Garo Hills. This reserve is the pride of the entire village and the people are very sentimental about this reservoir. This reserve is situated in the West Garo Hills in Meghalaya.
 
The Hoolock Gibbon is associated with an age-old legend. It is a traditional belief among the Garo tribe that if Hoolock Gibbons were killed, the entire village would be destroyed by a dark curse or a famine. So, people from the Garo community never hunt or kill them. The Rombagre Falls, which is a popular picnic spot, is also located nearby this reserve. The Rombagre Falls is a fish sanctuary. It is a clear water pool in the Simsang river which is also well preserved and protected by the local Garo community. 
 
The Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve has two traditional houses of the Garo community, called Nok Achik. There is also a training centre for boys known as Nok Pante. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from November to January. There is a helicopter service to this sanctuary. The nearest railway station is the Guwahati Railway Junction. Taxi services are also available from Guwahati, Shillong and Tura. It is 176 kms. from the city of Guwahati to this sanctuary, 192 kms. from Shillong to Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve and 45 kms. from Tura to this reserve. NH 17, NH 37 AND NH 51 connects Tura to Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve. The nearest accommodation can be found in the town of Tura located in the West Garo Hills.
 
 

Surrounded by beautiful greenery and magnificent landscapes, Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong. Situated above 1965 meters above sea level, this is one of the most popular tourist destinations and an ideal picnic spot in the Northeast. Being the highest point, this peak offers spectacular views of Shillong with all the bright lights, lush foliage and cascading waterfalls. You can be at peace with yourself at this surrealspot. The tranquility and serenity of the atmosphere is very relaxing and alleviating. This place attracts a large number of tourists every year. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the majestic Himalayan terrains and the Bangladesh plains.
 
The beautiful city of Shillong appears even more beautiful in the evening, with the big city lights shining brightly like a star-studded chasm.There is no other place that will give you a better view of this scenery than Shillong Peak. There is also a shrine on the premises where homage is paid to the famous Khasi legend, U Shulong by the priest of Mylliem, every spring.
 
Shillong Peak is located at a distance of 10 km from the city of Shillong and is also the highest point in the State of Meghalaya. It is well connected from the city of Guwahati. There is a helicopter service from Guwahati to Shillong. The nearest railway junction is Guwahati Railway Station. Bus and taxi services are also available. NH 44 connects Guwahati to Shillong. Shilling is approximately 176 kms from the city of Guwahati and Shillong Peak is another 10 kms. from Shillong. The best time to visit is from October to March. The nearest accommodation can be found in the city of Shillong where there are many resorts, guesthouses and hotels available for a pleasant stay.
 
 
 

Situated in the heart of the city, Lady Hydari Park is one of the most popular tourist spots in Shillong. Named after the nature - loving,first lady of the province, Lady Hydari who was the wife of the Governor of Assam, this beautiful and charming park is landscaped in Japanese style. With its lush green lawns, well maintained garden and rich diverse flora, this park is regularly toured by locals and travellers from all across the globe.

Administered by the State Forest Department, this park also has a mini zoo along with a deer park. The zoo is home to 73 species of birds, 140 species of reptiles and other mammals. Known for its delightful blossoming bed of colourful roses, this park is a perfect place to spend some peaceful time and just relax around the beauty of nature. It offers a special arena, equipped with swings, sea-saws and other small rides, for kids to play.

A butterfly museum within the park exhibits a diverse collection of butterflies with details about that specific species. This museum remains open from 11am to 4pm.Apart from the butterfly museum, the park is home to another museum which intends to highlight the State’s rich biodiversity. One can see stuffed leopard, skulls of elephant, pictures of rare animals found in the state and also the dried skin of python pinned to the wall.
A visit to this scenic park should not be missed out.

Visiting Hours: All days of the week, 9am – 8pm.

Shillong takes pride in its Golf Course being the largest and only natural golf course in the whole of Asia. Known as the ‘Gleneagles of the East’, because of its natural elegance and resemblance to the Gleneagles by the United States Golf Association Museum, this place is not just specific to golfers, but the beauty of the place attracts common people as well. In 1898 golf was introduced in Shillong with only a 9-hole course by a group of British civil service officers. But it was changed into an 18-hole course in 1924. It is one of the finest things started by the British in Shillong and is a major tourist spot in present times.

Set in a scenic valley amidst golden pine trees and rhododendron trees, it is also an abode to varieties of birds. A lazy walk through the charming and striking meadow, along with the chirping of birds will leave you mesmerized. The stunning course also serves as a most sought after destination forpicnics. Locals and tourists can enjoy a day out with family, especially over the weekends.

Set amidst emerald-green trees and a rich vegetation, Mawlynnong village is a peaceful village situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Often referred to as ‘God’s own garden’, this village, located 90kms from Shillong, has won recognition for being the cleanest village in Asia. This charming village known for its cleanliness is a community-based eco-tourism initiative. The commitment of the villagers in keeping up with the reputation of a clean village is inspiring. With its serene natural beauty, a day spent in this village would be a change from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Tourists can enjoy a trek to the living roots bridge at a neighbouring village called Riwai. With roots entangled to form a bridge on top of a stream, the living roots bridge provides an amazing sight. Another attraction is the bamboo sky-walk (an 85 feet bamboo structure), which presents a general view of this picturesque village and a panoramic view of the Bangladesh plains.

The primary occupation of the villagers is agriculture. Most of them engage in growing betel nut. A waste paper bin made of bamboo can be seen all along the village. With hundred percent literacy, the villagers are working towards conservation and protection of the forest. They are also on a mission to ban plastic. Most of them are familiar with the English language. A small village with around 82 households, Mawlynnong is considered as one of the cleanest villages in Asia. Though accommodation facilities are limited, they are in the process of being developed.

With variety of colourful orchids blossoming amidst lush green trees, Mawlynnong village provides a mesmerizing sight of nature.

Situated near Songsak block, just off the Darugiri-Songsak road in the East Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, Tasek lake is a large inland lake which was created when the 1897 earthquake took place. The lake is formed by the Damring river and is said to be the home of a huge water serpent called Sangkini (monstrous snake) by the locals. Tasek lake has vast potential for pisciculture and the state government has lately established a major fishery there.

This natural inland lake serves as a suitable picnic spot and camping site, with its relaxing ambience and cool waters. One can also enjoy fishing here. Tourists can simply laze around in the wilderness of Mother Nature – East Garo Hills. Amidst the soothing environment, Tasek lake is a popular tourist spot.

Referred to as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew by the local Khasi people, which means ‘Three Steps Waterfall’, Elephant Waterfalls is situated at a distance of 12kms from Shillong, away from the busy city life.The British people found it difficult to pronounce the local name of the falls and therefore renamed it as ‘Elephant Falls’. The waterfall is said to have drawn its name from a huge elephant-shaped rock situated near it. Though the rock was demolished in an earthquake, the name of the waterfall still remains. Elephant Falls stand among the most prominent tourist spots of Shillong city in the East Khasi Hills district.

Set amidst lush green vegetation, Elephant Falls serve as an ideal picnic spot for tourists. Offering the perfect backdrop, it grabs attention of photographers due to its scenic beauty. This two-tier waterfall is an accumulation of three smaller falls that combine together to form the stream that falls over fern-covered rocks. The crystal white water gurgling down the stony steps, with greenery on the side of the waterfall offers a mesmerizing view. Other waterfalls in the region are the Wir Phang Falls and the Wei Laplam Falls.

During the monsoon period (especially in July and August), the water flows down with great force. Even the local people come to witness the mighty force of water gushing down the falls. The gushing of water in full power makes it look all the more striking and stunning. Tourists must make sure to visit this beautiful place.

Situated in the heart of the city, Sillong, Wards lake is a stunning man-made lake which was named after Sir William Ward, the then Chief Commissioner of Assam. This place is a must-visit if you are in Shillong. Surrounded by lush green gardens, this artificial horse-shoe shaped lake is a well-known tourist spot. One can enjoy several recreational activities such as boat rides, picnics and lazy walks in cobble-stoned paths amidst the greenery and appreciate the colourful flowers implanted and fountains dancing.

There is a story behind the construction of the lake. A Khasi prisoner, tired of the labour camp routine, wanted to bring some changes to his dreary daily life and hence requested the warden for some creative endeavour. On being granted permission to create the artificial Wards Lake, he is remembered even today for his role in beautifying the place.

There is also a Botanical Garden near the lake which is adorned with extensive range of exotic plants and flowers like orchids. Tourists can spot a variety of colourful fishes in the lake. A beautiful wooden bridge in the heart of the lake presents a best place to enjoy the view of the whole lake and feed the fishes. A cafeteria which offers a wide range of eatables and beverages can also be seen within the lake premises. Located below the Raj Bhawan (Governor’s Residence), the lake is easily accessible through local transport.

Visiting Hours: 8.30am to 5.30pm (November – February), 8.30am to 7pm (March – October)

Known as the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, the Cathedral Church, situated in the Laitumkhrah locality of Shillong, is one of the most elegant churches which attract a great number of tourists. Since the church has the throne of the Bishop, it is referred to as Cathedral Church. This 50-year-old historical shrine of peace and sanctity is designed in the Gothic architectural style with high arches and stained glass windows. It provides a remarkable sight amidst lush green lawns.

One of the most unique and interesting feature of the church is the fact that it is built on sand and not on rock. Since Shillong is prone to earthquakes, the church has been erected on sand to combat and absorb the shocks. The grave of the first Archbishop of Shillong, Late Rt.Rev. Hubert D’Rosario, stands on this church. The main place of worship for 3,00,000 Catholics in the area, the church is a pride for them. Special church services are held every Wednesday.

People from diverse religious backgrounds come here to offer their prayers, seek blessings and divine favours through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Cathedral Church serves as a prominent landmark of Shillong with its hilltop location and charming architectural design.

Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday - 7am to 6.30pm, Sunday – 8am to 6.30pm.