10 Fun things to do in Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong is just a 2 hours drive from Guwahati. With waterfalls rolling down from the roadside mountains, the aroma of pine trees, lush green vegetation and orchid flowers, the long journey is a pleasant one.

1. Shopping at Police Bazar

Though apparel stores is almost, the handicraft items are exclusive. Pure forest honey, souvenirs and a few local artifacts are truly out of the box. Traditional Khasi garments are flamboyant and those who want to experiment with their looks (especially girls) can try special Khasi indigenous ornaments. But, you should bargain before buying any item, as in most cases the shopkeepers charge tourists high rates.

• The Fun Park, Anglican cemetery and State museum are some of the popular tourist attractions in Shillong which one should not miss visiting. Motphran, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Culture are some of the popular sightseeing places in Shillong.
• Foodies should not miss tasting the mouth-watering pork chopsuey from the Bamboo Hut Restaurant.

2. Walking in the clouds

We read in geography texts that Cherrapunji is the wettest place on earth and travel guides used to describe it as nothing less than heaven on earth. Truly speaking the ever romantic Shillong tour seems incomplete without visiting this nature’s wonder. The view en-route Cherrapunji bewildered one to capture a glimpse through a digital lens.

3. Hangout at Nokrek National Park

It is a wonderful option to spend time with family or friends at the Nokrek National Park in Shillong or to go for a picnic or party. This is mainly an amusement park and is located in Upper Shillong. One can have a glimpse of Elephant Falls from this park which is unbelievably stunning.

4. Leisure walk around Wards Lake

The majestic Wards Lake lake is encircled by winding walk-way and is inter spread with flower beds and different innovative illumination created with grass. It is during Sundays and holidays, the lake vicinity remains jam-packed with tourists roaming with their family or honeymooners lazing around.

5. Enjoying Shillong Rock music

Unlike other Indian states, Shillong is identified across the country for its tradition of rich Metal and Rock music. Youngsters are fond of different genres of Western music and as a result artists from the US and many other European countries are invited to perform live. The music-loving Gen-Next assembles together and works hard to make a historical note in the Metal and Rock music tradition of Shillong. Some of the reputed Metal bands of Shillong are Prisoners of Chaos, Native Rules, Nemesis etc. So, plan to attend any of these bands’ live concerts.

6. Stay in a treehouse

There cannot be a better fun activity than spending some time in tree houses built on the hills of Shillong. It is indeed a unique experience and adds to the repository of an unforgettable memory. Sky View Tree House is one of the popular tree houses in Shillong.

7. Nightlife

Though Shillong is detached from the metros. The scenic view and lifestyle of Shillong can easily beat any posh metropolis. People are fun-loving and thus this small town has exclusive nightclubs, lounges and bars. For boozing up to the brim – Platinum, Cloud 9 and Dejavu are a few hot spots. Tango Pub is a place to have enough fun enjoying exotic drinks with lively music, scrumptious food and invigorating dance.

8. Rock climbing

At the outskirt of Shillong, in some parts of the East Khasi Hills, hard rock formations are found where rock climbing can be enjoyed to the truest sense. Tourists are always advised to consult with a proper guide and select the spot as per the reference only.

9. Golfing

Enjoying golf in the Shillong Golf Club has a different charm altogether. The club is located at a picturesque setting with lush green hills at the backdrop. Beautiful Pine and Rhododendron trees function as wonderful decorative plants to enhance the splendor of its undulating meadows. Golf was brought to Shillong by a group of British Civil Service gentlemen in 1898. The course is known for encompassing one of the longest trying holes in India.

10. Cleanest village in Asia

From Mawlynnong to Living Cliff Bridge the trek passes through thick forests and it is an uneasy trail, though after reaching the destination one can meet nature’s wonders. Umterming waterfall which gushes down to a bottomless ravine is splendid. Living Cliff Bridge is at a distance of around 4 km and requires approximately two hours to reach. The bridge is always brought to the limelight for its exclusivity of being formed naturally and not by humans. It is the hanging roots of the rubber tree which assemble together to make it a perfectly functioning bridge.

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