Shillong has several attractions spread across the city and its surrounding areas. You can combine nearby places on the same day to reduce travel time and make better use of your itinerary.
1. Elephant Falls
Elephant Falls is a three-level waterfall surrounded by greenery. It is located around 12 kilometres from Shillong city centre and is suitable for a short sightseeing stop.
The waterfall gets its name from a rock formation that was shaped like an elephant. The rock no longer exists, but the name has remained associated with the attraction.
What to know:
- Location: Around 12 kilometres from Shillong city centre
- Entry fee: Rs. 20 per person
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Visit during daylight hours to see the different levels of the waterfall and surrounding greenery.
2. Shillong Peak
Shillong Peak is one of the city's well-known viewpoints. Located around 10 kilometres from the city centre, it offers views of Shillong and the surrounding hills.
The drive to the peak is also part of the experience, with several scenic stretches along the route.
What to know:
- Location: Around 10 kilometres from Shillong city centre
- Entry fee: Rs. 30 per person
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Weather conditions can affect visibility, so check local conditions before planning your visit.
3. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons is known for its open valleys and views of the surrounding landscape. Located around 23 kilometres from Shillong, it is suited to travellers looking for outdoor experiences.
The area involves walking and is better suited to visitors who want to spend time outdoors rather than simply visit a city attraction.
What to know:
- Location: Around 23 kilometres from Shillong
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Timing: Open throughout the day
Morning and evening visits can offer pleasant conditions for exploring the area.
4. Police Bazar
Police Bazar is one of Shillong's main commercial areas. It has shops, food stalls, restaurants and local products, making it a useful stop for shopping and trying local food.
You can also use the area as a starting point for exploring nearby parts of central Shillong.
What to know:
- Location: Central Shillong
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Evenings are generally a popular time to explore the market and sample local food.
5. Don Bosco Museum
Don Bosco Museum showcases the culture, traditions, art and history of Northeast India. It is located in Mawlai, around 3 kilometres from Shillong city centre.
The museum can be included in an itinerary focused on understanding the region beyond its natural attractions.
What to know:
- Location: Mawlai, around 3 kilometres from Shillong city centre
- Entry fee: Rs. 100 per person
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Saturday
Allow around 2–3 hours if you want to explore the exhibits at a relaxed pace.
6. Mary Help of Christians Cathedral
The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is an important place of worship in Shillong. Its architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a notable cultural stop.
You can include the cathedral while exploring the Laitumkhrah area and nearby attractions.
What to know:
- Location: Laitumkhrah area
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Visitors should follow the site's guidelines and maintain appropriate decorum.
7. Phan Nonglait Park
Phan Nonglait Park, also known as Lady Hydari Park, is a garden with a small zoo. It offers a quieter setting for families and travellers looking for time outdoors.
The park can be added to a city sightseeing itinerary along with other attractions in Shillong.
What to know:
- Location: Laban area
- Entry fee: Rs. 10 per person
- Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Morning and late afternoon are suitable times for a visit.
8. Air Force Museum
The Air Force Museum provides an insight into the history of the Indian Air Force. Its displays include aircraft-related exhibits, uniforms and photographs.
It is located near Shillong Peak, so you can consider visiting both attractions during the same outing.
What to know:
- Location: Near Shillong Peak
- Entry fee: Rs. 20 per person
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Weekly closure: Sunday
Check the operating schedule before travelling because timings can change.
9. All Saints Cathedral
All Saints Cathedral is among Shillong's older churches. Its wooden architecture and quiet surroundings make it a cultural and heritage attraction within the city.
Its central location makes it possible to combine a visit with other places around the city centre.
What to know:
- Location: Near Shillong city centre
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Visitors should check local schedules if they plan to attend a service.
10. Sohpetbneng Peak
Sohpetbneng Peak is associated with Khasi traditions and is known locally as the “navel of heaven”. The peak offers views of the surrounding landscape and has cultural significance.
It is located around 20 kilometres from Shillong and can be included if you want to explore areas outside the main city.
What to know:
- Location: Around 20 kilometres from Shillong
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Timing: Open throughout the day
Check weather and road conditions before planning an outdoor visit.
