1: Lady Hydari Park

One of the popular picnic spots in Shillong, the Lady Hydari Park is perfect for a pleasant evening after a rough day. This park is named after the first lady of this place. She was the wife of first governor of Shillong. Spread over an area of more than a kilometre, Lady Hydari Park consists of a mini-zoo, a deer park and a play area for kids. The park blossoms with a variety of well-bloomed roses, orchids and many other varieties of flowers.

2: Wards Lake

The central landscaping element of colonial-era Shillong, this attractive lake has a pretty ornamental bridge, flower beds, coy courting couples, boating facilities, and gaggles of geese. Walk 15 minutes northeast of the lake to visit the rolling meadows of Shillong Golf Course, bordered by pine trees and fronted by a clubhouse. One of Shillong‘s most popular picnic spots, Wards lake is known for its beautiful surroundings and ambiance. It makes for a great place to hang out with friends and family as it has a beautiful view of flowers blooming in an array. The lake is located right in the middle of the city, convenient for people to get here from all directions. Boating is also available for those interested in the recreational activity other than just sitting on the grass and enjoying the pleasant ambiance.

3: Cathedral Catholic Church

In the heart of the city stands a beautiful cathedral of Roman Catholics dedicated to Mary Help of Christian. At Laitumkhrah, it attracts devotees and visitors alike. This 1902 All Saints’ Cathedral would look perfect pictured on a biscuit tin.

4: Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum

Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum is perfect for those interested in ethnic tribal culture and tradition. The museum is under the control of the Art and Culture Department & offers insights into the lifestyle of the people. This museum is in the State Central Library complex, where monuments for the great patriots of the state had been erected, beside the statue of Smt. Indira Gandhi and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

5: Don Bosco Centre For Indigenous Culture

The culture of the land is best understood here & hence makes it a point to visit Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous culture. The museum gives a clear insight into the history and culture of the tribes who lived here in ancient times. The seven-storied building has many galleries that highlight the different phases of the city. The galleries here are about the prehistory of the tribal world, culture, art, musical instruments, and tools used in the past for fishing and hunting. Even in terms of design, the DBCIC is built in hexagonal shape, & its seven floors represent the seven states of North East India. The building rises to form a flame, expressing the reality that if cultures are understood well.

6: Spread Eagle Falls

Spread Eagle Falls, located in the East Khasi District 6 km from the city, these falls are considered the wildest in Shillong. The falls gush down steep hills & into a massive pool & are also known as the Sati Falls & visited by many tourists. The falls look like an eagle with its wings spread wide. The falls are locally known as Umkaliar or the falls into which Ka Liar slipped. A soothing setting amidst the calmness of nature is a treat to the eyes.

7: Sweet Falls

Sweet falls are one of the steepest & most mesmerizing yet said to be dangerous falls in the country. The sound of gurgling water, chirping birds, the feel of the falling water, and the lush greenery all together take your breath away. The Sweet falls are near the happy valley & there are no barricades for safety. It is a famous picnic spot & the butterfly museum is a part of the complex. It resembles a straight pencil of water emerging from a large water pipe as it drops vertically over a distance exceeding two hundred feet.

8: Elephant Falls

Named after an Elephant with a stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls, located 12 km from the capital city of Shillong, Elephant Falls is one of the most visited falls in Meghalaya. It is a tourists' paradise with three layers of the falls accessible to the layman from different vantage points. At Elephant falls, one can get very close to the falls and enjoy its serenity and might. The first of the three waterfalls is tucked between the dense trees & is very broad. The second waterfall reduces to thin strands of water and is almost negligible in winters due to the receding water levels. The third and the most visible waterfall is the tallest, with clear water flowing like a sheet of milk on the dark rocks in the backdrop. Elephant Falls is a great stopover destination before one head for further journeys into Meghalaya.

9: Shillong Peak

Shillong peak is Meghalaya's highest peak in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 1965 meters above sea level & the best destination for nature lovers & Shillong is said to have been named after this peak. Around the evenings, the city appears even more beautiful. The place is best suitable for photography enthusiasts. But as per mythology, it has been found that the patron deity 'Leishyllong' has her abode on the hill. It is this deity who protects the city from evil. The view from the peak is breathtaking as it defines Shillong city and the Himalayas view from the peak. During the evenings, the city appears even more beautiful. The place is best suitable for photography lovers. The location also holds the radar system of the Indian air force.

10: Mawphlang Sacred Forest

One of the most remarkable features of the Khasi Hills is the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, which has been preserved by traditional religious communities since the ancient days & is about 25 kilometers from Shillong. The sacred grove has the life form of plants, flowering trees, orchids & butterflies is an ideal destination for nature lovers. These groves are generally rimmed by a dense growth of Castanopsis Kurzi trees, forming a protective hedge that halts intrusion of Pinus Kasia, which dominates all areas outside the sacred groves. Inside the outer rim, the sacred groves are virtually Nature's Own Museum. The heavily covered grounds have a thick cushion of humus accumulated over the centuries.

11: Sohra

Sohra, previously known as Cherrapunjee, a Sub-Division in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya, is set upon a plateau on the southern slopes of the state. Sohra is surrounded by waterfalls cascading over deep gorges. The swift flowing rivers and streams flow in a southernly direction to the plains. Show more

12: Mawkdok Dympep Valley View

Mawkdok Dympep Valley View is a wonderful midway valley from Shillong to Cherapunji. Heavens fall here. Beautiful untouched by commercialization & we feel as if we are in the lap of mother nature. The vast, green and deep valley will leave you amazed. One should climb down the stairs to experience its beauty. Zip lining activity is another attraction of this place. The forest department has made a viewpoint of this valley from where tourists can enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of the valley. A few km from Umtyngar, as one takes the right turn from the road junction, one comes across a beautiful bridge known to the locals as the Duwan Singh Syiem Bridge, which is the entrance to the Sohra tourist circuit. From here, the landscape abruptly changes into picturesque deep gorges.

13: Sa I Mika Park

Located on the way to the world-famous ‘Dainthlen Falls’ and about 3 km before reaching Sohra town is Sa-I-Mika Park, a one-stop tourist destination. Set amidst 69 acres of pristine surroundings, Sa-I-Mika offers accommodation & a host of activities that caters to people of all ages and walks of life. There are four double bedded rooms with all modern amenities and two traditional cottages. There is also a 200-capacity conference hall suitable for hosting cooperative & departmental events, seminars, workshops, and concerts. On request, the management can also arrange to organize barbecues, bonfires, tour guides, traditional Khasi dance, and local cuisine and drink. The park has the distinct advantage of being located close to the waterfalls & one can arrange treks and tours to these places, as well as the caves and other areas of tourist interest. Since the management is closely associated with the community, one can also opt for a homestay in one of the villages to experience life with a typical Khasi family.

14: Dain Thlen Waterfalls

Just before reaching Sohra, 5 km road to the right leads one to the falls. Among the many falls that Cherrapunjee boasts of, Dain Thlen Falls is also one of the famous ones. Many tourists flock to the falls as it has an interesting legend associated with them. The waterfall derives its name from a Thlen (Khasi word for Python). As per the legend, people decided to rid themselves of evil, captured the Thlen, and killed it at the wide flat rock over-looking the waterfall. Adjacent to the spot lies the Dain-thlen Waterfall.

15: Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Waterfalls is around 5 km from Cherrapunjee and is the fourth highest waterfall in the world. Falling from a height of 1,100 ft fall is an attraction for Cherrapunjee. The drive to Nohkalikai Falls is through the elevated tablelands that lead to the cliff and then hike a short distance to a viewpoint from where one can witness the enchanting sight of the beautiful Nohkalikai waterfall plunging into an ultramarine pool many hundred feet below. The ideal time to visit Nohkalikai is during the monsoon season. A viewing gallery allows the visitor to savor the beauty of the place.

16: Mawsmai Cave

Situated around 6 km from Cherrapunjee, the Mawsmai Caves are a major crowd puller that leaves tourists spellbound. These limestone caves are the only caves in Meghalaya that are good enough to enable tourists to enjoy the natural formations in awe. Though the caves are long, only a distance of 150 meters is open for tourists, while the other section is closed. This magnificent natural wonder is the handiwork of years of natural abrasion and underground water.

17: Eco Park

To facilitate tourists to enjoy the 'Green Canyons' of Sohra and the waterfalls around it & the Meghalaya government developed the Eco Park. There is a stream inside the park & one has to cross a bridge to get near the edge of the canyon. The scenic beauty from the edge is awe-inspiring. On the other side of the Eco Park is a viewpoint to see the Bangladesh plains. The Eco Park also houses a wide variety of orchids, courtesy of the Shillong Agri-Horticultural society.

18: Mawmluh Cave

Access to the cave is via the river, which lies southeast of the Cement Factory. The entrance is about 10ft. above water level & leads to a double passageway where the upper portion in certain areas has caved in due to the intensive quarrying of limestone above the cave. The river enters the cave and forms pools of water within the cave. This cave stretches for about 4,500 meters. Locally known as Krem Mawmluh, it is one of the longest caves in the Indian subcontinent.

19: Mawsmai Falls

Plunging down a height of 1,035 ft, the Mawsmai falls is the fourth highest waterfall in India. This fall is located a few kilometers from Cherrapunjee and is one of the major tourist attractions. This waterfall is also known as Seven Sister Falls or Nohsngithiang Falls, the latter being the name of a village The Seven Sister Falls derives its name from the seven streams that flow down the plateau-like feature & is a must-see attraction during the monsoons when the streams are inundated with water and flow down rapidly, forming a perennial rainbow much to the delight of tourists.

20: Thangkharang Park

Thangkharang Park is 12 km from the city on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the Kynrem Falls. The 180-degree view of the Bangladesh plains is beautiful. So are the views of the majestic hills and the seventh highest waterfalls, the Kynrem Falls. Yet another view that captivates your attention is the Khoh Ramhah rock. The rock is of a single formation & it looks like an overturned basket of giant size and hence called Giant Basket. The play area here keeps the kids entertained.

21: Kynrem Falls

Kynrem Falls is one of the highest waterfalls of Meghalaya that cascades on three levels from the top of a hill. Water gushing down at full speed onto the rocks and spraying on tourists makes this waterfall a spectacular sight when viewed from below. A few steps ahead of the falls is a viewpoint where one can observe the three levels of the waterfall flowing under the bridge.

22: Lawshynna Cave

Lawshynna Cave lies on the slope of U Lum Lawshynna Hill & is approximately one kilometer in length. The cave has different types of carving and formations designed by nature that add more beauty to the place & a stream running through the cave from the beginning to the end makes us feel as if we are walking in a river. The height is very high & the breadth is wide, but it gets narrower as we move further. Birds and bats frequently visit this cave and make it their home. The cave is covered by a thick forest called the Law Shynna. Different types of local species of trees, orchids, wildflowers, shrubs, bamboos, & colored leaves are found in this forest. On the way to the cave, there is a viewpoint from where we can see the beautiful Wahkaba Falls, the natural landscape, and the river which flows to Bangladesh through Nongpriang Village and Sohkhmi Village.

23: Laitkynsew

The Laitkynsew is a village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya State & is perhaps best known for its living root bridges. The Umnnoi living Root Bridge, known locally as Jingkieng Deingjri, which means bridge of the rubber tree, is 53 feet long and over 100 years old. The Ka Likai waterfall, near the neighboring village of Nongriat, can be seen from Laitkynsew, and the monsoon season in autumn is the most impressive time to view it.

24: Mawsynram

Mawsynram is a village close to the city of Cherrapunji that gives Cherrapunji neck-to-neck competition for the title of the wettest place on earth. Famous for Mawjymbuin Cave, which is several years old & stalagmite whose shape is similar to that of Shiva lingam, the cave is visited by many devotees every year.

25: Umiam Lake

Northeast India is a hidden treasure full of natural beauty, lush green lands, and beautiful, serene water bodies. One such place is the picturesque & stunning Umiam Lake, located 15 km from Shillong. Famous for water sports and a popular hangout for locals & tourists, Umiam Lake was created by damming the Umiam River. Watersport adventures like Kayaking, water cycling, scooting & boating can be enjoyed at the lake. Meghalaya Tourism Department has developed this region as a tourist spot & also runs the Orchid Tourist home overlooking the lake.

26: Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong Village, located in the East Khasi district, won the title of Asia's cleanest village in 2003 & India's cleanest village in 2005. This village is also referred to as God's garden. The village is pretty, especially during the monsoons when there is lush greenery all around. The waterfall along with abundant flowers in the area add to the natural beauty. You would find bamboo garbage bins at every nook and corner of the village. This village also offers a breathtaking view of the fields of Bangladesh as the border is very nearby. This place is 92 km from Cherrapunji and 90 km from Shillong. The best way to reach here is by taking a taxi from Shillong or Cherrapunji. Tourists will find decent accommodation options here as well.

27: Diengiei Peak

Located to the west of the Shillong plateau, Diengiei Peak is just two hundred feet lower than the Shillong peak. The peak presents a spectacular view of green mountainous hills. The hills are filled with tiny shining villages. Dingier Peak is accessible by the Umiam Uni on Christian College Mawmaram motorable road, which takes off from National Highway40 at Umiam. At the top of Diengiei, a visitor is finds a mesmerizing view of Umiam Lake with the city of Shillong in the background. On the top of Diengiei, there is a hollow shaped like a cup, which some geologists believe could be the crater of an extinct pre-historic volcano.

28: Jakrem

Jakrem, located 64 km from the state capital, is famous for its hot water springs of sulfur & is believed to have medicinal benefits. Several people visit this place to enjoy its natural beauty or to experience health therapy. As a result, this place is developing as a health center of naturopathy & attracts tourists every year. There are bathing compartments available for the public, maintained by a private company & rooms with all essential facilities are also provided by this company. Enjoy its uniqueness with friends and family.

29: Mawthadraishan Peak

Mawthadraishan peak takes an hour & a half to reach from the main road, located on the northern side of Nongstoin - Shillong road, near Nongshillong, Mawroh, and Markasa villages. It is about 70 km from Shillong on the Nongstoin road. On top of the range, there are about 7 to 8 fish ponds of considerable size. The apex of the peak offers a panoramic view of the plains of Assam, and the distant Himalayas after the monsoon, on clear days. The districts of Garo Hills, Khasi Hills, and part of Bangladesh come within the panoramic horizons of the Mawthadraishan peak.

30: Nongkhnum Island

Nongkhnum Island is the largest river island in Meghalaya & the second biggest river island in Asia, after Majuli Island in Assam. By foot from Nongstoin through the villages of Lawse, Mawduh & Mawthar, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach the Island. There is a wooden bridge over the Weinia Fall to enter the Island. The Island was formed by the bifurcation of the Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and the Namliang River. At the point of divergence, there is a beautiful sandy shore of about 100 sq. meters. River Phanliang forms a beautiful lake adjacent to the sandy beach. This lake is about 400 to 500 sq. meters. The River then moves along & before reaching a deep gorge, which forms a pretty fall about 60 meters high, called Shadthum Fall.

31: Ranikor

On the banks of the river Jadukata, close to Bangladesh, Ranikor is a beautiful place. This area is famous for its abundance of mahseer. The dark blue deep water of Jadukata offers ample scope for water sports. It is one of the best fishing destinations, 129 km from Shillong and 169 km from Nongstoin. Tourists can enjoy angling in Ranikor, the delight of anglers & other species like the golden carp, silver carp, and the general carp are also available.

32: The Green Deserts

The green dunes at Mawlangkhar, 12 km up from Nongstoin, captivate the eyes of the destined caravans. The magnificently picturesque landscapes of Rilang valley with the legendary Ding Ding Kohlangat falls & the blue river pools of Wah Rilang near Mawranglang is a scenic beauty for many to see and appreciate.

33: Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary

The Nongkhyllem Sanctuary near Nongpoh is also a good place for bird watching. The best to visit is March/April during the nesting season. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary is one of the very renowned wildlife sanctuaries in the northeast. In the state of Meghalaya, another wildlife is the Nongkhyllem Sanctuary. This park, located in the district of Ri Bhoi, lies near the Lailad village. These wild species are rare and endangered, so they are not easily seen while wandering in the Nongkhyllem Sanctuary. It hosts several species that are worth watching when visiting this place. The most common fauna visitors can spot here are the Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Bison, Royal Bengal Tiger, and many more.