If you thought Goa or Manali were the hottest travel destinations in India, think again.
In 2025, Shillong, Meghalaya—popularly called the Scotland of the East—has emerged as India’s most-searched hill station, surpassing even classic tourist favourites. With misty waterfalls, pine-covered hills, lively markets, and the charm of Khasi culture, Shillong has quietly transformed from a Northeast secret into a mainstream bucket-list destination.
In this detailed Shillong travel guide, I’ll take you through top attractions, best time to visit, travel tips, itineraries, and insider hacks to help you plan a perfect trip.
When in Shillong, remember…
- Respect Khasi culture —dress modestly in rural areas.
- Carry cash; digital payments aren’t accepted everywhere.
- Local taxis charge per seat; always ask rates before boarding.
- For eco-conscious travel, avoid single-use plastics (Shillong is big on sustainability).
Why Is Shillong A Trending Travel Destination?
According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report, searches for Shillong tourism spiked by 828%, making it the most desired Indian destination right now. But what’s behind the craze?
- Easy connectivity: Improved flights and road access from Guwahati.
- Unique experiences: The Cherry Blossom Festival, vibrant cafés, and untouched waterfalls.
- Untapped potential: Compared to Manali or Goa, Shillong is less crowded and still retains its offbeat vibe.
Simply put, Shillong offers the mix of nature, culture, and affordability that modern travellers crave.
Here you are going to find beautiful landscapes, amazing cultures and welcoming locals.
Best Places to Visit in Shillong
1. Umiam Lake (Barapani)
A vast, serene reservoir perfect for boating, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sunrise. Many travellers compare it to the fjords of Norway.
No trip to Shillong is complete without a visit to Umiam Lake, locally known as Barapani. Spread across 220 sq. km, this vast man-made reservoir is surrounded by pine-covered hills and is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Shillong.
2. Elephant Falls
Shillong’s most popular waterfall, cascading in three tiers through lush greenery. A must for Instagram-worthy shots.
The waterfall cascades in three stunning tiers, surrounded by dense greenery, making it a refreshing stop. The well-paved steps make it easy for most visitors to reach the base of the falls.
The best time to visit Elephant Falls is post-monsoon.
3. Shillong Peak & Laitlum Canyons
For breathtaking panoramic views, these two spots give you sweeping vistas of valleys, clouds, and villages.
For the best viewpoint in Shillong, you cannot miss Shillong Peak (1,965 m). On a clear day, you can see the entire city, surrounding Khasi Hills, and even the plains of Bangladesh.
Nearby, the Laitlum Canyons (literally “end of the world” in Khasi) offer breathtaking cliffside views and adventurous trekking trails.
4. Ward’s Lake & Botanical Garden
Perfect for slow travellers—peaceful walks, paddle boating, and picnic vibes.
Why visit Ward’s Lake?
- Famous for paddle boating, colourful fountains, and its wooden bridge.
- Surrounded by walking trails, flower gardens, and cherry blossoms in winter.
- Ideal for families and couples.
5. Police Bazaar & Lewduh Market
Shop for traditional Khasi handicrafts, bamboo items, and local street food like Jadoh and Tungrymbai. No Shillong trip is complete without exploring its vibrant markets.
Police Bazaar:
- The main commercial hub of Shillong.
- Shop for Khasi handicrafts, bamboo items, woollens, and souvenirs.
- Dotted with cafés and street food stalls.
Lewduh Market (Bara Bazar):
- One of the largest traditional markets in Northeast India.
- Best place to try authentic Khasi street food like Jadoh (pork rice dish), Tungrymbai (fermented soybeans), and momos.
- A sensory experience—colourful stalls, local spices, and bustling crowds.
Culture & Festivals in Shillong
Cherry Blossom Festival (November)
One of the biggest reasons Shillong has gained international fame is the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrated every November.
This is Asia’s only autumn cherry blossom festival, when the entire city turns pink and purple with blooming cherry trees. The streets, gardens, and hillsides get carpeted in delicate blossoms, making it feel like you’ve stepped into Japan—right here in Meghalaya.
What makes the festival even more exciting is the mix of live music concerts, art exhibitions, wine-tasting events, local food stalls, and cultural performances that run alongside the blooms. Thousands of travellers from across India and abroad now plan their Shillong trip around this time, making November the best month to witness the city in full glory.
If you’re looking for the most photogenic time to visit Shillong, the Cherry Blossom Festival is unbeatable.
Shad Suk Mynsiem (April)
While cherry blossoms showcase Shillong’s natural beauty, the city’s culture shines brightest during Shad Suk Mynsiem, a traditional Khasi harvest festival celebrated every April.
Translating to “Dance of Peaceful Hearts,” this festival is one of the most important events for the Khasi tribe. Men and women dress in traditional attire—women in elaborate silk dresses and gold ornaments, men with swords and feathered turbans—and perform ritualistic dances accompanied by drums, flutes, and pipes. The celebration takes place in the main streets and courtyards of Shillong, attracting locals and visitors alike.
More than just a festival, Shad Suk Mynsiem is a way of expressing gratitude to Mother Earth for a bountiful harvest, and it gives travellers a rare chance to immerse themselves in Khasi culture, music, and traditions.
Music Capital of India
Shillong isn’t just about waterfalls and festivals—it has a soul that beats to the rhythm of music. Often called the “Rock Capital of India,” Shillong has produced legendary musicians like Lou Majaw and continues to host a thriving live music scene.
Walk into any café in Police Bazaar or Laitumkhrah, and chances are you’ll stumble upon an acoustic gig, a jazz performance, or even a rock concert. The city has hosted international artists and bands, making it a hub for music lovers from across the country. What sets Shillong apart is that music here isn’t just entertainment—it’s a way of life.
Street corners, pubs, and even schools celebrate it, and travellers often end up staying longer just to soak in the vibe of Shillong’s evenings. If you want to experience a hill station with a heartbeat, Shillong’s music culture will leave you spellbound.
Shillong Travel Itinerary (3–5 Days)
Day 1: Arrive, explore Police Bazaar, and sunset at Ward’s Lake.
Day 2: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak.
Day 3: Laitlum Canyons + café hopping.
Day 4: Day trip to Cherrapunji (Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves).
Day 5: Mawlynnong (cleanest village in Asia) & Dawki (crystal-clear river boating).
Best Time to Visit Shillong
- March–June: Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.
- October–November: Festival season + Cherry Blossoms.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): Lush green landscapes, but frequent landslides—ideal only for adventurous travellers.
Where to Stay in Shillong
- Boutique homestays – Experience Khasi hospitality firsthand.
- Luxury hotels – Best around Umiam Lake and Police Bazaar.
- Budget guesthouses & backpacker hostels – Great for solo travellers.
Pro Tip: Book early during Cherry Blossom Festival as accommodations sell out months in advance.
Food You Must Try in Shillong
- Jadoh – Khasi-style rice with pork.
- Dohneiiong – Pork cooked in black sesame.
- Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean curry.
- Street snacks – Momos, chow, and Shillong-style spicy noodles.
How to Reach Shillong
- By Air: Fly to Shillong Airport (Umroi) or Guwahati Airport (3 hrs away).
- By Road: Well-connected via scenic drives from Guwahati.
- By Rail: Nearest railhead is Guwahati.
Why Shillong Deserves a Spot on Your 2025 Bucket List
Unlike mainstream tourist hubs, Shillong offers an authentic hill station vibe with a mix of adventure, culture, and peace. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls in Cherrapunji, boating in Dawki, or café-hopping in the music capital of India, Shillong gives you something new every day.
If you’re tired of overdone Himalayan destinations, Shillong is your fresh breath of mountain air in 2025.