If you are a fan of rainfall, waterfalls, scenic landscapes, unique culture, and warm people, then these places to visit in Shillong will satisfy your travel desires. If not, take a look at the top Shillong tourist places we have crafted for you to have the best sightseeing experience on your trip.
Enriched with verdant green peaks and pine trees, the best places in Shillong charm every tourist with their peace and beauty. Whether it’s cascading waterfalls or pristine lakes, museums or trekking trails, every tourist place in Shillong will leave you mesmerized.
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Blissful Meghalaya with KazirangaAs Shillong is located in Meghalaya, many travelers assume there is only lush greenery everywhere and that’s it! Shillong (along with lush greenery) has more to it than you can ever imagine.
Take a look at the Famous Shillong Tourist places that will rejuvenate your mind.
Umiam Lake – A Man-Made Reservoir
Visit the scenic Umiam Lake, one of the best places to visit in Shillong in 3 days, and admire its pristine beauty. Formed after the construction of a dam, the lake is enclosed with lush green East Khasi Hills that offer the most breathtaking views of Shillong. If you are a fan of sunrise, Umiam Lake is the perfect place to be.
And if traveling with family or a sweetheart, you can enjoy a picnic in peace. The beauty of Umiam Lake in Shillong pulls nature lovers in huge numbers from corners of the country as well to indulge in various water sports.
- Best time to Visit Umiam Lake: March to June
- Umiam Lake Timings and Fees: Boating – 9 am to 5 pm, starting at INR 20 per person. The water sports complex opens from 8 am and closes at 5 pm every day. The price for water sports varies.
Things to do at Umiam Lake:
- Indulge in boating.
- Enjoy various water sports like yachting, water scootering, cruising, and speed boating.
- Trek through the dense forests and camp at the Lumpongdeng Island.
- Catch Carps and Catfishes at Umiam Lake.
- Book the boathouse near the lake for a unique experience.
How to reach Umiam Lake
Take a taxi or a cab from Shillong. It will only take approx. 40 to 45 minutes to cover 17 km of distance by road.
Elephant Falls – Crystal Clear Waters
On a hunt to unravel the best of the natural wonders of Shillong? Elephant Falls is the perfect place. Named after an elephant-shaped rock, the Elephant Falls is one of the most scenic places in Shillong for nature lovers. Enveloped in lush greenery, the frothy water dropping in layers is a sight to behold.
This pristine waterfall’s crystal clear waters and the silence around will not make you want to leave it. If you are a romantic couple, Elephant Falls in Shillong is a must-visit to spend some romantic moments together.
Best time to visit Elephant Falls: The falls can be visited any time of the year. However, the monsoon season is the best time to go to Elephant Falls to enjoy the lush green vegetation and water flow.
Elephant Falls Timings and Fees: 10 am to 6 pm at INR 20 per person.
Things to do at Elephant Falls:
- Click some Insta-worthy photographs.
- Spend quality time together with your loved ones.
- Admire the beauty of the waterfall.
- Enjoy the peaceful and pollution-free environment.
How to reach Elephant Falls
The waterfall is located 12 km from Shillong by road. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a cab to reach Elephant Falls.
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Assam Meghalaya TourShillong Peak – Stunning Views of Hills and Valleys
Want to witness panoramic views of Shillong? Visit the highest point in Shillong, Shillong Peak. One of the best Shillong tourist places to visit, this peak is perched at 1961 meters above sea level. The breathtaking views witnessed from here will leave an imprint on your mind.
Lofty Himalayan peaks, cascading waterfalls, and plains of Bangladesh can be seen from Shillong Peak. If you are an adventurer, trekking is a popular activity to indulge in here. No wonder, it is a heaven for adventurers, trekkers, nature lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers.
- Best time to visit Shillong Peak: September to May
- Shillong Peak Timings and Fees: 9 am to 3.30 pm (closed on Wednesdays) at INR 30 per person.
Things to do at Shillong Peak:
- Witness scenic views of the Himalayas.
- Watch the birds fly through the gentle air.
- Click pictures with loved ones for memories.
How to reach Shillong Peak
The peak is located 10 km away from the main city and a cab or taxi will take around 40 min to take you here.
Ward’s Lake – Pristine Artificial Lake
If you seek to get away from the crowds, make your way to Ward’s Lake. Also known as Pollock’s Lake, this artificial lake is enclosed by a prolific lush garden that makes it a huge attraction among tourists. It is also a famous picnic spot for the locals that enjoy coming here for a simple walk around the horseshoe-shaped lake.
A small bridge is also built for visitors to enjoy the gorgeousness of the lake and witness tiny fishes floating in the water. For a memorable time, indulge in water activities at Ward’s Lake.
- Best time to visit Ward’s Lake: June and July
- Ward’s Lake Timings and Fees: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm at INR 10 per person.
Things to do at Ward’s Lake:
- Admire the beautiful flowerbeds.
- Enjoy picnicking with family, friends, or beloved.
- Feed the tiny fishes.
- Indulge in paddle boating and fishing.
How to reach Ward’s Lake
Take an auto rickshaw from Shillong Bus Stand to reach Ward’s Lake. It is located 2 km from the bus stand and takes only 7 to 8 minutes.
Sohpetbneng Peak – Navel of Heaven
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong, Sohpetbneng Peak is a major part of Shillong Tourism. Perched at 1343 meters, this peak offers a birds-eye view of the dense forests and the city of Shillong. A perfect scenic getaway, Sohpetbneng Peak holds historic as well as spiritual significance.
A tribal festival is celebrated on the first Sunday of February every year on which the Seng Khasi people reach this peak to conduct rituals and rites, and burst into song and dance. This makes Sohpetbneng Peak a significant place to see in Shillong.
- Best time to visit Sohpetbneng Peak: March to June
- Sohpetbneng Peak Timings and Fees: Open 24 hours with zero charges.
Things to do at Sohpetbneng Peak:
- Enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Witness the breathtaking views of Shillong.
- Bring a camera along to capture incredible pictures.
- Enjoy trekking to reach the peak.
How to reach Sohpetbneng Peak
You can take a taxi to Sohpetbneng Peak from Umiam Lake. The distance from the lake to the peak is approx. 8 km and will take around 20 minutes to reach.
Laitlum Canyons – Must-Visit for Trekking Enthusiasts
Meaning ‘End of Hills’, Laitlum Canyons is one of the less explored Shillong tourist places. If you are a trekker, these Laitlum Canyons should be on top of your list of places to explore in Shillong. Visit here and witness spectacular views of Meghalaya’s hills and valleys.
This place is secluded and serene, so if you do not like crowds, this is perfect for you. Sunrise and sunset are the two best things to see at Laitlum Canyons, which will leave a long-lasting impression on your mind. Plus, if you are one of the avid photographers, Lailtum Canyons is heaven for you.
- Best time to visit Laitlum Canyons: March to June
- Laitlum Canyons Timings and Fees: 6 am to 5 pm.
Things to do at Laitlum Canyons:
- Trek to Smit Village.
- Make your way to Rasong Village.
- Explore the trails in Laitlum Canyons.
How to reach Laitlum Canyons
Hire a private taxi to reach Laitlum Canyons from Shillong, which is about 21 km away and will take around 1 hour to reach.
Don Bosco Museum – Asia’s Largest Museum of Indigenous Tribes
Want to know the tribal culture and history of Meghalaya deeply? Head to Don Bosco Museum in Shillong. Featuring an extensive collection of tribal artifacts and indigenous articles, Don Bosco Museum is one of the top Shillong tourist places for history buffs.
There are seven floors in this museum that encompasses a total of 17 galleries namely Agriculture Gallery, Basketry Gallery, Ornaments and Jewelry Gallery, Fishing and Hunting Gallery, and more. These display sculptures, paintings, and artifacts that help you gain deeper knowledge about the history and culture of the state.
- Best time to visit Don Bosco Museum: March to June
- Don Bosco Museum Timings and Fees: 9 am to 5.30 pm (closed on Sundays) at INR 50 per person.
Things to do at Don Bosco Museum:
- Explore the galleries and witness paintings, sculptures, etc. on display.
- Visit Sacred Heart Church located on the premises.
How to reach Don Bosco Museum
An auto-rickshaw will take you to Don Bosco Museum from Shillong Bus Stand in about 10 minutes.
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Delightful Meghalaya TourPhan Nonglait Park – Japanese Style Park
With exotic fauna and flora, Phan Nonglait Park is among the major places to visit in Shillong near Police Bazar. Nature lovers and wildlife lovers can visit the zoo located here and make their visit memorable. This park was formerly called Lady Hydari Park, named after the first lady of the Governor of Assam.
The park has beautiful ponds and a zoo where you can witness Himalayan Black Bears, Leopards, Porcupines, and deer. Peaceful surroundings and beautifully manicured lawns with orchids and rhododendrons catch the attention of many travelers. If you are in Shillong with your family, make sure to visit Phan Nonglait Park for a memorable time.
- Best time to visit Phan Nonglait Park: March to June
- Phan Nonglait Park Timings and Fees: 9 am to 5.30 pm (closed on Sundays) at INR 50 per person.
Things to do at Phan Nonglait Park:
- Let your kids play at the Children’s Park.
- Witness Himalayan Black Bears, leopards, and more at the mini zoo.
- See the pictures of rare species of wildlife at the museum.
- Spend time in Butterfly Park.
- Sit by the pool to see the tiny fishes.
How to reach Phan Nonglait Park
Located 2 km from Police Bazar, it will only take 7 to 8 minutes to reach this park by taxi or an auto-rickshaw.
Khasi Heritage Village – Traditional Lifestyle of Khasi Tribes
To experience the lifestyle of the tribes of Meghalaya, there is no better place than Khasi Heritage Village. A tour of this village will showcase how the tribes live, their style of bedrooms, kitchens, and storehouses. It will be a great insight for you and you can also see the artifacts, tools, traditional daily and occasional items, and also weapons used by the Khasis.
There is also a long suspension bridge with an amphitheater that shows documentaries and organized stage shows during the Monolith Festival. So, if this interests you, visit Khasi Heritage Village and see Khasi’s musical talent.
- Best time to visit Khasi Heritage Village: March to June
- Khasi Heritage Village Timings and Fees: 8 am to 6 pm at INR 20 per person. INR 20 for the camera.
Things to do at Khasi Heritage Village:
- Witness the various artifacts, tools, and items used daily and occasionally by tribes.
- Watch the documentaries at the amphitheater.
- Attend the Monolith Festival.
- Watch the musical talent of the Khasi people.
How to reach Khasi Heritage Village
It is located approx. 27 km away from Shillong town and a cab ride will take 1 hour to reach here. The village is situated opposite Mawphlang Sacred Forest, which you can visit along with this place.
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Police Bazar – Heaven for Shopaholics
Love shopping? Police Bazar is one of the best shopping places to visit in Shillong city. Along with getting your hands on apparel, souvenirs, and local handicrafts, there are a number of restaurants like Jiva Sizzlers and City Hut, which are known for their lip-smacking snacks. Though it is the busiest place in Shillong, your tour will not be completed without a visit here.
From groceries to winter clothing, beauty kits to bags and shoes, there are many things to buy from Police Bazar. Glory’s Plaza, Megha Emporium and Khasi Emporium, and State-owned Emporiums are the most famous shops to buy things to take back home as memories.
- Best time to visit Police Bazar: March to June, October to February
- Police Bazar Timings and Fees: 8 am to 10 pm at zero charges.
Things to do at Police Bazar:
- Shop for winter clothing, makeup, and bags.
- Savor delicious foods like momos and jalebis at the restaurants.
- Buy organic farm produce items.
How to reach Police Bazar
Hire a taxi or cab from the place of your stay to reach Police Bazar. It is well laid out in the form of a big circle locally called Chowk and is connected to seven different roads.
Meghalaya State Museum – Experience Cultural Diversity
Meghalaya State Museum is a must-visit tourist place in Shillong for history buffs. The museum displays a huge collection of artifacts belonging to the tribal era and also has a vast collection of ancient scriptures. Meghalaya State Museum in Shillong is a cultural museum that provides visitors with information about the tribes of Meghalaya.
Also known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, it is set within the complex of State Central Library at Lachumiere and is maintained by the state govt. Come here to witness traditional tools, jewelry, musical instruments, and dinosaur models on display.
- Best time to visit Meghalaya State Museum: March to June, October to February
- Meghalaya State Museum Timings and Fees: 10 am to 4 pm (closed on Saturdays & Sundays) at INR 5 per person.
Things to do at Meghalaya State Museum:
- Witness the vast collection of tribal artifacts.
- Explore the museum and see the musical instruments and tools used by tribes.
- Visit the State Central Library.
How to reach Meghalaya State Museum
You can take a taxi to Meghalaya State Museum as it is located around 2.7 km from the Shillong Bus Stand and will take only 10 minutes to reach.
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Mary Help for Christian Cathedral – Striking Architecture
This Catholic Church is one of the top religious places in Shillong. If you love admiring the unique and brilliant architecture, Mary Help for Christian Cathedral is a must-visit tourist place in Shillong. The church is a great example of Gothic Revival architecture and thus, lures people from various cities.
Founded in 1936, the church is located atop a hill and offers serene views along with spirituality. You will love to witness the stained glass, the tall arches, and amazing artwork showcasing the scenes from the Holy Scriptures.
- Best time to visit Mary Help for Christian Cathedral: March to June
- Mary Help for Christian Cathedral Timings and Fees: 7 am to 6.30 pm with zero charges.
Things to do at Mary Help for Christian Cathedral:
- Admire the striking architecture of the church.
- Sit in silence and connect with the god.
- Witness stunning views atop a hill.
How to reach Mary Help for Christian Cathedral
Located on Don Bosco Road, you can walk to the church. You can also take a cab from the Police Bazar located around 3 km away via Hopkinson Road.
David Scott Trail – Perfect for Thrill-Seekers
Love hiking? Head on David Scott Trail as it is one of the most amazing places to visit in Shillong in December. This is a 16 km trekking trail that invites all thrill-seekers for a memorable time in Shillong. Moreover, it is one of the most popular adventure activities to indulge in or around Shillong town.
David Scott Trail is a section of the horse-cart track that a British Administrator called David Scott built. Now, many adventure lovers come here to satiate their travel desires. While trekking here, you will come across some splendid waterfalls, streams of crystal clear waters, dense forest groves, and picturesque valleys.
- Best time to visit David Scott Trail: October to February
- David Scott Trail Timings and Fees: 6 am to 8 pm with zero charges.
Things to do at David Scott Trail:
- Trek through the dense forests.
- Witness gushing streams, pristine waterfalls, and beautiful valleys.
- Connect with nature.
How to reach David Scott Trail
The trek starts from the village Mawphlang, located approx. 25 km from Shillong. You can take a shared vehicle from Bada Bazar or book a private cab to reach here. The trail ends at Lad Mawphlang near Cherrapunji.
Sweet Falls – Sounds of the Chirping Birds
Escape the hustle-bustle of Shillong town and drive to the beautiful Sweet Falls with your special ones. It is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong for couples to enjoy a peaceful environment. Families can enjoy a picnic and bond together in nature.
Located at a height of 94 meters, Sweet Falls in Shillong is visited by many locals as well for its verdant greenery and the sounds of the chirping birds. Doesn’t it sound heavenly? If it does, plan a trip from Shillong as this fall is located approx. 5 km from Happy Valley in Shillong. Don’t forget to visit the Butterfly Park and Zoo here.
- Best time to visit Sweet Falls: October to February
- Sweet Falls Timings and Fees: Sunrise to Sunset at INR 70 for vehicle parking.
Things to do at Sweet Falls:
- Enjoy the peaceful environment.
- Talk heart-to-heart with your beloved.
- Enjoy a picnic with your family.
- Visit Butterfly Park and Zoo.
How to reach Sweet Falls
Take a taxi from Police Bazar located approx. 12 km from Sweet Falls.
Air Force Museum – Ideal for Patriotic Souls
Learn about India’s defense history at the Air Force Museum in Shillong. Located within the complex of Eastern Air Command, this museum is one of the best tourist places to visit in Shillong Meghalaya for all those patriotic souls.
The museum displays a collection of aircraft models, miniature models of missiles, rockets, uniforms of pilots, machinery, and technology of the Indian Air Force-Eastern Command. Not only will this but you will also be able to see the pictures of the Indo-China war and the Indo-Pak war. Truly, this is one of those places in Shillong that will leave you captivated.
- Best time to visit Air Force Museum: October to February
- Air Force Museum Timings and Fees: 9.30 am to 2 pm, 2.30 pm to 5 pm (closed on Wednesdays & Sundays) at zero charges.
Things to do at Air Force Museum:
- Witness the models of missiles, aircraft, and more.
- Learn more about Indian Air Force-Eastern Command history.
- See the rare pictures of wars of India with China and Pakistan.
How to reach Air Force Museum
Hire a taxi from Police Bazar and embark on a journey on NH 106 to reach the Air Force Museum.
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Land of Seven Sisters Special ItineraryQuite intriguing, right? Shillong is a gem of a place dotted with whatever you can imagine – falls, museums, lakes, shopping markets, religious places, and more. So why wait? Pack your travel bags, grab your loved ones, and travel to the Abode of Clouds to explore the best places to visit in Shillong. Plan a trip to Shillong with Indian Holiday and make your sightseeing experience unforgettable.
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