10 Awesome Places to See in and around Shillong

1. David Scott Trekking Trail

If you’re into treks, you’ll love the scenic 16-km long David Scott Trail. The trek roughly takes 5 hours to complete and is recommended for people between 10-60 years of age, even those with average fitness. You’ll see some great forest groves and hike on undulating paths alongside the river. Don’t forget to take pictures of the fantastic mountain and waterfall views. It’s a good idea to carry some snacks and hire a guide, who’ll charge roughly INR 1200*. The trek ends in Lad Maphlang, from where you’ll have to pre-arrange a local cab to take you back.

2. Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Cherrapunjee

These are the highest waterfalls in India, with a green-coloured plunge pool forming beneath. You’d be lucky to catch a glimpse of it as this place also has a reputation of being the wettest place, and is shrouded in clouds almost all the time. Do try the local sweet pineapples available at stalls here.

3. Mawsmai Caves

The caves are quite an adventure, with their tricky terrain that keeps getting narrower as you go in, and stalagmite formations everywhere. Photography is allowed but you have to keep moving because it’s a popular tourist attraction and does get crowds. It’s a good idea to wear floaters instead of canvas shoes because they dry off quickly.

4. Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong has earned itself the title of ‘the cleanest village in Asia’ and has a high literacy rate. The people here make a living from bee-keeping and you’ll find many spiders, snails and other insects in a beautiful undisturbed habitat. For dining options, you only have whatever is made in the community kitchen, which is mostly basic food like dal and rice. Non-vegetarians, however, can savour the best chicken curry, as this region largely consists of meat-eaters. If you are a vegetarian, carrying some snacks along will do you good.

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5. The Ancient Root Bridges

The ancient bridges made out of the roots of Ficus Elastica or the humble rubber tree are quite a marvel to behold. This is how ingenious Khasi elders devised a solution after bamboo bridges failed to bear the brunt of heavy monsoons. The strongest bridges are more than 100 years old! It’s a splendid place where one can dip their feet in the river (if it’s not in full force). Do carry umbrellas because there's always a slight drizzle, but it can start pouring anytime. The route back is tricky, so make it back before dark or you’ll find yourself on a hilly road with cliffs on both sides and thick fog obstructing your view.

6. Dawki River

The Dawki or Umngot River is where you can see the Bangladesh border from. It is crystal clear from September onwards, and boating here will make you feel as if you’re floating on water, as you can see the marine life right down to the river bed. You can also witness sand smugglers hard at work, filling up their boats by the loadful.

Read more: The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya: A DIY Natural Wonder

7. The Sacred Forest at Mawphlang

Nobody should miss this amazing forest in the East Khasi hills. It's said to be protected by sacred deities and people are advised to not carry anything out of the forest as it could bring them bad luck. There are sacrificial monoliths scattered around, where tribes used to make animal sacrifices. You can spot lots of medicinal plants here, including ones said to cure cancer. It’s strangely quiet here, with no birds or animals in sight. Be prepared for the best two-hour hike you’ll ever take through complete wilderness. Carry a jacket because it gets windy here.

8. Lake Umiam

Catch a glimpse of local Khasi village life in Umiuh Village, or go kayaking on the serene emerald green waters of Umiam Lake a.k.a Barapani. The locals here are very friendly and will happily let you pet their lambs, or share tea with you.

9. Umden Village

Explore the culture of Bhoi people in this village 2 hours away from Shillong, which is famous for Eri silk production and traditional handlooms. They take pride in continuing the ‘ahimsa’ tradition of sericulture—a unique method of not killing the silk worm during the process. You can even take a day’s course in weaving, go fishing at the nearby pond, or bike along the track around the village.

10. The Many Cafes

The local cafes in Shillong are well-known for their hip vibe and delectable food. Stop at this sweet cafe called ML05 on the way to Mawphlang, and try the delish hot chocolate. You can also take a cab to the market and check out the cafes on Don Bosco Square. The good ones are Cafe Shillong, Dylan Cafe and Swish.

How to get there: Land at Guwahati airport and drive for 3 hours to Shillong.

Best time to visit: September, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Where to stay:

Royal Heritage Tripura Castle

Tariff: INR 9500 onwards

Features: Charming décor| Super-comfortable rooms| Multi-cuisine restaurant| Bar with great cocktails| Live music on Saturdays

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