About Shillong
Tucked away in the state of Meghalaya, Shillong is a stunning hill station known for its rolling green hills, British colonial architecture, and strong Khasi cultural roots. With cascading waterfalls, sacred groves, and caves carved by nature itself, the region offers an ecological and cultural experience unlike anywhere else in India. From the living root bridges of Nongriat to the dramatic cliffs of Laitlum Canyon, Shillong invites travellers to explore both its natural beauty and spiritual depth.
My Experience
From the moment we arrived, Shillong enchanted us with its cool air, pine-scented streets, and warm hospitality. We started with a peaceful paddle boat ride on Ward’s Lake before strolling through Police Bazaar for some local shopping. Visiting Elephant Falls and sipping tea at the Upper Shillong Viewpoint while watching the sunset was a highlight. The trek into the Mawphlang Sacred Forest was deeply spiritual, especially with the local Khasi guide sharing folklore among the moss-laden trees.
Our day trip to Cherrapunji was packed with natural marvels—Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves, and fresh pineapple stands at every turn. The most rewarding part was the double-decker living root bridge trek in Nongriat—3,500 stairs each way, but the turquoise pools made it worthwhile. We ended our trip with a sunrise at Laitlum Canyon and a hearty cultural lunch in a traditional Khasi bamboo home. Shillong truly touched our hearts with its blend of serenity, adventure, and soul.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredible natural beauty – lakes, waterfalls, caves, and valleys
- Strong tribal culture and welcoming local community
- Unique eco-tourism activities (forest bathing, root bridges, sacred groves)
- Excellent weather year-round, especially in winter
Cons
- Limited public transport – cabs need to be negotiated
- Mobile signal and Wi-Fi can be patchy in remote areas
- Monsoon rains (Jun–Sep) may disrupt travel plans
- Physical treks like Nongriat may not suit all fitness levels
Quick Info
October to April
4-5 Days
Where I Stayed