The most common way is by taxi or bus. Shared taxis are available from Guwahati Airport and Paltan Bazaar, taking about 3-4 hours. You can also find private taxis for a more comfortable journey. Some travelers even mention budget flights from Guwahati to Shillong, though this is less common.

Yes, Shillong has a good network of taxis and auto-rickshaws. For exploring the city and nearby attractions, hiring a local taxi for the day is recommended. Shared taxis are also available for inter-city travel.

You can hire a private taxi from Shillong for a day trip to Cherrapunji. Shared taxis are also an option for budget travelers, though they might have fixed departure times.

Shillong has a small airport (Shillong Airport, Umroi) with limited connectivity. Most travelers fly into Guwahati (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) and then travel to Shillong by road.

The cost of a taxi from Guwahati to Shillong can vary, but expect it to be around ₹2500-₹3500 for a private taxi. Shared taxis are significantly cheaper, often around ₹300-₹500 per person.

Many natural attractions like waterfalls and viewpoints may have nominal entry fees. For example, Elephant Falls usually has a small fee. Lakes and gardens might also charge a minimal amount for entry or boating.

For most attractions in Shillong, advance booking is not required. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. However, for specific tours or activities, it's always good to check in advance.

Police Bazaar is a bustling market area and is generally open from morning until late evening. Shops might have varying closing times, but the area remains active for most of the day and night.

There are no widely advertised special passes for visiting multiple attractions in Shillong. It's best to pay for each attraction individually or inquire locally if any package deals are available.

Discounts for students or seniors are not always guaranteed and can vary by attraction. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official websites of specific attractions if available.

Nature lovers should not miss Elephant Falls, the scenic Laitlum Grand Canyon, and the serene Ward's Lake. The surrounding hills offer numerous trekking opportunities and viewpoints.

Police Bazaar is the main shopping hub for local handicrafts, traditional Khasi attire, bamboo products, and winter clothing. You can also find unique souvenirs and local snacks.

Shillong Peak offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys. Laitlum Grand Canyon also provides spectacular vistas. Many other spots along the roads offer breathtaking scenery.

Friends often enjoy exploring Police Bazaar, trying local cafes, visiting viewpoints, and experiencing the local traditions. Road trips to nearby places like Cherrapunji are also popular.

Shillong is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

Don't miss Jadoh (a rice and meat dish, often pork), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish), Doh Khlieh (pork salad), and Nakham Bitchi (fish soup). Local momos and thukpa are also popular.

Local eateries and small restaurants in areas like Police Bazaar and Jail Road offer authentic Khasi dishes. Look for places frequented by locals for the best experience.

While many local dishes are meat-based, you can find vegetarian options like rice, dal, vegetable curries, and momos in most restaurants. Some cafes also offer continental and Indian vegetarian dishes.

Shillong has a vibrant cafe culture. Popular spots include Cafe Shillong, Dylan's Cafe, and The Evening Cafe, offering good coffee, snacks, and a relaxed ambiance.

Street food in Shillong can be delicious, especially at Police Bazaar. It's advisable to eat from vendors who appear clean and have high turnover. Stick to freshly prepared items.

Elephant Falls, Laitlum Grand Canyon, Ward's Lake, and the scenic roads leading to Cherrapunji offer stunning photographic opportunities. The vibrant markets of Police Bazaar are also great for street photography.

The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best light for landscape photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but good for capturing the bustling market scenes.

Drone usage is subject to regulations and permissions from local authorities. It's best to check current rules before flying a drone in Shillong or its surrounding areas.

Shillong is renowned for its natural landscapes, waterfalls, rolling hills, and vibrant street life. Capturing the essence of the Khasi culture and the 'Scotland of the East' vibe is popular.

While dedicated photography tours might be limited, many local guides can help you discover the best spots for photography. Hiring a local taxi for a day trip often allows for spontaneous stops at scenic locations.