10 Things to Do in Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a hill station known as the ‘Scotland of the East’ for its rolling pine-clad hills, lakes and waterfalls. It is reachable by road from Guwahati, about 100 km away, on a scenic three-hour drive.
The best way to experience Shillong and the attractions around it is without the stress of driving, parking or directions. With a chauffeur-driven car from Sudarshan Cars, you get a local driver who doubles as a guide, so you can focus on the sights while we handle the road. Here are the top 10 things to do in Shillong.
1. Umiam Lake
A large man-made reservoir about 15 km before Shillong, ringed by forested hills and offering boating, kayaking and viewpoints ideal for photography.
2. Elephant Falls
A picturesque three-tiered waterfall about 12 km from the city, reached by a stepped path past each cascade, one of Shillong’s most popular natural sights.
3. Shillong Peak
The highest point in the region at around 1,965 metres, offering panoramic views over the city and a favourite sunrise stop.
4. Ward’s Lake
A horseshoe-shaped artificial lake in the heart of the city, surrounded by gardens and crossed by an ornamental wooden bridge, popular for pedal-boating.
5. Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
A seven-storey museum showcasing the cultures and traditions of Northeast India’s tribes, with a rooftop sky-walk giving 360-degree views.
6. Laitlum Canyons
A dramatic set of gorges and rolling green canyons about 25 km from Shillong, offering vast viewpoints and a favourite spot for hikers and photographers.
7. Police Bazaar
Shillong’s bustling central market area, lined with shops, eateries and stalls selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
8. Lady Hydari Park
A landscaped Japanese-style garden in the city centre with a mini-zoo and flower displays, a relaxed family spot.
9. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
A centuries-old sacred grove about 25 km from Shillong, preserved by Khasi tradition with ancient trees, monoliths and rich biodiversity.
10. Mawlynnong (day trip)
Hailed as Asia’s cleanest village, about 80 km from Shillong and known for its living root bridges and a bamboo sky-walk viewpoint.
Explore Shillong with a Chauffeur-Driven Car
From temple visits and sightseeing to comfortable day trips, a professional chauffeur from Sudarshan Cars makes exploring Shillong, Meghalaya easy and relaxed. We offer clean, well-maintained cars with experienced local drivers across 120+ cities in India. Call 022 695 84100, message us on WhatsApp, or view our services to book your ride. Planning more travel? Browse our full Things to Do guides.
Plan Your Visit to Shillong
Shillong, the “Scotland of the East,” spreads across pine-covered hills with lakes, waterfalls and viewpoints all around — and since most visitors arrive via Guwahati, a chauffeur-driven car makes the hill journey and local sightseeing seamless.
- Best time to visit: March to June for pleasant, lush weather; October to February is cooler and quieter, good for views and cafe culture.
- Nearest airport: Shillong (Umroi) Airport, about 40 km away with limited flights; Guwahati’s LGBI Airport (about 120 km) has far wider connectivity.
- Nearest railway station: Guwahati (GHY), about 105 km away — there is no railway station in Shillong itself.
- By road: About a 3-hour scenic drive from Guwahati on NH6 (formerly NH40), an all-weather road.
- Don’t miss: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Laitlum Canyons, Ward’s Lake and the Don Bosco Museum.
Most Shillong trips start with a drive up from Guwahati, and the sights are spread across the hills, so a chauffeur-driven car keeps the whole journey easy. Browse the Sudarshan Cars fleet to plan your trip.
What is the best time to visit Shillong?
March to June is pleasant and lush, ideal for the lakes, waterfalls and outdoor activities. October to February is cooler and quieter, good for clear views and a relaxed pace. The monsoon brings very heavy rain.
Which is the nearest airport and railway station to Shillong?
Shillong’s own Umroi Airport is about 40 km away but has limited flights, so most travellers fly into Guwahati’s LGBI Airport, around 120 km away. There is no railway in Shillong; the nearest station is Guwahati, about 105 km away.
How do I reach Shillong from Guwahati?
Shillong is about a 3-hour drive from Guwahati on NH6, a scenic all-weather road that passes Umiam Lake. A chauffeur-driven car is a comfortable option, especially after a flight or train arrival.
Can I hire a chauffeur-driven car for a Shillong trip?
Yes. Sudarshan Cars can arrange chauffeur-driven cars for the Guwahati–Shillong drive and local sightseeing, with drivers experienced on the Meghalaya hill roads, including day trips towards Cherrapunji.
What are the top attractions in Shillong?
Highlights include Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, the Laitlum Canyons, Ward’s Lake and the seven-storey Don Bosco Museum of tribal cultures.
