Shillong is a beautiful hill station on the foothills of the Patkai hill range. It is situated on a sub-mountain range of the Himalayas, spanning a land area of 64.3 sq. km, with a population of 1.43 lakh people dwelling within.
It is known to resemble the Scottish Highlands. Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and is in the north-east part of India.
Things to do in Shillong
Since it is a hilly region, it is resplendent with nature’s beauty lurking in every corner. Cladded with lush greenery and water sources, home to many waterfalls and lakes, it is a wondrous place for sight-seeing. You can also try the indigenous delicacies of this hilltop like momos, fermented fish, and bean dishes like ‘Tungtab’ and ‘Tarumbai’. If you are a meat-lover, you can try their special ‘Dohneiiong’, which is made from pork meat. You can also explore the limestone caves and dense forests here.
Tourist attractions in Shillong
The tourist places here include Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake, Umaim Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Sweet Falls and Beadon Bishop Falls. You cannot miss out on Laitlum Canyons and other famous places like the Cathedral of Mary Help and the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures.
Places to shop in Shillong
You can find the best shopping hauls at local markets like Dawki Market, Lewduh Bazaar, Polo Bazaar and Laitumkhrah Market. Tourists usually get items like nuts and berries, Orange honey, essential oils, handmade soaps, shawls and handloom products.
Best time to visit Shillong
The ideal time for tourism in Shillong is from September to May when the climate is just right for travellers and tourists to storm in and spend weeks at the hill station.
Modes of transport
Though Shillong is located on hilly terrain, it has access to rail and road transport. Most natives use bazaar buses to travel nearby. At the same time, tourists usually choose the tourist buses available here to move around the place.
Weather in Shillong
Summers are characterised by delightful temperatures of about 23oC and frequent spells of rain. Monsoons are usually between June and August, bestowing heavy rainfall in the area.
Airport in Shillong
The airport in Shillong is called the Umroi Airport (IATA: SHL). It is a civilian airport, located 30 km from Shillong. For more information on IndiGo flights, visit www.goindigo.in.