Nestled in the northeastern part of India, nestled among stunning mountains, Shillong is the capital city of India. meghalayait feels like walking into another world. The historic city is a poignant reminder of the tumultuous Anglo-Burmese War and other key moments that shaped its past. As you stroll through Shillong, it’s impossible to miss the remnants of these historical events – war memorials, museums and ruins stand as silent testimonials to the city’s storied past.
However, for me, the real appeal of Shillong goes far beyond its historical significance. It is a place where nature reigns supreme, shrouded in perpetual mist and fluffy clouds, of indescribable otherworldly beauty. I heartily recommend this hill station to other travelers and eco-activists, it offers you a peaceful place to enter a world of pristine natural wonders. Hidden beneath steep forested hills, Shillong looks exactly as it did centuries ago – untouched by time and full of wild beauty. As I explored, I felt an immediate connection to the land, where every corner seemed to offer stunning views. Be it the rolling hills, lush valleys or mist-shrouded cliffs, Shillong has a magical quality that captured my heart instantly.
The air here also gives people a different feeling – fresh, cool, and with the fragrance of pine trees. No wonder Shillong is often called the “Scotland of the East”. There are clear similarities to Scotland's rugged Highlands, with its rolling landscapes and mist-shrouded mornings. But Shillong has something unique about it – a unique charm that comes from its deep connection with nature and the rich cultural heritage of its people. Shillong is a dream come true for a nature lover like me. As I ventured through this hidden gem, I found myself falling in love with its quiet, unspoiled beauty—a beauty that, even after all these years, remains as awe-inspiring as ever.
Apart from the mighty waters of the Umkhrah and Umshyrpi rivers, Shillong is known for its pitched-roofed houses, scenic cliff-top nature trails and the world’s highest nadi It is proud of the Nartiang boulder. It’s a landscape that fills me with awe, an environment that makes India proud. Wherever you look, the town exudes a quiet charm, with a thriving tribal culture woven into its fabric. From manicured parks to quiet tree-lined streets, Shillong is bursting with life, music and mouth-watering food that reflects its rich heritage.
No matter where I wander, I am always greeted by a sapphire blue sky, and the endless horizon seems to chase me through every corner of the city. The blend of nature and culture is intoxicating and inspiring at every step. The profound cultural influence of this “cloud dwelling” cannot be ignored, and can be felt not only in its people, but also in the land. To truly understand Shillong, you have to travel deep into its heart – through valleys carved over thousands of years, along steep winding hillsides and through flower-filled meadows.
The scenery here is purely poetic, evoking a desire to escape from pristine beauty. The call of offbeat trails, quiet corners and hidden gems becomes irresistible. Whether on a bike or wearing hiking boots, exploring Shillong’s lesser-known byways feels like an invitation to discover something magical. Here you can get lost in nature and rediscover yourself, embraced by the tranquility and timeless charm of this mountain estate.
The majestic hills surrounding Shillong bear a distinct resemblance to Scotland, leading the British to call it “Scotland of the East”. Shillong was not only a picturesque town during the British rule in the 18th century, it was also an important civil station, the administrative capital of Assam and the summer capital of Bengal. Although Meghalaya was formed only in 1969, this charming northeastern mountainous summer resort has managed to retain its rich tribal culture, traditions, temples, cuisine and lifestyle while growing rapidly.
During the early days of Assam, Shillong was chosen as the headquarters of the new government because of its strategic location connecting the Brahmaputra and Surma valleys. It remained the capital of the undivided state of Assam until 1972, when Meghalaya became an independent state. Timeless traditions come together beautifully.
Even today, Shillong retains its charming old-world charm while embracing vibrant uniqueness and diversity. The city is constantly evolving, with modern architecture harmoniously blending with history, creating a beautiful blend of old and new. Shillong’s most iconic landmarks include**Don Bosco Museum**, stunning **Elephant Falls**, tranquil **Umiam Lake** and **panoramic viewsShillong Peak** and **Laitlum Gorge**. Other must-see attractions include **Ward's Lake**, **Mawsynram**, **Eagle Falls**, **Meghalaya Museum**, **Kyllang Rock**, **Khasi Hills** and the bustling ** Police Market**.
For those who want to take a piece of Shillong home, the city offers a variety of traditional souvenirs. **Bamboo products**, **rattan jewelry** and beautiful **cotton and silk textiles** reflect local craftsmanship. A stroll through the narrow lanes of Police Bazaar is a feast for the senses, with a vibrant aesthetic that captures the essence of Shillong’s rich culture and heritage.
Shillong Food
Apart from its scenic beauty, Shillong is also a gastronomic gem that keeps tourists coming back for more. While **Kasi** and **Jaintia** cuisine take center stage, the city's food scene is also influenced by **Assamese**, **Bengali** and **Chinese** flavors influence. For an authentic taste of Shillong, I recommend heading to **Police Bazaar** or the many affordable food stalls in the city center where you can try a variety of local dishes.
Some of the must-try delicacies in Shillong include **momos** (steamed dumplings), crispy **jalebis** and the unique **Tungrymbai** (fermented soybeans). Don’t miss traditional rice specialties like **Jadoh** and **Pukhlein**, as well as delicious pork dishes **Dohneiiong** and **Dohkhlieh**. Other popular options include **Chow Mein**, **Bacon**, Fresh **Pineapple** and **Betel Leaf**. In this food lover's paradise, you are sure to be spoiled for choice with a wealth of dining options that give you a true taste of Shillong's diverse culinary heritage.
