Shillong — the “Scotland of the East” — is one of the most stunning destinations in North East India. Surrounded by lush hills, waterfalls and living root bridges, it’s the perfect base for exploring Meghalaya’s most breathtaking places.
If you’re planning a trip, here are the top 7 destinations near Shillong you shouldn’t miss — and why hiring a taxi with driver is the best way to explore the region comfortably and safely.
1️⃣ Dawki – Crystal Clear River Adventure
Distance from Shillong: 80 km | 2.5–3 hours
Dawki’s Umngot River is famous for its unbelievably clear water — boats seem to float on air! You can enjoy:
- Boating in glass-clear water
- View of India–Bangladesh border
- Camping & adventure activities
🛣 Best way: Shillong → Pynursla → Dawki
💡 Tip: Visit on a sunny day for best views
2️⃣ Cherrapunji (Sohra) – Waterfalls & Living Root Bridges
Distance: 55 km | 2 hours
Known for being one of the world’s wettest places, Cherrapunji offers:
- Seven Sisters Waterfall
- Nohkalikai Falls (India’s tallest plunge waterfall)
- Mawsmai & Arwah Caves
- Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Trek)
🌧 Tip: Carry raincoat even in winter — weather changes fast!
3️⃣ Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
Distance: 78 km | 2.5 hours
Experience cleanliness, warm villagers and bamboo structures:
- Sky View Tower for Bangladesh plains view
- Living root bridge in Riwai village
- Nature walks through lush forest
✨ Must-visit for eco-tour lovers!
4️⃣ Laitlum Canyon – The Grand Canyon of the East
Distance: 24 km | 45 minutes
A stunning cliff-top destination overlooking deep valleys:
- Perfect for photography
- Great for sunrise and sunset views
- Trekking opportunities
⚠ Safety: Avoid edges during fog — visibility becomes very low
5️⃣ Shillong City Tour – Culture, Viewpoints & Lakes
Nearby attractions:
- Shillong Peak
- Elephant Falls
- Ward’s Lake
- Police Bazaar (shopping)
- Don Bosco Museum (history & culture)
Ideal for a relaxed half-day tour around the city.
6️⃣ Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Distance: 26 km | 1 hour
Ancient forest protected by local traditions:
- Guided nature walk
- Unique plants, mushrooms & fossils
- Perfect for nature lovers
🌿 Respect the rules — nothing can be taken out from the forest
7️⃣ Krang Suri Waterfall – The Blue Paradise
Distance: 90 km | 3 hours (via Jowai)
One of the most beautiful blue waterfalls in Meghalaya:
- Swimming allowed (life jackets must)
- Picture-perfect trekking route
📸 Bring your best camera — this place is magical!
🚕 Why Take a Taxi Instead of Local Transport?
✔ Comfortable for long hilly rides
✔ Experienced drivers who know the roads
✔ Flexible sightseeing — enjoy at your own pace
✔ Stops at hidden gems on the way
✔ Safe for families & solo travelers
Public transport is limited and may not match your timing — taxi is the best option for tourists.
🚖 Book Your Shillong Taxi with Jai Ram Travels
We provide:
- Clean Dzire & Innova with driver
- Airport pickup from Guwahati
- Shillong → Dawki → Mawlynnong → Cherrapunji day tours
- Custom trip planning for groups & families
- Affordable price & on-time service
📞 Call / WhatsApp: 9485004706
📍 Shillong, Meghalaya
Follow us on Facebook for travel updates & offers!
✨ Plan Your Meghalaya Adventure Today!
Let us help you explore the best of the North East — one beautiful journey at a time ❤️
