Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Northeast India. Known as the "Scotland of the East," Shillong offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and a vibrant local culture. If you're planning a Shillong trip, whether it's for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, here's everything you need to know about your Shillong trip plan, Shillong trip packages, and the Shillong trip cost to help you make the most of your visit.

Why Choose Shillong for Your Next Trip?

Shillong has a lot to offer to tourists. Its picturesque views, lush green hills, sparkling lakes, and stunning waterfalls make it a dream destination for nature lovers. The city is also known for its rich culture, music, and friendly locals. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Shillong is a perfect place to unwind and explore.

Some of the top attractions in Shillong include:

• Umiam Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by lush hills, perfect for boating and picnics.
• Elephant Falls: A majestic three-tier waterfall that’s ideal for photography.
• Shillong Peak: The highest point in the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
• Ward's Lake: A serene spot to relax, take a walk, and enjoy the views.
• Don Bosco Museum: A museum showcasing the culture, traditions, and history of Northeast India.

With so much to see and do, Shillong is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Northeast India.

How to Plan Your Shillong Trip

Planning a Shillong trip can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting. Here are some tips to help you plan your Shillong itinerary:

Best Time to Visit Shillong

The best time to visit Shillong is during the summer months (March to June) when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, making it difficult to travel, especially to certain areas like waterfalls and lakes. Winter (October to February) is also a great time to visit if you enjoy chilly weather and misty landscapes. During winter, Shillong has a cool and crisp atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C.

Duration of the Trip

A typical Shillong trip plan lasts for 3 to 5 days, which gives you enough time to explore the main attractions and surrounding areas like Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, and Dawki. If you have more time, you can even explore nearby spots in Meghalaya, like Tura or Nongstoin.

How to Reach Shillong

Shillong is well connected to other parts of the country by air, road, and rail:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Shillong is the Umroi Airport (also called Barapani Airport), located about 30 km from the city. However, not all major airlines fly directly to this airport. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam (about 130 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong.

• By Train: Shillong doesn’t have a railway station, but the nearest major station is in Guwahati. From Guwahati, you can take a taxi or bus to Shillong.

• By Road: Shillong is well connected by road with Guwahati and other cities in Northeast India. The drive from Guwahati to Shillong takes about 3-4 hours, and the route offers scenic views of rolling hills and valleys.

Accommodation in Shillong

Shillong offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From budget hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts and cottages, you’ll find many choices. Some popular areas to stay in Shillong include Police Bazaar, Laitumkhrah, and Upper Shillong. Booking your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is always a good idea.

Suggested Shillong Itinerary (3-5 Days)

Here’s a simple Shillong trip plan for 4 days:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing

• Arrive in Shillong and check into your hotel.
• Visit Umiam Lake for a relaxing start to your trip.
• Explore Ward’s Lake and Don Bosco Museum to learn more about the local culture.
• In the evening, take a walk around Police Bazaar for shopping and local food.

Day 2: Exploring Nature and Waterfalls

• Visit Elephant Falls, one of Shillong’s most famous waterfalls.
• Head to Shillong Peak for a stunning panoramic view of the city.
• Take a trip to Laitlum Canyons for spectacular views of the surrounding hills.
• Enjoy a leisurely evening at Lady Hydari Park.

Day 3: Day Trip to Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong

• Take a day trip to Cherrapunji, famous for its living root bridges, waterfalls, and caves.
• Visit Nohkalikai Falls and Mawsmai Caves in Cherrapunji.
• Head to Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village, and explore the surroundings.
• Return to Shillong in the evening.

Day 4: Day Trip to Dawki and Double Decker Root Bridge

• Take a day trip to Dawki, a small town known for its crystal-clear river and scenic landscapes.
• Visit the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat village.
• Return to Shillong by evening.

Shillong Trip Packages

If you're looking for a hassle-free trip, booking a Shillong trip package can be a great idea. These packages often include transportation, accommodation, sightseeing tours, and even meals, making it easy to explore Shillong without worrying about the logistics.

There are several travel agencies that offer customized Shillong packages, which you can adjust based on your interests and budget. A typical Shillong trip package might include:

• Accommodation in 3-star or 4-star hotels.
• Private transportation to visit local attractions and nearby places.
• Guided tours to popular spots like Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Umiam Lake.
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) depending on the package.

These packages can range from budget to luxury options, depending on the level of comfort you desire.

Shillong Trip Cost

The cost of your Shillong trip depends on various factors such as the time of year, duration of the trip, and the type of accommodation you choose. Here’s a rough breakdown of the Shillong trip cost for a 4-day trip:

1. Travel:

   • By Air: Flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata to Guwahati generally cost between ₹4,000 to ₹15,000 (one way), depending on the time of booking and class.
   • By Train: Train tickets to Guwahati typically cost between ₹500 to ₹1,500 (for 2nd AC or 3rd AC).
   • By Road: A taxi from Guwahati to Shillong can cost around ₹2,500 to ₹3,500, depending on the vehicle.

2. Accommodation:

   • Budget hotels/guesthouses: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night.
   • Mid-range hotels: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per night.
   • Luxury hotels/resorts: ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per night.

3. Food:

   • On average, meals in Shillong cost ₹200 to ₹500 per person at local restaurants.
   • Fine dining restaurants may charge ₹700 to ₹1,500 per meal.

4. Sightseeing and Activities:

   • Entrance fees for places like Don Bosco Museum or Shillong Peak range from ₹20 to ₹100 per person.
   • A full-day sightseeing tour (including transportation and guide) can cost between ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.

Conclusion

A Shillong trip is an incredible opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Northeast India. Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway or an extended vacation, the city offers something for everyone — from beautiful lakes and waterfalls to a vibrant culture and delicious local cuisine. With the right Shillong trip plan, you can explore all the major attractions and create unforgettable memories. You can choose from a variety of Shillong trip packages that fit your budget and preferences, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to one of India’s most charming hill stations!