Top Attractions in Shillong You Must Visit

Pro Tips for Perfect Car Hire Every Time

Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya. It is nestled in the pine-covered hills at a height of 1496 meters. It is known as the 'Scotland of the East' because it offers beautiful scenery, pleasant weather, and rich traditions. The city is named after Lei Shyllong, a God worshipped at Shillong Peak. Shillong is home to various tribal communities like Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim, each adding to the city's vibrant culture. One of the main attractions in Shillong is Umiam Lake. It is a large lake surrounded by hills, providing peaceful and stunning views. Shillong is full of natural attractions like Elephant Falls, which adds a refreshing and stunning natural beauty to the city. The Laitlum Canyons is perfect for adventure lovers, it offers beautiful views and is perfect for trekking. Shillong is not just for nature lovers, it also has museums and cultural spots like the Don Bosco Museum and The Meghalaya State Museum that display the culture of Northeast India through various artifacts. The vibrant Police Bazar is a busy market where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse shopping options. Shillong is also called the 'Music Capital of India' because it has a lively music scene that is influenced by modern culture and young energy. There are various music events and festivals to celebrate the city's rich musical heritage. Shillong has everything for everyone, it could be the perfect destination for your next trip. To make your trip comfortable and memorable, do not forget self drive car rental Shillong because it will give you the freedom and privacy to explore the wonderful locations in Shillong. You need not rely on public transportation or expensive cabs and taxis. Plan your trip as you want with self drive car rental Shillong. The natural beauty and stunning sights will make it a memorable destination for you. In this blog, we will explore the beauty of Shillong.

Must Visit Places in Shillong

Umiam Lake: It is a beautiful man-made lake located in the north of Shillong. The lake was created by building a dam to produce hydroelectric power. It is surrounded by the lush green East Khasi hills, offering stunning views for nature lovers. Watching the sunrise at Umiam Lake is a must-see experience. There is a park next to the lake, which is a popular spot for picnics and a nice break for locals from their busy lives. The lake, surrounded by thick forests, covers an area of about 222 square kilometers. Students and nature lovers can enjoy the plants and animals around the lake and learn about the dam. Children can play in the park, visitors can take boat rides, and adventure seekers can try boating and water sports. Besides the lake's peacefulness, you can see locals collecting grass or fishermen in their canoes. In the summer, the shores are brightened by Gulmohar trees, and in the winter, the water level goes down and turns a deep blue.

Elephant Falls: It is named after a stone shaped like an elephant at its base. The Elephant Falls are one of the most popular waterfalls in the Northeast. It is among the most visited tourist places with three layers of falls that people can see from different viewpoints. The British named it Elephant Falls because of an elephant-shaped rock beside the falls. However, this rock broke and was washed away in an earthquake in 1897. Elephant Falls is a great place to spend time in nature and take beautiful photos. You can explore this place easily with self drive car rental Shillong. The local Khasi people call these stunning falls 'Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew', which means 'The Three Step Waterfalls' because they have three beautiful falls in a row. The first fall is wide and hidden among dense trees. The second fall becomes thin and almost disappears in winter due to low water levels. The third and most visible fall is the tallest, with clear water flowing like a white sheet over dark rocks. Visitors often find the third fall the most impressive. Elephant Falls is a good stop before continuing your journey into Meghalaya. It is one of the most visited waterfalls in this beautiful state.

Laitlum Canyons: Laitlum Canyons, located in the East Khasi Hills, is a beautiful tourist and trekking spot in Shillong. It is in the south of Shillong, taking around half an hour to rech there with self drive car rental Shilong. The name "Laitlum" means "End of Hills." This place offers stunning views of Meghalaya's hills and valleys. It is a quiet and peaceful spot, perfect for a relaxing visit with family, friends, or as a couple. Sunrise or Sunset is the best time to visit here. To reach Laitlum Canyons, you need to hike for about 2 minutes on the shorter path or a bit longer on the longer path. The trail is rocky and green, which can be an adventure for those who love trekking. From the top, you can also see Rasong, a small village in the Laitlum Gorge. Nature lovers and photographers will especially enjoy this place.

Don Bosco Museum: It known as the largest Museum of Indigenous Cultures in Asia, and showcases the rich culture and traditions of Northeast India. It is located in the Mawlai area, close to the Police Bazaar in Shillong. The museum stands tall with seven stories and has 16 galleries displaying artifacts, paintings, and figures important to the culture of Northeast India. Visitors can enjoy these exhibits and learn about the lifestyle of the people from this region. The museum's importance is highlighted by visits from notable figures, including members of the Rajya Sabha and the Princess of Thailand. The Don Bosco Museum also has its own research wing, publications, newsletters, and cultural events calendar. Its unique hexagonal shape makes it a famous architecture in Shillong.

Police Bazar: It is the main market in Shillong and a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. It has many restaurants, hotels, and big brand stores. There is also a flea market section that is affordable and very popular because of its traditional handicrafts, beautiful Meghalaya merchandise, regional clothes, and junk jewelry. The colorful market is loved by both shoppers and food lovers. Also called Khyndailad, Police Bazaar is the best place to shop in Shillong and a great area to book a hotel if you are visiting. The bazaar has a mix of traditional and modern items, which makes it more popular than Bara Bazaar. The market is set up in a big circle with plants and trees in the middle, and seven roads leading out to different parts of the city. Many of these roads are closed to cars, making them perfect for street shopping.

Shillong Peak: Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong at 6449 feet (1965 meters). It offers amazing views of the city, the Himalayas, waterfalls, and the plains of Bangladesh. There is a telescope for a closer look. Hiking to the top is recommended for the best views, but fog is common. People say Shillong got its name from this peak. According to local stories, the guardian God 'Lei Shyllong' lives in these hills and protects the city. There is a sacred site at the top where a ritual is held every spring. Shillong Peak is located on an air force base with a radar station. Due to security, there is thorough checking at the entrance, and tourists must leave their cameras behind.

Top Tips to Visit Shillong

1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shillong is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and best for exploring.

2. Local Transport: Taxis and shared cabs are generally very expensive to explore each place and public transportation is not recommended because of its inconvenient and fixed timings and routes. Prefer self drive car rental Shillong to explore comfortably, affordably, and with full freedom and privacy.

3. Accommodation: Shillong offers a range of accommodation options from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. It is a good idea to make reservations in advance during peak seasons.

4. Local Cuisine: Do not miss trying local Khasi dishes like Jadoh (rice cooked with pork or chicken), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame seeds), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean chutney).

5. Carry Necessary Medications: Always carry a First Aid Box and necessary medications with you.

6. Local Culture: Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas. Shillong is home to various tribes with rich cultural practices.

7. Weather: Pack according to the weather, as it can be cool and misty even in the summer months. Carry a light jacket or sweater.

8. Safety: Shillong is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take usual precautions with your belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.

9. Exploring Beyond Shillong: Consider exploring nearby attractions like Cherrapunji (Sohra), known for its living root bridges and stunning landscapes.

FAQs

Why is Shillong famous?

Shillong, known as the "Scotland of the East," is a popular travel spot in India's Northeast. It is famous for its green fields, misty mountains, beautiful views, lovely flowers, and a hint of colonial charm and influence.

Which month is best to visit Shillong?

The nicest time to go to Shillong is from March to June. The weather is pleasant and cool during this period. The surroundings are green, the air is fresh, and the sky is clear. It is also a great time for outdoor activities like trekking, mountain biking, and water rappelling.

Is Shillong in Assam or Meghalaya?

Shillong is in Meghalaya, not in Assam

Is there snowfall in Shillong?

No, it does not snow in Shillong at any time of the year.

Why is it necessary to hire a rental car in Shillong for a trip?

- Accessibility to Remote Locations: Many scenic spots around Shillong are not easily accessible by public transport. Self drive car rental Shillong allows you to explore these places conveniently.

- Flexibility: You have the freedom to create your own plans and visit attractions at your own pace without depending on fixed schedules.

- Comfort: Self drive car hire Shillong often provides more comfort compared to public transport, especially when traveling with family or friends.

- Time Efficiency: You can save time by directly traveling to your desired destinations without waiting for public transport or making multiple transfers.

- Cost-Effective for Groups: Splitting the cost of a rental car in Shillong among a group of travelers can often be more economical than purchasing individual bus or taxi tickets.

- Exploring Offbeat Places: With a rental car in Shillong, you can discover lesser-known places and offbeat routes that are not covered by regular public transport.

- Convenience: You can easily carry your belongings and stop wherever you want for breaks, meals, or photo opportunities.

- Safety: In remote or less populated areas, having self drive car rental Shillong provides security and comfort, especially during late hours or in unfamiliar surroundings.

Which language is spoken in Shillong?

Most people in Shillong speak a local language called Khasi. Other languages spoken there include Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, Assamese, Punjabi, Garo, and Urdu. Christianity is the main religion in Shillong.

What is the cost to hire a self drive car in Shillong?

The cost of self drive car rental in Shillong depends on the season in which you are booking because prices are different in different seasons. Price also depends on the type and model of the car and the rental period. Call us directly at 7528904589 to know the exact price of your desired vehicle.

Is Shillong suitable for family vacations?

Yes, Shillong is a great place for family vacations. There are plenty of things to do and see that everyone in the family will enjoy.