Shillong has been called the ‘Scotland of the East‘. This is a direct result of its stylish, smooth and beautiful scenes. The city is given with some quintessential touring offices like the Ward Lake or the Botanical Garden. However, what holds the consideration of the sightseers are the waterfalls in and around Shillong. Among them, the Elephant Falls of Meghalaya holds the prime consideration. Here we present to you;
Top 10 spots to visit in Shillong
1. Elephant Falls
It is a combination of 3 rivers. One of the British officers named it as Elephant falls after they saw a rock which resembled as an elephant. The falls are surrounded by green vegetation that provides a perfect backdrop. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong. Here, you can applaud the beauty of fizzy water dropping in layers, ringed by lush green vegetation, and at the entrance, enjoy shopping for souvenirs from local shops.
Timings: All days of the week from 9 am to 5 pm
How To Reach: Rent a cab or board a state-run bus from Police Bazaar.
2. The Don Bosco Museum
It is part of DBCIC (Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures). DBCIC comprises research on cultures, publications, training, animation program and the museum, which is a place of knowledge-sharing on the cultures of the northeast in particular, and of culture in general.
The museum holds the tag of one of the best places to visit in Shillong. The museum welcomes Indigenous Cultures, art admirers, and history shades with open arms. The place features wide collections of handicrafts, artefacts, attires, art galleries, jewels, and weapons used by different tribes of North-east India; you can see the photogenic views of complete Northeast India.
The museum is a seven storey building, located in the Sacred Heart Church premises, having seventeen different galleries.
Entry Charges: INR 50 per person
Opening Hours: Open from Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Sundays
How To Reach: From the Police Bazar, head towards Buddhist Temple Road or Camels Back Road to reach the museum easily.
Tip: After you witness all the galleries, walk towards the skywalk on the top to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenes of Shillong city.
3. Shillong Golf Course
It enjoys the rare distinction of being one of the few natural golf courses in Asia. Not only is the Shillong Golf Course scenic and enjoyable, but it is also challenging.
A group of British civil service officers introduced golf to Shillong in 1898 by constructing a nine-hole course. The present 18-hole course was inaugurated in 1924.
Entry Charges: Free
Opening Hours: Open every day from 5 am–8 pm
Also Read:11 Best Malaysian Festivals That Defines Its Culture
4. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons is one of the least explored places in Shillong, located in the Khasi Hills. The literal translation of Laitlum Canyons is “end of the hills”, an ideal place for trekking and adventure seekers, nature lovers, and peace admirers.
This gorgeous place will provide you with a panoramic view of the Racing village, the zigzag hilly roads, and grassy valleys. This is a must-visit destination in Shillong. Due to its unmatched beauty and serenity, it’s surely one of the best places to visit in Shillong for honeymooners.
How To Reach: Drive about 10 to 15 minutes towards Mawpat road from Police bazaar to reach Laitlum Canyons.
Tip: People with dizziness and breathing issues should be more careful while exploring these canyons; since the destination comprises of a steep trek for a few kilometres.
5. Motphran
The “Stone of France” which is locally known as “Motphran” was erected in memory of the 26th Khasi Labour Corps who served under the British in France during World War I.
It bears the words of the famous Latin poet Horace “Dulce et decorum est pro Patria mori” which can be roughly translated as “It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country.”
Entry Charges: Free
6. David Scott Trail
The stretch between Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang village is roughly 16 kms long and is a picturesque day hike. The trail acquired its name after a British administrator, David Scott, who used this path as a horse cart track. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Sylhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam. Camps can be set to treat the eyes to the stunning views of lush rugged Umiam valley. So, enjoy this 16 km trail and make your visit worth!
Opening Hours: 6 am – 8 pm
How to Reach: Mawphlang is the starting point, where you can reach by car.
7. Ward’s Lake
A beautiful man-made lake named after Sir William Ward, the then, Chief Commissioner of Assam. Also known as Pollock’s Lake – It is an artificial lake with garden and boating facilities.
Entry Charges:
- 5 per person for entry
- 10 per still camera
Opening Hours:
- All days of the week; from November to February: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- All days of the week from March to October: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
8. Lady Hydari Park
The park, named after Lady Haidari, the first woman in the province, is one of the most popular places to visit in Shillong. This park includes a spacious and polished garden with beautiful rose beds and children’s play area. There is a mini zoo within the park having more than 73 species of birds and 100 species of reptiles.
Opening Hours: Open from Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Mondays
How To Reach: It takes 5 to 10 minutes via MG road to reach Lady Hydari Park
Tip: Visit the park during the morning time as the locals herd in the evening and it will be difficult for you to find a parking space who are traveling by car.
9. Air Force Museum
Located in the premises of Eastern Air Command, the Air Force Museum in Shillong is another beautiful sight of beauty and wonder, which makes it one of the most popular places to see in Shillong.
With the display of various rockets, missiles, miniatures of fighter planes, badges, rank medals, and awards in the galleries, this museum attracts all types of travelers throughout the year.
Opening Hours: Open all days from 9 am to 2 pm and 2:30 pm to 5 pm; Closed on Wednesdays & Sundays
How to Reach: Drive along NH 106 to reach IAF museum from the Police Bazar.
Tip: Don’t forget to carry valid ID proof which is needed to enter the museum.
