When the British discovered Shillong, the rolling hills in the area inspired them to call it “The Scotland of the East”. And while the area is resplendent with verdant hills, Shillong itself is a vibrant, sometimes chaotic, town dotted with old cottages, chaotic bazaars packed with interesting finds, and streets filled with cosy eateries offering intriguing local cuisine and great cafés. Here are 5 places you must visit when you travel to Shillong once it’s safe.
Don Bosco Museum Of Indigenous Cultures
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This well-maintained museum filled with tribal artefacts is a great place at which to explore the region’s cultures. Galleries house art, photographs, musical instruments, jewellery, costumes, weapons and objects of daily life that give an insight into the region and her history.
Wankhar Entomology Museum
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This unique museum, set up in the 1930s, houses a collection of rhinoceros beetles, fascinating stick insects and incredible pinned butterflies in various colours, patterns and sizes from the local Wankhar family.
All Saint’s Cathedral
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The re-building of the Colonial-era cathedral was completed in 1902, with the addition of a charming façade and colourful stained-glass panels. Visit early morning when the ringing bells and the pretty surroundings add to the charm or on Sunday to attend the English service.
Bara Bazar
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For some interesting retail therapy, head to Bara Bazar’s labyrinth of manic alleys, which are chock full of stalls overflowing with everything from meats and vegetables to clothes and local handicrafts. Also known as Lewduh Market, this is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in the region and an early-morning visit here is really quite an experience.
Ward’s Lake
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A great place at which to find a little calm in the bustling town, this beautiful man-made lake has a landscaped garden filled with colourful flower beds in which to unwind. Take a stroll along the pretty, ornamental bridge or go for a short paddle-boat ride around the lake.