Visit Shillong, which is called "the Scottish Highlands of India."

Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, which is in the northeast of India. It is one of the famous Seven Sisters of India, which are seven states. It is 4,990 feet above sea level and has a unique culture and a natural heritage that can’t be found anywhere else. If you want to see the real magic of north-eastern India, you should plan a trip to Shillong.

Best Time To Visit Shillong

Shillong is a year-round destination because the weather is pleasant and welcoming, with the exception of the monsoon season, which begins in June and ends in August. Nonetheless, you can enjoy the waterfalls in all their glory throughout the monsoon season. The majority of visitors arrive in September and stay until the end of June or the first weeks of July.

Best Places To Visit in Shillong

Elephant Falls
Shillong Peak
Umiam Lake
Laitlum Canyons
Cherrapunjee

Having said that, there are many natural connections between Shillong and Scotland, and thus the popular line – Shillong is India’s Scotland. To verify the truth behind the naming, let us take a virtual tour between the two locations and see for ourselves if the statement is true!

Although we recognise that each of these destinations has its own distinct charm, let’s have some fun ruminating on the similarities between these two places!

1. The striking similarity between landscapes

Shillong’s landscape is characterised by rolling, sky-touching hills covered in lush greenery. You can keep photographs of both of these destinations next to each other and be perplexed as to which photograph belongs to which destination. On a hazy day, the mist-laden plains appear to be nothing short of heaven.

2. The wandering roads amidst valleys

If you’re planning a Scottish road trip in Shillong, the winding roads of Mawlynong and Cherrapunji will take you on a wild ride. Take a seat by the window and let the cool Himalayan breeze brush through your hair. It would undoubtedly be one of the best feelings on the planet!

3. Fun cultural extravaganza

Shillong’s vibrant, colourful culture is what sets it apart. Shillong’s tribes take pride in presenting their culture through various folk performances, acts, and music celebrations. So, either sit back and enjoy or take part in their traditional acts, but make sure you don’t ruin the show for others.

If it weren’t for the performances, you’d be captivated by their handiwork, tribal costumes, and, of course, the ancient traditions. Choose to stay in one of their homes on your trip to Shillong to get a deep dive into their culture; not only will you get an insight into the local lifestyle, but you will also be welcomed with an open heart.

4. Roaring waterfalls between the hills

The stunning waterfalls are another feature shared by the Scottish Highlands and the Shillong hills. Expect random glistening waterfalls as you travel through the valleys of Scotland and Shillong, especially if you visit during the monsoon season.

5. The similarity between the lakes

Aside from the rumbling falls, Shillong and Scotland are home to numerous lakes surrounded by rolling mountains. Enjoy some peaceful time across the banks, or go boating and admire the natural beauty. Though you may be captivated by the incredible beauty around you, set aside your cameras for a moment and simply breathe in the fresh air.

6. Offbeat place away from the crowds

Despite the fact that Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and a major tourist destination in Northeast India, you will find many hidden lands unaffected by the heavy tourist crowd. There are numerous locations in this region where you can pitch your tent, get a good night’s sleep, and wake up to breathtaking scenery.

7. The vibrant music festivals

Scotland may be known for hosting some fantastic music festivals, but Shillong is no less. The NH7 Weekender in Shilling is a festival that is one of India’s most anticipated performances. A.R Rahman, Steven Wilson, Fear Factory, and Farhan Akhtar have all performed at the festival. You should have your jaw drop after seeing one of them!

That is the end of the comparison, but there are many more similarities that justify Shillong as the Scotland of India. However, the serenity and beauty of an Indian hill-station are unique and cannot be matched by any other country on the planet. So, contact us at Tripshark for assistance in planning your upcoming trip to the North East.