7 Beautiful Hill Stations Near Shillong to Visit This Summer

If you want to escape from these sweltering summer days, the hills could be your next destination. Shillong – affectionately called the ‘Scotland of the East’ – has some beautiful hilly places around it that are still largely unexplored. Whether you’re looking for misty mornings, crystal clear rivers or a tranquil village atmosphere, this region of Meghalaya won’t disappoint. Let’s take a look at 7 Beautiful Hill Stations Near Shillong to Visit This Summer, this hill stations could be the perfect destination for your summer vacation.

7 Beautiful Hill Stations Near Shillong to Visit This Summer, Overview

The hills surrounding Shillong are not only offer cool breezes and postcard-like scenery, but they also offer many stories, silent peace, fresh green nature, and some wonderful memories for life. Let’s take a look on 7 beautiful hill stations near Shillong to visit this summer.

01.Laitlum Canyon

The Laitlam Canyon, which is situated on Shillong’s eastern side, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding green valleys and majestic mountains. This hill station looks like a peaceful natural haven where the soft sound of the wind calms the soul.

Top Attractions

• Panoramic hilltop views
• Natural trekking trails
• Local Khasi settlements

How to Reach

Drive from Shillong via NH6 and take a short hike to the viewpoint.

Distance from Shillong

Approx, 24 km

02.Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, is a place where the beauty of nature and the cleanliness of the village people combine to create a wonderful atmosphere. Here, you will feel like you are walking inside a living picture. Surrounded by mountains, the cool breeze and lush green nature of this village completely calms the mind.

Top Attractions

• Living Root Bridge
• Sky View Bamboo Tower
• Village walks

How to Reach

Drive from Shillong through Dawki Road; well-connected by taxis.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 78 km

Also Read:7 Hill Stations Near Delhi You Must Visit Within 100 Km

03.Dawki

Famous for the unbelievably clear waters of the Umngot River, Dawki feels like nature’s version of glass-bottom magic. It’s ideal for boating and riverside picnics.

Top Attractions

• Umngot River boating
• Indo-Bangladesh border point
• Camping by the riverside

How to Reach

Drive from Shillong on Dawki-Tamabil Road; smooth and scenic.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 82 km

04.Cherrapunji (Sohra)

Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places in the world, turns into a dreamland covered in greenery during the summer. Waterfalls are flowing all around, and mysterious caves are hidden in the mountains. During this time, nature seems to pour all its beauty here. It is an absolute paradise for those who love nature.

Top Attractions

• Nohkalikai Falls
• Mawsmai Caves
• Double Decker Root Bridge

How to Reach

Regular taxis and buses from Shillong via Sohra Road.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 54 km

Also Read:9 Beautiful Hill Stations in West Bengal

05.Mawsynram

Mawsynram is a small hill village that is known for more rainfall than Cherrapunji. The rolling hills covered in greenery, small paths covered in mist, and mysterious caves – all together, the place is like a peaceful destination. Coming here, the mind becomes completely calm. It is a perfect place to spend a few days in the lap of nature.

Top Attractions

• Mawjymbuin Cave
• Humid landscapes
• Seasonal waterfalls

How to Reach

Accessible by road from Shillong via NH206 and Mawsynram-Shillong Road.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 61 km

06.Nongstoin

Nongstoin is a hidden beautiful hill station in the West Khasi Hills. Surrounded by lush green hills, sparkling rivers and peaceful nature, this place is truly breathtaking. The tribal culture here is also quite rich and captivating.

There is a special joy in walking along the mountain roads here. The lifestyle, culture, and hospitality of the local people also feel very familiar. This is a place of immense peace for travelers.

Top Attractions

• Weinia Falls
• Nongkhnum River Island
• Langshiang Falls

How to Reach

Drive through NH106 and SH3; hire a local cab for comfort.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 91 km

Also Read:Top 10 India’s Cleanest Hill Stations That You Must Visit

07.Jowai

Jowai, the capital of the Jaintia Hills, is a beautiful place – a blend of lush green mountain meadows, sacred lakes, and the aroma of tribal culture. The crowds are minimum and the surroundings area are peaceful and vibrant. Jowai is the perfect place for those who love solitude.

Top Attractions

• Krang Suri Falls
• Ialong Park
• Thadlaskein Lake

How to Reach

Well-connected via NH6 from Shillong by taxis and buses.

Distance from Shillong

Approx. 65 km

❓ FAQs

1. Which is the best hill station near Shillong for families?

Cherrapunji is great for families, offering waterfalls, caves, and family-friendly trekking trails.

2. Is Dawki suitable for summer travel?

Absolutely! Summer is perfect for boating in Dawki’s crystal-clear river and enjoying the riverside scenery.

3. What is the most offbeat destination near Shillong?

Nongstoin is one of the least explored hill stations, ideal for travelers looking for solitude and raw natural beauty.

4. How many days are enough for a Shillong hill station tour?

4 to 5-day itinerary is enough to explore 3 – 4 nearby hill stations without rushing.

5. What are the transport options to reach these places?

You can hire local cabs, shared taxis, or rent a bike in Shillong. Roads are scenic and well-maintained for most routes.

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