Shillong Tour Guide 2024 – Complete Travel Itinerary, Best Places to Visit, Hotels & Travel Tips
Shillong Tour
If you’re dreaming of a serene getaway surrounded by misty hills, cascading waterfalls, colonial structure, and a precise tribal way of life, then a Shillong tour must be on your bucket list. Nestled inside the northeastern state of Meghalaya, Shillong is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” for its rolling hills and plush landscapes. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or someone trying to discover India’s hidden gems, Shillong has all of it.
This in-intensity guide will stroll you via every element of your Shillong tour: from the way to get there, the satisfactory time to go to, pinnacle points of interest, itinerary ideas, meals hints, buying spots, and much greater. Let’s begin your journey to Shillong!
Why Visit Shillong?
Shillong sticks out due to its combination of herbal splendor, colonial history, and rich tribal way of life. With satisfactory weather all through the year, it’s a haven for tourists seeking to unwind and hook up with nature.
Highlights:
- Umiam Lake
- Elephant Falls
- Laitlum Canyons
- Don Bosco Museum
- Live music way of life
- Friendly locals
Best Time to Visit Shillong
| Season | Months | Highlights | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring/Summer | March-May | Blooming flowers, comfortable weather | Ideal for all tourists |
| Monsoon | June-September | Lush greenery, active waterfalls | Best for nature photography, but roads can be slippery |
| Autumn | October-November | Clear skies, post-monsoon freshness | Best time to explore |
| Winter | December-February | Cold, festive vibe | Great for honeymooners |
How to Reach Shillong
Air:
- Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati)
- Distance to Shillong: 125 km (3-four hours power)
Rail:
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
Road:
- Taxis, shared cabs, and buses are available from Guwahati to Shillong.
Top Tourist Attractions in Shillong
| Attraction | Description | Entry Fee |
| Umiam Lake | Scenic man-made reservoir ideal for boating and picnics | ₹20-₹50 |
| Elephant Falls | Beautiful three-tier waterfall | ₹30 |
| Shillong Peak | Highest point in Shillong with panoramic views | ₹30 |
| Don Bosco Museum | Cultural museum showcasing Northeast tribes | ₹100 |
| Ward’s Lake | Serene lake with boating and garden walks | ₹20-₹30 |
| Laitlum Canyons | Breathtaking cliff-side views and trekking | Free |
| Cathedral Church | Neo-Gothic architecture and peaceful ambiance | Free |
Shillong Tour Itineraries
1-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Umiam Lake, Police Bazaar
- Day 2: Elephant Falls, Don Bosco Museum, Ward’s Lake
- Day 3: Shillong Peak, Laitlum Canyons
2-Day Itinerary
- Day 4: Day trip to Cherrapunji (Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave)
- Day 5: Mawphlang Sacred Forest
3-Day Itinerary
- Day 6: Visit Dawki and the crystal-clean Umngot River
- Day 7: Explore Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village
Best Hotels and Resorts
| Hotel Name | Location | Type | Price Range |
| Ri Kynjai | Umiam Lake | Luxury Resort | ₹7000–₹12,000 |
| Polo Towers | Central Shillong | Premium Hotel | ₹5000–₹9000 |
| Café Shillong | Laitumkhrah | Boutique Hotel | ₹2500–₹4500 |
| The Heritage Club | Tripura Castle | Heritage Stay | ₹3500–₹8000 |
| Airbnb | Various | Budget/Family | ₹1000–₹3000 |
Local Cuisine to Try
- Jadoh: Khasi rice and meat dish
- Donning: Pork cooked with black sesame
- Tungrymbai: Fermented soybeans
- Smoked red meat with bamboo shoot
- Momos and Thukpa
- Local teas and fruit wines
Shopping in Shillong
- Police Bazaar: Clothes, handicrafts, road meals
- Lewduh Market: Traditional Khasi items, sparkling produce
- Laitumkhrah: Boutique shops and nearby cafés
Weather Guide through Season
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Climate |
| Jan | 5–15 | Cold, dry |
| Apr | 12–25 | Mild and pleasant |
| Jul | 15–22 | Rainy and lush |
| Oct | 10–20 | Cool and fresh |
| Dec | 6–16 | Chilly with festive vibes |
Estimated Trip Cost Table
| Expense | Estimated Cost (5 Days per Person) |
| Travel (From Guwahati) | ₹1500–₹3000 |
| Accommodation | ₹4000–₹8000 |
| Food | ₹2000–₹3000 |
| Entry Fees | ₹500–₹1000 |
| Local Transport | ₹1000–₹2000 |
| Miscellaneous | ₹1000 |
| Total Estimate | ₹10,000–₹18,000 |
Travel Tips
- Carry warm garments even in summer evenings
- Use sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Hire local guides for treks and woodland visits
- Respect local customs and environment
- Try to e book accommodation earlier all through height seasons
FAQs
Q: Is Shillong secure for solo vacationers?
Yes, Shillong is one of the safest locations in Northeast India, particularly for solo lady vacationers.
Q: Is a permit required to go to Shillong?
No unique permit is needed for Indian residents. Foreign nationals may need to sign up at the Foreigner’s Registration Office.
Q: How many days are perfect for a Shillong tour?
A 5-day experience is right to cowl Shillong and nearby locations like Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong.
Q: Can I go to Shillong in the course of the monsoon?
Yes, however be prepared for avenue delays because of heavy rains. Waterfalls are at their best at some stage in this time.
Final Thoughts
A Shillong tour in 2024 gives an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re watching at the sunrise over the Laitlum Canyons, boating at Umiam Lake, or exploring tribal history on the Don Bosco Museum, Shillong has a wonder at every flip. Plan your ride with this comprehensive manual and get ready for a memorable Northeast Indian journey!
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