Shilong

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a hill town, situated in the north eastern part of India. It is a popular hill-station which the British used to call the Scotland of the East.

Sightseeing in Shillong -

Shillong Peak: An ideal picnic spot, 10 km. from the city, 1965 m above sea level, offers a panoramic view of the scenic country side, and is also the highest point in the State. Obeisance is paid to U Shulong at the sanctum sanctorum at the peak's summit every springtime, by the religious priest of Mylliem State. In the evening the city lights below appear like a star-studded abyss.

Cherrapunjee ( Sohra ): 56 km from Shillong, situated in one of the rainiest rain-belt in the world, 1,300 m above sea level. A pleasant drive to see roaring water falls leaping into deep gorges, including the famed Nohsngithiang falls is a must on Shillong tourism. The lovely town is also famous for its limestone caves and orange honey. Centre of Khasi culture and literature, it also has the oldest Presbyterian Church and also an establishment of the Ramkrishna Mission. 

Sohpetbneng Peak: 1,343 m, 20 km from Shillong, regarded as sacred by the Hynniewtrep people, is set amidst a beautiful scenic view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This 'Navel of Heaven' as per Khasi mythology is a heavenly peak which offers to fill the spiritual void and emptiness, to those who seek and desire solace and peace of mind. 

Umiam Lake: Umiam Khwan (Barapani), 17 km from Shillong, offers water sports facilities including sailing, water skiing, water scooter The Orchid Lake Resort and the adjacent Lum Nehru Park is an ideal quiet holiday resort. 

Botanical Garden: A secluded but captivating spot with plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is located just below the Ward's Lake.

Bishop and Beadon Falls: Both cascade down the same escarpment into a deep valley, the mass of water dissolving into misty sparks. 

Elephant Falls: 12 km on the outskirts of the city, the mountain stream descends through two successive falls set in dells of fern covered rocks. 

State Museum: Located at the State Central Library complex, visitors can get a glimpse of the lifestyle and heritage of the people.

How to reach-

By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong and Tura to Guwahati.

By Train: Guwahti is the nearest railhead and is well connected to the rest of the country.

By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.