The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong unfolds like a picturesque still out of a painting. It’s called the ‘Scotland of the East’ and rightfully so because of landscapes that enthrall, a climate that calms, and the age-old traditions that live richly through the people. For a refreshing escape from your mundane life, there’s no place better than Shillong. Cherry on the cake? You can explore the place without breaking that fixed deposit. Let’s see what you can explore for 2 Days In Shillong to complete those work deadlines on time.
Places To Visit On Day 1
- Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians
- Don Bosco Museum
- Elephant Falls
- Laitkor Peak
1. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians
This has to be your starting point to get that picturesque imagery of Shillong right. This church is called the Laitumkhrah Church. Reaching this church might get you panting a little because of the steep plateau that you’ll have to climb. You can explore this church on two levels: its chapel and the huge cathedral where you’ll see big stained glass windows.
You can also learn the life stories of different saints and chapters from the Holy Bible through the artwork in the church. Besides its fascinating stories, you should visit here on a sunny day to catch a mesmerizing glimpse of the mighty Brahmaputra river, the snow-covered mountains, and the pine trees that flank the church.
2. Don Bosco Museum
If you’ve got only 2 days in Shillong and can explore only one place, visit the Don Bosco Museum. That’s because this is a one-stop destination for you to learn not only about Shillong’s culture but also the culture of the North East. Did you know that this museum is Asia’s largest museum of indigenous cultures? Located near the Police Bazaar, you can find this 7-storied museum easily. It has 20 galleries, each of which showcases artefacts, paintings, and figures representing North Eastern culture.
This museum is so significant and resourceful that even the Princess of Thailand visited here! But what might interest you the most is its hexagonal architecture. Perhaps the only museum constructed in a hexagonal shape is why you’ll hear people referring to this as Shillong’s Architectural Pride.
3. Elephant Falls
The British had named it so because of an Elephant-shaped rock on the left side of the waterfall which sadly broke due to an earthquake. This is why the locals today call it Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew which means The Three Steps Falls.
The third step of the fall, which is also the tallest and most visible, is the prettiest sight to behold. With water falling like a sheet of milk against the dark rocks and dense trees by the side, the view is something you won’t forget easily.
4. Laitkor Peak
Commonly and famously known as the Shillong Peak, this is the highest peak in Meghalaya. There’s an interesting debate over how the city got its name and it’s associated with this hilltop. While historians believe the city was named Shillong after this peak, the locals believe that the city got its name after a local deity Leishyllong who is believed to reside there.
You, however, should visit here to get the amazing views of the whole city, the Himalayan ranges, and the plains of Bangladesh. There’s even a telescope in a tower that you can visit. But make sure to carry your ID proof for entry because this is an Indian Air Force-controlled area.
Places To Visit on Day 2
- Umiam Lake
- Air Force Museum
- Khasi Heritage Village
1. Umiam Lake
Located 15 km north of Shillong, this is a man-made reservoir. It’s a must-visit because of the East Khasi Hills that surround the lake and give you the best panoramic views. The reflection of the sun rising from the coniferous woods with the hills by the side will make you happy.
Umiam Lake is a great picnic spot where you can even go boating or kayaking. For a perfect experience, stay at the lake boathouse that can accommodate 6 people at a time, or you can set up a camp by the lakeside. You can pass the time by watching the fisherman at work or trying fishing yourself.
2. Air Force Museum
This museum displays India’s air forces. You can go here with your family and your friends because there’s something for everyone here to grasp. Inside, you’ll see galleries that hold uniforms of former Air Force pilots, aircraft models, miniature models of missiles, rockets, and machinery.
You can also see real images of the Indo-China and Indo-Pak wars.
3. Khasi Heritage Village
Ever thought you could find a whole village that has preserved a certain culture for generations? You’ll find exactly that in the Khasi Heritage Village, just 27 km away from Shillong is this village.
You can explore this village only with a guide because you’ll have to cross a small forest called the Sacred Forest before you enter the village. Also, on your exploration avoid taking anything even as a souvenir because it’s prohibited here.
Summing Up
For a dreamy, calm vacation with a tinge of adventure, there’s no place better than Shillong. While the trek to some of these places will give you the thrills, the views will relax you afterwards. And that’s exactly what you need for an ideal vacation, so get going!
FAQs
Is 2 Days Enough For Shillong?
2 days aren’t sufficient in Shillong because there’s a lot to explore. However, if you’ve got only that much time, you can narrow down and explore the most famous places.
How Many Days Are Needed For Shillong?
You’ll need at least 4-5 days to explore Shillong to its fullest.
Is Snowfall Possible In Shillong?
Snowfall is a rare sight in Shillong. Even though it’s a hilly area, there’s little to no snowfall there. You can witness hailstones though.
What Is Special About Shillong?
Shillong is also called the ‘Scotland of the East’. It was called so by the British because it reminded them of Scotland.
