Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is one of the most pristine and picturesque hill stations in India. Located in the northeast part of the country, Shillong is known for its mesmerizing combination of waterfalls and forests. Better known as ‘Scotland of the East’, Shillong takes pride in its ancient culture. Scintillating Shillong unravels the opportunity for you to explore a number of attractions including Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Elephant Falls, and so on. Here are the top things to do in Shillong that you don’t want to miss during your trip.
16 Best Things To Do In Shillong
Shillong is considered as the Scotland Of The East because of its pristine beauty and the lush green hills that encapsulate it beautifully. Shillong adorns beautiful waterfalls, lush green fields, and hills that make it one of the most visited tourist places in Meghalaya and the entire North-East. Take a look!
- Umiam Lake: Enjoy The Picturesque View
- All Saints Cathedral: Enjoy The Colonial Architecture
- Lewduh Market: Explore The Famous Spot
- Elephant Falls: Relax Amidst Serenity
- David Scott Trail: Go For An Exciting Trek
- Don Bosco Museum: An Encounter With The Past
- Mawlynnong: Pay A Visit To The Cleanest Village In Asia
- East Khasi Hills: Visit Laitlum Canyon
- Horse Riding: Explore The City In Style
- Camping: Stay Under The Sky Full Of Stars
- Shillong Golf Course: Show Off Your Golf Skills
- Rock Climbing: An Adventurous Affair
- Nightlife: Party Till You Drop
- Nh7 Weekender: Attend An Electrifying Festival
- Shopping: Splurge A Little
- Cafes: Relish A Cup Of Coffee
1. Umiam Lake: Enjoy The Picturesque View
Located approximately 15 km away from Shillong, Umiam Lake is one of the top places to visit in Shillong. Also known as Barapani, Umiam Lake provides you an opportunity to spend an amazing day full of views. Visiting this lake is one of the best things to do in Shillong in December. You can also go for a number of adventure sports such as kayaking, scooting, and skiing. The island on the other shore of the lake is known as the Lumpongdeng Island. In addition, you should also visit the houseboat where you can relax amidst the chirping of the birds. This certainly tops the list of fun top things to do in Shillong.
Best Experience: Visit the houseboat here and spend a peaceful day by the pristine Umiam Lake
Location: Umiam, Meghalaya 793103
Must Read: NH7 Weekender Shillong: Feel Most Alive Amongst The Music & Mountains!
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2. All Saints Cathedral: Enjoy The Colonial Architecture
Located near Barik Point, All Saints Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the hill station. Visiting this church is one of the best things to do in Shillong. After being damaged by an earthquake in the year 1897, this church was reconstructed in 1902. Considered to be the main church in Shillong, All Saints Cathedral is known for its wooden colonial-style architecture. During the 1897 earthquake, only the Holy Bible and the baptismal font left untouched at this church.
Timings: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m
Best Experience: Experience the wooden colonial architecture at All Saints Cathedral
Location: IGP Point, Near Barik Point, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty
3. The Lewduh Market: Explore The Famous Spot
Also known as the Bara Bazaar, the Lewudh Market paves the path for you to know more about the local culture of Shillong. Decorated with a number of stalls, this market sells a wide variety of things including betel nuts, handicraft items, fruits & vegetables, etc. If you are wondering activities to do in Shillong, this is a good place to start because it is here where you will find a thing or two to take home. Visiting this vibrant market is one of the best things to do in Shillong at night.
Timings: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
Best Experience: Visit the vibrant local market to understand the local culture
Location: Bara BazarÏewduh, Shillong, Meghalaya
Suggested Read: 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul!
4. Elephant Falls: Relax Amidst Serenity
Visiting Elephant Falls is one of the best things to do in Shillong. Located approximately 12 km away from Shillong, this fall rejuvenates travelers from across the globe. Falling down three steps, this waterfall was originally known as Ka Kshaid lai pateng khoshiew. You will be able to go on the trail and stairs here as well. It’s scenic beauty will crystal clear water will certainly make you admire it more. This activity tops the list of fun top things to do in Shillong.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m
Best Experience: Walk along the trail of Elephant Falls while appreciating the beauty of it
Location: Upper Shillong, Shillong, Meghalaya 793009
Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty!
5. David Scott Trail: Go For An Exciting Trek
Another one of the top things to do in Shillong is to go for trekking at the David Scott Trail. Discovered by David Scott, this trek begins at Mawphlang and is almost 16 km long. Located at an altitude of 4892 ft, this trail takes five hours to trek. Adorned with gushing waterfalls and tropical trees, this trail unravels the opportunity for you to experience spectacular valleys. This trail resulted in a war between the Khasi people and the Britishers.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m
Best Experience: Enjoy the cascading waterfalls as you go for a trek at the David Scott trail
Location: Mawphlāng, Synrang Kaban, Meghalaya 793121
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6. Don Bosco Museum: An Encounter With The Past
Located approximately 3.5 km away from Shillong, the Don Bosco Museum is undoubtedly worth visiting because of the tradition preserved here. Visiting this museum is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Shillong. Representing seven states of North India through its seven floors, this museum is the perfect place to observe the artefacts and paintings that portray the culture. In addition, you will be able to excite your taste buds with indigenous dishes as well. The museum today stands adorned with a research facility and a library.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
Best Experience: Have a glimpse of the indigenous culture and the food
Location: Mawlai Phudmuri, Mawlai Mawdatbaki, Shillong, Meghalaya 793008
Suggested Read: 10 Trails For Trekking In Shillong That’ll Allow You To Experience Pure Bliss
7. Mawlynnong: Pay A Visit To The Cleanest Village In Asia
Located approximately 2 hours away from Shillong, Mawlynnong gives you the opportunity to tick one of the top things to do in Shillong. At this village, you will be able to go for a trek to the Living Root Bridges which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. You should also visit the Sky View which is a vantage point here. You will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape from here. Apart from being able to enjoy the warm hospitality of the Khasi tribe, you will be able to try some of the local dishes as well. Visiting Mawlynnong is certainly one of the best things to do in Shillong.
Best Experience: Visit the Living Root Bridge at Mawlynnong and enjoy the spectacular surrounding from the Sky View Point
Location: Mawlynnong, Pynursla, East Khasi Hills
Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Shillong That Will Entice You To Explore Meghalaya!
8. East Khasi Hills: Visit Laitlum Canyon
Often known as the Heart of Meghalaya’s Natural Wonder, a visit to Laitlum Canyon tops the list of activities to do in Shillong. Often recognized as the trekker’s paradise, Laitlum is known for being the amphitheater of Meghalaya. What you will truly enjoy here is how the hues paint the landscape here. Unraveling the opportunity for you to break fresh air, this canyon is certainly the best thing to do in Shillong in December.
Suggested Read: 16 Scenic Waterfalls In Meghalaya That’ll Leave You Mesmerized
9. Horse Riding: Explore The City In Style
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Shillong is famous for its highest peak and a trip to this city is incomplete without visiting it. From Shillong peak, you can marvel at this beautiful city. Wondering how can you make your visit to this peak more exciting? Get ready for an amusing horse riding trip to the Shillong peak on your vacation. You can hire a horse that will take you through the city and up to this scenic peak. Explore the city in style by hiring a horse for a day and cover all the major spots in Shillong that will make you fall in love with the city.
Suggested Read: 5 Best Adventure Sports In Meghalaya That Will Leave Your Heart Pumping!
10. Camping: Stay Under The Sky Full Of Stars
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Camping is one of the most popular things to do in Shillong for all nature lovers. Stay in a cozy camp under the sky full of stars and the picturesque hills of Shillong will make your whole experience extra special. You can trek to the most famous spots and can easily set up your camp at the site that appeals to your eyes. The best camping spots in Shillong are the Mawlynnong rainforest, Khasi Hills, and Dawki. Do carry warm clothes as the temperature is chilling at night.
Suggested Read: 5 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Meghalaya To Get Up & Close With Wildlife And Nature!
11. Shillong Golf Course: Show Off Your Golf Skills
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In 1898, the British civil service officers built a 9 hole course and Shillong was introduced to Golfing. If you are passionate about golfing then Shillong Golf Course is the perfect place for you. Today this golf course has 18 hole course which was established in 1924 by Captain Jackson and C. K. Rhodes. Shillong Golf Course is popular worldwide as it is Asia’s largest natural golf course. This spectacular golf course is surrounded by rhododendron trees and pine that adds to its magnificence.
Location: Golf Links, Shillong, Meghalaya
Suggested Read: 7 Top Churches In Meghalaya: A Heaven On Earth For God Lovers And Nature Enthusiasts
12. Rock Climbing: An Adventurous Affair
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Shillong is the headquarter of the East Khasi Hills that are well-known for its huge rock formation. Rock climbing is another one of the activities in Shillong that you must try. If you are interested in trying rock climbing then you must consult a guide or the local rock climbing organizers so that you are safe while climbing those massive rocks. Listen to their instructions and wear comfortable clothes so that you don’t get stuck. Always wear your rock climbing gear properly and double-check it before heading for your thrilling climbing session.
Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June Which Reflects Tranquility And Serene Beauty!
13. Nightlife: Party Till You Drop
Like any other city, Shillong has a lit nightlife as the locals are crazy about good music and refreshing cocktails. Party with the locals on your trip by heading to the best clubs and bars in this gorgeous city. Roof Top Lounge Bar in Police Bazar, Fusion Bar in Laitumkhrah, and Astoria Bar in Micasa Hotel are some of the best bars where you can enjoy sophisticated drinks and delicious snacks. Get ready with the best dance moves you have and party like there is no tomorrow with the locals of Shillong.
Suggested Read: 8 Fabulous Places For Shopping In Meghalaya For A Vivid Experience
14. Nh7 Weekender: Attend An Electrifying Festival
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Nh7 Weekender is an annual music and comedy festival that is held in many cities in India. Shillong is one of these cities where you can attend this impressive festival. The locals of Shillong are passionate about rock music and this festival is an important event from them. A lot of travelers visit Shillong to attend this excellent festival and to spend their weekend while dancing to the beats of amazing artists. In 2019, music artists like Joe Satriani, God Is An Astronaut, and The Contortionist performed at this festival.
Suggested Read: Top 3 Valleys In Meghalaya That Exhibit The Beauty Of Mother Nature In The Finest Way!
15. Shopping: Splurge A Little
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Home to remarkable shopping spots like Police Bazar and Purbashree Emporium, Shillong is a paradise for all shopaholics. Considered as one of the most entertaining things to do in Shillong for all shopping fanatics, shopping in Shillong will surely be the best part of your vacay. Visit the Khasi emporium and buy bamboo handicrafts that you can take back for your friends and family. Famous for warm clothes and street food, Police Bazar is another great that you should stop by on your shopping spree to satiate the foodie and shopping fan in you.
Where: Police Bazar, Khasi emporium and Purbashree Emporium
16. Cafes: Relish A Cup Of Coffee
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Food and coffee is a terrific combination that can add the perfect smile to your face and release all your stress. Head to the popular cafes in Shillong and relish the local food while sipping the most delicious coffee you will ever have in your life. Cafe Shillong Heritage is the most visited cafe and it is known for the chic interiors, momos, and hazelnut coffee. Bread Cafe in Police Bazar will satiate the dessert lover in you as it serves impeccable bakery goods.
Best Cafes: Swish Cafe, Cafe Shillong Heritage, Bread Cafe
Further Read: 12 Hotels In Shillong For Couples That Promise A Blissful Stay
With plenty of things to do in Shillong, it certainly is the most visited and hyped tourist destination. To experience all that Meghalaya has to offer to all tourists, you must plan a trip to Shillong soon! Considered as the Scotland Of The East, Shillong is encapsulated by natural and serene beauty all around that is worth exploring and planning a trip to!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Shillong
What is Shillong famous for?
Shillong is known for being home to pristine mountains along with Cherapunji and Mawsynrum. You will be able to go for trekking, angling, rafting, and horse riding here.
What is the famous food of Shillong?
During your trip to Shillong, you should definitely try Jadoh, meaty khichdi, smoked tomatoes and chillies, peppery chicken curry, etc.
What is Jadoh?
Jadoh is one of the most popular Khasi dish that is prepared with rice and meat. It takes hours to get this done correctly.
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Anjana is a writer, journalist, and a full-time wallflower. She holds a Master’s degree in Media and Mass Communication and firmly believes that travel blogging is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for globetrotting, she brings to you some amazing tips on traveling perfectly, be it any season of the year! In her spare time, she loves reading, listening to obscure indie bands, and writing poetry – all of this while being a crazy dog lady.
