We live on that earth that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. Those who want to have a pleasant experience of travelling the must-visit Shillong Hill Station. This hill station is perfect for the people who want peace in their life and for a few days they want to separate themselves from office & social life. Shillong Hill Station is situated in the northeast region of India. It is the capital of Meghalaya and the district headquarter of East Khasi Hills. As per its name, Shillong means “the residence of clouds.”
It is said that the rolling hills around the town reminded the European immigrants of Scotland. Hence, this hill station is referred to as the “Scotland of the East.” Shillong Hill Station provides relief from the sizzling summer and known for the soothing climate. This destination is popular by pine trees, numerous waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, hill mountain peaks and especially for its people and culture.
So, in our travel blog we discuss every aspect like its history, important places to visit in Shillong, modes of reaching this hill station and popular hotels for your convenience.
History of Shillong Hill Station
The name of Shillong come from Lei Shyllong, an Idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. During the British Administration, Shillong was the capital of whole Assam, but later a separate state Meghalaya was formed. At that time, David Scot was the servent of East India Company and working for Governor-General North-East Frontier. During the Anglo-Burmese War, the British authorities felt the need for a road that connects Sylhet and Assam. The route was to pass over from the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
Thus from here the interest of Britishers towards Khasi and Jaintia Hills began. In early 1829, Khasis have started a revolt against the foreign occupation on their land which long-lasted till 1833. After the denial of the Khasis, a political agent was posted in the hills, with headquarters at Sohra (Cherrapunjee). At that point, they moved out of Shillong & it was assigned the local station of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in 1864 by the British. The place remained the capital of undivided Assam till the creation of the modern state of Meghalaya on 21 January 1972, when became the capital of Meghalaya and Assam moved its capital to Dispur in Guwahati.
Famous Destination
There are many memorable and romantic destinations for newly married couples and tourists. The geographical area of Shillong Hill Station is stretched around 64.36 square km and has an approx elevation of 4908 – 6499 ft. Have a look at the travel map of Shillong Hill Station, Meghalaya.
Let’s discuss the main attractions:
1. Elephant Fall: These falls are situated around 12 km from the city. Elephant Falls is a three-tier fall with water coming from big rocks and meeting at one place. These falls are known as the Wei Laplam Falls and Wir Phang Falls. The local Khasi people mention this place as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew.
In 1897, Britishers named this waterfall as Elephant falls because a rock near this fall resembles as an elephant. Later in the earthquake, it was broken.
2. Lady Hayadri Park: It is the most famous destination of the Hill Station. This park is dedicated to the first lady of the territory— Lady Hayadri. This park comprises of a wide variety of flora and fauna plus a mini zoo is located inside it.
You can find colorful fishes, an extensive range of birds and hundreds of reptiles present over there. Apart from strolling around, this place is right for wildlife photographers.
3. Shillong Peak: If you have to watch the mesmerizing view of Shillong from the highest point; then this place is for you only.
By trekking or by the standard mode you can reach this place. This place is elevated around 1966 m above sea level and the highest point of Meghalaya.
4. Wards Lake: It is a human-made lake which is enclosed by fruitful gardens and also known as Pollack’s Lake. This spellbinding lake is famous for barbecue among travellers.
5. Golf Course: Britisher introduced to golf in 1898, at this place. This fantastic golf course in Shillong Hill Station is outlined by C. K Rhodes and Captain Jackson. Now it is known as the first 18 hole golf course in India.
It is called the “Gleneagles” of the East on account of its enchanting characteristics.
6. Butterfly Museum: This museum is situated in the East Khasi Hills District and it is popular for housing large number of butterflies.
The gallery additionally helps in the raising of the butterflies with the goal that the biological uniformity can be kept up. There are bugs and moths of unimaginable size are also present in this museum.
7. Don Bosco Museum: It is the largest museum in Asia with indigenous culture and the beautiful tradition of the North East. This museum has seven buildings which rise above the skyline of Shillong and 16 galleries which depicts the artifacts, paintings, figures of Shillong culture.
8. Khasi Hills: It was named after the Khasi dynasty of Meghalaya. The Khasi Hills are a piece of the Garo-Khasi extend and a portion of the more significant Patkai slope, a series of hills found over the Indo-Myanmar outskirt in the upper east district of India.
This place has deep valleys and funnel-shaped pinnacles. The Khasi Hills are an incredible mixture of rich forests, never-ending grassy fields, high hills surrounded by lively mists, cascades, rivers and old stone monuments.
9. Umiam Lake: From 15 km north of the place, Umiam lake is present, which serves as the reservoir to the state. In early 1960, it was created by damming the Umiam river mostly used as hydroelectric power. The panoramic Umiam Lake is confined by luscious green East Khasi hills that form best sights for nature-lovers in the country. The sunrise at the lake is the best treat to view and shouldn’t be missed.
10. Nohkalikai Falls: These falls are the tallest diving waterfall of India. Present at the height of 1115m above the sea level.
Nohkalikai Falls is filled by the rainwater collected on a small plateau and a decrease in power from December – February. Below the falls, there has formed a dipping pool with refreshing green color water.
Also Read: Pahalgam – Hill Station Of Jammu And Kashmir
11. David Scot Trail: The most popular route among trekkers which is named after a British Officer, David Scot (mention in the History). This trekking route is stretched around 16 km.
One can start the trek from any point in the curious Mawphlang town, experience the twisting course over the slopes and valleys, rest at the famous resting spot called Ka Kor Ka Shonmai, appreciate the tomb of Camilla, click photos of the balancing span over the River Umiam and stop by the few Khasi towns coming to get notification from their society stories.
12. Thangsning Fall: Thangsning Falls is popularly known as “Kshaid Lwai” in the local language is the best place to experience the beautiful scenery of nature during summer.
It is also an attractive place for you to spend your picnic time with your family and friends in winter. This remarkable place is the perfect place for people who love to explore and adventure especially youngsters
13. Spread Eagle Falls: Situated in the East Khasi District, 6km from Cantonment, the Spread Eagle Falls are viewed the most. The glimmering cascade is called as Sati Falls or Urkaliar on account of the conviction that Ka Liar slipped into it. The grand waterfall spouts down soak slopes, transcending three sides into a gigantic pool of water which is perfect for the vacationers to sit and longe. The Spread Eagle Falls, which looks an eagle with its wings spread wide, is a famous picnicking site among local people of the area.
14. Laitumkhrah Church: The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, is also called as Laitumkhrah Church is one of the most lovely places of worship of Shillong. It is named after Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. This is a holy place for Christians and other religion people also visit here.
There are many other places which are not mentioned above you, can go according to your interest.
Modes of reaching
Shillong has a pleasant climate throughout the year and can be visited whenever you want.
By Airways: There is no airport within city, so the closest airport is Umroi which is located around 35 km from Shillong.
By Railways: The nearest railway station from the hill station is located in Guwahati at a distance of 104 km.
By Roadways: Shillong is connected to Guwahati with the National Highway 40. Taxis and ola cabs are readily available from Guwahati to reach the place.
Hotel Arrangement at Shillong Hill Station
Shillong Hill Station is filled with several private hotels and tourist lodges. The hotels are divided into various categories like star ratings, facilities providing you and budget hotels. Travellers can choose the best hotel according to their budget and convenience. We have chosen some affordable hotels in the Hill Station for your convenience, please have a look.
| Hotel Name | Distance from Shillong | Starting Price(INR)* |
|---|---|---|
| 55 Pillar House | 0.0 km | 1,300 – 1,900 |
| Cafe Shillong | 1.3 km | 2,850 – 3,760 |
| Oyo Infinity Inn | 0.0 km | 1,200 – 1,700 |
| The Saad Hotel | 0.4 km | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Hotel Sapphire | 1.2 km | 2,700 – 5,000 |
Would it be cheesy if I told you about Shillong Hill Station is the most popular among Honeymoon Couples?? The best present you should give your partner is a lifetime travel adventure and memories of that vacation. Enjoy holiday packages at Shillong and create beautiful memories with your life partner.
Also Read: Wilson Hills – Most Loved Hill Station of Gujarat
