7 Must Things to Do and See in Shillong – Complete Guide

Shillong, the capital of the state of Meghalaya, is a must-visit place in India. Shillong was used to be a small village peacefully settled in the mountains.

Now it is a picturesque hill station. Surrounded by aromatic pine trees, enchanting waterfalls, ancient megaliths, mesmerizing forests, all in a dreamy landscape.

We often refer Shillong to ‘Scotland of the East’ because of its incredible scenic beauty. Shillong has its own ancient culture and heritage and is a fascinating place to explore. There are several other places which one can visit in Shillong. Let’s check out the 7 must thing to do and see in Shillong.

Whenever you get the scope to travel Shillong, then you must visit the listed places:

1. Don Bosco Museum at Mawlai
2. Umiam Lake (Barapani)
3. David Scott’s Trail
4. Bara Bazaar in East Khasi Hills
5. All Saint’s Cathedral
6. Cafe Shillong
7. Elephant Falls
8. Conclusion
9. Frequently asked question

1. Don Bosco Museum at Mawlai

Don Bosco Museum is an acclaimed museum in Asia for the promotion of indigenous and tribal cultures. This museum has major tourist attraction that provides a glimpse of the rich and multi-cultural lifestyles, history and traditions of the indigenous peoples of North East India.

The Museum, showcasing several galleries, gives an insight into the beautiful and diverse cultural richness of the seven states of India’s North-East under one roof. The Museum, run by the Salesians of Don Bosco of the Catholic Church, houses and documents the various indigenous cultures, with tools, clothing & artifacts on display.

2. Umiam Lake (Barapani)

Umiam Lake is a mesmerizing man-made reservoir which is located in Nongpoh at a distance of 15 km from the heart of Shillong. This serene lake, is also called as Barapani, which is surrounded by the thick dense forests and spreads over the 10 square km.

This scenic lake is enriched by lush green East Khasi Hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers. The sunrise at the lake is a treat to watch and should not be missed.

The lake has a park adjoining it which is a hotspot for picnics and has various water sports enjoy kayaking, skiing, rowing, and boat riding. In summer, the shores are adorned by beautiful Gulmohar trees and in winter, the water level recedes and turns azure.

3. David Scott’s Trail

We consider this to be the best place for trekking in Meghalaya where you could feel the real charm of this ever-enthusiastic adventure activity. It is a beautiful-day trek starting from Mawphlang and ending at Lad Mawphlang with a stretch of 16 km.

The trek passes through cascading waterfalls, sprawling meadows, tropical trees, tribal villages and breath-taking valleys, which seems to be a part of wonderland. The scenery that you come across is stunning.

There is a sparkling river which seems like moving with you, sometimes disappear, and back again coming to the fore at regular intervals.

4. Bara Bazaar in East Khasi Hills

Also known as ‘Lewduh Market’, Bara Bazar is one of the oldest and largest traditional market and trade center in the whole of North East. Most of the shopkeepers here are women and there are several monolithic gods and goddesses out there.

From betel nuts and betel leaves to local handicrafts, you will find it all here. The best thing you can shop from here are flat bamboo items such as mats, hats and other decorative items.

There are chances that you will witness some varieties of vegetables and fruits indigenous part of the country only. This is a must-visit bazaar to discover more concerning the culture of Shillong.

5. All Saint’s Cathedral

This church is one of the oldest and most visited place in Shillong. All Saint’s Cathedral was built during the British Raj. The British were fond of the greenery, waterfalls, hills, and forests of Shillong.

Boasting of wooden colonial-style architecture, the church originally was built on Kacheri road. But got completely damaged in the year 1897 due to earthquake.

Later, a new church was constructed in 1902. This church is located opposite to State Central Library and is the perfect place to spend some peaceful moments.

6. Cafe Shillong

Situated in the beautiful Shillong hills, Cafe Shillong is a charming boutique bungalow. It is an ideal place for travelers who love the typical old style of architecture and simplicity.

The incredible interiors and breathtaking views from the rooms along with legendary hospitality ensure a memorable experience. A short walk away is Cafe Shillong Street, the trendy cafe that has re-defined coffee culture in the hill stations.

I advise tourists searching for the pulse of modern Shillong to drop in for coffee a conversation.

7. Elephant Falls

Named after an Elephant like a stone at its foot this dramatic, multi-tiered waterfalls in picturesque. It is Surrounded with easy walking trails and stairs among-st the most popular falls in the North-East.

It is a tourist’s paradise with three layers of the falls from different vantage points. This is awesome place to travel and to spend time in amidst nature along with capturing the incredible moments as souvenir. Located at around 12 km away from Shillong this is one of the most visited falls in the beautiful state.

Conclusion

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya beautifully enclosed with pine trees. An incredible combination of amazing mountain peaks, transparent lakes, stunning golf courses, zoos and museums are the main attractions. It is popular for music as well, this place has given many well known musicians to the country. If you are planning anyway to explore Shillong.

Frequently asked question

Kumar Amritanshu