Shillong is a beautiful hill station and capital city of Meghalaya situated on mountains. The pine trees,panoramic views,en-rout waterfalls,salubrious weather and gorgeous scenic attractions are sure to captivate anyone’s senses. It surely is an escape from city life. You can easily plan a few day vacation at this mountain city away from chaotic city life and spend some days of solitude in natures lap with complete peace. Shillong is a gateway to real North Eastern experience. Shillong is easily connected to all major airports of India through its Umroi Airport and also enjoys good road networks and train stations. The orchid flowers and roadside mountains feel very exotic and fills you with refreshing energy. Here is the list of top 10 things to do in Shillong if you are planning a trip there.
Elephant Waterfalls
The astounding scenic beauty and white noise of this waterfall of Meghalya would leave you baffled. Elephant waterfalls are a few minute drive from Shillong peak. You can also do water rappeling at Elephant falls. There is also small ram shackles selling a variety of handicraft stuffs and wooden artifacts. There are eateries which offers maggi and momos along with hot tea which feels welcoming at mostly cold waterfalls.
Umaim Lake
Umaim Lake is the identity of Shillong. This huge green natural lake is situated a few kilometers away from Shillong in Umroi. The boating and a cup of tea in a houseboat on Umaim lake are popular activities there. There is also a man made small park islands in between the Umaim Lake where one can get down and stroll around. The beauty of this lake surrounded by mountains is astonishing. This vast lake is also known as BaraPani.
Police Bazar/Bara Bazar
Shopping at Police Bazar is so much fun. It is like any other market of any other city but with a north eastern touch and taste. You get good shoes and wooden handicraft items along with clothes and other things. The road side vendors selling stuffs on ground is a common sight. Bada Bazar lies just ahead of Police Bazar and gives you the feel of north eastern culture. This market in Shillong is unique in sense that it is mainly operated by women. You also get lot of good eateries,food joints,restaurants and hotels in and around Police Bazar. I’d especially like to mention Magnum Opus restaurant there which provides you really exotic food and drinks. It is run by two very friendly sisters.
Air force Museum
Air Force Museum in Shillong is part of Indian Army Eastern Command and very well maintained. It provides you a very exciting glimpse into the history of Air Force.The tourists pose for photographs and children have lot of opportunity to learn. There is even a gift and souvenir shop inside the premise. It is a must visit in Shillong and have a free entrance.
Don Bosco Museum
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (DBCIC) was established by the regional Salesians of Don Bosco – a Roman Catholic institute. This is a great initiative to preserve North Eastern Heritage and I think all states should have such centers for preservation of local culture. The 7-storey cultural center is an anthropologist’s paradise. From traditions and art forms to endemic flora and fauna, these galleries acquaint visitors with different aspects of the state and its civilization. It also has a high sky walk that offers a panoramic view of Shillong. You must visit Don Bosco Museum in Shillong if you truly want to explore the real Shillong.
Asia’s cleanest village
Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in Asia. The living foot-bridges,serene village and waterfalls around offers a good tourist attraction. It is also a well documented place so while planning a trip to Shillong one must keep it in places to visit in Shillong. A simple trail into the village is a very liberating experience.
Visiting Cherapunji
The trip to Shillong is incomplete if you dont visit Cherapunji which is almost two hours drive from Shillong. Cherapunji is famous for its rains and mostly foggy but it offers the exotic and exclusive North Eastern experience to tourists. The seven sisters falls or various caves around the area are major tourist attraction in Cherapunji. There are numerous hotels and restaurants in Cherapunji. The best one is Jiva Resort. Also the roadside views,waterfalls and other scenic beauties while you drive from Shillong to Cherapunji will leave you spellbound.
Caves
For caving in Shillong its limestone caves are really good. Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mamluh, and Krem Umshyrpi are some popular caves in Shillong . You can have some fun caving along with your family at these amazing caves.
Trekking/ Camping
Trekking and camping in Shillong is a common activity in this city full of jungles,rivers,waterfalls and mountains. A true nature lover must try these activities to explore the true essence of Shillong. David Scott’s trekking trail is considered best place to trek in Meghalya. The trek passes through low granite and sandstone cliffs found amidst rolling hill. Though Living Root Bridge, Kyllang Rock and Sophet Bneng also offer wonderful trekking opportunity. Khasi Hills are popular for camping opportunities along with Mawlynnong forest and Dawki.
River Rafting
Ranikor offers wonderful river rafting opportunities and takes around 2 and half hours to reach. It is considered to be one of the best destinations of river rafting in Meghalaya. River rafting opportunity for the new bies can also be explored in Bara Pani. Kayaking in Shillong is also one great tourist activity which can be done at Kynshi River.
Night Life
Night Life in Shillong is not very happening. Most shops close by 10.00 including the restaurants but there are some which offer some good night life recreation. For boozing up to the brim Platinum, Cloud 9 and Dejavu are a few nice places. You can have drinks and live music at Tango Pub.
Shillong is an ideal destination not only for adrenaline junkies but also for honeymooners. The various activities provide ideal environment for adventure lovers. Shillong is that one place which is not only a romantic honeymoon destination and also an ideal vacation with family. You must plan one trip there.
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