One Day in Shillong: 8 Best things to do in One Day in Shillong

If you have just a day to spend in Shillong, here are some of the to things you can do to make the most of your time:

1. Enjoy Boating at Umiam Lake:

Umiam Lake, also called Barapani Lake, is a beautiful lake that is situated about 15 kilometers away from Shillong. It is a favorite among tourists who come to enjoy the serene beauty of the place, the pleasant climate, and the activities that can be done there. Boating in Umiam Lake is one of the most popular activities that tourists look forward to. The cool breeze, the 9piiiiiiiiiiof the water gently lapping against the sides of the boat, and the scenic views make for a perfect setting of relaxation and rejuvenation. It is a great chance for photographers to take home some amazing memories. You can take a stroll around after the boating activity. There are many restaurants and cafes around where you can taste the local cuisine of Meghalaya.

2. Visit Elephant Falls:

One of the most popular tourist spots in Shillong is Elephant Falls. It is a three-tiered fall with lush vegetation in the outskirts of Shillong.

Kshaid-Lai-Pateng, which roughly translates to the three levels on which the water falls, is the Khasi name for Elephant Falls. It was named so because of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. But because of an earthquake in 1897, the rock disintegrated and was washed away.

To get to these falls, one has to go down 100 stairs. Therefore, it is not recommended for seniors who have mobility issues.

There are a few small eateries and souvenir shops near the parking area.

• Timing: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
• Entry Fee- Rs 100 per person
• Open on all days

3. Visit Ward’s Lake and Relax:

Ward’s Lake is a beautiful lake in the heart of the city, also known as Pollock’s Lake. It is believed to be approximately 100 years old. You can enjoy the beautiful gardens, take a stroll around the lake, walk on cobble-stone paths, or simply enjoy the colorful flower beds in the garden and if you have time, go boating.

In the complex of the lake, there is also a café where you can indulge in a wide variety of snacks and drinks. The lake, which is close to Raj Bhavan (the Governor’s Residence), is reachable by public transport.

Timings:

• November – February- 8:30 am till 5:30 pm
• March – October- 8:30 am till 7:00 pm
• Closed on Tuesdays.

4. Visit Shillong Peak Point:

Take a drive up to Shillong Peak, located at Laitkor area of Shillong. Situated in the outskirts of the Shillong, the city’s highest point, 1966 m above sea level is famous for sweeping views of Shillong and the hills that surround it. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Bangladesh’s plains.

At the peak there is a high tower with a telescope and features a radar station of the Indian Air Force.
Due to security reasons at the air base, travelers need to show their original ID cards and surrender their cameras at the check post before entering into the viewpoint area.

Foreigners are not allowed to enter this area as it is controlled by the Indian Air Force.

• Timings: 9 AM – 3.30 PM
• Closed on Wednesday
• Entry: Rs. 30 for Person & Rs. 30 for Vehicle

5. Explore the Don Bosco Museum:

Explore the Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures is a well-known museum situated within the Sacred Heart Church premises in Shillong .Don Bosco Museum, which is one of the largest cultural museums in Asia, is a privately owned museum under the control of Salesian order of the Catholic Church It showcases the rich heritage and diverse cultures of the Northeast region of India.

The Museum is a seven-Storey, hexagonal structure packed with art and culture. It contains a large collection of fiberglass figures, paintings, artifacts, musical instruments, costumes, decorations, and more in 17 international-standard, well-organized galleries like the language gallery, photo gallery, agricultural gallery. Additionally, on the museum’s upper floor, visitors can see some of the rare dancing styles from the Northeast.

The visitors can have a breathtaking view of Shillong City from the Museum’s skywalk.

• Timings: 9 AM – 5.30 PM summer & 9 AM – 4.30 PM in winter

•  Closed on Sundays
• Entry Fee: Rs. 100 for Indians & Rs. 200 for Foreigners

6. Visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians:

Take a moment to visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, a beautiful Catholic church located in the Laitumkhrah in Shillong. It’s an architectural marvel and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection.

It is one of the oldest churches in the archdiocese and in all of Northeast India. The Cathedral Church of Mary Help of Christians was built by the Germans in 1913. According to history, the present shrine was built after the first church was destroyed due to a fire accident in 1936.The church was constructed in the Gothic style of architecture. 

• Timings: 7:00 am-6:30 pm.
• Closed on Sundays for Non- Christians.

7. Shop at Police Bazaar:

Head to Police Bazaar, the heart of Shillong City, the main commercial hub of Shillong, for some shopping.You can also  try the local street food or seasonal fruits. You’ll find a variety of local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Don’t forget to bargain!

8. Eat Locally:

Savour the traditional Khasi food. Try meals like Jadoh (rice cooked with pork), Dohneiiong (pork curry with black sesame) or Momos (steamed dumplings), which are among of Shillong’s most well-known culinary offerings.

8. Take Advantage of the Nightlife:

 If you have a free evening, check out Shillong’s exciting nightlife. You may catch live performances by local musicians in one of the neighborhood taverns or live music venues, such Cloud 9, Polo Irish Pub.

Remember, Shillong is a city with pleasant weather, so take your time to enjoy the natural beauty and immerse yourself in the local culture. However, it’s always good to check the local weather conditions and plan accordingly.