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The romantic city of Shillong has been one of the
important tourist destinations in the northeast. It is often referred to as
the “Scotland of the East” due to its striking similarity with the Scottish
highlands. The city derives its name from “Leishyllong”—the Superpower or
God who is believed to reside on the Shillong peak overlooking the city.
Shillong is lying in the cradle of the tall pine conifers and pineapple
shrubs. Shillong’s undulating terrain is a constant source of attraction for
tourists from both home and abroad. The Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes add
color to this hilly city.
History :- Shillong was a small village until 1864, when it became the
new civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia hills. It remained the summer
capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam for many years. In 1874, on the
formation of Assam as a Chief Commissioner’s Province, it was chosen as the
capital of the new administration. An earthquake destroyed the city in 1897,
necessitating its complete rebuilding. In January 1972, Shillong became the
capital of the newly formed state of Meghalaya.
Climate :- Shillong is subject to vagaries of the monsoon. The
monsoons arrive in June and it rains almost until the end of August. The
climate is hot and humid during summers but quite cold during winters.
October-November and March-April are the best months to visit Shillong.
Events and Festivals :- The festivals vary according to the tribes.
Christmas, Easter, Good Friday and the New Year Day celebrations are the
most important. Ka Pomblang Nongkrem, or the Nongkrem dance is one of the
most important Khasi festivals. Shad Sukmynsiem is another important
festival of the Khasis. Behdiengkhlam, the festival of the Jaintias is
celebrated in July. Wangala is the festival of the Garos and is dedicated to
the Sun God.
Location :- Shillong lies on the eastern part of the state. Perched at
an altitude of 1,520 meters above sea level. The city stretches for about 6
km on an elevated tract. It is situated on a plateau bound on the north by
the Umiam gorge.
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HOW
TO REACH
By Air :- 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.
By Rail :- Shillong is connected by rail with the rest of the country
through the railhead of Guwahati at a distance of 103 kilometers from
Shillong.
By Road :- National Highway number 40 an all-weather road connects
Shillong with Guwahati. The State Transport buses and the private transport
operators operate and offer services to the various places in Meghalaya and
the neighboring states from Shillong. The bus stand is located in the heart
of Shillong.
WHEN TO GO
Best Time to visit shillong is April to May And September to November.
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WHAT TO SEE |
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Shillong Peak :- It is an ideal picnic spot, 10 km. from the
city, 1965 m above sea level offers a panoramic view of the scenic
country side and is also the highest point in the State. In the evening
the city lights below appear like a star-studded abyss.
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Cherrapunjee (Sohra) :- It is located 56 km from
Shillong, situated in one of the rainiest rain-belt in the world, 1,300
m above sea level. A pleasant drive to see roaring water falls leaping
into deep gorges including the famed Nohsngithiang falls. |
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Ward's Lake :- It is located in the heart of the
city, popular for short garden walks and boating. The lake was built by
Chief Commissioner William Ward in 1893-94 is a picture book lake
complete with a white wooden Japanese like bridge and fishes that throng
to feed on Channa. |
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Umiam Lake :- Umiam Khwan (Barapani) is 17 km from
Shillong offers water sports facilities including sailing, water skiing,
water scooter.
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Lady Hydari Park :- There is a mini zoo and Butterfly museum with
colourful species preserved for sale and posterity in lady hydari park.
There is also the perfectly landscaped Lady Hydari Park ablaze with
roses and flowers of almost every variety even as weeping willows bend
into water bodies.
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Botanical Garden :- Botanical Garden is a secluded but
captivating spot with plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is
located just below the Ward's Lake. |
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WHERE TO EAT
You can try the special restaurants at the luxury hotels.
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