Shillong

Day-long picnics amidst smoky blue hills thick with pine and orchids, singing brooks and crashing waterfalls….. for the British in this garrison town it was home. The scenic Khasi Hills reminded them of the Scottish Highlands – just perfect for those summer holidays away from the heat and the dust of India’s plains. They set up schools amidst those heather covered slopes – the air rang with the sound of the young growing up amidst these unpolluted, pine scented environs.

Leisurely days can be spent at the serene Ward’s Lake and the landscaped Lady Hydari Park, which also has a mini-zoo. The Lewduh Market, the biggest in the North East, is wonderful for a bit of local flavor. Shillong Peak (1965 m), about 10 km from town, offers breathtaking views of the city spread out against its glorious hill slopes. Sohpetbneng Peak, 20 km away, is also a great place to catch those spectacular views. Amongst the popular waterfalls close to town are Spread Eagle Falls (6 km) and the Sweet Falls (8 km) in Happy Valley. There are also the Bishop Falls, Beadon Falls and the Elephant Falls (12 km) to explore if you have time.

Today, Shilong’s popular 18-hole golf course (referred to as the Gleneagels of the East) holds its annual tournament in October, when these Khasi Hills are at their prettiest.

The town is dotted with fine old churches of which the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is most famed for its stained glass windows and lofty arch. Opposite the State Central Library, is the All Saints Church.

Shillong has regular pop and rock concerts, which are welcomed with great enthusiasm by the local youth. The Butterfly Museum is worth visiting as it has an excellent collection of these winged beauties, many of which are facing extinction.

Tourist Attractions in Shillong

Umiam Lake (Barapani), Shillong Golf Club, Spread Eagle Falls, Bara Bazaar (Iewduh Market), Botanical Survey of India Orchidarium, Wards Lake, Lady Hydari Park and Zoo, Crinoline Falls , Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Butterfly Museum, Bishop's Falls, Beadon Falls, Sweet Falls.

How to reach Shillong

By Air : The main airport is at Guwahati. It is connected by regular flights to the rest of the country. The airport at Umroi (25 km from Shillong) is technically the nearest airport. However, it is connected only to Kolkata and that too only a fixed number of flights.

By Train : The nearest railhead is at Guwahati, 125 km from Shillong.

By Bus : Shillong is a three-and-half hours drive from Guwahati. You can either take a bus, a shared taxi or hire a car yourself for the drive.