Shillong

शिलोंग

The capital of Meghalaya perched at 1,496 meters, Shillong is known as the Scotland of India with its rolling hills, pine forests, and temperate climate. The city serves as a cultural hub with a vibrant music scene, pleasant weather year-round, and nearby natural attractions like Cherrapunji.

Things to do

• Ward's Lake — A scenic artificial lake in the heart of Shillong surrounded by pine forests with boating facilities and a walking trail around its perimeter.
• Don Bosco Centre — A museum showcasing the tribal culture, crafts, and history of Northeast India with traditional artefacts and exhibits from various indigenous communities.
• Cherrapunji Day Trip — Visit the wettest place on Earth just 56 km away, famous for its living root bridges, waterfalls, and dramatic monsoon landscapes.
• Polo Ground — One of the oldest polo grounds in Asia where you can watch matches during the season or stroll through this historic sporting venue.
• Elephant Falls — A picturesque three-tiered waterfall 12 km from the city centre surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for photography and nature walks.
• Khyndai Ramuco Peak — A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys, ideal for sunrise or sunset visits.

Food to try

• Khichdi (Khasi Style) — A rice and lentil dish cooked with local herbs and dried fish, representing a staple comfort food of the Khasi people.
• Jadoh — A fragrant rice dish cooked with pork and ginger, seasoned with turmeric and local spices, traditionally served at Khasi celebrations.
• Doh Khlai — Sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with turmeric, a traditional sweet and savoury treat from the region.
• Bhut Jolokia Preparations — Dishes featuring the famous ghost pepper grown in Meghalaya, often served in pickles or chutneys with an intensely spicy kick.
• Momos and Street Food — Tibetan-style dumplings and steamed buns widely available from street vendors, reflecting the diverse cultural mix in Shillong's food scene.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Matrilineal Traditions — The Khasi people follow a matrilineal system where property passes to daughters; understanding this cultural practice helps visitors engage respectfully with local families.
• Live Music Venues — Shillong has a thriving live music culture particularly for rock and traditional instruments; check local venues and cafes for evening performances.
• Monsoon Season Caution — Despite the temperate climate, the city receives extremely heavy rainfall during monsoons (June-September), so pack waterproof gear and plan indoor activities accordingly.
• Market Exploration Etiquette — Iewduh Bazaar and other local markets are best visited early morning; bargaining is acceptable but approach it respectfully and learn a few phrases in Khasi.