Shillong Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors | North East Planner

Planning your first trip to Shillong? Explore travel tips, must-visit places, and local food with North East Planner, your trusted North East India travel agency for Shillong and Meghalaya tours.

1. Shillong Travel Tips for First-Time
Visitors
Introduction:
Located in the rolling hills of Meghalaya state, Shillong is a
destination that blends natural beauty, music, and rich tribal culture.
Often called the “Scotland of the East”,
Shillong is famous for its misty weather, pine-covered hills, and
warm hospitality.
For a first-time visitor; the city offers a refreshing escape from the
chaos of city life — a place where nature still rules and time slows
down.
If you’re planning your first trip to Shillong or nearby places, here’s a
complete travel guide from North East Planner, your trusted travel
partner in Guwahati, to make your journey smooth, memorable, and
authentic.

2. 1. Best Time to Visit Shillong
Shillong enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best
time to visit depends on the kind of experience you want.
Summer (March – June): Ideal for sightseeing, boating, and
outdoor adventures. The temperature ranges between 15°C
and 25°C.
Monsoon (July – September): Perfect for nature lovers and
photographers who wish to see waterfalls at their fullest.
However, expect heavy rainfall and road delays.
Winter (October – February): The air turns crisp, the skies are
clear, and it’s perfect for cultural exploration and cozy evenings
by the hills.
At North East Planner, we recommend visiting between October and
May for the most perfect weather — great for both sightseeing and
photography.
2. How to Reach Shillong
Shillong doesn’t have its own airport, but reaching it is part of the
adventure!
By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi
International Airport in Guwahati (Assam), about 125 km
away. From there, you can book a scenic road trip to Shillong
with North East Planner, which takes about 3–4 hours through
lush valleys and mountain curves.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati. From
there, taxis and private cabs are available.

3. By Road: The Guwahati–Shillong highway (NH6) is one of the
most beautiful road trips in India, with panoramic views of hills
and lakes.
3. Where to Stay in Shillong
Shillong city offers a variety of accommodation options — from
home-stays and heritage cottages to luxury resorts.
For budget travellers: Try local home-stays near Police Bazaar
or Laitumkhrah, which offer affordable stays with local
hospitality.
For couples: Choose hill-view cottages around Umiam Lake or
boutique resorts in Mawphlang for a peaceful experience.
For families: North East Planner partners with comfortable
hotels in the city center, providing safety, convenience, and
guided services.
Booking your Shillong accommodation through North East Planner
ensures verified stays and personalized itinerary support.
4. Must-Visit Places in Shillong for First-Timers
Shillong is a treasure trove of natural beauty and culture. If it’s your
first visit, make sure to include these iconic spots in your travel plan:
1.Umiam Lake (Barapani): A serene lake surrounded by Pine
Hills, perfect for boating and sunset views.
2.Elephant Falls: A three-tiered waterfall just 12 km from the city
— a must-see for nature lovers.
3.Shillong Peak: The city’s highest point, offering panoramic
views of the surrounding valleys.
4.Ward’s Lake: A colonial-era artificial lake, ideal for peaceful
walks and photography.

4. 5.Don Bosco Museum: A cultural hub showcasing the art, history,
and traditions of North East India.
6.Laitlum Canyon: A paradise for trekkers and photographers
with breathtaking vistas.
7.Police Bazaar: Shillong’s bustling market — great for shopping
local crafts, woollens, and souvenirs.
North East Planner offers customizable Shillong sightseeing tours
that include these highlights and offbeat locations, guided by local
experts.
5. Food and Local Cuisine to Try
Shillong’s food scene is a delightful mix of Khasi delicacies and
modern cafes. First-time visitors should not miss:
Jadoh: A local Khasi dish made of rice and meat, often served
with spicy chutneys.
Tungrymbai: Fermented soybean curry cooked with pork.
Smoked Meat & Bamboo Shoots: A local specialty with earthy
flavors.
Cafés: Explore trendy cafés like Café Shillong, ML 05 Café, and
Dylan’s Café for continental food and live music.
North East Planner also organizes culinary tours in Shillong, where
you can enjoy traditional meals in local homes for an authentic taste
of Meghalaya state.
6. What to Pack for Shillong
Shillong’s weather can change quickly, so packing wisely is key,
Light woollens (even in summer, nights can be chilly)
Raincoat or umbrella (especially if visiting during the monsoon)

5. Comfortable walking shoes
Power bank and waterproof bag for your gadgets
Personal medicines and mosquito repellent
Travel light but smart — Shillong is best explored on foot.
7. Explore the Music and Nightlife
Shillong is often referred to as the “Rock Capital of India.” Music is in
the city’s soul. From roadside guitarists to live rock gigs, you’ll find
music everywhere.
If you’re visiting in November, don’t miss the Shillong Autumn
Festival or other cultural events showcasing local bands and dance
performances.
North East Planner can help plan your visit around these festivals for
an immersive cultural experience.
8. Respect the Local Culture and Environment
Shillong’s charm lies in its people and pristine environment. To
ensure your visit supports sustainable tourism:
Avoid littering and use eco-friendly products.
Dress modestly while visiting villages and sacred forests.
Support local artisans by buying handmade products.
Always ask permission before photographing locals.
At North East Planner, we promote eco-friendly and responsible
tourism, helping tourist from all over the world, leave only footprints
and take only memories.

6. 9. Extend Your Trip beyond Shillong
If time allows, explore nearby destinations like:
Cherrapunji (Sohra): Home to living root bridges and the
world’s rainiest landscapes.
Mawlynnong: Known as Asia’s cleanest village.
Dawki: Famous for the crystal-clear Umngot River.
All these destinations can be seamlessly added to your Shillong
itinerary with North East Planner’s Meghalaya Tour Packages,
ensuring comfort, safety, and authentic local guidance.
Final Thoughts
For first-time visitors, Shillong is more than just a hill station — it’s a
living poem of clouds, pine trees, and smiling faces. Every lane, every
waterfall, and every melody tells a story of nature and culture
coexisting in perfect harmony.
With North East Planner, you can explore Shillong at your own pace
— whether it’s through a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or
a cultural retreat.
Our expert team ensures that every journey is personalized,
sustainable, and filled with unforgettable memories.
So pack your bags, breathe in the mountain air, and let North East
Planner guide you through the magical charm of Shillong — your
perfect gateway to the Abode of Clouds.