Since Shillong has a military airbase, no commercial flights land at the airport there. So, you have to take a flight till Guwahati and from there, book a car to Shillong. It takes around 3-3.5 hours to reach the city from Guwahati and the route is scenic; it is filled with curvy lanes and green pines. While you are about to enter the Shillong city, you will first come across the Umaim Lake which is one of the famous tourist spots in Shillong. Surrounded by beautiful hills, the crystal blue water of this lake sparkles in all its glory when the mild rays of the sun fall upon it. This entire area is known as the Bara Pani which, in its literal translation, means ‘Big Lake’.
After a halt at this mesmerizing place, you move ahead to your destination – the city of Shillong. The cool aura in the city, the lush green trees, and the European style structures will take you to a whole new world. After you check-in at your hotel, you can take some rest and in the evening you can explore the most happening part of the city – Police Bazaar.
Known to be the hub of street shopping, Police Bazaar offers you locally made footwear that lasts a lot longer than you expect it to. Adding to this, you can enjoy some mouth-watering momos, chicken soup, pork kebabs, etc.
One of the must-have places in your Shillong itinerary is the Laitlum Canyon. Located on the outskirts of the city, this place will give you the tranquillity you have been longing for. Nestled along the East Khasi Hills, the beauty of Laitlum Canyons will make a place in your heart forever. You can book a local taxi for your trip here, however, since the road to the canyons is steep, you might have to trek a while – don’t worry, it is worth the effort.
On your way back to the city, you will come across a big and beautiful iron gate, the beauty of which will leave you astounded. Not many are aware of this, but it is the King’s House which is fondly known as the Syiem’s House. Surrounded by beautiful Gulmohar and pine trees, it is said that this house doesn’t have a single nail hammered in it, which, as a matter of fact, is true. The Syiem’s House is one of the oldest infrastructures in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong. Make sure this place makes it to your trip itinerary for Shillong.
Yet another must-see place during your Shillong trip is this peak that is located 1966 m above the sea level. Known as the Shillong Peak, it offers a panoramic view of the entire city from its viewpoint. You will find small local shops selling beautiful woollen clothes, scarves, and gloves that are custom-made by the locals of the Upper Shillong district. It is also a favourite destination of honeymoon couples as there is a spot in the peak for couples to click pictures.
The next tourist place to visit in Shillong is the majestic Elephant Falls. Levelled in three tiers, the final viewpoint of the falls will leave you mesmerized. Since the water falls in the shape of the elephant’s face, it has earned its name as the ‘Elephant Falls’.
If you are in Shillong, your tour itinerary must have these two places. Cherrapunji is a paradise for nature lovers. This little town has some of the most incredible tourist spots that will leave you in awe. One of the most famous spots is the Double Decker Living Roots Bridge. A naturally created bridge, this bridge was made by the locals of the towns by tying the living roots of the trees for decades. With dense lush greens and the beautiful stream flowing across, this place affords a picturesque view to its visitors.
After exploring Cherrapunji for a day, the next place that you need to include in your 7-day itinerary for Shillong is Mawlynnong. It is a 2-hour drive from Cherrapunji and is yet another beautiful place blessed with nature’s love. Quite interestingly, Mawlynnong has won the title of “Cleanest Village in Asia”. You can spend an entire day in the village as you explore the natural beauty around and get acquainted with the locals.
Yet another destination that is a must-include in your Shillong itinerary is Dawki. Located around 35 km from Mawlynnong, it is a 1-hour drive that will take you to the world of crystal clear water. One of the main attractions here is the Umngot River where you can go for a boat ride and experience what the world underwater looks like. The water is so clear that it practically shines silver when the sun rays fall upon it. Other than this, you can also explore the local Dawki market and relish the delicious dishes from the West Khasi Hills.
You cannot conclude your trip to Shillong without paying a visit to the majestically structured churches. The city proudly boasts about its culture with people from all religions living in harmony. One of the biggest churches in the city is the Mary Help of Christian’s Cathedral which is located in Laitumkhrah. Coloured in a pleasant blue colour and surrounded by beautiful shrubs in its periphery, this church is must-visit place in your tour itinerary for Shillong. During the evenings, the ambience here is simply mystical.
Shillong is a city where spending even a day will rejuvenate your mind and soul. Now, with theShillong tour packagesthat are available online, you can easily plan a quick trip to Shillong and cuddle up in the embrace of nature.
