Here are some top 10 tourist places to visit in Shillong.
1. Umiam Lake
It is a man made reservoir which is located at the North of Shillong. The Umiam Lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic beauty of this lake attracts the tourists most because the color of this lake is slightly blue, the crystal clear water which gives the best panoramic view. This lake is also a certified water sports hub which is regulated by the government. The various adventures which enthusiasts the tourist are paddle boating, water scooter rides, speed boat rides, yachting and many more.
2. Laitlum Canyons
It is located on the East Khasi Hills as shillong is considered as the “Scotland of the East”. Laitlum is located at 21 Kms South of Shillong. As this place is not explored so much so maximum tourists does not visit but to catch this place at its best visit either during Sunrise or Sunset. The top hill of Laitlum which is covered with Cloud gives the best panoramic view. The nature lover and photographer will like this place most.
3. Mawlynnong
It is a small village which is situated 90 Km from shilling in the East Khasi hills. It is also Known as the Cleanest Village in Asia. In 2003 by Discovery India it is declared as Cleanest Village in Asia. Apart from the cleanliness of village, Mawlynnong is also famous for its living root bridges, the locals of this village has a literacy rate of 100% and offering warm hospitality to the tourists. The village of this roads are very neat and clean. But during the time of Monsoon, the village gives a pleasant beauty of the nature , the Orchids hanging from the trees.
4. Shillong Peak
It is situated at a height of 6449 ft above sea level. It is considered as the highest point of Shillong. To visit this place visitor must go through the area of Eastern Command of Indian Air Force Base as visitor must provide a ID Proof at the time of entering to this area. It gives a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Shillong City. A telescope is also available for tourists to get a bird’s eye view. The traditional dress, costumes and garments are also available in this spots as many shops are available there so visitors can buy or use by providing some cost.
5.Police Bazaar
It is considered as one of the major market hub or Central Market of Shillong. The Police Bazaar attracts the tourists most for its local garments, varieties of hand crafts and mainly for the street food. The Night view of this Police bazaar gives a stunning view and the weather is very calm. To visit the other parts of Shillong Visitor must go through this bazaar. Police bazaar is also known as Khyndailad is the shopping hub in shillong and the ideal place to book a hotel if you are travelling.
6. Dawki River
It takes 2.5 hours from Shillong Police Bazaar. The River Dawki falls on the border of India and Bangladesh. The best time to visit this river is Winter and Spring time because during this season tourists can see the crystal clear water of the river Dawki. The water is very clear and it seems like the boat are floating in air even it can get the clear view of underwater.
7. Mawsynram
Mawsynram is known as the wettest place in the world. It is located at a 65 km south of Shillong. The beauty of nature and the attraction of those valleys are the perfect destination for weekend trip. The roads which passes through the valleys gives the scenic beauty and attracts the tourists most. The Rains are so powerful in Mawsynram that the local villagers have to make use of thick grass to sound proof their homes from the thunderous rain. The natural beauty of the area, the scene of those river fall from mountains in thunderous waterfalls, the oranges, the natural honey as well as it being as the headquarter of Syiem of Sohra and it is also a center for Khasi culture and literature.
8. Ward’s Lake
It is located itself in the Shillong City only. From Police Bazaar the Ward’s lake is at a distance of 2 Km apart. One of the most popular tourist attraction in this Beautiful city. This Horseshoe- shaped lake locally known as Pollock’s lake is situated in the center of the Shillong city surrounded by a beautiful garden and also very popular for Morning and Evening walkers. The Entry fees of this Ward’s lake is 10 per person and if anyone carry Camera than it takes some extra charge. The timing for this ward’s lake is 8:30 Am to 6:00 PM.
9. Don Bosco Museum
It is a place to visit if anyone is a history buff or history lover. This Museum has a wide collection of Regional artwork, attires, paintings, photographs and weapons. This Museum is also considered as one of the largest Museum in Southeast Asia. It consists of a seven storey building and it covers the entire cultural heritage of North East India for this it attracts the tourist most. This Museum provides an rich heritage and culture of all the tribes in North east India.
10. Elephant Falls
It is just 12 Kms away from state capital. It is undoubtedly one of the major tourist attraction of Shillong. This waterfall was named by the Britishers after a rock at its bottom that appears like an elephant. However the stone disintegrated and washed away due to earthquake in 1897. The three layers of the falls are spectacular, surrounded by a lush of greenery and it has a crystal clear water which gives a mesmerizing view for a visitors. This three layered natural view is considered as one of the most prominent waterfalls in India. This waterfall is a superb place for spending sometime alone or with friends in the midst of nature.