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Exploring Shillong: Best Places to Visit for a Memorable Experience

Exploring Shillong: Best Places to Visit for a Memorable Experience

Situated in the heart of northeastern India, Shillong is its capital city and one of the most renowned hill stations. Known for its cool climate, lush green landscapes, and truly breath-taking views, Shillong is popularly referred to as the "Scotland of the East." It is a place where nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat can come together to experience the beauty of the hills.

From calm lakes and waterfalls cascading to colorful markets and cultural landmarks, Shillong has everything that a traveler of any kind will need. For a short trip or a longer stay, here is the list of the best places to visit in Shillong, guaranteed to make your trip memorable.

1. Shillong Peak: A Breathtaking View

A visit to Shillong would not be complete without a trip to Shillong Peak, which is at 1,964 meters (6,414 feet) and stands as the city's highest point. From the top, one can see all of Shillong and the surrounding areas, with rolling hills, valleys, and distant views of the Bangladesh plains on a clear day.

What to do: Apart from the view, you can visit the nearby Sohpetbneng Peak, which is considered sacred by the local Khasi tribe. There are also a few temples around the Shillong Peak, making it a peaceful spot for relaxation.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for the best lighting and peaceful atmosphere.

2. Ward's Lake: Serenity in the Heart of the City

Ward's Lake is a calm manmade lake located near the center of Shillong, surrounded by beautiful gardens and is one of the most visited places in the city. It provides a quiet retreat right in the heart of Shillong. The lake is ideal for boating and a stroll around the well-maintained walking paths.

What to do: Take a serene walk around the lake, take a boat ride, and appreciate the beautiful flower gardens along the shore. It is an excellent destination for a day out with family or friends.

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon when the weather is amiable.

3. Elephant Falls: Majestic and Picturesque

Elephant Falls is one of Shillong’s most famous waterfalls, and it’s easy to see why. The waterfall is named after a rock formation that once resembled an elephant, though it’s now been eroded. It consists of three separate falls, each cascading down beautifully from different heights. The sight of the waterfall amidst lush green surroundings is a photographer's dream.

What to do: Take pictures of the waterfall and explore the forest area around. You can have a cool, refreshing atmosphere. Additionally, you may visit the surrounding Khasi villages and see the local culture.

Best time to visit: After the rainy season, probably in October and November when the waterfall is in full flow.

4. Umiam Lake: A Serene Getaway

Located approximately 15 kilometers north of Shillong, Umiam Lake is a breathtaking reservoir surrounded by lush hills. Known as the "Dumpling Lake," Umiam is a great spot for water sports, including kayaking, water skiing, and boating. The lake's peaceful surroundings make it a perfect escape for those looking to unwind.

What to do: You can go boating or just sit by the shore and enjoy the view of the area. There are also some resorts around the lake where you can stay and enjoy the view.

Best Time to Visit: The lake is beautiful year-round, but the best time is during the summer, which is from March to June, as the weather is pleasant.

5. Don Bosco Museum: A Cultural Experience

The Don Bosco Museum is also a must-go destination for any visitor interested in the culture and history of this region. Being one of the largest museums in Asia, the Don Bosco Museum provides some interesting peeks into traditions, customs, and ways of life of various indigenous tribes dwelling in Northeast India. It's a great learning place about this rich diversity in the region.

What to do: There are many galleries featuring tribal artifacts, clothing, and tools. You can also view exhibits on the art, culture, and lifestyle of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes.

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year. The museum is a great place to visit during the rainy season when outdoor activities may be limited.

6. Mawphlang Sacred Forest: A Nature Lover's Paradise

For the nature lover, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a place to be. It is situated about 25 kilometers from Shillong. This sacred forest is renowned for its biodiversity and is the perfect place for a nature walk. It is said to be protected by the local Khasi tribe and has a spiritual significance.

What to do: Guided Walk through the forest, sighting of rare flora and fauna, and knowledge of the forest being an important element in Khasi culture. It is a good bird-watching site too.

Best time to visit: October to March.

7. Laitlum Canyons: The Best Kept Secret for Adventure Junkies

Laitlum Canyons is a gem of adventure located at about 21 kilometers from Shillong. This offbeat destination is quite far away from the rest of the world and offers great views of deep gorges, lush greenery, and meandering rivers. It is relatively less crowded and thus perfect for people who are seeking peace and solitude.

What to do: Hike down into the canyon, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. The hike is challenging, but the reward is worth it.

Best Time to Visit: Between October and April when the weather is favorable for hiking.

8. Mawlynnong Village: Cleanest Village in Asia

Often called the "Cleanest Village in Asia," Mawlynnong is about 90 kilometers from Shillong and is known for its pristine environment and impeccable cleanliness. This village gives an insight into the sustainable lifestyle of the local people. Mawlynnong also has a living root bridge, which is a fascinating natural wonder.

What to do: Explore the village, visit the living root bridge, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area. You can also take part in the village's eco-tourism initiatives.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities.

9. Police Bazaar: The Heart of Shillong's Shopping and Food Scene

If you want to experience a busy market, the Police Bazaar is the place to be. Located in the heart of Shillong, this market is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, local handicrafts, and delicious street food. You can buy local souvenirs, clothes, and try some of Shillong's famous snacks like momos, thukpa, and pithas.

What to do: Purchase local handicrafts, take some street food, and let the vibrancy of Shillong's principal commercial center set in.

Best Time to visit: In the evening when market lights and vendors on the road are lit.

10. Sohra (Cherrapunji): Wettest Place in Earth

Situated 60 kilometers from the capital city Shillong, Sohra, also known as Cherrapunji, is one of the wettest places on this earth, bestowed with lush green hills that cascade down with waterfalls and living root bridges. One among the must-visit destinations for nature lovers, Sohra has Nohkalikai Falls, Mawjymbuin Cave, and much more to discover.

What to see: Visit waterfalls, study caves, enjoy the hill ranges and valleys sceneries of breathtaking beauty; it's really a hiking town and good picture taking town, too.

Time to visit: October to March is a good season for the general sightseeing for pleasant weather in Shillong.

Conclusion

Shillong is a beautiful city offering something for everything one may expect from a city tour, not only from nature and the gentle lakes, rich cultural heritage with vibrant markets. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone interested in history, Shillong has something for everyone. The best places to visit in Shillong, such as Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, and Elephant Falls, are just a few of the many attractions that make this hill station a favorite among travelers.

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