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Shillong- Your Guide to The Scotland of the East India

Shillong tourism numbers are skyrocketing in recent years and why not! This beautiful town in Meghalaya has always been a hotspot for tourists in Eastern India, and is called the Scotland of the East for its sheer beauty and abundance of charm. A trip to Shillong is just what you need to be re-energized and refreshed ahead of newer challenges ahead!

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Best Time to Visit Shillong

The best time to visit Shillong is between the months of March and June since summers are not scorching here and the weather is pleasant (but naturally!) due to the mountains. October to February is also the best time for Shillong tour according to many since the weather is amazing although the winter months can be a little colder than you expected!

Best Places to Visit in Shillong

  1. Ward’s Lake
  2. Elephant Falls
  3. Lady Hydari Park
  4. Mawlynnong Waterfall
  5. Umiam Lake
  6. Laitlum Canyons

1. Ward’s Lake

 This is also referred to as Nan-Polok or Pollock’s Lake and is one of the biggest attractions to visit here, being an artificial lake located amidst beautiful botanical gardens and you can get amazing views of the orchids and several other rousing flowers. This is the perfect place to walk around at peace with yourself, over the bridge or simply feed the fishes at a quaint spot. You can also go boating and click a few DP-worthy selfies in front of the fountains.

2. Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls

 This is located 12 kilometres away from Shillong and is only a few minutes away from the Shillong Peak which is the highest point in the town. This waterfall is often known locally as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew and the two-tiered marvel will wow you as it falls down the mountain amidst a green and soul stirring landscape, finally reaching a beautiful lake.

3. Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydri Park

 Lady Hydari Park is spread over at least 1 kilometre and is a nicely maintained garden cum mini zoo with 140 species of reptiles, 73 species of avifauna and other occupants like deer. You can spot jackals, leopards, kites, porcupines, mynahs, hornbills and Himalayan black bears here. The park also has several plants and orchids.

4. Mawlynnong Waterfall

Mawlynnong Waterfall

 Mawlynnong is one of Asia’s cleanest villages and this waterfall is definitely a dream sight, roaring down from an imposing height! No matter how many pictures you take, the images will always remain freshest in your mind!

5. Umiam Lake

 One of Shillong’s biggest attractions, the Umiam Lake is straight out of a picture book with its surrounding mountains and amazing views. The lake is beautiful and is also called Barapani locally. This is one of those destinations where you can simply relish the peace and quiet all by yourself or with loved ones for company.

6. Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum Canyons

 This spot is where you can get a view of the beautiful Shillong complete with the fog and mist that you adore! This viewpoint is a coveted one for all tourists and those who love adventure. The view of bamboo plants and greenery dotted hills along with the floating clouds and orchids is definitely a treat, not just for the eyes but also the soul.

How to Reach Shillong

If you’re travelling by air, you can fly to Guwahati which has the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport. This is located approximately 115.1 kilometres away from Shillong. The journey is very nice indeed. There is also the smaller Umroi Airport which is 39 kilometres away from Shillong. Taxis/Cabs are readily available to help you reach Shillong from either of the two airports.

If you’re traveling by train, you can try accessing the Guwahati Railway Station which is situated around 96.3 kilometres away from Shillong. In similar fashion, you will have to board a cab/taxi from here. There are several buses that ply between Shillong and Guwahati as well along with many MTC (Meghalaya Transport Corporation) buses.

The journey between Guwahati and Shillong usually takes around 2 ½ to 3 hours depending on the road conditions.

What Shillong Offers

What Shillong offers above everything else is a state of peace, calm and serenity. This is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit, with its glittering waterfalls and the enchanting landscape all around. There are pristine lakes where you will lose yourself in the harmonious melody of the gurgling water and surrounding majestic mountains along with several fabulous viewpoints and of course, the highest point in Shillong which is called the Shillong Peak. There is of course, the Shillong Golf Course with 18 holes to boot!

Shillong is great for shopping and dining and you will love the experience at the Lewduh Market where there are several lip-smacking dishes, handicrafts, shawls and other garments on offer. All in all, Shillong offers some of the best places to visit & travel experiences for nature lovers.

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