5 Hidden Hill Stations Near Shillong You Must Visit!
Most people would agree that Shillong, which is located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, is the prettiest hill station in India and the country's own 'Scotland of the East'. People are drawn to the place for its cascading waterfalls, pleasant climate, and lush greenery which effectively make this a tourist hotspot. Completely overlooked is the fact that, beyond the lively capital city, is a treasure chest of lesser-known hill stations which don't see a lot of visitors. These 'hidden gems' do wonders in offering peace, splendid views, and genuine Meghalaya hospitality. This article sheds light on seven hill stations that are located close to Shillong, which certainly do not get the attention they deserve.
1. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
The Mawphlang Sacred Forest is located around 25 kilometers away from Shillong and together is accompanied by the larger Mawphlang region. This area is sprawled across huge regions of the Khasi Hills. Mawphlang is more than just a place for people who love nature, as it also has some cultural importance to it. Expounding more on this, this region won't only offer you picturesque scenery but it would also expose you to Khasis culture right from the very first moment you lay eyes on this place. You will not only find lush greenery here, as it is famous for its waterfalls and lake too. It would be interesting to note that this place is considered ancient and sacred by the Khasi tribe which makes this destination not only the dense canopy of oak trees, but also a sight which is protected by 'spirits'. The wild orchids, oaks, and ferns which can be found flourished many in numbers and built a kingdom of beauty. Visitors can also learn the indigenous flora and fauna and enjoy guided treks through the forests while respecting the local customs. Mawphlang grants you peace which shelters you away from the set tourist sites which are packed with people on a constant basis.
2. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons is considered one of Meghalaya's best-kept secrets and is heaven on Earth for photographers and adventure seekers alike. This canyon is located approximately 35 kilometers east of Shillong. These canyons have stunning views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and rivers. The journey to the viewpoint is not easy as it involves trekking through steep trails adding to the overall experience. The place gets even more mesmerizing during sunrise and sunset when golden hues are cast over the landscape. With backpackers increasingly recognizing this canyon, it is still relatively unknown to normal tourists.
3. Nongkhnum Island
This is known as the largest river island in Meghalaya. It is located near the village of Nongstoin which is around 80 kilometers west of Shillong. This island is surrounded by fresh and pristine waters of Kynshi River and boasts amazing vegetation, sandy beaches, and limestone formations. With all of this natural beauty, it makes for an ideal camping, boating, and picnicking site. One of the many features of the island is the double decker living root bridge that is close by. It is a true marvel and a sustainable architecture created by the Khasi people.
4. Dawki (Ingot River)
More and more people are starting to visit Dawki, and it isn't hard to see why, especially for people who enjoy boating and kayaking since it sits close to the amazing crystal-clear Umngot River. And with cave sites like Krem Liat Prah, those who wish to do some exploration will surely have a time of their life. Dawki is north of the town that bears the same name, around 90 kilometers and boasts of an incredibly stunning landscape which makes it perfect for solo treks and weekends away from the mental hustle. During the dry seasons, the emerald waters of the Umngot river are especially mesmerizing and shallows are visible.
5. Sohra (Cherrapunji)
Most of Cherrapunji's remote attractions, despite being equally impressive, are relatively unexplored and overlooked by many people who wish to travel to Sohra. One such example is the Nohkalikai Falls which is the deepest plunge waterfall in India and is around 54 kilometers southeast from the town of Shillong, alongside the Mawsmai cave and seven sisters waterfall. Sohra is also home to many relatively unknown villages which have their own Khasi culture and traditions, and so are worth a visit. These unusual places are overflowing with beauty and culture and surely do not get the appreciation they deserve.
Why Travel To These Little Known Places?
The 'off track' marked hill station near Shillong allows tourists to experience the raw charm of Meghalaya without being surrounded by the hustle and bustle of tourists. Every place has something unique to offer. For instance, Mawphlang Sacred Forest is unique because of its deeply religious vibe. Meanwhile, the adventurous Laitlum Canyons boast astonishing views alongside thrilling trails, and the tranquil waters of Thadlaskein Lake provide a peaceful setting and calmness. Not only that, but it also promotes eco-friendly local tourism which helps rural areas grow economically without destroying their cultures or environment.
Final Thoughts
To wrap things up, tourists going to Shillong should not just focus on the main areas of interest. Below these mysterious hill stations lies the real treasure of Meghalaya, where nature flourishes, tradition prevails, and where stories silently long to be told.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Tourism in Meghalaya thrives, visitors throng hill destination
1 2 3 4 Sohra: Tourist flow to Meghalaya continues with great enthusiasm as visitors explore the breathtaking views of hills and waterfalls. For tourists, the recent 'honeymoon horror' involving the death of Raja Raghuvanshi was the result of devilish minds fulfilling their vested interests, and it does not define the northeastern state or malign its image. A day after the accused, Raja's wife Sonam along with her four accomplices, were brought to Shillong on Wednesday, TOI visited Sohra on Thursday and spotted hundreds of tourists from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. TOI met a 19-member tourist group from Lucknow, including four children, at the Duwan Sing Syiem viewpoint in Sohra who had come for a two-day trip to Meghalaya. Two women of the group were found clicking pictures wearing traditional Khasi attire. Sunita Akshay looked happy in a Khasi traditional attire, called 'Jainsem', at the Duwan Sing Syiem View Point at Mawkdok Dympep Valley. The valley is located on the way from Shillong to Cherrapunjee. Admiring the natural beauty of the valley, she told TOI, "We have come all the way from Lucknow to explore the beauty of the state. We have heard about the recent Raja Raghuvanshi murder case here. But that does not mean tourists will stop coming." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Brain tumor has left my son feeling miserable; please help! Donate For Health Donate Now Undo She added that a particular incident cannot define a state or malign its image. "They (the accused in the case) had devilish minds, hatched a conspiracy, and executed that to fulfil their vested interests. That is a different chapter. For tourists, it does not matter," she added. Her husband, Akshay, a businessman in Lucknow, said it was their first trip to Meghalaya and the 'heavenly natural beauty' of the state surprised them. Sunil Kumar, who had come from Samastipur in Bihar with his family of seven, was asking his minor son if he would like to experience the zip line adventure when TOI met him. His wife was enjoying the natural beauty of the state. Kumar added that they had planned to visit Cherrapunji from the Duwan Singh Syiem viewpoint, and the group was likely to visit the Double Decker Bridge at Nongrat. Regarding tourist safety, he said the Raja murder case was resolved with the arrest of the accused and it had been revealed that the case had no link to Meghalaya. "It was their (Sonam) case and they just selected Meghalaya as a place to execute their plan. So, we feel very safe here. We have been in Meghalaya for the last two days and have experienced a peaceful environment and warm cooperation from the locals," he added. Last year, Meghalaya was named India's top travel destination in Skyscanner's Travel Trends Report, outperforming global hotspots like Baku and Azerbaijan. Shillong was the only Indian city to make to the list. Meghalaya witnessed a year-on-year growth in tourist arrivals — from 10.24 lakh in 2022 to 14.22 lakh in 2023, a 38.9% increase, and further to 16.08 lakh in 2024, a 13.1% rise — reaffirming its rising appeal as a premier travel destination. CM Conrad K Sangma-led govt will now invest Rs 4,000 crore to develop tourism infrastructure, including the construction of high-end accommodations in tourist spots like Sohra and Umiam over the next two years.
News18
5 days ago
- News18
A Monsoon Escape to Meghalaya: Nature, Caves, Waterfalls And Whispering Clouds
Last Updated: Meghalaya in the monsoon is a dreamscape of misty cliffs, living root bridges, and rain-washed wonder. If your idea of a perfect monsoon getaway involves mist-covered cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and roads that lead into emerald green hills, then Meghalaya should top your list. Despite recent headlines casting shadows, the state remains one of India's most magical and safe destinations—especially in June, when nature is in full bloom and airfares are surprisingly budget-friendly. ✈️ Getting There: Flights to Meghalaya Shillong, the capital city, has a small airport with limited connectivity, but Guwahati (in Assam) remains the most convenient and better-connected gateway to Meghalaya. From Guwahati, a scenic 3–4 hour drive brings you into the heart of the hills. Approximate Round-Trip Airfare: To Shillong From Delhi: ₹13,000–₹16,000 (SpiceJet offers one direct flight) From Mumbai: Around ₹20,000 From Bangalore/Chennai: ₹19,000–₹25,000 To Guwahati From Delhi: ₹14,000–₹16,000 From Mumbai: Around ₹11,000 From Bangalore/Chennai: ₹12,000–₹17,000 🌧️ Where to Go This Monsoon in Meghalaya 1. The Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji Monsoon turns Cherrapunji into a misty dream. Home to the famous Double-Decker Living Root Bridge, this region is the ultimate blend of nature and indigenous engineering. The bridges, woven from the aerial roots of rubber trees by the Khasi people, take decades to develop and are living, growing structures. Trekking through the wet, wild terrain of Nongriat or Nongbareh, you'll discover one of Meghalaya's most awe-inspiring sights. 2. Shillong: Colonial Charm Meets Indie Cool Shillong is a city where fog drapes pine trees, and music drifts from cozy cafés. Visit Elephant Falls, enjoy the peaceful Ward's Lake, or head to Shillong Peak for sweeping views. The city's vibrant food and music culture makes it perfect for rainy-day café hopping or catching a live performance in a local bar. 3. Mawlynnong: Asia's Cleanest Village Dubbed the 'Cleanest Village in Asia," Mawlynnong is a picture-perfect escape with cobbled paths, manicured gardens, and flowering balconies. Don't miss the Balancing Rock—a massive boulder precariously resting atop another—and enjoy warm hospitality in a traditional homestay. 4. Mawsynram & Mawmluh Cave Touted as one of the wettest places on Earth, Mawsynram bursts into a thousand shades of green during the rains. Adventure-seekers should explore the Mawmluh Cave (Krem Mawmluh)—a 7-km-long underground wonder and one of UNESCO's top 100 geological heritage sites in the world. Prepare for an eerie, exhilarating journey into Meghalaya's subterranean beauty. 5. Dawki & the Umngot River Even in monsoon, Dawki's legendary Umngot River is worth the drive. Though boating may be suspended during heavy rain, the views—lush hills, hanging clouds, and mirror-like water—make the trip unforgettable. On clear days, boats appear to float mid-air on the transparent river. 6. Laitlum Canyons Located just outside Shillong, the Laitlum Canyons offer sweeping views of Meghalaya's dramatic terrain. Translating to 'end of the hills," this spot is often cloaked in clouds—but when they part, the views are simply sublime. A favourite among photographers and solitude seekers alike. 🌿 Why Now Is the Perfect Time June in Meghalaya is when the state truly comes alive. Waterfalls thunder down hillsides, valleys wear a dewy green cloak, and the skies swing between moody greys and sun-dappled blues. It's also a great time for budget-conscious travellers, with flights and stays reasonably priced compared to peak tourist months. So if you're longing for a monsoon that feels like poetry—of slow drizzles, wild winds, and landscapes lost in clouds—Meghalaya is calling. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 12, 2025, 13:36 IST News lifestyle » travel A Monsoon Escape to Meghalaya: Nature, Caves, Waterfalls And Whispering Clouds
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
How Shillong City Got Its Name: The Fascinating History Behind It
Set against the backdrop of the green hills of Meghalaya, Shillong is a city whose beauty, pleasant climate, and diverse culture leave a mark on every person that visits it. Nicknamed as the 'Scotland of the East,' Shillong is not only a tourist spot but also a city with a story to tell. One of the most interesting details of the history of Shillong is its name. The tale of how Shillong came to be known as Shillong has connections to the geography, myths, and colonial history of the region. The Mythological Connection The name 'Shillong' is believed to have been derived from indigenous Khasi people who worshipped a powerful god named Lei Shyllong. According to the mythology of the Khasi people, Lei Shyllong is a deity which controls thunder and lightning. He is said to live on top of the Shillong Peak, which is the highest point of the city. With a height of over 1,966 meters above sea level, the peak is sacred for the Khasi people, as it is said that the presence of the deity there protects the region and its inhabitants. Leishyllong, like many myths, has its dual origin. It combines two words of the Khasi language: lei which means, 'a place' while shyllong translates to, 'the deity.' Thus, over the course of history, Leishyllong became known as Shillong which is now used to refer to the city inhabited at the sacred peak. This legendary association is a reflection of the spiritual and cultural importance of the region to the Khasi people that have inhabited the area for years. The Colonial Approach Although local legends explain the etymology of the name of Shillong, the city has a separate identity that also owes its development to colonial rule. In Addition to British rule in India, the British East India Company intended to set up a hill station further to the northeast of India so that their officials and soldiers could escape the blistering heat of the plains. The region also sought an escape from the heavy humidity. The low temperatures, beautiful sceneries, and the Khasi Hills made it the most suitable place. In 1864, the British selected a quaint village known as Yeddo, located near Shillong peak, to serve as its new administrative hub. They nicknamed the settlement 'Shillong' after the peak, which was already well known for its mythical values. The British further developed the place into a steamy hill station which consisted of colonial structures, churches, and schools. Consequently, in 1874 Shillong was crowned as the capital city of the newly formed Assam Province, which further enhanced its significance in the region. The Importance of Geography The geography of Shillong played a key role in the formation of its identity and naming of the city. The city is draped in several hills, which consist of a thick blanket of forests and numerous natural waterfalls, making it one of the most beautiful places in India. Its primary monument, the Shillong Peak, is in fact one of its overarching geographical features. The height of the peak, combined with its holy localization makes it a prominent region for the city. The British, in their attempt to create a hill station, were fascinated by the towering beauty and strategic location of the area. 'Shillong' not only represented the city's folklore but also served as a reminder of its geophysical setting. In the course of time, Shillong came to be associated with the entire region along with the surrounding hills and valleys. The Evolution of Shillong From its humble beginnings as a small village, Shillong has grown into a vibrant city that beautifully fuses the old and new. 'Shillong,' since ancient times has been the name of this place and it has been associated with its glorious past and rich culture. Today, the city is a shuttle of civilizations not only of the Khial people but other communities from different states of India or even outside the country. As it has developed, Shillong has retained its landscape beauty and cultural identity. People still visit the famed tourist site, 'The Shillong Peak,' since it provides astonishing views of the city. In addition, tourists can appreciate the city's colonial style buildings, bustling markets, and 'Shillong's' lively music culture, which has earned the box among the locals as 'Rock Capital Of India'. Conclusion The origin of the city of Shillong and how its name came about is equally diverse and fascinating. Myth claims that the god Leishyllong dwelled in a mountainous region, then transformed into a hill station found during colonization and then further developed into a city. Each component in the name 'Shillong' depicts a story within culture, geography, and history. Modern day Shillong serves as a city where new and old world charm blend seamlessly. It is the perfect depiction of balance between harmony and resilience. The magnificent, misty hills around the vibrant culture of Shillong give unparalleled views throughout the streets of the city. The feeling of awe and wonder is unmistakable. 'Shillong' gives a broader context to the word. The enduring legacy and fascinating history indicates to nature enthusiasts, history lovers, or curious travelers alike. Everyone, over time, is bound to fall in love with the city and its stories.
