Shillong: Heavy Monsoons and Heavy Guitars
Shillong, capital of the North East Indian state of Meghalaya (a Sanskrit term literally translated as “The Abode of Clouds”), is one of the most popular tourist and honeymoon destinations in North East India. Shillong is locatd in a hilly region and receives moderate to limited rainfall throughout the year and extremely heavy rainfall during the monsoons. Consequently, the region surrounding Shillong is lush with greenery, waterfalls, forests, streams, rivers, rivulets and valleys. The state of Meghalaya itself is considered to be among the most diverse regions in the world. Meghalaya has a unique and distinct ecosystem, and is perhaps the most beautiful of the seven North East Indian sisters.
Places to Visit in Shillong
Shillong is surrounded by many natural attractions such as waterfalls, lakes, valleys and peaks that offer excellent panorama of 'The Abode of Clouds'. Some of the more prominent waterfalls in the region are the Crinoline Falls, Gunner’s Falls 1, Gunner’s Falls 2, Spread Eagle Falls or Sati Falls, Sweet Falls or Weitden, and Elephant Falls. The Ward Lake (an artificial lake built in a shape of a horseshoe) and Barapani or Umiam Lake (formed owing to the construction of a hydroelectric dam) are the excellent picnic spots lush with natural beauty. For trekkers and mountain climbers, the goodies on the table are many and include Shillong Peak (a semicircular peak covered by fog most of the time), Sohpetbneng Peak (a 1,343 m high peak revered by the indigenous Hynfiiewtrep tribe of Shillong), Dingei Hill (a tough mountain well capable of testing serious mountain climbers) and Dumpeep Peak (one of the highest peaks in the region with a bare steep cliff of granite).
Shillong- Travel tips, languages spoken, cuisine
Shillong is a wonderful tourist destination, and the locals there are very friendly towards visitors. The local speak Garo and Khasi; however, English, Hindi and Bengali are quite prevalent, and as such communication should not be a problem. Shillong being a decently developed city, cuisine catering to all tastes is available here.
Best time to visit Shillong
The best time to visit Shillng is between the months of October and November and the months of March and April. The monsoon season, stretching from June to September, is when Shillong experiences the most unpredictable weather. The monsoons here are, perhaps, the heaviest in the world, and the region is often considered to be among the wettest places in the world. However, during the monsoons, the hills of the state of Meghalaya are perhaps at their greenest best. If one digs rock music, it is advisable that one visit Shillong when it plays host to one of the many rock and music festivals held here. These festivals are attended by both local and foreign bands. Further, rock concerts by famous international acts are quite a norm here.
Best way to reach Shillong
- By Air: The nearest airport would be Umroi, which is located around 30 kms away. Umroi is a very small airport and flight connectivity is limited to only a few flights per week. As a result, Guwahati, Assam’s most prominent urban centre, is the more convenient alternative and is located 120 kms away. Guwahati is perhaps the most important civilian airport in North East India and is connected via daily flights to most of the important destinations in the country, such as to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, etc.
- By Rail: Guwahati is also the nearest railhead.
- By Road: Shillong is well connected to all the important cities and other tourist attractions in the region.
Accommodation
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, etc. are available to suit all budgets. Shillong abounds in family holiday resorts and travel homes. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via package Meghalaya tours or North Indian tours. This tourist destination is also home to some of the best hotels and spas in the country.