Why go
Shillong is the hill capital of Meghalaya, the abode of clouds, and it works as a base for some of the most memorable scenery in the Northeast: waterfalls, living root bridges, limestone caves and cafes with misty views. Allow four to five days so you can see the town and take at least two day trips without rushing.
When to go
October to April is the most comfortable window, with clearer skies and easier roads. September and October, right after the monsoon, are the best time to see waterfalls with full volume. The monsoon months bring very heavy rain that can slow roads and cancel outdoor plans.
Getting there
Guwahati is the main gateway, about 100 km and roughly three hours by road from Shillong, with shared taxis and private cars running through the day. The route is scenic but winding, so allow extra time in rain and fog.
Getting around
Within Shillong, taxis and shared cabs are the easiest way to get around. For day trips to Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong and Dawki, hire a car with a driver for the day, since distances are long and public transport is slow.
4-day plan
- Day 1: Shillong town. Visit Elephant Falls in the morning, then Shillong Peak for the view, and spend the afternoon at Ward's Lake, Lady Hydari Park and the cafes. Elephant Falls is easy to reach and does not need a trek.
- Day 2: Cherrapunji (Sohra). See the Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint, which drops about 340 m, and Mawsmai Cave. Return to Shillong by evening.
- Day 3: Mawlynnong and Dawki. Leave early. Walk through Mawlynnong, see the single living root bridge at nearby Riwai, then take a boat on the clear Umngot river at Dawki. This is a long day, so start by 6 to 7 am.
- Day 4: Nongriat or Umiam Lake. The double-decker living root bridge at Nongriat is the highlight, but it needs a steep descent of about 3,000 or more steps, so only choose it if you are fit and have a guide, and an overnight stay is recommended. A calmer alternative is Umiam Lake and the Laitlum canyons.
Where to stay
Stay in the town centre or near Police Bazaar for cafes and short walks. For day trips, Cherrapunji and Dawki also have homestays if you want to start early and avoid the long return drive.
Food
Try Khasi dishes such as jadoh, a rice and meat dish, and dohneiiong, a pork curry with black sesame. The cafes in Shillong are known for good coffee, baked goods and live music in the evenings.
With parents
The town sights are easy, but the root bridge treks have steep steps and are not suitable for older travellers. Keep to Shillong, Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, Cherrapunji viewpoints and Mawsmai Cave, and plan one day trip at a time with a rest day between.
Good to know
Carry a rain jacket in any season and wear shoes with good grip. Mobile networks can be patchy in the villages. Start day trips early, since afternoon fog and rain can hide views.
Questions people ask
How many days do I need in Shillong?
Four to five days: one for the town and Elephant Falls, one for Cherrapunji, one for Mawlynnong and Dawki, and one for a root bridge trek or Umiam Lake.
What is the best time to visit Shillong?
October to April for clear skies and easy roads. Just after the monsoon, in September and October, the waterfalls are at their fullest.
Is the Nongriat double-decker root bridge difficult to reach?
Yes. The trek involves a steep descent of about 3,000 or more steps, so go only if you are fit, hire a guide and plan an overnight stay.
How far is Shillong from Guwahati?
About 100 km, roughly three hours by road, with shared taxis and private cars available.
