Shillong

Shillong is properly called as "Scotland of the east". What exactly it has in common with Scotland maybe a matter of discussion but the majority of the population - the Khasis and the Jaintias - boats of a clan system that would any day outrival the Scottish clans!

As the car winds up from Guwahati in neighbouring Assam, 103-km away, the flat, dusty and grimy plains give way to rolling hills that rise slowly and sinuously. No abrupt, sudden assault on the senses. The charms of Shillong begin to work gradually but effectively. The road snakes up through lush green forests, seeping into the senses like heady wine.



Even before the effect of Umiam Lake wears off, Shillong spreads out with its lush green undulating hills, cottages tucked in its folds with a sprinkling of old world cathedrals and churches and localities with quaint names like 'Laitumkrah', 'Sunnyhill', 'Lachumiere', 'Mawalai', 'Nongthymiah' and 'Pokseh'. 

Prime Attractions of Shillong

Anglican Cemetery

Lovers of old churchyards will enjoy the Anglican cemetery in Rilbong, with gravestones dating back to the last century, including those soldiers killed in the Lushai campaign in Mizoram.

Beadon Falls, Bishop Falls & Elephant Falls

Beadon Falls and Bishop Falls, off the Guwahati road at Mawprem, 3-km north, and Elephant Falls, set amid fern-covered rocks 12-km south, are popular waterfalls and picnic sites, and accessible by taxi.

Botanical Gardens

Kyllang Rock

Lady Hydari Park

Lum Nehru Park

Nurseries

Rengthiam Falls

Sohpetbneng Peak

Spread Eagle Falls

State Museum

Thadlaskein Lake

Ward Lake

Excursions from Shillong

Jakrem

Situated 45-km from Nongstoin (via Mawthawpdah) and 59-km from Shillong, has a hot spring of sulphur water, which is believed to have medicinal properties. People can have a dip here and experience a refreshing feeling.

Ranikor

About 156-km from Nongstoin and 120-km to Shillong is one of the best fishing spots. Anglers can row up the Jadukata river where the Kynshi and Rilang converge and enjoy angling for the huge golden Mahseers, the pride of anglers and other species like the golden carp, silver carp and the common carp are available here. The surrounding rock cliffs and the clear blue water add to the scenic beauty of the place.

Shillong Peak

For a panoramic view of the city, the best bet is Shilling peak at 1,965 m, the highest point in the state and 10-km from the city. On a clear day, the whole of Shillong spreads below it before disappearing into the distant blue green hills. And on a clear night, it is a bejewelled, twinkling carpet out of an Arabian lore.