Hotels in Shillong

Enchanting Shillong: A Symphony of Lakes, Cathedrals and Cascading Waterfalls

Nestled in the verdant hills of Meghalaya, Shillong enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Known as the Scotland of the East, this charming city boasts picturesque lakes, like the serene Umiam Lake, and cascading waterfalls, such as Elephant Falls. Explore the majestic Shillong Cathedral and immerse yourself in local markets for unique handicrafts. With its pleasant climate and vibrant music scene, Shillong offers a delightful blend of nature and culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity. Discover the magic of Shillong, where every corner reveals new beauty.

Discover great hotels in Shillong

Shillong offers a range of friendly hotel options with varying costs, from cosy budget stays to star-rated accommodations, all providing a comfortable base for exploring the scenic city. Here are some of the best hotels in Shillong that our travelers love:

1. Vivanta Meghalayaopens in new window: This 5.0-star hotel delights leisure travellers with its exceptional luxury vacation experience. Guests are treated to an impressive array of amenities including a rooftop bar, infinity pool and curated experiences that create a distinctive and smooth journey. The hotel's eco-certified status and high guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 underscore its commitment to quality and comfort. Enjoy express check-in, airport transfers and high-end restaurant experiences in an architectural setting that exudes modern elegance. Every element is designed to ensure a memorable and refined stay for those seeking both relaxation and a touch of sophistication.
2. Hotel Polo Towers Shillongopens in new window: This 4.0-star hotel caters to leisure travellers with a focus on providing a relaxed and satisfying vacation experience. Enjoy a range of notable amenities such as a high-end restaurant and express check-in that streamline your journey. The hotel’s design exudes a boutique charm, making it a perfect choice for guests who appreciate comfort and a touch of style. With a seamless blend of convenience and luxury, this property offers a memorable stay that is both refreshing and inspiring.
3. M Crown Hotelopens in new window: This 4.0-star hotel promises a refined escape for leisure travellers seeking a stylish and comfortable retreat. With amenities that include a well-appointed restaurant and express check-in, every detail is carefully crafted to enhance your travel experience. The hotel's tasteful architectural design and inviting atmosphere create a unique, luxurious setting that appeals to those who value quality and distinctive experiences. Enjoy a stay that focuses on comfort, ease and a memorable journey in a setting that is both elegant and inspiring.

Where to stay in Shillong

Stay in Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, or Laitumkhrah for a memorable experience in Shillong. Cherrapunji offers breathtaking hiking trails and stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls. Mawlynnong is known for its cleanliness and beautiful natural scenery, including the Noh-Sngithiang Falls. Laitumkhrah provides a vibrant urban atmosphere with local shops and eateries. For first-time visitors, Cherrapunji presents the best blend of nature and adventure.

1. Cherrapunjiopens in new window: Cherrapunji is a must-stay for nature lovers and hikers, offering a smalltown vibe with a rich mix of mountain scenery and natural parks. Enjoy exploring must-see places like Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and Nohkalikai Falls, which showcase the area's dramatic waterfalls and rugged landscapes. Perfect for travellers who appreciate outdoor excursions and a close connection with nature.
2. Mawlynnongopens in new window: Mawlynnong is a charming spot known for its pristine natural settings and scenic beauty. The area's key attractions, including Noh-Sngithiang Falls, add a distinct local flavour to your stay. It's an excellent choice if you're keen on experiencing a unique rural lifestyle combined with a touch of nature, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat.
3. Laitumkhrahopens in new window: Laitumkhrah offers a relaxed urban stay with a local touch, ideal for visitors looking to explore cultural attractions and enjoy a blend of leisure and local life. While it has a more modest listing of well-known points, its genuine charm provides a great base for discovering local shops and cultural venues.

Things to do in Shillong

Nestled in the hills, Shillong enchants with its lush landscapes, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Adventurers can embark on invigorating hikes, play a round of golf amidst stunning vistas, or enjoy peaceful boating excursions. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the rich wildlife, making this destination a true haven for outdoor lovers.

• Umlawan Caveopens in new window – Venture into the depths of Umlawan Cave, where stunning rock formations and underground rivers await you. This expansive cave system offers a unique opportunity to explore nature's wonders while experiencing the thrill of spelunking in one of India's longest caves.
• Seven Sisters Fallsopens in new window – Witness the beauty of Seven Sisters Falls, a magnificent waterfall that cascades down from a height of 315 meters. The sight of water tumbling over the rocky cliffs is nothing short of breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation amidst nature's grandeur.
• Mawsmai Caveopens in new window – Explore Mawsmai Cave, known for its impressive limestone formations and unique stalactites and stalagmites. A guided tour through this enchanting cave reveals the intricate natural artistry shaped over centuries, inviting you to appreciate the geological marvels hidden within.
• Wards Lakeopens in new window – Spend a leisurely afternoon at Wards Lake, a picturesque spot surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant flowers. You can stroll along the walking paths, rent a paddleboat, or simply enjoy the serene views reflecting off the water's surface.
• India Orchidarium and Botanical Gardenopens in new window – Discover the rich diversity of flora at the India Orchidarium and Botanical Garden, where you can admire numerous orchid species and beautifully landscaped gardens. This tranquil garden is a wonderful place to relax and learn about the importance of biodiversity in the region.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Shillong

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Shillong is during February, July, and September, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those keen on exploring the city's key landmarks and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows you to appreciate Shillong's historical sites, including its stunning churches and the famous cathedral, while also enjoying its natural beauty, such as picturesque lakes and magnificent waterfalls. With budget-friendly accommodation options available, this trip offers great value for money for those travelling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Hotels.com offers a great way to find the best hotel deals in Shillong. By visiting the Dealsopens in new window section, you may discover discounted rates and by checking the Last-Minute Deals area, you're more likely to see savings close to your travel date. For added convenience, enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. The Smart Shopping tool, available via the app, allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you have access to timely updates on your preferred accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you find a more affordable stay in a hotel in Shillong. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may sometimes represent better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you find a more appealing option.
4. Consider your location: Opting to stay near key attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it often comes with higher costs. For more affordable rates, you might consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between price and ease of access to the places you wish to visit. Independent hotels located a bit further out could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, as they usually tend to be cheaper.

Best time to go to Shillong

Shillong experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 53.6°F (12.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.7°F (21.5°C). July is usually the wettest month. May to July are the peak travel months in Shillong, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy to very cloudy, accompanied by frequent rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.