Shillong — The Scotland of the East Awaits You

Perched at an altitude of 1,520 metres in the heart of Meghalaya, Shillong is one of Northeast India's most beautiful and vibrant hill stations. Known lovingly as the Scotland of the East, this charming city sits surrounded by rolling green hills, tall pine trees, sparkling lakes, and some of the most magnificent waterfalls you will ever see in your life. The British fell so deeply in love with this place that they made it the capital of Assam during colonial times — and one look at its breathtaking scenery tells you exactly why. Shillong is a city that has something for everyone. It is a place where nature meets culture, where ancient tribal traditions blend beautifully with a modern and lively city vibe. The warmth of the Khasi people, the freshness of the mountain air, the music drifting out of small cafes, and the misty hills all around — Shillong is truly a destination like no other. Whether you are travelling with family, as a couple, or on a solo trip, Shillong will fill your heart with memories that last a lifetime. With Ababli Tour, your journey to this magical city will be smooth, stress-free, and completely memorable.

Top Places to Visit in Shillong

• Elephant Falls — The most famous waterfall in Shillong and an absolute must-visit. This stunning three-tiered waterfall cascades down through lush green forest, and the sound and sight of the water rushing down the rocks is simply mesmerising. It is most spectacular during the monsoon season when the water is at its fullest and most powerful.
• Umiam Lake (Barapani Lake) — A vast and beautiful reservoir spread across 225 square kilometres, surrounded by green hills and forests. Even though it is man-made, the lake looks completely natural and breathtakingly beautiful. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, and speed boat rides here — or simply sit by the water and enjoy the peaceful views.
• Shillong Peak — The highest point in Meghalaya, standing at 1,965 metres. From here you get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire city, the surrounding hills, and on a clear day, even the distant Himalayas and Bangladesh beyond. A telescope is available at the spot for an even closer look at the landscape.
• Ward's Lake — A charming and peaceful lake right in the heart of the city, surrounded by a lovely garden and walking paths. A cute wooden bridge stretches across the water, making it a favourite spot for morning walkers, couples, and families. Boating is available here too, making it a fun and relaxing stop for all ages.
• Don Bosco Museum — One of the finest museums in Asia and a truly eye-opening cultural experience. This seven-storey museum showcases the traditions, history, and way of life of the many different tribes of Northeast India through rare artifacts, traditional clothing, and fascinating exhibits. A must-visit for anyone who loves history and culture.
• Laitlum Canyons — A hidden gem that not many tourists know about, but those who visit always call it one of the most stunning spots in Meghalaya. The name means "end of hills" in the local Khasi language — and standing at the edge of these dramatic green canyons, you will understand why. The panoramic views of the valleys and gorges below are absolutely breathtaking.
• Mawsynram & Cherrapunji — Just a short drive from Shillong lie two of the wettest places on earth. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram hold world records for the highest rainfall, and the landscape here is like nothing else — dramatic cliffs, powerful waterfalls, deep valleys, and the famous living root bridges that are grown naturally from tree roots by local tribes.
• Shillong Golf Course — One of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, sitting at an elevation of 5,200 feet and surrounded by tall pine and rhododendron trees. Even if you do not play golf, the course is a stunning and peaceful place to walk around and enjoy the scenery.
• Police Bazaar — The beating heart of Shillong city and the best place to experience the local energy and culture. From handmade Khasi shawls and bamboo handicrafts to street food and local sweets — this market is lively, colourful, and a joy to explore.

Things to Do in Shillong

• Visit Elephant Falls and walk down through the three levels of the waterfall for a stunning close-up experience
• Go boating or kayaking on the beautiful Umiam Lake and enjoy the surrounding green hills
• Climb to Shillong Peak early in the morning for the most spectacular panoramic views of the city
• Explore the seven floors of Don Bosco Museum and learn about the incredible tribal cultures of Northeast India
• Trek through the dramatic Laitlum Canyons and soak in the breathtaking canyon views
• Drive to Cherrapunji and walk across the famous living root bridges in the rainforest
• Shop for local Khasi crafts, woollen clothes, and souvenirs at Police Bazaar
• Try delicious local Khasi food like Jadoh, Doh Khleh, and steaming hot momos at small local eateries

Best Time to Visit Shillong

• March to June (Spring & Summer) — The best time to visit Shillong. The weather is cool and pleasant, the hills are beautifully green, and the skies are clear for sightseeing. Outdoor activities and road trips to nearby attractions are most enjoyable during this time.
• October to November (Autumn) — Another great season with comfortable temperatures, clear blue skies, and fewer crowds. The city looks fresh and lovely after the monsoon, and the views of the hills are at their clearest.
• December to February (Winter) — Cold and crisp, with temperatures dropping quite low. A quiet and peaceful time to visit with a cosy, wintry feel to the city. Some festivals also take place during this season making it culturally interesting.
• July to September (Monsoon) — Shillong receives very heavy rainfall during monsoon, which can make outdoor travel difficult. However, the waterfalls — especially Elephant Falls — are at their most powerful and dramatic during this time, making it a unique experience for those who love the rain.

How to Reach Shillong

• By Air — Shillong has its own airport — Umroi Airport (SHL) — located about 30 km from the city centre. It operates domestic flights from major Indian cities. Alternatively, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, about 104 km away, is a larger and better-connected option, with taxis and shared cabs easily available to Shillong.
• By Train — The nearest major railway station is Guwahati, which is well connected to cities across India. From Guwahati, you can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to Shillong. The road journey from Guwahati to Shillong takes around 3 to 4 hours through scenic northeastern landscapes.
• By Road — Shillong is well connected by road to Guwahati and other nearby towns. State-run and private buses run regularly between Guwahati and Shillong. The drive is scenic and enjoyable, passing through lush green hills and small Khasi villages all along the way.

Quick Travel Tips

• Always carry a light jacket or warm layer as Shillong's weather can turn cool and windy at any time of the day
• Visit Elephant Falls early in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds and enjoy the waterfall in peace
• Carry enough cash as many local markets and smaller eateries may not accept digital payments
• The road to Cherrapunji and Mawsynram can get very foggy — always travel with an experienced local driver
• Dress modestly and always ask permission before photographing local tribal people or religious ceremonies
• Try the local Khasi cuisine — especially Jadoh (rice and meat) and the fresh momos — for a truly authentic Shillong food experience