How To Reach Shillong: Routes, Transport Options, And Travel Tips

Shillong, the charming capital of Meghalaya, is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India’s northeast. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong’s scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and cool climate attract travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation or an adventurous escape, knowing how to reach Shillong smoothly is the first step to an unforgettable trip.

Since Shillong does not have a major railway station or an international airport, planning your journey in advance is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the available routes, various transportation options, and practical travel tips to help you reach Shillong without hassle.

Introduction: Where is Shillong?

Shillong is located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, at an altitude of around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. It lies about 100–120 km from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, which acts as the main gateway for travelers heading to Meghalaya.

Despite its remote location, Shillong is well-connected to major cities via road, air, and limited railway options, with Guwahati acting as the key transit hub.

Route Overview: Major Ways to Reach Shillong

Since Shillong is not directly connected by train or large commercial flights, the journey typically involves reaching Guwahati first, followed by a road trip to Shillong.

Summary:

  • Nearest Airport: Umroi Airport (Shillong) or Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati)

  • Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station

  • Best Option: Guwahati to Shillong by road (shared taxi, cab, or bus)

Option 1: Reaching Shillong by Air

Although Shillong has a small domestic airport, most travelers prefer flying into Guwahati due to better connectivity.

1. Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport – GAU)

  • Distance to Shillong: Approx. 120 km

  • Travel Time to Shillong by Road: 3 to 4 hours

  • Flights: Well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

  • International flights: Limited, mostly connecting through Delhi or Kolkata.

Once you land in Guwahati, you can:

  • Hire a private cab or taxi directly to Shillong.

  • Take a shared taxi from Paltan Bazar or Khanapara.

  • Catch a government or private bus to Shillong.

2. Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport – SHL)

  • Distance from city center: Approx. 35 km

  • Flights: Limited connectivity. Only a few domestic airlines like IndiGo operate small flights from Kolkata or other nearby cities.

  • Pros: Avoids road journey from Guwahati.

  • Cons: Fewer flights, possible delays, and cancellations due to weather or demand.

Travel Tip: Check flight availability to Shillong in advance. If limited, opt for Guwahati instead.

Option 2: Reaching Shillong by Train

Shillong does not have a railway station of its own. The nearest major station is in Guwahati, Assam.

Guwahati Railway Station (GHY)

  • Distance from Shillong: Approx. 100 km

  • Well-connected to: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and other major Indian cities.

  • Train Types: Express, Superfast, and Premium trains.

From Guwahati Railway Station, options to reach Shillong include:

  • Private taxis

  • Shared cabs (available from Paltan Bazar)

  • State transport buses (Meghalaya Transport Corporation)

Travel Tip: For budget travelers, trains to Guwahati followed by a shared cab to Shillong is one of the most economical and scenic routes.

Option 3: Reaching Shillong by Road

Traveling by road is one of the most common and enjoyable ways to reach Shillong, especially from Guwahati.

Distance:

  • From Guwahati: 100 to 120 km

  • Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and weather

Road Conditions:

  • The National Highway 6 (NH6) connects Guwahati to Shillong and is in excellent condition.

  • Beautiful landscapes, valleys, and hill roads make the journey scenic and enjoyable.

Transportation Options:

1. Private Cabs / Taxis

  • Available at Guwahati Airport and Railway Station.

  • Fares: ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 depending on car type and operator.

  • Comfortable, convenient, and ideal for families or groups.

2. Shared Taxis

  • Available from Paltan Bazar or Khanapara (Guwahati).

  • Fare: ₹300 to ₹500 per person.

  • Economical and quick, but you share the vehicle with 3–4 other passengers.

3. Buses

  • Run by Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC), ASTC (Assam State Transport), and private operators.

  • Types: Non-AC, AC, and sleeper buses.

  • Cost: ₹150 to ₹300 per person.

  • Slower than taxis but cheaper.

4. Self-Drive

  • If you’re an adventure lover, you can rent a car in Guwahati and drive to Shillong.

  • Several rental companies like Zoomcar and Revv operate here.

  • A valid driver’s license and ID proof are required.

Travel Tip: Start early from Guwahati to avoid traffic and enjoy the views en route. Carry some snacks and water as roadside eateries are limited.

Local Travel in Shillong

Once you reach Shillong, there are several options to explore the city and nearby attractions:

1. Taxis

  • Easily available and affordable.

  • Local taxis often don’t use meters, so fix the fare beforehand.

2. Bike Rentals

  • Available for ₹800–₹1,200 per day.

  • Best for exploring places like Laitlum Canyons, Elephant Falls, and nearby towns.

3. Private Cars with Driver

  • Convenient for group travel and day trips.

  • Available through travel agencies and hotels.

4. Walking

  • Central Shillong (like Police Bazar and Ward’s Lake) can be explored on foot.

Travel Tips for Visiting Shillong

To ensure a smooth and memorable journey, here are some practical travel tips:

1. Pack According to Weather

  • Even in summer, Shillong can get chilly. Carry a light jacket or sweater.

  • Monsoons are heavy—bring rain gear and waterproof shoes.

2. Advance Bookings

  • Book your taxis, buses, or hotel stays in advance, especially during peak season (April to June and December holidays).

3. Carry Cash

  • While Shillong has ATMs, many remote areas accept only cash.

  • Keep small denomination notes handy for taxis and local purchases.

4. Respect Local Culture

  • Shillong is home to the Khasi tribe. Respect their customs and always ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.

  • Dress modestly in villages and religious sites.

5. Travel with an ID

  • Keep your government-issued photo ID handy, especially while entering restricted areas or military zones like Shillong Peak.

6. Phone Connectivity

  • Shillong has decent mobile network coverage.

  • However, in rural or forested areas, networks may be weak. Airtel, Jio, and BSNL work best.

7. Health and Safety

  • Shillong is generally very safe for tourists.

  • Carry any personal medications, and drink bottled or filtered water.

Scenic Routes and Stopovers (From Guwahati to Shillong)

The journey to Shillong is a treat for nature lovers. Here are a few spots where you can take a break:

1. Umiam Lake (Barapani)

  • About 17 km before Shillong, this stunning lake is perfect for a picnic, boating, and photos.

2. Nongpoh

  • A small town en route with roadside stalls offering pineapples, pickles, and snacks.

3. Shillong Viewpoints

  • As you approach the city, there are several viewpoints offering majestic views of the hills and valleys.

Eco-Friendly Travel Advice

Shillong and Meghalaya are known for their ecological richness. Here’s how you can travel responsibly:

  • Avoid littering and carry reusable water bottles.

  • Don’t pluck flowers or disturb wildlife.

  • Support local artisans and buy eco-friendly souvenirs.

  • Choose shared transport or electric vehicles when possible.

Reaching Shillong may not be as straightforward as flying into big cities, but the journey itself is part of the magic. From the moment you leave Guwahati and enter the winding roads of Meghalaya, you’re welcomed by hills, clouds, and a cool breeze that tells you—you’re headed somewhere special.

Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take a shared cab, Shillong is worth every mile traveled. With this detailed guide on how to reach Shillong, your trip planning is halfway done. Now, all that’s left is to pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore the Scotland of the East.

Shillong is waiting!

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