TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SHILLONG

Shillong has been called as the 'Scotland of the East'. This is because of its aesthetic, graceful and picturesque landscapes. The city is bestowed with some quintessential sightseeing facilities like the Ward Lake or the Botanical Garden. But what holds attention of the tourists are the waterfalls in and around Shillong. Among them the Elephant Falls of Meghalaya holds the prime attention. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Shillong. 

1) Elephant Falls 

It is a combination of 3 rivers. One of the British officers named it as Elephant falls after they saw a rock which resembled as an elephant. The falls are surrounded with green vegetation that provides a perfect backdrop. 

2) The Don Bosco Museum 

It is part of DBCIC (Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures). DBCIC comprises research on cultures, publications, training, animation program and the museum, which is a place of knowledge-sharing on the cultures of the northeast in particular, and of culture in general. 

3) Shillong Golf Course 

It enjoys the rare distinction of being one of the few natural golf courses in Asia. Not only is the Shillong Golf Course scenic and enjoyable, it is also challenging. A group of British civil service officers introduced golf to Shillong in 1898 by constructing a nine-hole course. The present 18-hole course was inaugurated in 1924. 

4) Laitlum Canyons 

One of the least explored place in Shillong. This gorgeous place will provide you a panoramic view of the Rasong village and grassy valleys. This is a must visit destination. 

5) Motphran 

The “Stone of France” which is locally known as "Motphran" was erected in memory of the 26th Khasi Labour Corps who served under the British in France during World War I. It bears the words of the famous Latin poet Horace "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori" which can be roughly translated as "It is sweet and fitting to die for one's country." 

6) David Scott Trail 

The stretch between Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang village is roughly 16 kms long and is a picturesque day hike. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam. Camps can be set to treat the eyes to the stunning views of lush rugged Umiam valley. 

7) Ward's Lake 

A beautiful manmade lake named after Sir William Ward, the then, Chief Commissioner of Assam. Also known as the Polok Lake, it is an artificial lake with garden and boating facilities. 

8) Cathedral Catholic Church 

In the heart of the city, there stands a beautiful cathedral of Roman Catholics dedicated to Mary Help of Christian. The Cathedral is the principal place of worship of the over 300,000 strong Catholics of the Shillong Archdiocese which covers the Khasi and Jaiñtia Hills of Meghalaya 

9) Shillong Peak 

It offers a panoramic view of the scenic countryside and is the highest point in the state. Obeisance is paid to U Shulong at the sanctum sanctorum at the peak's summit every springtime, by the religious priest of Mylliem State. 

10) Lady Hydari Park 

A popular spot both with locals and tourist, it is located in the heart of the city with an abundance of plants and flowers. The best months to see the flowers in bloom are April and October. The park stretches over a kilometer and has an adjacent mini zoo.