Ward's Lake is a serene and picturesque lake located in the heart of Shillong. With lush greenery surrounding the lake and colorful flower beds, it's a great spot for some peaceful time. After this, explore Police Bazar, which is the commercial hub of Shillong. You can find street food, clothing shops, and local handicrafts.
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures is a unique museum that showcases the cultural diversity of Northeast India. The museum also has a skywalk, which gives you a panoramic view of Shillong. After that, head to Bara Bazaar, which is the oldest and biggest traditional market in Shillong. Here, you can buy Khasi and Jaintia tribal dresses, handicrafts, and spices.
Shillong Golf Course is one of the oldest golf courses in India and has a scenic view of pine trees and the Shillong valley. After the game, head to Laitlum Canyon, which means "End of Hills". The canyon is famous for its steep gorges, meandering streams, and breathtaking views.
Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located in the outskirts of Shillong. The falls got its name from the rock near the falls, which resembled an elephant. After visiting the falls, head to Lady Hydari Park, which is a well-maintained park with a mini zoo and a small museum showcasing the tribal culture of Meghalaya.
Wrap up your trip by experiencing the nightlife in Shillong. Shillong has several bars and clubs where you can enjoy local music and drinks. The most famous clubs are Cloud 9, Tango, and Deja Vu. Make sure to grab some local street food after the clubbing experience.
Shillong is well-connected by roads, and you can rent a car or bike to explore the city. Also, there are shared taxis, which are cheap and convenient. Expect some tough terrains and winding roads in the Meghalaya region, which may add to your travel time.
If you have extra time, you can visit Umiam Lake, Mawphlang Sacred Forest, and Lalong Park. Also, take a day trip to Cherrapunjee, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous for its living root bridges. If you have less time, you can skip Laitlum Canyon and Lady Hydari Park. Don't forget to try the local Khasi food, which is known for its spiciness and unique flavors.
The nearest airport to Shillong is Shillong Airport (SHL), which is 30 km away from the city center. The airport has limited connectivity and operates only a few flights from major cities like Kolkata and Guwahati. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), which is 125 km away from Shillong.