Best Unique Places to Visit Shillong - Scotland of the East

Mainstream Places to visit in Shillong:

1. UMIAM LAKE

Surrounded by thick coniferous forests and East Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shillong. Popular as Badapani, this is a sprawling man-made water body, formed by damming Umiam River. The lake is dotted with few small islands and the adjoining Lum Nehru Park is an ideal place for strolling and picnic. Along with natural beauty, Umiam Lake is famous for thrilling water sports and fun activities like kayaking, boating, water cycling, scooting, and is an important part of the Shillong sightseeing itinerary.
 

2. ELEPHANT FALLS

Elephant Falls is a sight to behold and can be visited with family on a picnic or with friends for a weekend outing. The waterfall got its name from a rock at its bottom that appears like an elephant. Three separate cascades from these wonderful waterfalls enveloped in lush greenery that the surrounding area features. 
 

3. SHILLONG PEAK

At the height of 6449 ft or 1965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak is the highest point of Shillong. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, the Himalayas, its waterfalls as well as of the Bangladesh plains. A telescope is available for tourists to get a bird's eye view.
 

4. POLICE BAZAAR

Police Bazar is the major market of Shillong, and a popular shopping haunt. In addition to an array of restaurants, hotels and big brand stores, the Police Bazaar also has a flea market section selling traditional handicrafts stores, exquisite Meghalaya merchandise, regional apparels, junk jewellery and the like.
 

5. SHILLONG PEAK & VIEW POINT

If you love heights for the panoramic views they offer, Shillong Peak will easily become your favourite spot once you stare at the unending green expanses from up here. The peak has an altitude of 1962 meters which makes it an amazing mountaintop overlook point from where you can relish some magnificent views of the entire city of Shillong.
 

6. LALITIUM CANYONS

Perched in the Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is the most offbeat name in the list of Shillong tourist places. Literally translating into the “end of the hills”, Laitlum Canyon is an ideal place for trekking enthusiasts, nature admirers, and peace seekers. Visit this hilltop viewpoint, and enjoy stunning views of gorges, distant hills, valleys, and zigzagging hilly roads. Owing to the surrounding beauty and tranquility, this is surely one of the perfect places to visit near Shillong for honeymoon couples.
 

7. WARD's LAKE

The city of Shillong is dotted with quiet places, ideal for relaxation. One of the major ones among those is Ward’s Lake. This horseshoe shaped lake is locally known as Pollock’s Lake and is surrounded by a garden where you can enjoy exploring a variety of flora.
 

8. PHAN NONGLAIT PARK

One of the best Shillong tourist places, Phan Nonglait Park is located right in the heart of the city. The beautiful Japanese style park attracts a huge flock of locals and tourists every day. You can spot animals like Himalayan Black Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, Leopard, etc, in the zoo. The rich flora and fauna and numerous pretty ponds inside the park will win you over. You can even enjoy boating in the lake with enthralling scenery in the background. These is the most loved tourist places in Shillong.

Community Pick:

1. WARI CHORA

Wari Chora is a hidden paradise in Meghalaya. Located in the forests of South Garo Hills, the place is relatively unexplored. Wari Chora is basically a small canyon with the river Rongdik flowing in between towering gorges. The views of Wari Chora are simply astounding.
 

2. BALPAKRAM NATIONAL PARK

It is believed that this National Park in Meghalaya is haunted by the supernatural presence of dead spirits! But that doesn't stop adventurous travelers to feature this place in their bucket list.