timings : NA. Distance/Duration from city centre : Shillong (78 km | 2 hr 30 mins) . Best time to Visit: June to Aug (During rainy season ).

Also read: Seven sister falls

6. Visit Mawjymbuin caves a must-visit places near Shillong and Trek to the Nongriat double-decker bridge.

Calling the adventurer out there, this is undoubtedly the best experience for you in a day. You can start the day by trekking to single-decker bridge which is an hour’s hike. Also, we would recommend that you continue up to the double-decker bridge. You would reach there in another hour. After completing this unique experience, you can continue to visit Mawjymbuin caves near Cherrapunji. The full trip will take 9-10 hours, considering pickup and drop from Shillong.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Might be cold in winters. Should be avoided during the rainy seasons .

How to Reach: Cab from either Shillong city centre or Cherrapunji. Timings : 8.00 am to 5:00 pm. Distance/Duration from city centre : Shillong ( 60 km| 2 hr) . Best time to Visit: All around the year except June to Aug (During rainy season ).

Also read: Living root bridges in Meghalaya which are must visit in 2024

7. Visit Dawki for the crystal clear waters.

Dawki is an ethereal village that is home to a river with crystal clear waters. You can see your reflection along with the boat in the water bed. Located along the Indo-Bangladesh border, this lake is created by Umngot river as it enters Bangladesh. You can indulge in a boat ride and also camp along the lake at night. Also, you can combine a visit to Mawlynnong along with if you want to complete this in a day.

How to Reach: Cab from either Shillong city centre or Cherrapunji. Timings : 8.00 am to 5:00 pm. Distance/Duration from city centre : Shillong ( 82 km| 2 hr 30 min) . Best time to Visit: All around the year except June to Aug (During rainy season ).

Ideal for visiting throughout the year Shillong is the choice of destination for both first time and seasoned visitors. You can look forward to a comfortable climate for the majority of the year. To plan a trip to this scenic town do check out Pickyourtrail and experience peace amidst untouched nature. You can also have a look at some of our tour packages and learn more about the various tourist attractions in India .

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

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• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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Things to Do in Moscow, Russia - Moscow Attractions

Things to do in moscow, explore popular experiences, top attractions in moscow.

Other Top Attractions around Moscow

What travelers are saying

• Saint Basil's Cathedral
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Moscow Metro
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• Aleksandrovskiy Sad
• Kuskovo Estate
• Sokolniki Park
• Put-in Tours
• Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours
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Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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