Shillong Travel Guide

A beautiful city encircled by pine trees, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It derives its name from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. Standing as tall as 1496 meters, Shillong provides a relief from the heat across the country. This hill station is known for its picturesque sights and traditions. The soothing climate makes Shillong suitable to visit in all seasons. The light drizzles and the cooling gentle wind adds to the joy of visiting this hill station. This place is also known as the ‘Scotland of the East’. One can find descendants of the Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal and Langrim tribes.

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is the home to numerous waterfalls. The exciting mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, museums and the zoo are the key reasons why people visit Shillong. Apart from the natural beauty, Shillong also acts as the gateway to Meghalaya, the state famous for heavy rainfalls, caving, tallest waterfalls, beautiful landscapes and amazing people and culture. Shillong in particular has been in limelight for its jovial people and their culture. Interestingly, Shillong has a very westernised culture and it has a very young feel to it. Shillong is also famous as the music capital of India, as many prominent musicians have hailed from this place. Many music events keep happening throughout the year, making it a very lively place.

The nightlife in Shillong is quite unique in its own sense. It is not very happening or electrifying like what nightlife is usually assumed to be. In Shillong, nightlife is slow and steady. People usually like to relax and have a drink or two at some of the bars Shillong has. However, the city doesn’t lack nightlife completely. One can find, Shillong has many pubs, bars and discos. The nightlife in Shillong has slowly shifted from sedate to a happening one.

In Shillong, even though one is mostly preoccupied with the beauty of nature, they will also have a strong urge to stroll through the markets in the city and go on a shopping spree. Choosing from the variety of souvenirs can prove to be a difficult task. The markets are full of tribal market products that are mostly made of bamboo and wood. The markets also have an ample number of shops for fashion enthusiasts. One can find hand-woven shawls, trendy head gears and traditional Khasi dress for women. The prime shopping centres in the city are the Lewduh market and Police Bazaar.

Shillong fosters the flavours, colours, elements and popular dishes of an authentic Meghalayan cuisine. Do try the local preparations such as Tungtab which is a preparation of fermented dry fish, a wide variety of Momos, Tarumbai, which are fermented beans as well as the very popular Dohneiiong, a preparation of pork using local spices.
You must also indulge in Kyat which is a beverage prepared from rice. A traditional and refreshing item is the Kwai prepared from betel nuts. Other than these Shillong's restaurants have enough choices from Chinese, Indian and Tibetan cuisines.