Shillong, the "Scotland of the East," is a captivating hill station in Northeast India known for its lush rolling landscapes, tranquil lakes, vibrant rock music culture, and rich Khasi tribal heritage. The city sits at 1,496 metres above sea level and enjoys a cool, pleasant climate year-round — making it one of the most popular hill station destinations in India.
In this guide we cover the top 10 must-visit places in Shillong — from the serene Umiam Lake and dramatic Laitlum Canyons to the world-famous Nohkalikai Falls near Cherrapunji. We also cover how to reach Shillong from Guwahati Airport and major Indian cities via Wizzride's shared and reserved cab service.
Best Places to Visit in Shillong
1. Umiam Lake (Barapani)
Umiam Lake is one of the most iconic attractions near Shillong — a large reservoir set among pine-covered hills, just 17 km from the city centre. Visitors can rent paddle boats, rowboats, or motorboats to explore the calm waters while surrounded by stunning Meghalaya scenery. The lakeside views are spectacular in the late afternoon and the cool mountain air makes any time of year pleasant for a visit.
2. Elephant Falls
Located 12 km from Shillong, Elephant Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in Meghalaya — a stunning three-tiered waterfall named after an elephant-shaped rock that once stood near the base. The best time to visit is September to November when water flow is at peak after monsoon. The falls are accessible year-round and particularly beautiful in the early morning before tourist crowds arrive.
3. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Located 25 km from Shillong, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is one of the most unique destinations in all of Northeast India — combining deep Khasi cultural and spiritual significance with extraordinary biodiversity. The forest has been protected by the Khasi community for over 200 years under traditional law, and nothing may be removed from within its boundaries. Towering trees, rare ferns, and dense undergrowth create a rich ecosystem unlike anything in the region.
4. Shillong Peak
At 1,965 metres, Shillong Peak is the highest point in the city and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Shillong and the surrounding Khasi Hills. Often called the Skyline of Shillong, the peak is 10 km from the city centre and accessible by car or taxi. On clear days the views extend to the Brahmaputra plains of Assam. Visit in the morning before clouds move in for the clearest visibility.
5. Ward's Lake
Ward's Lake is a beautiful man-made lake in the heart of Shillong, just a short walk from MG Road and Police Bazaar. Surrounded by manicured gardens and walking paths, it is an ideal evening spot for travellers arriving after a long drive from Guwahati. Paddle boating on the lake, the ornamental bridge, and the surrounding flower gardens make this one of Shillong's most photographed landmarks. Entry fee applies.
6. Don Bosco Museum
The Don Bosco Museum in Shillong is one of the largest cultural museums in Asia dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Northeast India. Seven floors of exhibits cover the art, traditions, costumes, instruments, and lifestyle of the region's diverse tribal communities — from the Khasi and Garo of Meghalaya to tribes across all eight Northeast states. The rooftop skywalk offers excellent views of Shillong. Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit.
7. Laitlum Canyons
Located 25 km from Shillong, Laitlum Canyons — meaning "The End of the Hills" in Khasi — offers some of the most dramatic canyon views in Northeast India. The vast undisturbed landscape of steep valleys, terraced fields, and rolling green hills stretching to the horizon is breathtaking. Best visited early morning for clear views and cool conditions. A short trek from the road leads to the canyon edge viewpoint. Minimal tourism infrastructure — carry water and snacks.
8. Nohkalikai Falls (Cherrapunji)
At 340 metres, Nohkalikai Falls is India's tallest plunge waterfall — located 53 km from Shillong near Cherrapunji (Sohra). The pool at the base has a striking turquoise-blue colour and the thundering falls are at their most powerful between July and November. The best time to visit is October to March for clear views without the obscuring monsoon mist. Most visitors combine Nohkalikai with Mawsmai Cave and Seven Sisters Falls in a single day trip from Shillong.
9. Syiem's Farm (Mawphlang)
Located in Mawphlang, 25 km from Shillong, Syiem's Farm is a peaceful nature retreat offering lush greenery, local Khasi cultural experiences, and a tranquil atmosphere far from the city's bustle. The farm is open year-round but best visited between October and March when the weather is most pleasant. Roads to the farm are well-maintained and accessible by taxi from Shillong.
10. Mawsmai Caves (Cherrapunji)
The Mawsmai Caves in Cherrapunji, 53 km from Shillong, are one of the most accessible limestone cave systems in Meghalaya. The caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years, and a well-maintained pathway guides visitors through the illuminated interior. Local guides are available at the entrance. Best combined with Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls in a single Cherrapunji day trip from Shillong.
How to Reach Shillong — Connectivity Guide
Shillong is well-connected to major Indian cities through Guwahati, which serves as the primary transit hub for all road, rail, and air connections to Meghalaya's capital.
| Starting Point | Distance to Shillong | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Guwahati Airport (LGBI) | 118 km | 3 to 4 hours |
| Guwahati Railway Station | 96 km | 3 to 3.5 hours |
| ISBT Guwahati Bus Stand | 97 km | 3 to 3.5 hours |
| Guwahati City Centre | 97 km | 3 to 3.5 hours |
By Air — Guwahati Airport to Shillong
Most travellers fly into Guwahati's Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI) — well connected from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. From the airport, Wizzride's shared and reserved cabs pick up directly at the arrivals gate for the onward 118 km journey to Shillong via NH6.
By Train — Guwahati Railway Station to Shillong
Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest major station — connected with express and superfast trains from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad. From the station, Wizzride operates pre-booked cabs to Shillong with direct pickup — no waiting at the stand.
By Road — Wizzride Shared and Reserved Cabs
Wizzride is the most convenient way to reach Shillong from Guwahati. The route follows NH6 via Jorabat through the Khasi Hills — one of the most scenic drives in Northeast India. Key stops along the route include Nongpoh (halfway) and Umiam Lake (30 km before Shillong).
Why Choose Wizzride for Your Journey to Shillong
When travelling from Guwahati Airport, Guwahati Railway Station, or ISBT to Shillong, Wizzride addresses the key pain points travellers face on this route:
- Guaranteed availability: Book your ride online in advance — your journey is confirmed and stress-free, even during peak season
- Transparent pricing: Fixed fare confirmed at booking with no hidden charges — view your fare before confirming
- Direct airport pickup: Wizzride picks you up at GHY arrivals gate — no city transfer to Paltan Bazaar required
- Comfort: Shared rides in Innova Crysta with spacious seating, air conditioning, and verified drivers
- Flexible options: Shared cab for budget-friendly per-seat travel or reserved cab for full vehicle privacy
- Seamless online booking: Book via wizzride.com or the Wizzride app — Android and iOS
Wizzride also operates cabs from Bagdogra to Gangtok, Bagdogra to Darjeeling, and Guwahati to Shillong — book all routes at wizzride.com.