Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya takes its name from the deity Shyllong or Lei Shyllong. This city used to be the capital of Assam for over century since 1874 till Meghalaya became a separate state. The cit is based on an elevated swathe which lays almost 1500 mtr above the sea level. The city is picturesquely located within the Umiam ravine from north and the Diengiei hills from the north-west making this city a prey to natural blessings as well as vagaries (incessant rains during June- September). One such incident almost wiped out Shillong from the face of earth in 1897 when a strong earthquake destroyed the city. The hard working people of Meghalaya reconstructed the city completely.
Shillong was born in the laps of nature and offers every one of its bequeathed element for exploration to the wanderlust. The amazing series of waterfalls, the mystic mountain peaks, crystal clear water lakes, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, museums and zoo; Shillong has a different façade for everyone. Though the weathers Gods remain aloof during peak winters and summers the region offers its best face in March, April, September and October not necessarily in that sequence.
Shillong Attractions
Sohpetbneng Peak
1,545 metre, 20 kms from Shillong, regarded as sacred by the Hynniewtrep people, is set amidst a beautiful scenic view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This `Navel of Heaven` as per Khasi mythology is a heavenly peak which offers to fill the spiritual void and emptiness, to those who seek and desire solace and peace of mind.
Wards Lake. Wards Lake is an artificial lake surrounded by a fairly large garden. Boating facilities are available in the lake. It has a wooden bridge at the middle. Lots of lotus plants with leaves are there on either side of lake. One can find lots of colourful fishes in the lake. A cafeteria is there to provide refreshment.A fountain dancing to the tunes of song is also there.
Sweet Falls. Located in Happy Valley, it is a very steep fall. Extreme caution is advised as there are no barricades and rocks are nearly always slippery (due to rain or dew).
Bishop & Beadon Falls. Located in Suna valley,these two are very beautiful falls. Suna is the home to wild animals such as deer, leopard,langurs,wild cats and numerous bird species.
Elephant Falls. It is located in Upper Shillong area which also houses the Eastern Air Command of Indian Airforce. The scenic fall is not continuous and more of collection of smaller falls. It has footpath leading to bottom fo fall where it reaches a small lake. Its name elephant falls was given by British. Because there was a rock by the side of fall which resembled elephant. The rock was destroyed in earthquake.
Shillong Peak. Shillong Peak is the highest point in state of Meghalaya (1965 meters above sea level). There is a view-point where you can get breathtaking view of Shillong city. The city view during night is a scene to remember. It is host to a radar station for Indian Air force and tourists are advised to declare their cameras while reaching view-point and not to take pictures of radar facilties.
Butterfly Museum. There is a huge collection of different types of butterflies. Students of zoology will find them interesting. This place is also attractive for adults where they can see the natural beauty and play with the beautiful and colourful butterflies. This museum presents some of the finest and rarest species of butterflies.
Golf course Shillong golf course is located at an altitude of around 5200 ft. This is the first golf course of India which has 18 holes in it. This place is like a dream come true for the putters. This golf course is so beautiful and located at the unique location that some time it is compared with the “ Glen Eagle Course” of the United State.
Botanical Garden A secluded but captivating spot with plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is located just below the Ward`s Lake.
Lady Hydari Park A popular charming tourist draw, the adjacent mini zoo is an added attraction.
State Museum Located at the State Central Library complex, visitors can get a glimpse of the lifestyle and heritage of the people.
Journey to Shillong, the Capital City of Meghalaya Airport : Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong and Tura to Guwahati.
Railhead : Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
Road Transport : Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Some Important Destination from Shillong
Shillong is 3719 km from Thiruvanathapuram, 3025 km from Srinagar, 2502 km from Shimla, 487 km from Agartala, 2698 km from Ahmedabad, 3120 km from Bangalore, 2148 km from Bhopal, 1731 km from Bhubaneshwar, 2947 km from Mumbai, 1251 km from Calcutta, 2383 km from Chandigarh, 727 km from Darjeeling, 2134 km from Delhi, 725 km from Gangtok, 100 km from Guwahati, 2554 km from Hyderabad, 520 km from Imphal, 514 km from Itanagar, 2164 km from Jaipur, 410 km from Kohima, 1610 km from Lucknow, 2929 km from Chennai, and 3266 km from Panaji.