Shillong,
also known as the “Scotland of the East,” is a beautiful hill station
located in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya, India. Surrounded by lush
green hills, scenic waterfalls, and sparkling lakes, Shillong is a perfect
destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The
history of Shillong dates back to the early 19th century when it was discovered
by the British and was established as the capital of the province of Assam.
Here is a detailed history of Shillong hill station for blogging.
The early
history of Shillong is shrouded in mystery and folklore. It is said that the
Khasi tribes, who are the indigenous people of Meghalaya, have been living in
the region for centuries. They worshiped a deity named “Leishyllong,”
which means “God who presides over the hills.” According to legend,
Shillong derived its name from this deity, and the hill station is believed to
be his abode.
The
British discovered Shillong in 1829, when a group of officers from the East
India Company was on a survey mission in the region. They were impressed by the
natural beauty of the place and decided to establish it as a hill station.
Shillong was initially used as a summer retreat for the British officials
stationed in Assam. The British built bungalows, gardens, and clubs, which gave
Shillong a distinct colonial character. The hill station quickly became a hub
of administrative and political activities.
Culture
The city
is home to a unique and vibrant culture that is a blend of various indigenous
tribal traditions and British colonial influences. We will delve deeper into
the culture of Shillong and explore its various facets.
1.
Music: Shillong is known for its vibrant music scene, and it is
often referred to as the “Rock Capital of India.” The city has
produced several famous musicians and bands, such as Soulmate, Tetseo Sisters,
and Lou Majaw. Shillong is also known for its annual music festivals, such as
the Shillong Autumn Festival, Shillong Jazz Festival, and the NH7 Weekender.
2.
Fashion: The people of Shillong are known for their unique and
eclectic sense of fashion. The city’s fashion scene is a fusion of traditional
tribal attire and western wear. The Khasi traditional dress for women is called
‘Jainsem’, which is a long, sleeveless dress made of silk or cotton. Men wear
‘Jymphong,’ a sleeveless coat that reaches the knee, paired with a turban.
3.
Food: The cuisine of Shillong is a unique blend of tribal and
modern influences. The city is known for its street food, such as jadoh (rice
dish), tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish), and momos (dumplings). The local
delicacies also include dohkhlieh (pork salad), bamboo shoot pickle, and jastem
(banana flower curry).
4.
Festivals: Shillong celebrates several festivals
throughout the year, and the most prominent among them is the Nongkrem Dance
Festival. The festival is held in November and is celebrated by the Khasi tribe
to thank their deities for a bountiful harvest. The city also celebrates
Christmas and New Year’s Eve with great enthusiasm.
5.
Sports: Football is the most popular sport in Shillong, and the
city has produced several renowned footballers who have played for the national
team. The Shillong Lajong Football Club is one of the most popular football
clubs in India, and the city also hosts several football tournaments throughout
the year.
6.
Art and Craft: Shillong is home to several skilled artisans
who create unique handicrafts such as bamboo and cane products, traditional
musical instruments, and hand-woven textiles. The city is also known for its
traditional Khasi jewelry, which is made of silver and gold and is adorned with
precious stones.
How
to reach
Here are
some details on how to reach Shillong.
1.
By Air: The nearest airport to Shillong is the Umroi Airport,
which is located about 40 km away. However, the airport has limited
connectivity and flights are not very frequent. The nearest major airport is
the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is
located about 120 km away from Shillong. From the airport, you can hire a taxi
or take a bus to reach Shillong.
2.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Shillong is in
Guwahati, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From Guwahati,
you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Shillong.
3.
By Road: Shillong is well-connected by road to Guwahati and other
major cities in the northeast region. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from
Guwahati to reach Shillong. The distance between Guwahati and Shillong is
around 100 km and it takes around 3 hours to cover the distance by road.
Once you
reach Shillong, you can explore the beautiful hill station. You can also try
the local cuisine, which is a mix of tribal and Bengali flavours, and shop for
souvenirs at the local markets.
Places
to visit
It is a
popular tourist destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty,
colonial charm, and cultural diversity. If you’re planning to visit Shillong,
here are some of the top places to visit:
1.
Ward’s Lake: A man-made lake situated in the heart of
Shillong, Ward’s Lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a walking path.
Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake or simply relax and enjoy the serene
atmosphere.
2.
Shillong Peak: The highest point in Shillong, Shillong Peak
offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. Visitors can hike
to the peak or take a car to the top.
3.
Elephant Falls: Located just outside of Shillong, Elephant
Falls is a three-tiered waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors
can take a dip in the cool waters of the falls or simply enjoy the view.
4.
Don Bosco Museum: This museum showcases the culture and
traditions of the indigenous people of Northeast India. It features exhibits on
art, music, dance, and lifestyle of the different tribes that inhabit the
region.
5.
Laitlum Canyon: Located about 15 kilometers from Shillong,
Laitlum Canyon is a stunning valley that offers breath-taking views of the
surrounding hills and villages. Visitors can trek down the valley or simply
enjoy the view from the top.
6.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest: This ancient forest is considered to
be sacred by the Khasi tribe and is home to a variety of rare plants and
animals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest and learn about its
significance to the local people.
7.
Umiam Lake: A large man-made lake situated about 17
kilometers from Shillong, Umiam Lake offers a variety of water sports such as
kayaking, boating, and water skiing. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or take a
leisurely walk around the lake.
8.
Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians: A beautiful cathedral
built in the neo-gothic style, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is one
of the most impressive structures in Shillong. Visitors can admire the
intricate architecture and stained-glass windows of the cathedral.
9.
Mawsynram: Known as one of the wettest places on earth,
Mawsynram is located about 60 kilometres from Shillong and offers stunning
views of the lush green hills and waterfalls.
10.David Scott Trail: This 16-kilometer trek takes visitors through
the lush green hills and forests surrounding Shillong. It is named after a
British officer who built the trail in the 1800s and offers stunning views of
the surrounding scenery.
Overall,
Shillong is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the
natural beauty, rich culture, and colonial history of Northeast India.
Accommodation
Shillong
attracts a large number of tourists every year. When it comes to accommodation,
Shillong has a range of options to suit every budget and preference. In this
blog, we will take a closer look at the various types of accommodation
available in Shillong.
1.
Hotels: Shillong has a good number of hotels ranging from budget
to luxury. The budget hotels provide basic amenities such as clean rooms, hot
water, and room service. The mid-range hotels offer more amenities such as air
conditioning, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. The luxury hotels provide top-notch
amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants.
2.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses in Shillong are a popular option
for travellers who want a more homely experience. These guesthouses are usually
run by local families and offer comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and a
warm hospitality. Some guesthouses even provide guided tours of the city and
its surroundings.
3.
Homestays: Homestays are another great option for travellers
who want a more authentic experience. These are private homes that are rented
out to travellers, providing them with a chance to experience the local way of
life. Homestays in Shillong offer comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and a
chance to interact with the local community.
4.
Resorts: Shillong has a few resorts that are situated in the
outskirts of the city, amidst lush greenery. These resorts provide a peaceful
and serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They offer
a range of amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and activities such as
trekking and bird watching.
5.
Camping: For travellers who want to experience the great outdoors,
camping is a great option. Shillong has a few camping sites that offer tents
and camping gear for rent. These sites are usually located near waterfalls or
in the midst of forests, providing a unique experience to travellers.
In
conclusion, Shillong has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget
and preference. Whether you’re looking for a budget hotel or a luxurious
resort, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs in this beautiful
hill station. So, pack your bags and head to Shillong for an unforgettable
vacation!
Conclusion
Shillong,
capital city of Meghalaya, is a picturesque hill station that offers stunning views
of the surrounding hills and valleys. This charming city is known for its
pleasant climate, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.