One Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip by Cab
Planning a trip to a hill station that retains its old school charm, yet, comes with a fine touch of western culture? Look no further, we have you covered! Take a One Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip by Private Car and witness charming waterfalls, impressive mountains, breathtaking scenery and beautiful lakes.
This popular hill station nestled in the East Khasi Hills District is the capital of Meghalaya. Its name has been derived from a peak by the same name in which rests the powerful deity ‘Lei Shyllong’.
Due to its proximity, it was earlier the capital of composite Assam until the state of Meghalaya came into being. As such, the distance between Shillong and Guwahati is hardly 100km, making a One Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip by Car a favourite amongst many.
Also known as the “Scotland of the East”, it is situated at an elevation of 5000 ft above sea level. It’s visited by many for its tropical climate, its surrounding lush green hills, waterfalls and the magnificent Umiam lake that comes en route Guwahati to Shillong. Its pollution free environment makes it a perfect weekend getaway from the city of Guwahati.
The roads have recently been re-constructed which allows for a two-lane driveway and makes the drive fantastic, smooth, fast and safe. One can reach Shillong from Guwahati in 2.5 hours and the journey will allow you to view some beautiful S-bends, plantations and rocky mountains.
With many pretty cafes, street shopping markets, authentic tribal cuisines, and of course the natural beauty it brings along with, Shillong is one of those hill stations that has something so very special about them that one can only experience it by witnessing it in person.
What to Expect
We will leave from Guwahati early in the morning to be able to reach Umiam Lake by 9 am. This natural lake is going to be our first spot en route Shillong and one can enjoy various kinds of water activities here. From here, we will head to the Elephant Falls which are a group of three consecutive waterfalls.
Next in our 1 Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip is the Lady Hydari Park which has a small museum, pond and a children’s park, all in all, a great place to unwind and relax. Further, we will go for a paddle boating at Ward’s Lake, followed by a visit to the Shillong Golf Course. To get insights into the life of the tribal people of Meghalaya, we will stop by at the Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum. And the last spot for the day would be Shillong Peak which is the highest peak in Shillong.
Places to Visit During Your One Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip by Car
1. Umiam Lake
The first destination during our 1 Day Guwahati to Shillong Trip by Car would be the Umiam Lake which is 15 km before Shillong. It is also popularly known as Badapani by the locals.
This reservoir was initially built to store water to generate hydroelectric power and the Lum Nehru Park surrounding it now serves as a popular tourist spot because of its picturesque aura. Various small islands can be spotted on the lake which adds to the aesthetics of the entire place. Owing to its charming environment, Umiam Lake serves as a great photography spot.
Things To Do: Many tourists come here to have a picnic and indulge in water sports like kayaking, boating etc. A five-minute speed boat ride is also available for a nominal charge. Birding enthusiasts would enjoy this place as various rare species of birds can be found here.
Timings: Open all day. However, water sports activities at Umiam Lake are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Recommended Duration: 45 Minutes
2. Elephant Falls
Located at a distance of 12 km from the main town of Shillong is the Elephant Falls. It was previously known as the Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew Falls, which literally means Three Steps Waterfalls and is one of the most visited sightseeing points of Shillong.
The waterfall has three layers in succession that you can witness as you take the stairs. It was renamed by the Britishers as the Elephant Falls because of a rock adjoining the falls that resembled an elephant. However, the rock has now been washed away.
Must See: The first waterfall is broad while the second one is very narrow. It is the third waterfall that falls from a great height and cascades like thick milk. The view from here is breathtaking and despite the steep stairs, the climb is worth the view.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM except Sunday
Entry Fee: Free
Recommended Duration: 30 Minutes
3. Lady Hydari Park
A perfect recreation spot, Lady Hydari Park is a Japanese style garden that is a must-visit during your Guwahati to Shillong one day trip. It is named after Lady Hydari who was the First Lady of Assam and was a nature enthusiast.
This garden is well equipped with manicured lawns, pathways, small ponds, zoo, children’s park etc. The highlight of the garden is the vast variety of beautiful orchids and rhododendrons that will bring instant joy to your hearts.
Many local students can be seen at the Children’s park enjoying the slides and swings. If you are visiting with kids, they are bound to enjoy their time here.
For nature lovers, there is a small museum that displays various photographs of different kinds of rare flowers and wild animals that can be found in the state of Meghalaya and Assam.
Must See: The breathtaking part about the Lady Hydari Park are the small ponds where one can spot swans and fishes. This pond also doubles up as a great spot for photography.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM except Monday
Entry Fee: Rs.5 for Kids & Rs.10 for adults
Recommended Duration: 45 Minutes
4. Ward’s Lake
Another popular tourist spot that is a must-visit during your Shillong day tour is Ward’s Lake. It was built during the British era and is also popularly known as Nan-Polok by the locals.
This horseshoe-shaped lake is popular for paddle boating or walking around on the paved area and spending some quiet time amidst nature. One can even spot various fishes and ducks swimming in the lake.
The lake is surrounded by large stretches of greenery with various colourful flowers and pine trees that makes taking a rest stop here both peaceful and alluring. There is a wooden bridge which is painted in white, which further adds character to this colonial beauty.
Things To Do: One can buy fish food at the entry and feed the fishes at the Ward’s Lake.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM during Winters & 7.30 PM during Summers.
Entry Fee: Rs.5 for Kids & Rs.10 for adults
Recommended Duration: 30 Minutes
5. Shillong Golf Course
One of the very few and the largest natural golf courses of Asia is in Shillong which makes it a must-visit during your 1 day trip to Shillong from Guwahati. It is surrounded by pine and rhododendron trees which makes it both impressive and pleasurable. It is often termed at the Gleneagles of the East.
This natural paradise looks magnificent under the clear blue skies and can be visited with family, spouses, kids and even pets. Unlike the other golf courses in the country which is only open for club members, this one is absolutely free of cost and can be accessed by all.
Things To Do: Walk, run, or take a shot if you can carry your Golf Ball and Golf Club.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from Sunrise to Sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Recommended Duration: 30 Minutes
6. Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum
Nestled inside the State Central Library complex is the Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum which is a must-visit in Shillong especially for those who would want to dive more into the ethnic and tribal culture of Meghalaya. The different tribal cultures one can explore here are primarily Garo, Khasi and Jaintia.
This state museum houses various artefacts and models that give you a great insight not only about the culture, and heritage but also about the lifestyle of the tribal people.
Must See: One must spend time seeing the traditional apparels, accessories, utensils, musical instruments, handicrafts and weapons.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM except Saturday and Sunday.
Entry Fee: Rs.5
Recommended Duration: 30 Minutes
7. Shillong Peak
The highest point in Shillong is the Shillong Peak which is at an elevation of 6449 feet above sea level. This is going to be our last sightseeing point during your Guwahati to Shillong Day Trip.
According to locals, it is the home to the primary deity of Shillong, ‘Lei Shyllong’, who protects the city from all kinds of destructive powers.
Various refreshment shops sell local delicacies, hot and cold beverages and snacks. Most locals and tourists in fact often come here to witness some breathtaking views and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee from these local shops.
Must See: One must visit the Shillong Peak around sunset to witness a panoramic view of the entire city with different hues in the sky. One can even use a telescope service for a nominal fee which can help you see various waterfalls and the Himalayas from a distance.
Timings: Open on all days of the week from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Recommended Duration: 20 Minutes