Road Trip from Guwahati to Shillong Guide: Visit Northeast India

Nestled in the dense hills of the northeastern state of Meghalaya, Shillong is a charming hill station that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is famous for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills blanketed in greenery, spread with sparkling waterfalls and curvy streams. The city exudes a laid-back charm, with its colonial-era architecture, busy markets, and friendly locals adding to its charm and attracting travelers for a Road Trip from Guwahati to Shillong.

There are many places To Visit In Shillong such as the iconic Elephant Falls, the panoramic views from Shillong Peak, and the cultural insights offered by the Don Bosco Museum. This capital city also serves as a hub for music lovers, with its thriving music scene and lively cafes in Shillong hosting performances by local artists. 

Whether it’s admiring the natural splendor, delving into the local culture, or simply enjoying the cool mountain air, Shillong offers a delightful escape into calmness and charm. In short, we can say Shillong is a pure treasure of nature. This city is a perfect destination for wanderlust. And, the best way to enjoy this city is by taking a road trip from Guwahati to Shillong.

So, let’s embark on an enchanting journey from the vibrant city of Guwahati to the breathtaking hill station of Shillong, where every mile covered promises to unfold mesmerizing landscapes and cultural delights.

Why travel from Guwahati to Shillong?

Taking a Road Trip from Guwahati to Shillong is one of the best things to do in Guwahati as it invites you to discover the essence of Northeast India’s natural elegance and cultural richness. With each passing mile, you’re greeted by a diverse scene of lush valleys, mist-clad hills, and shimmering lakes, painting a picture of serene beauty. 

Beyond the scenic landscapes, this Road Trip from Guwahati to Shillong offers a gateway to explore the vibrant cultures and traditions of the region, as seen in the quaint villages and crowded markets along the way. Whether it’s the thrill of the open road or the promise of uncovering hidden gems, taking the Guwahati to Shillong road trip is an immersive experience that will give you an unforgettable experience.

Also Read: 14 Best Cafes In Guwahati To Sip And Socialise

Best route from Guwahati to Shillong

The Road Trip from Guwahati to Shillong makes for a scenic drive and is one of the best routes in this part of the country. Adventurers, bikers, and travel buffs mostly prefer the Guwahati to Shillong road trip. The Guwahati to Shillong distance is around 99 KM which can be covered within 3 or 3.5 hours. Both of these cities are well-connected via the NH 6 which is the Best route from Guwahati to Shillong and road conditions Guwahati to Shillong are excellent.

NH6 is also the only direct route option suggested by Google Maps. The Guwahati to Shillong road trip is a mesmerizing experience as the route covers the Attractions on Guwahati to Shillong drive of the northeast with mountains and lush green landscapes all around. So, if you want to enjoy a memorable road trip with some Scenic spots in Shillong from Guwahati on the way, go for this option. You can hire a taxi, cab, or bus or drive your car to reach Shillong from Guwahati from this Best route from Guwahati to Shillong.

Here is a basic Guwahati to Shillong road map for this route:

Guwahati – Jorabat – Pahammawlein – Shangbangla – Umsning – Mawlyngkhung – Mawlai-Mawiong – Shillong

Also Read: Best Time To Visit Guwahati: How To Plan A Perfect Trip

Best Time to Visit

Shillong is known for its sub-tropical highland climate, often called the Scotland of the East. Guwahati and Shillong have pleasant weather throughout the year, and you can visit these places anytime. However, the best time to visit Guwahati and Shillong is from September to May, as you can enjoy sightseeing without concern about rainfall. 

During these months, it rains occasionally but is less than Monsoons between June and August. During Monsoons, these cities experience heavy rain, so it might be difficult to explore the tourist places. Nevertheless, the beauty of Shillong and Guwahati is at its best in monsoon as the landscape turns into a paradise with lush greenery and overflowing waterfalls and lakes. It can be an off-season location for Monsoon lovers.

Also Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Shillong In June To Enjoy The Monsoon

Attractions on Guwahati to Shillong drive

During your road trip from Guwahati to Shillong there are many Scenic spots in Shillong from Guwahati which will make your trip even more exciting.

• Umiam Lake (Barapani): Located about 15 kilometers before reaching Shillong, Umiam Lake is a scenic reservoir surrounded by lush green hills. It is an ideal spot for boating, picnics, and enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.
• Elephant Falls: Situated on the outskirts of Shillong, Elephant Falls is a majestic waterfall cascading down into three tiers. The thick greenery surrounding the falls adds to its picture-perfect charm, making it a popular tourist attraction.
• Shillong Peak: Offering panoramic views of Shillong and the surrounding hills, Shillong Peak is the highest point in the city. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape below and capture stunning photographs.
• Don Bosco Museum: This museum in Shillong showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast region, with exhibits on its history, traditions, and local tribes. It’s a great place to learn about the diverse cultures of the region.
• Police Bazar: As the main commercial hub of Shillong, Police Bazar is a busy market where you can shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional attire. It’s also a great place to enjoy local street food and delicacies.

These are just a few of the Attractions on Guwahati to Shillong drive. Depending on your interests and time available, you can also explore other attractions such as the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Laitlum Canyon, and Mawlynnong Village, known as the cleanest village in Asia.

Places to eat on this route

• Green Star Hotel Restaurant, Byrnihat: This is a local restaurant serving vegetarian food.
• Jiva Veg Restaurant, Nongpoh: This is a Popular vegetarian restaurant with a good ambiance serving Indian food and sandwiches.
• Excelencia Restaurant Nongpoh, Nongpoh: A good spot for a break with family-friendly surroundings during the Guwahati to Shillong road trip.

Travel tips for Guwahati to Shillong journey

• Start your journey early in the day to avoid traffic and to have ample time to explore attractions along the way.
• Northeast India experiences varying weather patterns, so check the forecast and Road conditions Guwahati to Shillong before you travel. Be prepared for rain, especially during the monsoon season (June to September).
• Carry essential items such as water, snacks, a first-aid kit, a mobile phone with a car charger, and any necessary medications. If you’re traveling during the monsoon, bring rain gear and waterproof bags for your belongings.
• Carry all hygiene-related items like sanitizer, masks, disinfectant sprays, and a bed sheet to cover the seat with, while traveling. 
• Use a hand sanitizer before and after your ride.
• Running the AC continuously during the trip is not recommended. If you are using AC, please ensure that it is run in the recirculated mode and the windows are lowered at frequent intervals.
• If you have opted for a car rental service, try to load your luggage in the boot of the car yourself to ensure a zero-contact ride.
• These are some important Travel tips for Guwahati to Shillong journey. 

Also Read:  Meghalaya Travel Tips: A Complete Guide To Explore Meghalaya

Conclusion

Hence, a road trip from Guwahati to Shillong is not just a journey from one destination to another; it’s an enchanting experience that promises to awaken your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. As you navigate the winding roads and lush landscapes of Northeast India, each turn reveals a new view of natural beauty and cultural richness. 

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of the open road, the serenity of nature, or the vibrancy of local cultures, this road trip offers something for every traveler. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and set forth on an adventure with a proper Guwahati to Shillong itinerary that promises to delight, inspire, and rejuvenate your soul. The journey may end in Shillong, but the memories you create along the way will last a lifetime.

Also Read: Best Guide For Honeymoon In Meghalaya: Where Nature Meets Romance