Shillong

Shillong: The Soul of Meghalaya in the Clouds

Destination Type: Hill Station | Culture | Nature | Music | Colonial Charm
Best Time to Visit:

• March to June – Pleasant weather, green valleys, perfect for sightseeing

• September to November – Post-monsoon waterfalls and clear skies
  Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days

🧭 4-Day Shillong Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Shillong – Clouds & Colonial Charm

• Morning:

  • Arrive via Guwahati Airport/Railway Station and drive to Shillong (~3 hours).

  • En route, stop at Umiam Lake (Barapani) – a scenic reservoir perfect for boating and photography.

• Check-in:

  • Choose from charming stays like Tripura Castle, The Heritage Club, or budget homestays near Laitumkhrah.

• Afternoon:

  • Visit Ward’s Lake for a boat ride and stroll.

  • Explore Lady Hydari Park and nearby Shillong Cathedral.

• Evening:

  • Walk through Police Bazaar – enjoy street shopping and local food.

  • Try dinner at Café Shillong, Jadoh, or Trattoria (local Khasi cuisine).

Day 2: Waterfalls & Viewpoints

• Morning:

  • Head to Elephant Falls – a 3-tiered waterfall amid lush greenery.

  • Drive to Shillong Peak – the highest point (6,449 ft) offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.

• Afternoon:

  • Visit Don Bosco Museum – an immersive 7-story museum showcasing Northeastern culture.

  • Optional: Check out the Air Force Museum at Upper Shillong.

• Evening:

  • Enjoy Shillong’s live music culture at Cloud 9, The Evening Club, or local gigs in Laitumkhrah.

  • Dinner and drinks with a view!

Day 3: Day Trip to Cherrapunji or Mawlynnong (Choose One)

⛰️ Option 1: Cherrapunji (Sohra) – Nature & Caves

• Visit stunning spots like:

  • Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall

  • Seven Sisters Falls

  • Mawsmai Caves – limestone caves to explore

  • Eco Park and Thangkharang Park for scenic views

• Try local delicacies at a roadside eatery or homestay.

🌿 Option 2: Mawlynnong & Dawki – Asia’s Cleanest Village

• Explore:

  • Mawlynnong Village – cobbled paths, bamboo bridges, and spotless surroundings

  • Living Root Bridge (Riwai) – a short hike to a natural wonder

  • Dawki River (Umngot) – crystal clear water perfect for boating

Day 4: Local Life & Departure

• Morning:

  • Visit Laitlum Canyons – an offbeat valley with sweeping panoramic views, often above the clouds.

  • Optional: Quick stop at Golf Links or Rhino Heritage Museum.

• Brunch:

  • Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at Café Shillong Heritage or Dylan’s Café.

• Afternoon:

  • Return drive to Guwahati for your onward journey.

🌟 Highlights of Shillong

• 🏞️ Umiam Lake – tranquil boating and lakeside picnics

• 🎶 Live Music & Cafes – Shillong’s indie music scene is unmatched

• ⛲ Elephant Falls & Shillong Peak – classic natural spots

• 🧬 Don Bosco Museum – cultural deep dive into Northeast India

• 🚗 Easy day trips to Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki

📌 Travel Tips

• Local Transport: Cabs and taxis available; shared sumos to outskirts

• Weather: Carry light woolens, rain gear (especially in monsoon)

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is decent; Airtel/Jio work well

• Permits: No permits required for Indian citizens. Carry ID.

🧳 What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Windcheater or light jacket

• Camera and binoculars (for birding & views)

• Local cash for small vendors

• A reusable bottle and eco-friendly travel gear

✨ Perfect For:

• Couples & solo wanderers

• Music & culture lovers

• Nature seekers & weekend escapees

• Northeast India first-timers