Places to see in Shillong

Situated among the clouds at an altitude of 1498 above sea, Shillong was a part of Assam for a long point in time till the reorganization of states at the turn of the millennium.  The most important fact about this tourist destination is that the surroundings are the most amiable and at the same time admirable in terms of the land is apt holiday destination for tourists wishing to spend some time. The beautiful ecosystem of mountains, wooded forests, lakes, waterfalls so much so that the British who recourse to the mountains often referred as Scotland of The East and the title bears true to its name.



The places to see in Shillong are:

Shillong Peak- At an elevation of 1965 meters above sea level Shillong peak is located about 10 kilometers from the main city. Shillong Peak offers tourists a panoramic and perennial view of the scenic countryside and the ecosystem of Shillong. This is peak is also the highest available point on the city. This is an ideal place for picnic and small gathering. Apart from this tourists and visitors and residents alike pay their respects to the U Shillong Sanctum that is located at the peak. The ministers of the sanctum and the priests belong to the Mylliem State. This is done usually at the time of spring. Apart from visiting the sanctorum, tourist also takes some time to spend in meditation as the environment is conducive for the same.  The view during the evening is the best as tourists can see the lights of the city twinkling like a long string of lights.  

Sohepetbneng Peak- Located at an elevation of 1343 meters above seal level the Sohepetbneng is one of the most visited tourists destination. Held as sacrosanct spot by the Hynniewtrep people, this peak is serene and amicable beauty that is against the background of the sacred groves and forests.  As per Khasi beliefs the mount peak is also referred to as Navel of the Heaven. The reason for this tem being that the tribal’s believe that this sanctified mountain fills the void of spiritual blindness and loss of direction with healing and reorientation. The peak is also revered for the peace and solace and the peace of mind that can be perfectly described as heavenly which in no ways is a hyperbole.

Mawlynnong Falls- Falls of quietude that is the perfect to describe this fall. Situated in one of the most cleanest and at the same time quietest surrounding that can be expected, the fall have an aura of sacredness and solitude that is golden and simply majestic. The falls offers tourists and ambience of relaxation and a feeling of being one and in tune with nature. The most attractive feature of the place is that it has remained untarnished and well preserved in the best possible manner.

Wards Lake- This is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city of Shillong despite the fact that lake is an artificial lake. Located right in the center of the city the lake is a popular tourist destination specially for visiting tourists who flock both in the morning and evenings for an evening walk. Tourists can also avail of the boat ride facilities that are available on the lake.  Located just below the Raj Bhavan Residence tourists can reach the place through rural transport. On the banks of the Wards lake that is also a cafeteria that serves food and beverages to the visitor and travelers.

Umium lake- Compared to that of the Wards Lake , Umium is an much peaceful and serene tourists hotspot where tourists can get some time themselves in peace and quiet away from the herd or the crowd of users. Though over the years the government and the municipal authorities have laid adequate emphasis on developing and  fully utilizing the place. Now tourist can avail of water boating and other water related activities There are also eateries on the banks of the rivers that serves tourists with ethnic cuisine. It is a peaceful location in particular for morning walks and evenings walks and at the same time is also peaceful setting in the true sense of the word.

Don Bosco’s center for Indigenous Cultures- There is a lot to be explored in terms of the cultures, traditions and way of living and this center of indigenous cultures serve the purpose of task. The centers offer an in-depth view and understanding of the various native cultures and tribes in the north eastern regions of the country. The center has a compilation of the some of the best artifacts and manuscripts and bits and pieces of detail about the entire region. It is also referred to as one of the best and conclusive anthropological exhibition available about region and tries to explains facts both in a nutshell and as well in detail for all those who are interested.

Botanical Garden- The Botanical Garden at Shillong is truly a delight not only for tourists but also for nature lovers. Secluded from the hassles of life on the fast lane, the secluded by majestic botanical garden is a home to more than 100 species of plants and indigenous flora species in and around the region.  The Botanical Garden of Shillong is under the aegis of the Botanical Survey of India and is widely visited by tourist and nature lovers alike.

Golf Course- Is one of the largest golf courses in the in the country and is invariantly of the best and the plush meadow against the background of the majestic clouds and certainly a paradise in terms of  golf Lovers. It is also one of the most visited and is regarded as one of the best Golfing facilities available in the country. Developed in 1889 as a nine hole course, was later converted to 18 holes in 1924 by Captain Jackson and C. R. Rhodes. It is termed as the 'Gleneagle of the East' at the United States Golf Association Library and Museum.

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians- This is one of the majestic and well constructed Shrines and is also known as a pristine Marian place of Worship. The exteriors of the Shrine are simple but inside the church the traveler is transported to a neo church structure that has long glass panes over the main altar and the side panels that adorn the sides with various biblical scenes.  The interior of the cathedral are also known for the intrinsic carvings and patterns. The ambience of the environment is majestic and as such there is  a wonderful destination.  Devotees and travelers visit the temple cathedral particularly on Wednesday and during the 24th of every month.

Lady Hydari Park- This is a popular tourists spot. Named after the wife of the governor of Assam, this Zoological park is a gifted with nature and natural surroundings. Lady Hydari Park is eye-catching with roses and blossoms of exquisite colors. A specialty is that this park is landscaped in Japanese style. A mini zoo coupled with a deer park adds to the charm of the park. There are about 73 birds, 140 reptiles and mammals in this zoo.

Crinoline Falls- Near Lady Hydari Park, a cool spot within the city limits. This is a must visit place on Shillong tourism.