Meghalaya, often known as "The Abode of Clouds," has Shillong, a charming village in Northeast India, as its capital. Besides that, it serves as East Khasi Hills' district administrative hub. The hills around the town are said to have given the British a Scottish feel. It was hence sometimes referred to as the "Scotland of the East." Shillong worked as the capital of composite Assam from the time of British colonization to the creation of the sovereign State of Meghalaya. There are various places to visit in Shillong that serves as a tribute to life, nature, history, and culture that you simply must take part in. In Shillong, there are plenty of captivating locations to explore. It is a must to say that one should visit Shillong when you go on a Meghalaya Tour Package as it offers an experience that comes just once in a lifetime and will force you to have a lengthy, silent talk with yourself. It's not simply a place. Visitor attractions in Shillong should unquestionably be at the top of your list!
Top 9 Best Shillong Tourist Place
Some of the best places to visit in Shillong are:
1. Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is a beautiful artificial reservoir that was created as a stunning result of building a hydroelectric dam on the Umiam River. It serves as a picturesque spot for picnics for visitors from all over the world. It is hence among the top Shillong tourist places. Covering an area of 222 square kilometers, the lake is tucked away between steep valleys and bordered by beautiful green Gulmohar trees. Offering a kaleidoscope picture of the region's natural beauty and rural and tribal lifestyle, the lake is bursting with diverse vegetation and animals, as well as native people. It is a marvelous treat for Shillong sightseeing and a photographer's and nature lover's heaven. Admire the jaw-dropping views of this lake's perimeter during sunrise and sunset. Along with its scenic surroundings, it provides visitors with a variety of aquatic activities and experiences. It is therefore the most well-known lake in Meghalaya.
2. Shillong Peak
There might not be a finer hilltop to meet your demands than the magnificent Shillong Peak if you want to get a spectacular bird's eye view of all the elegance Shillong has to offer. The highest point in Shillong is Shillong Peak, which is situated 1965 meters above sea level. Wrapped in an attractive mist, it is unquestionably one of the main reasons Shillong got the nickname as the "abode of clouds" and is hence one of the best places to visit in Shillong. A well-known myth states that the top of the mountain is the residence of "Lei Shyllong," Shillong's most worshiped patron god. The god is said to watch over and shield the city from the top of the hill. Shillong Peak is a piece of heaven that draws believers, spiritualists, and nature enthusiasts alike. It offers an unmatched sense of tranquil holiness. It is hence a well-known destination for Shillong tourists. The Indian Air Force's radar station is housed there as well, at the Air Force Base. It surely earns a spot on the list of popular tourist destinations in Shillong.
3. Elephant Falls
One of the most attractive Shillong best places to visit, Elephant Falls is located 12 kilometers outside the city and is breathtakingly gorgeous. It gets its name from a rock at the base of the fall that resembles an elephant. The 1897 earthquake, however, caused the granite to break down and fall apart out of shape. Elephant fall is a popular Shillong tourist places, the falls feature three sequential crystal waterfalls set against a backdrop of earthy hills. The first level of the falls marks a wide area by its flow, wrapped amongst evergreen trees. Particularly in the winter, the second waterfalls track a small riverbed and are fairly dark. The third waterfall becomes the main draw of the area with its free flow of pure water from the mouth of black rocks. Together, the three tiers of waterfalls create an extraordinary scene that is both refreshing and elegant. Nestled within thick vegetation, this is a naturally beautiful spot and among the top attractions in Shillong.
4. Ward's Lake
Ward's Lake is a well-known Shillong tourist destination, named following Sir William Ward, the Assamese chief commissioner who was involved in starting its development. Rich in vegetation and colorful flower beds, Ward's Lake is fondly nicknamed by the locals as Pollock's Lake. Established in 1894, this century-old lake continues to be Shillong's pure and pristine gem. While boating on this lake with a horseshoe shape, you'll get up close and personal with a variety of fish that give the lake its vibrant energy. Wardâs Lake is a fantastic getaway into the prime wealth of nature, whether you choose to stroll about this beautiful mirror-sheet lake or feed the vibrant fish. Ward's Lake is a popular spot for Shillong tourism and one of the greatest locations to visit in Shillong.
5. Don Bosco Museum
Shillong is home to several historic tribes, each with their own unique culture and customs. The well-known Don Bosco Museum, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shillong, is an attraction that perfectly represents the city's magnificent history and traditions. Known for being the biggest museum showcasing cultural heritage in Asia, it holds valuable antiques and artifacts that narrate the history of Northeastern India's civilization. This museum, which is built in the shape of a hexagon and has seven storeys and more than seventeen art galleries, has been visited by famous individuals including the princess of Thailand and notaries from the Rajya Sabha. It is decorated with sculptures, paintings, weapons, figures, and other treasures. Historians, academics, writers, lyricists, and musicians from all over the world are invited to participate in a variety of leisure activities and contests held there. It is a well-known tourist destination in Shillong and one of the most important locations to visit.
6. Shillong Golf Course
The world's largest, best, and oldest golf course is Shillong Golf Course, which is located in the East Khali region at an altitude of 5200 feet high sea level! Originally designed as a 9-hole golf course in 1898, Captain Jackson and C.K. Rhodes upgraded it to an 18-hole layout in 1924. This golf course has been known as the Gleneagles of the East since 1924. It is a sanctuary for environment and solitary lovers as well as golf fans, with its thick forests of pine and rhododendron. It is Meghalaya's pride because of its extraordinary and massive sight, which is something worth seeing. A delight for an amiable, enjoyable, and sporty retreat.
7. Laitlum Canyons
Situated in the East Khali Valleys, Laitlum Canyons is a famously popular destination for tourists seeking quiet and peace in Shillong. It is a well-kept secret in the town. Laitlum Canyons, which means literally "The End of Hills," offers a broad perspective of the hills. This secret mountaintop surrounded by beautiful grassland is a delightful place for disappearing into the depths of your solitude, far from the chaos of city life. It is among Shillong's top tourist destinations. Your troubles will seem tiny in comparison to the gorgeous valleys when you gaze down onto the stunning capital from atop. Come and absorb yourself in nature's silences; maybe you'll hear them whispering.
8. The Air Force Museum
Shillong is home to several famous galleries that showcase the nation's rich history, culture, and technological prowess. The Air Force Museum, which is situated in the Upper Shillong area, is one such magnificent museum that recounts the courageous history of India's defense. The Air Force Museum will teach you about the Indian Air Force, its heroic air warriors, and its proud past through displays like rockets, missiles, uniforms used by air force pilots, tiny models of aircraft, and photos from the Indo-China and Indo-Pak Wars. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Shillong is the air force museum complex, which also has a café and a gift store.
9. Mary Help for Christian Cathedral
The Mary Help for Christian Cathedral, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Shillong, is situated between Dhankheti and Laitunkhrah and is one of the city's most gorgeous cathedrals. Built to withstand earthquakes on a high plateau, it features impressive arches and large glass windows.
It was founded in 1980 and houses the tomb of Shillong's first archbishop, Hubert D' Rosario. The church, which is an expression of Gothic revival architecture, is decorated with holy scriptures and paintings that tell biblical stories and feature the lives of well-known holy saints. The church is named after Holy Mary, the mother of Lord Jesus Christ, and is glimmering with spirituality and peacefulness. It is a beloved location for Shillong sightseeing and, as such, one of the greatest locations to go in Shillong for a heavenly and spiritual retreat. It stands as a beautiful sanctuary against the backdrop of majestic snow-covered mountains and the respected Brahmaputra River.
With its perfect fusion of legacy and natural beauty, Shillong is a remarkable gold trove of artistic and natural marvels. Every location demonstrates the amazing natural beauty of Meghalaya, from the impressive Elephant Falls to the calming Umiam Lake.Discovering the living root bridges in Cherrapunji or taking in Ward's Lake's distinctive architecture are just two of the many delights Shillong has to offer. Don't pass up the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and locally made products at Police Bazaar or to immerse yourself in the culture at locations like the Don Bosco Museum. It is important to consider the weather while planning your vacation and to observe local traditions while you are there. Places to visit in Shillong offers everything from tranquil retreats in the countryside to thrilling experiences in the hills. High time! Pack your bags and leave for shillong.
