25 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong In 2020 That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul!

Sukanya Sen

Literally translating into an ‘abode of clouds’, Shillong is a breathtaking hill station which is nestled amidst the paradisaical Garo and Khasi hills. With sparkling waterfalls, manicured gardens, azure lakes, and distinct culture, this alluring hill town beckons you to witness the natural charm of Northeast at these 15 mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong. Referred as the ‘Scotland of the East’, the natural scenery of Shillong has a striking similarity with the mountains in the east. 

Best Time To Visit Shillong In 2020

The best time for Shillong tour is from the months of September to May. During these months, the weather is extremely pleasant with moderate rainfall. Shillong looks beautiful and invigorating during the monsoon season, but torrential rain may disrupt travel plans. So, June to August is certainly the best time to visit Shillong for those who wish to embrace the magic of rainfall.

25 Best Places To Visit In Shillong In 2020

Here are some of the best tourist attractions you must visit in Shillong to witness the ethereal beauty of the hill station.

• Umiam Lake: The Land Of Thick Vegetation
• Shillong Peak: Mystical Hill
• Elephant Falls: Serentity All Around
• Laitlum Canyons: Beauty Spread As Far As The Eye Can See
• Mary Help for Christian Cathedral: Peaceful Spot
• Ward’s Lake: Perfect For Soaking In Trnaquility
• Don Bosco Museum: Revisit The History
• Lady Hydari Park: Embrace The Mother Nature
• Air Force Museum: For The Patriotic Souls
• All Saints Cathedral: The Colonial Era Structures
• Phan Nonglait Park: Exotic Wildlife
• Sweet Falls: Escape The Hustle Bustle 
• Sohpetbneng Peak: Witness The Miniature Version Of Town
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: A Treasured Trove
• David Scott Trail: Ideal For Thrill Seekers
• Spread Eagle Falls: Natural Marvel For Relaxing
• State Museum: Get An Insight Into The Culture
• Mawphlang Village: That Fairytale Countryside
• Mawjymbuin Cave: Unfold The Mysteries
• Rhino Heritage Museum: For The Most Special Specie
• Botanical Garden: Peaceful Vibes
• Bishop Falls: The 22nd Highest Fall 
• Lumpongdeng Island: For Some Idyllic Views
• The Grand Madina Masjid: Essence Of Spirituality
• Ever Living Museum: One-Of-Its-Kind 

1. Umiam Lake

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Surrounded by thick coniferous forests and East Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong. Popular as Badapani, this is a sprawling man-made water body, formed by damming Umiam River. The lake is dotted with few small islands and the adjoining Lum Nehru Park is an ideal place for strolling and picnic.
Along with natural beauty, Umiam Lake is famous for thrilling water sports and fun activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, scooting, and is an important part of Shillong sightseeing itinerary.
Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 16.5 Kilometers
Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm
How To Reach: Hire a private cab from Police Bazaar to reach Umiam Lake

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2. Shillong Peak

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For a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys, visit Shillong Peak which happens to be the highest view point and one of the best places to visit in Shillong. Located at an elevation of 6449 feet and mostly surrounded by fog, Shillong Peak offers 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the distant hills, waterfalls, Shillong city, and plains of Bangladesh. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers and trekkers, this place is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Shillong.
Location: Shillong View Point, Shillong,793004
Distance From The City Centre: 4 kms
Timings: All Days – 9 am to 3:30 pm
How To Reach: One can take a bus or a private cab from the city centre and reach within 20 minutes.
Tip: Carry a valid ID proof for entry beyond the check post

3. Elephant Falls

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Counted as one of the most scenic places to visit in Shillong, Elephant Falls is a three-tier cascading beauty and the most spectacular waterfall of the city.The Britishers named it so because of a huge adjoining rock, that has an uncanny resemblance with that of an elephant. However, the rock is no longer seen ever since it was destroyed in an earthquake.
Here at Elephant Falls, Shillong, you can admire the beauty of foamy water dropping in layers, surrounding dense vegetation, and enjoy shopping for souvenirs from local shops located at the entrance.
Location: Upper Shillong, 793009
Timings: All days – 9 am to 5 pm
Distance From The City Centre: 11 Kilometers
How To Reach: Hire a cab or board a state-run bus from Police Bazaar.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Shillong That Will Entice You To Explore Meghalaya!

4. Laitlum Canyons

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Perched in the Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is the most offbeat name in the list of Shillong tourist places. Literally translating into the “end of the hills”, Laitlum Canyon is an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts, nature admirers, and peace seekers. Visit this hilltop viewpoint, and enjoy stunning views of gorges, distant hills, valleys, and zigzagging hilly roads.
Owing to the surrounding beauty and tranquility, this is surely one of the perfect places to visit near Shillong for honeymoon couples.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers
How To Reach: From Police Bazaar, drive for about 10 to 15 minutes towards Mawpat
road to reach Laitlum Canyons.
Tip: Since the destination comprises of a steep trek for a few kilometers, people with vertigo and breathing issues should be more careful while exploring the canyons.

5. Mary Help for Christian Cathedral

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Featuring high arches and stained glass windows, Mary Help of Christian Cathedral is one of the most famous churches in Shillong. The white marble building along with Mother Mary statue looks grand and elegant. This is certainly the most famous Shillong tourist spot.
Inside the Cathedral, there are some beautiful terracotta stations of the cross that showcases life events of Jesus. Perched high on a hill, one can also visit the Grotto Church which carved out the same hill and is located right below the Cathedral.
Location: Lachumiere, Shillong
Timings: Monday to Saturday – 7 am to 6:30 pm; Sunday – 8 am to 6:30 pm
Distance From The City Centre: 2 Kilometers
How To Reach: Take a cab and reach the Cathedral via the Don Bosco Road from Police Bazaar.
Tip: If you are visiting on a clear day, do not miss to enjoy the superb vista of Brahmaputra River and Himalayan Peaks from the Cathedral.

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6. Ward’s Lake

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During Shillong sightseeing, it is impossible to miss the Ward’s Lake. Located at the heart of the city, this is another famous lake in Shillong, also known as Polok Lake. The lake is encircled by cobblestone walkway, ideal for evening strolls. People visit this Shillong tourist spot, to enjoy the natural beauty, day picnics, watch dancing fountain shows or relax at the cafeteria, located by the lake. The wooden bridge on the lake and sprawling lotus beds on both sides make the place look immensely scenic.
Location: Police Bazaar, Shillong
Entry Fee: INR 5 per person; boating and camera charges extra
Timings: All Days – November to February – 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; March to October – 8:30 am to 7 pm
Distance From The City Centre: NA
How To Reach: Ward’s Lake is conveniently located at the heart of city near the Raj Bhavan.
Tip: Buy puffed rice from the entrance gate in case you plan to enjoy feeding the fishes.

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Gangtok To Experience North-East Like Never Before

7. Don Bosco Museum

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As one of the best places to visit in Shillong, Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures welcomes every tourist, art enthusiasts, and history buffs with open arms. Featuring art galleries, wide collections of handicrafts, artefacts, attires, ornaments, and weapons used by various tribes of North-east India, one can witness panoramic views of the entire Northeast India. The museum is located in the premises of Sacred Heart Church and is a seven storey building with seventeen different galleries.
Location: Mawlai, Shillong
Entry Fee: INR 50 per person
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Sundays
Distance From The City Centre: 5 kilometers
How To Reach: From the Police Bazar, embark on the Buddhist Temple Road or Camels Back Road to reach the museum easily.
Tip: Once you have seen all the galleries, walk up to the sky walk on the top to enjoy the jaw-dropping vista of Shillong city.

Suggested Read: 25 Places To Visit In Winter In India That Will Ensure You Give Your Quilt A Miss

8. Lady Hydari Park

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Named after the first lady of the province- Lady Hydari, this park is one of the most popular Shillong tourist places. The park comprises of a sprawling and manicured garden including beautiful rose beds and children’s play area. There is a mini zoo inside the park housing more than 73 species of birds and 100 species of reptiles.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm; Closed on Mondays
Distance From The City Centre: 2 kilometers
How To Reach: Drive for 5 to 10 minutes via MG road to reach Lady Hydari Park
Tip: Visit the park during the mornings as the local flock to the park in the evening and it will be difficult to find parking space for those who are traveling by car.

9. Air Force Museum

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Located within the complex of Eastern Air Command, Air Force Museum in Shillong is yet another sight of beauty and wonder that makes it one of the most popular places to see in Shillong. With galleries displaying various rockets, missiles, miniatures of fighter planes, badges, rank medals, and awards, this museum attracts all types of travelers throughout the year.
Location: 7th Mile, HQ, EAC, Shillong
Timings: 9 am to 2 pm; 2:30 pm to 5 pm; Closed on Wednesdays & Sundays
Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers
How to Reach: Embark on the national highway numbered 106 to reach IAF museum from the Police Bazar.
Tip: Carry valid ID proof which is required to enter the museum.

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10. All Saints Cathedral

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Considered to be one of the oldest churches in the city, All Saints Cathedral is certainly one of the best places to visit in Shillong. The building reflects a colonial style architecture along with wooden roofs whereas the internal structures add to the beauty and elegance of the Cathedral. Daily masses are organised here, but most footfall is seen during Sundays.
Location: Kacheri Road, Lachumiere, Shillong
Timings: The church is open on all days of the week from 8:30 Am to 5:30 Pm.
Distance From The City Centre: 1.4 Kilometers
How to Reach: Drive for about 5 minutes via MG Road from Police Bazar and once you reach the State Central Library, you can spot the church right opposite to it.
Tip: Plan well in advance so that you can explore other tourist attractions like Lady Hydari Park, State Museum, and Butterfly Museum that are located in close proximity to the Cathedral.

11. Phan Nonglait Park

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One of the best Shillong tourist places, Phan Nonglait Park is located right in the heart of the city. The beautiful Japanese style park attracts a huge flock of locals and tourists every day. You can spot animals like Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, Leopard, etc, in the zoo. The rich flora and fauna and numerous pretty ponds inside the park will win you over. You can even enjoy boating in the lake with enthralling scenery in the background.
Location: Lachumiere, Shillong
Timings: 8 Am – 5 Pm, Monday closed
Distance From The City Centre: 4 Kilometers from Shillong Bus Stand
How to Reach: It is located in the city and can be reached by cab.

12. Sweet falls

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Located in the serene location, Sweet Falls is a perfect place to get away from the hustle bustle of the fast-paced city life. One of the top places to visit in Shillong, this place offers you scenic views of nature. The picturesque roaring waterfall will make you forget about all your problems in life. Bathing under the waterfall is not allowed due to the intense velocity and height of the fall. However, you may wish to visit Mini Zoo and Butterlfy Park in the vicinity.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong
Timings: Open 24 hours
Distance From The City Centre: 12 Kilometers from Shillong City
How to Reach: The only way to reach here is to hire a taxi or rental car.

Suggested Read: 7 Reasons Why Shillong Is Called Scotland Of The East

13. Sohpetbneng Peak

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If you are looking for ideas for places to visit in Shillong Meghalaya , then you should definitely add Sohpetbneng Peak to your itinerary. Located on the outskirts of the city, the peak offers you the most thrilling views of the city. Its divine, tranquility, peace, and aura make it a must-visit attraction. The Khasi Tribe even regard as the ‘Naval of Heaven’. Do not forget to bring your camera along.
Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong
Timings: Open 24 hours
Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City
How to Reach: Take a taxi to reach the point. You may have to walk a bit to reach the pinnacle.

14. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

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Shillong is blessed with an abundance of nature. Its lush forests are its treasure and this is what makes Mawphlang Sacred Forest one of the top places to visit in Shillong. If you are a nature lover or wish to get into nature’s lap, you have got to devote your time to a forest trip on your North East vacation. You will be surprised to find a wide array of species of plants and trees. Some of them are even as old as 1000 years. You are not allowed to take anything from the forest since it is revered.
Location: Lum Sohpetbneng, Shillong
Timings: 9 Am – 4:30 Pm
Distance From The City Centre: 26 Kilometers from Shillong City
How to Reach: It takes about an hour to reach here. Take a cab or taxi.

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15. David Scott Trail

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Do you enjoy hiking? Then you must head out on David Scott Trail which is one of the most amazing Shillong tourist places. The 16-km adventurous trail not only offers you the best views of nature but also bestow upon a number of adventure activities. This trail is named after a British administrator, David Scott, who used this path as a horse cart track. If you are looking for an unlimited adventure, make sure you visit this place. It takes about 4 hours to cover 16 km of trail.
Location: Mawphlang, East Khasi Hills District
Timings: 6 Am – 8 Pm
Distance From The City Centre: 24 Kilometers from Shillong City
How to Reach: The start point is Mawphlang where you can reach by car.

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16. Spread Eagle Falls

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Shillong is a land of numerous mesmerizing falls and Spread Eagle Falls is one of the best places to see in Shillong. It is an idyllic spot where nature lovers and water babies can come to spend some time in nature and serenity. The sound of flowing water is the only therapy you will need to calm the chaos in your mind.
Also known as Sati falls, it is a great place for photographers. The wing like shape of the cascading waterfall is not only astounding but also a fine example of nature’s artistry.
Location: Laitumkhrah, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 3 km
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
How To Reach: Take a private cab.

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17. State Museum

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State Museum is a modest cultural museum that will give you a short information tour about the various tribes in Meghalaya. Also, known as Captain Williamson Sangma State Museum, this place is a must-visit for those who want to delve right into the cultural diversity of Shillong. Find a collection of traditional tools, music instruments, antiques, jewelry, and dinosaur models on display.
If you are a history buff, then you should definitely not miss this place. You may think that museums are boring but if you have nothing else to do, visiting this place might actually turn out to be fun. It is a
Location: Secretariat Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
Distance From The City Centre: 3 km
Timings: 10 AM-4 PM, Sat-Sun closed
How To Reach: The only way to get around Shillong is by foot or hiring a private taxi.

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18. Mawphlang Village

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Have you heard about the wild and beautiful Mawphlang Forest? The sacred forest is located in the village of Mawphlang. Once you are done with wandering in the forest, then you should take a tour around the heritage village that will give you an insight about the tribal life.
The village is located in the East Khasi hills and is surrounded by lush greenery and lofty mountains. The breathtaking landscapes will make your jaw drop in awe. The undulating meadows and layers of mist look so dramatic as if it is right out from a book.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
Distance From The City Centre: 25 km
Timings: NA
How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazaar for a day.

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19. Mawjymbuin Cave

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Meghalaya is full of surprises and one of the most fascinating things that exists in the north-eastern state is caves. The best part is that you can visit a few of these caves and wonder at the stalagmite and calcite formations. One such place is Mawjymbuin Cave.
Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic scenery, Mawjymbuin Cave is located near Mawsynram village. There is not even a single reason why you should visit this place except you are claustrophobic. The most prominent attraction inside the cave is a giant Siva Linga made from stalagmites.
Location: Mawjymbuiñ Rd, Meghalaya 793113
Distance From The City Centre: 58 km
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar. You may even take a bus from Shillong to Mawsynram.

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20. Rhino Heritage Museum

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Rhinos are in important part of Shillong’s heritage and culture. So, the people of Shillong have dedicated to an entire museum to the mighty animals. It is one-of-its-kind museum and, hence, an interesting place to visit in Shillong.
Apart from the sculptures and preservations of rhino, you will also find exhibit weapons and photographs of military operations inside the museum.
Location: Zigzag Rd, Ïewduh, Bara Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004
Distance From The City Centre: 5 km
Timings: 9am–1pm, 3–5pm, Thursday closed
How To Reach: You can hire a taxi.

Suggested Read: 10 Scenic Waterfalls in Meghalaya That’ll Leave Your Mesmerized

21. Botanical Garden

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Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in Shillong known for its impressive collection of special and rare orchids. It is a nice place to take a stroll in the afternoon when you want to spend some quality time with your spouse. If you are visiting Ward Lake, then you should definitely put this on your list too.
It is not necessary that you should be doing something all the time on your vacation. Have a few moments of respite and spend some amidst nature and peace at Botanical Garden in Shillong. .
Location: next to Ward Lake, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 3 km
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
How To Reach: Take a private taxi to drop you at the Botanical Garden.

Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit Near Shillong In 2020 For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty

22. Bishop Falls

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In case you didn’t know, Bishop Falls are the 22nd highest fall in the country. So, that should pique your interest for visiting this waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall drops from a height of 443 ft. The cascading waterfall is also accompanied by Beadon Falls. So, it is a double treat.
If you are coming to see the waterfalls from all the way, then it is best you pack a picnic with you. It is one of the best places to spend some time in nature with your family and loved ones. It gets more crowded on the weekends where locals come to take a respite.
Location: Mawprem, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 5 km
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
How To Reach: Tale a private taxi or a cab to the waterfalls.

Suggested Read: Breaking Records: World’s Longest Sandstone Cave Just Got Discovered In Meghalaya!

23. Lumpongdeng Island

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Lumpongdeng Island is on idyllic spot in the Umiam Lake ideal for boating and enjoying mesmerizing views of nature. Disconnect from the rest of the world and enjoy a stay on a houseboat if you like. The lake also provide opportunities for camping and trekking.
One cannot get enough of the astounding views of the lake and surroundings. You must capture shots of the island and lake in your camera to save it for a lifetime. The island is truly a getaway for peace seekers and photographers.
Location: Umiam Lake, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 17 km
Timings: NA
How To Reach: Hire a private taxi from Police Bazar to take you to Umiam Lake.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Shillong That Will Entice You To Explore Meghalaya!

24. The Grand Madina Masjid

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The GrandMadina Masjid in Shillong is had to miss because of its remarkable architecture. The largest mosque in north east India, it can accommodate upto 2,000 people at a time. You won’t be able to stop yourself from gazing at the glass dome and glass minarets. Wait till the evening when it is spectacularly lit.
There is even an orphanage and library inside the mosque where you can do some goodwill on your trip to Shillong. The museum is one of the most illustrating places to visit in Shillong
Location:
Distance From The City Centre:
Timings:
How To Reach:

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25. Ever Living Museum

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A one-of-its-kind-museum, Ever Living Museum is where you will get an insight to the culture of Gairo, Khasi, and Jaintia tribes. You will find coins, instruments, jewelry, utensils, handicrafts, and weapons on display in the museum.
Apart from that, there is even a stone collection in the museum where you find a unique collection of fossils, crystals, seashells and other items on display.
Location: Mawshbuit, Shillong
Distance From The City Centre: 9 km
Timings: 11 AM – 5 PM
How To Reach: Take a private taxi or cab from Police Bazar.

Further Read: 6 Trails That’ll Allow You To Experience Trekking In Shillong At Its Best

Planning a trip to Shillong anytime soon? Then make the most of your trip by including these mesmerizing places to visit in Shillong, that will spice up your whole holiday experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shillong

Q. Which are the best things to do in Shillong?

A. Trekking, Angling, Rafting, Horse Riding, and Kayaking are some of the best things to do in Shillong.

Q. Which are the best restaurants in Shillong?

A. City Hut, Qzine Restaurant, Munchies, and Jiva Sizzlers are some of the best restaurants in Shillong.

Q. Which are the best shopping places in Shillong?

A. OB shopping mall, Glory’s Plaza, Raps Mansion, and Paltan Bazar are some of the best shopping places in Shillong.

Q. Which are the most popular local dishes of Shillong?

A. Jadoh, Tungrambai, Kyat, Ktung, and Ki Ktu are some of the best local dishes that one must try when in Shillong.

Q. Which are the best places to visit in Shillong in December?

A. Though December is the coldest month in Shillong with minimum temperature as low as 6 degrees Celsius. If you still wish to explore Shillong, you can visit Don Bosco Museum, Shillong View Point, and Laitlum.

Q. Which are the best places to visit in Shillong in June?

A. June is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Shillong. The rainfall washes away the city producing scenic vistas for you. Elephant Fall and Spread Eagle are two of the beautiful falls in Shillong.

Q. Which are things that you should not do in Shillong?

A. Not making reservations before you arrive in Shillong and not carrying enough cash are two of the things you should not do in Shillong. ATMs here are scanty. Also, do not forget to carry your ID proofs.

Q. What is Shillong famous for?

A. Shillong has earned its fame because of numerous reasons with its vicinity to the wettest place on earth, quirky guest houses, many natural wonders, and the serene vibes topping the list.

Q. What is the best time to visit Shillong?

A. The best time to pay a visit to Shillong is anywhere between September to May. For those who wish to experience the monsoon season should visit Shillong from June to August.

Q. How many days are enough for Shillong?

A. For those who wish to travel around and cover all the major places in Shillong should visit this destination for at least 5 days.