Meghalaya's capital city is Shillong. At an average elevation of 1520 meters (4990 feet) above sea level, it is a stunning hill station. In the year 1864, the British government founded Shillong town.
Since the British established Shillong as the civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in 1864, the city has gradually expanded in size. Shillong was selected as the seat of the new government when Assam was established as the Chief Commissioner's Province in 1874. This was due to the city's advantageous location between the Brahmaputra and Surma valleys, as well as the fact that its climate was significantly milder than that of tropical India.Up until the establishment of the new state of Meghalaya on January 21, 1972, Shillong served as the capital of undivided Assam. Assam thereafter relocated its capital to Dispur in Guwahati.
Location and Geography
The elevation of Shillong is approximately 1,496 meters (4,875 feet) above sea level.
The Khasi Hills, a portion of the greater Meghalaya plateau, is where it is situated.
Climate: The climate in Shillong is subtropical and highland. Winters are frigid, frequently falling below 10°C, while summers are cool, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.
The Past
During the 19th century British colonial era, Shillong was founded as a hill station. It was picked because of its temperate climate, which offered relief from the plains' heat.
The Khasi deity "Shyllong," who is thought to have blessed the region, inspired the name.
Following India's independence, Meghalaya was established in 1972, with Shillong serving as its capital.
1. Summer, from March to June
Weather: This time of year has comfortable, cool temperatures between 15°C to 25°C, which make it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Why Go: Due to the pleasant weather in contrast to the intense heat of the plains, this is Shillong's busiest travel season. It's a fantastic time to explore the parks, lakes, waterfalls, and natural beauties of the city.
Activities: Take pleasure in outdoor pursuits such as hiking to Shillong Peak, boating at Umiam Lake, and viewing Elephant Falls. The lovely weather is ideal for strolling around the city and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C, and the weather is still cold. The area becomes lush and verdant when the monsoon rains, which stretch from June to August, end.
Why Go: Because the sky are clear and the landscapes are revitalised by the monsoon rains, this time of year is regarded as one of the greatest times to visit Shillong. Trekking, sightseeing, and outdoor enjoyment are all encouraged during this season.
Activities: With less tourists, this is a great time to see the stunning hills, lakes, and waterfalls. The weather is ideal for taking in Shillong's and the surrounding areas' natural splendour.
Weather: It can get very cold, with lows of 3°C to 10°C, particularly at night.
Why Go: If you like chilly weather, winter is the best time to go. Shillong provides a gorgeous experience with its foggy mornings and cool evenings. Though it is conceivable in the higher elevations nearby, snowfall is uncommon in the city.
Activities: This is a great time to travel if you enjoy the winter atmosphere. It may be colder, but the peace and beauty are unparalleled. You can visit cafes, take in the city's Christmas festivities, and take in the picturesque views from Shillong Peak.
Weather: Shillong experiences a lot of rainfall during this time of year, which is considered the rainy season.
Why Avoid: Although Shillong is stunning in the monsoon season, transport is sometimes disrupted by landslides due to heavy rains. If you want to explore the outdoors or partake in outdoor activities like boating or trekking, now is not the ideal time to go.
Activities: It might still be an option if you don't mind the rain and would rather avoid visitors, although certain places might be hard to get to and the roads can be slick.
Although Shillong lacks a direct train station or airport, getting there is rather easy.
The following is how to get to Shillong:
1. Through the air (most popular)
The closest airport to Shillong is Umroi Airport, also known as Shillong Airport, which is roughly 30 kilometres away from the city. Nevertheless, this airport's connectivity is restricted, primarily to Kolkata. Assam's Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (also known as Guwahati Airport) is the better place to fly if you're travelling from a big city like New Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru.
From Shillong to Guwahati
Distance: It takes two to three hours to drive from Shillong to Guwahati, which is roughly 100 miles away.
Options for Travel
By Taxi: From Guwahati Airport to Shillong, you can rent a private vehicle or a taxi.
By Bus: Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) offers reasonably priced buses that go from Guwahati to Shillong.
By Private automobile: One practical option to go to Shillong is to rent a private automobile or take a shared car journey.
2. By Train Nearest Railway Station
There isn't a direct train station in Shillong. About 100 kilometres away is Guwahati Railway Station, the closest major train station.
From Guwahati to Shillong: You can take the bus or cab described above to go to Shillong after arriving in Guwahati by train.
Train Options: New Delhi, Kolkata, and other regions of Assam and Northeast India are just a few of the main Indian cities that are easily accessible from Guwahati Railway Station.
3. By Road From Guwahati
Shillong has excellent road access to Guwahati and other Northeast Indian cities. The drive is picturesque, passing through Meghalaya's stunning hills and valleys.
Distance: About two to three hours by bus or automobile from Guwahati, which is about 100 kilometres away.
Options for Transportation
By Taxi: You can rent a private vehicle or take one of the taxis that run between Guwahati and Shillong.
By Bus: Regular services between Guwahati and Shillong are provided by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and private buses.
By Private Vehicle: You can also travel to Shillong from Guwahati by renting a vehicle.
From Other locations: Shillong has road connections to Jorhat, Tura, and Kohima, among other locations.
4. Through Shared Cabs or Taxis
For those on a tight budget, shared taxis are a common choice, particularly while travelling from Guwahati to Shillong. These are easily accessible at the railway station and Guwahati Airport. Usually carrying four to six people, the shared cabs transport you straight to Shillong.
Advice for the Trip: Be ready for potential landslide-related road closures if you're going during the monsoon season (June to August).
Prior to your travel, always check the road conditions, particularly during the winter months when fog can make driving challenging.
Keep some cash on hand because ATMs might not be easily accessible in some isolated locations.
1. Umiam Lake
Activities: Taking pictures, boating, and taking in the tranquil surroundings.
2. Elephant Falls
One of Shillong's most well-known natural landmarks, this two-tiered waterfall is worth seeing. It is named for a rock that looked like an elephant, but erosion has destroyed the rock.
Activities: Take a little walk, explore the neighbourhood, and savour the cool view of the waterfall.
3.Shillong Peak
The city's highest point, Shillong Peak provides sweeping views of Shillong, the surrounding hills, and Bangladesh's plains.
Activities: Take in the stunning vistas, take pictures, then go to the temple at the top.
4. Ward's Lake
Why Go? Ward's Lake is an artificial lake encircled by lovely gardens in the centre of Shillong. It's a tranquil spot to unwind and go for a long walk.
Activities include boating, strolling around the lake, and taking in the immaculately kept gardens.
Why Go: The goal of this cultural centre is to preserve and promote Northeast India's traditional customs. The habits, traditions, and ways of life of the different tribal communities in the area are displayed in the museum.
Activities: Take in the beautiful views from the centre, explore the exhibits, and learn about the local way of life.
6. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons, which is around 20 kilometres from Shillong, provides some of the most breathtaking views of the Khasi Hills. Trekkers and those who enjoy the outdoors will love this less busy location.
Activities: Hiking, taking pictures, and admiring the tranquil splendour of the hills.
7. Mawphlang
Known for its sacred trees, which are a part of the Khasi ethnic customs, Mawphlang is about 25 km from Shillong. The town is a fantastic location for nature treks and is encircled by thick trees.
Activities: Take natural walks, explore the sacred woods, and discover Khasi culture.
8.Shad Suk Mynsiem
Why Go: This colourful festival is a fantastic chance to get a taste of the Khasi culture in Shillong if you're there in April. The harvest season is celebrated with traditional dancing, music, and feasts.
Activities: Take in the culture, dancing acts, and customs by going to the festival.
9. Police Bazaar
Shillong's commercial hub, Police Bazaar, offers a variety of contemporary and native attractions. You can purchase clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts, and local cuisine here.
Activities: Street cuisine, shopping, and taking in the lively neighbourhood market.
Activities: Talk to the residents, purchase traditional goods, and explore the market.
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11. The Don Bosco Church
Featuring colonial architecture, the Don Bosco Church is a serene and lovely location in Shillong. It provides a calm setting for people wishing to unwind and is close to Police Bazaar.
Activities: Take in the architecture and surroundings of the church while you're there for some peaceful time.
Activities: Wander about the village, see the living root bridge, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
13. Ka Phan Nonglait Park
This city centre park provides a tranquil haven with stunning views of the surrounding hills. After touring the city, it's a fantastic spot to unwind or take a stroll.
Activities: Take a leisurely stroll in the park, have a picnic, and take in the scenery.
Activities: Take a stroll around the village, discover more about Khasi culture, and take in the tranquil surroundings.
15. The Butterfly Museum
The Butterfly Museum, which is close to the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, features a range of local insects and butterflies.
Activities: Take in the exhibits, explore the museum, and learn about the local wildlife.
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Shillong has a delicious blend of mainstream Indian meals, tribal specialities, and traditional Khasi cuisine. The native Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes have had a significant impact on Shillong's culinary culture, which places a heavy focus on rice, meat (particularly pork), and fermented meals.
This is a list of the top dishes to sample in Shillong
1. Jadoh
What It Is: is a traditional rice dish from Khasi cuisine that is created with rice, pork, and flavourful spices. For a deep flavour, fermented pork blood is frequently used when cooking it.
Where to Try: Mawphlang and Tribal Kitchen are renowned for their original Jadoh.
2. Pork with Black Sesame, or dohneiiong
What It Is: A tasty dish with a distinct flavour from the black sesame seeds used to roast the pork. Rice is frequently served with the dish.
Where to Try: Delectable Dohneiiong is served at neighbourhood eateries like Sakhuwa Restaurant and Cafe Shillong.
3. Pork salad, or dohkhlieh
What It Is: Typically served as a cold salad, this Khasi meal consists of finely diced boiled pork combined with onions, green chillies, and other herbs.
Where to Try: Traditional Khasi restaurants like D'Hotel and The Living Room serve this.
4. Dumplings, or momos
What It Is: Momos, which are steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with meat (often pig or chicken) or vegetables, are a common snack in Shillong. They frequently come with hot chutney.
Where to Try: Local markets like Police Bazaar and restaurants like Laloo's Momo serve a variety of momos.
5. Pork with Bamboo Shoot
Tender pork is cooked with bamboo shoots and a range of spices to create this flavourful dish. The meal gains a distinct earthy flavour from the bamboo shoots.
Where to Try It: Try it at Tribal Kitchen or Café Shillong, two nearby Khasi eateries.
6. Rice Cake, or Khnem
What It Is: Made from rice flour, this traditional Khasi dish is occasionally loaded with fermented rice or jaggery. It makes a delicious dessert or snack.
Where to Try: You can usually find it at neighbourhood restaurants and street vendors all over Shillong.
7. Shynek (Bamboo shoot with smoked pork)
What It Is: This meal, a smokey take on pork cooked with bamboo shoots, is incredibly flavourful and filling.
Where to Try: For a genuine experience, go to neighbourhood Khasi eateries like Sakhuwa Restaurant or Mawphlang.
8. Pickles and Chutneys
What It Is: Delectable pickles and chutneys produced from fermented vegetables, including as the well-known fermented bamboo shoots chutney, are served with most meals in Shillong.
Where to Try: Local restaurants like Laitumkhrah and Police Bazaar serve chutneys.
9. Noodle Soup, or Thukpa
What It Is: Thukpa is a famous noodle soup in the Northeast that is made with noodles, veggies, and frequently meat (pork or chicken) in a tasty broth.
Where to Try: Found at eateries like Basil Leaf and Cafe Shillong as well as street vendors.
10. Tamarind Fish Curry
This dish consists of fresh fish cooked in a curry made with tamarind and frequently flavoured with regional herbs and spices.
Where to Try: Excellent renditions of this dish can be found at Shillong seafood eateries like Sakhuwa Restaurant and Laloo's Restaurant.
11. Orange and Pineapple
What It Is: Shillong is renowned for its premium oranges and pineapples, which are tart and sweet and make a delightful dessert or snack.
Where to Try: Local markets such as Iewduh (Bara Bazaar) provide fresh fruit.
12. Khasi-style Fish Curry
Traditionally served with steaming rice, this Khasi-style fish curry is created using fresh local fish, herbs, and spices.
Where to Try: Shillong's local and Khasi eateries, such The Living Room and Cafe Shillong, provide excellent fish curries.
13. Rice Beer, or Chhang
What It Is: Made by the local indigenous people, this traditional fermented rice beer is frequently enjoyed with meals or on special occasions.
Where to Try: Chhang can be available in several Khasi villages near Shillong, as well as in local restaurants and cultural events.
14. Gondhoraj (Lemon) & Ginger Tea
Made with ginger, lemon (Gondhoraj), and tea, this fragrant and delicious beverage is highly well-liked in Shillong for its calming and revitalising qualities.
Where to Try: Neighbourhood cafes and tea stores, such as Tribal Kitchen and Cafe Shillong.
15. Mezze and Grilled Foods
Shillong boasts some great cafés that serve Mediterranean mezze platters, grilled meats, and other exotic cuisines, many of which have been influenced by worldwide trends.
Where to Try: A blend of regional and foreign cuisine is served at cafes like Cafe Shillong and The Blueberry Café.
Shillong Dining Options
Tribal Kitchen renowned for serving traditional Khasi food, such as dohneiiong and jadoh.
Café Shillong A well-liked location that offers a variety of continental and indigenous cuisine along with some delectable traditional treats.
Mawphlang An excellent location to try regional tribal cuisine.
Sakhuwa Restaurant Serves smoky meats and traditional Khasi delicacies like pig with bamboo shoots.
Momos, a popular snack in Shillong, are the speciality of Laloo's Momo.
Street cuisine and regional specialities including chutneys, jadoh, and momos are excellent at Police Bazaar.
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Conclusion
To sum up, Shillong is a stunning and energetic hill station that offers the ideal fusion of scenic beauty, a thriving cultural scene, and distinctive experiences. It is located in northeastern India. Shillong, also known as the "Scotland of the East," enthrals tourists with its verdant scenery, foggy hills, tumbling waterfalls, placid lakes, and lively local culture.
Shillong offers something for everyone, whether you're a nature lover looking to explore the stunning surroundings of Elephant Falls and Umiam Lake, a history and culture enthusiast exploring the indigenous heritage at the Don Bosco Centre and Mawphlang, or a foodie indulging in delectable Khasi cuisine.
Its mild weather, particularly in the summer and after the monsoon, adds to its allure and makes it the ideal getaway from the lowlands' heat.
Travellers seeking adventure and those seeking peace are drawn to the city's distinctive mood, which is created by its inviting atmosphere and a balance of modern and traditional characteristics. Anyone wishing to experience the splendour of the natural world, the friendliness of the locals, and the depth of Northeast India's culture will find Shillong to be the perfect place.
Shillong offers a remarkable travel experience that will captivate you, from the mouthwatering native cuisine of Jadoh, Momos, and Pork with Bamboo Shoot to the breathtaking scenery at Shillong Peak and Laitlum Canyons. Shillong is certain to enchant you and make you want to come back time and time again, whether you're there for a quick weekend trip or a longer stay.
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