How to Reach Shillong: Handy Guide for Travellers

How to reach Shillong is a question that often puzzles first-time visitors to Meghalaya’s enchanting capital. Nestled in the picturesque hills of Northeast India, this city beckons travellers with its misty landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant culture.

As you plan your journey to Shillong, anticipate breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, and lush pine forests. The city’s pleasant climate, coupled with its blend of modern amenities and traditional Khasi culture, creates a unique travel experience. From exploring the living root bridges to enjoying the local music scene, this city has a diverse range of activities for every type of traveller.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to reach Shillong by air, road, and train, ensuring you choose the most suitable option for your journey. Whether you’re seeking a quick flight, a scenic road trip, or a leisurely train ride, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to start your Shillong adventure.

1. How to Reach Shillong by Air

When considering how to reach Shillong by air, you have two main options. The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), located about 30 kilometres from the city. However, it has limited connectivity, primarily serving flights from Kolkata and a few nearby cities.

For more options, you can opt to fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, approximately 100 kilometres from Shillong. Then you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to complete your tour to Shillong.

This road trip typically takes 3 to 4 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Khasi Hills. It is advisable to book your onward transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can also find some hotels in Shillong that offer pickup services from Guwahati Airport.

2. How to Reach Shillong by Road

For those wondering how to reach Shillong by road, you’ll find that the city is well-connected to most of the major centres in Northeast India. The most common route is from Guwahati, which serves as a gateway to the region.

The Guwahati-Shillong Expressway (NH-40) is a well-maintained highway that offers a smooth ride through picturesque landscapes. Regular bus services, both government-operated and private, ply between Guwahati and Shillong. The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) operate comfortable buses on this route.

If you’re driving from other parts of India, the journey can be an adventure in itself. The East-West Corridor, connecting Porbandar in Gujarat to Silchar in Assam, passes through Guwahati.

However, it is important to note that road conditions can vary, especially in more remote areas. So, when planning how to reach Shillong by road, multiple factors could lead to potential delays such as weather conditions or road maintenance work.

3. How to Reach Shillong by Train:

While exploring how to reach Shillong by train, it is important to note that the city itself doesn’t have a railway station. The nearest railhead is Guwahati Railway Station, about 100 kilometres away.

Guwahati is well-connected to major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, through regular train services. The journey from these cities to Guwahati can take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours, depending on the distance and the type of train.

Upon reaching Guwahati Railway Station, you will have numerous options to complete the journey on how to reach Shillong. The station has a dedicated taxi and bus stand where you can book transportation. Shared taxis are a popular and economical option, often departing once they’re full.

If you prefer more comfort, you can also hire private taxis for the entire tour. The last leg of the trip from Guwahati to Shillong offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it an integral part of the Shillong experience.