Begin your trip by dancing the night away at The Habitat, an eclectic music venue that hosts live performances, open mic nights, and DJ sets. Enjoy the sound of local artists, try some Indian beer, and hang out with the locals.
Start your day by touring the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which showcases the richness of local life and culture. The museum includes exhibits on music, dance, art, and people's history. After that, take a 10-minute cab ride to the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, an architectural wonder that boasts of stained glass windows, high ceilings, and carved stone sculptures.
Lady Hydari Park, a Japanese-style landscaped garden with a mini-zoo, a butterfly museum, and walking trails. Later, make your way to Shillong View Point, an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city's rolling hills, green valleys, and dense forests. You can expect a breathtaking view of the city skyline.
End your trip with an evening of cocktails and a delicious dinner at Cafe Shillong Heritage, a cozy restaurant that serves Indian and international dishes. After that, head to Mawphlang Sacred Forest to experience nature’s tranquility and peace, and explore the mystic Khasi culture.
Shillong is a small city that is easy to get around, whether you take a taxi, a bus or a hired car. Taxis are relatively cheap, but always agree on the price before you get in with the driver. Walking around the town is also a good option as most places are located near each other.
If you want to dance all night long, the best days to visit the Habitat are Wednesdays and Saturdays so plan your itinerary accordingly. If you are interested in nature and history, visit the Ward's Lake, a landscaped public park that boasts of rare plants and a large water body. You can also visit the Umiam Lake or the Elephant falls for a serene and surreal experience.
The nearest airport to Shillong is Umroi Airport (Shillong Airport) whose airport code is SHL. It is located approximately 35 km (22 miles) from the city center. The airport serves only a few airlines, including Air Asia, and has limited connectivity with other major cities in India.