Shillong One-Day Trip Plan: Waterfalls, Viewpoints & Local Markets
Shillong, famously known as the “Scotland of the East,” is a beautiful hill city blessed with misty mountains, deep valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and lively markets. Even if you have just one day, Shillong offers plenty of unforgettable experiences—from peaceful lakes and cascading waterfalls to breathtaking viewpoints and vibrant local streets. This one-day Shillong trip plan helps you explore the city’s top attractions in a smooth, time-saving, and enjoyable way. With detailed timings, travel tips, entry fees, and suggested stops, this itinerary ensures you discover the very best of Shillong in just a single day.
Ideal Time to Start
Start the day by 8:00 AM to comfortably explore all major attractions without rushing.
Shillong One-Day Itinerary (Hour-by-Hour Plan)
1. Umiam Lake (Barapani) — 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Highlights: Sunrise views, boating, pine forests
Entry Fee: ₹20–₹30
Boating: ₹100–₹400
Begin your day with the serene Umiam Lake surrounded by pine-covered hills. It's perfect for early morning photos, boating, and enjoying calm mountain air.
2. Shillong Peak — 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM
Entry Fee: ₹30–₹50
Shillong Peak is the city’s highest viewpoint offering 360° panoramas of misty hills and valleys. A great place for wide-angle photography.
3. Elephant Falls — 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Entry Fee: ₹30
One of Shillong’s most iconic attractions, featuring a three-step cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Easy to access and very photogenic.
4. Ward’s Lake — 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM
A beautiful man-made lake perfect for walking, paddle boating, and relaxing in colorful gardens.
Lunch Break – 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Recommended Places: Café Shillong, Dylan’s Café, City Hut Dhaba, Dejavu.
5. Lady Hydari Park — 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM
A Japanese-style garden with ponds, flowers, and a small zoo—ideal for families and children.
6. Don Bosco Museum — 3:15 PM to 4:15 PM
A seven-floor cultural museum showcasing Northeast India's heritage. Don't miss the rooftop skywalk with city views.
7. Laitumkhrah Market — 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM
A lively area filled with cafés, street snacks, bakeries, and boutique stores. Try hot momos and local pastries.
8. Police Bazaar — 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
End your day at Shillong’s busiest market filled with shops, street food, winter wear, handicrafts, and souvenir stalls.
Transportation Options
- Private Cab (Full Day): ₹2,500 – ₹3,500
- Bike Rental: ₹800 – ₹1,200 per day
- Local Taxis: Available widely
Approx One-Day Expenses
- Entry Tickets: ₹250–₹400
- Food: ₹500–₹900 per person
- Transport: ₹2,500–₹3,500
Travel Tips
- Start early to avoid traffic.
- Carry light jackets as weather changes quickly.
- Some attractions close on Mondays.
- Carry cash for local markets.
Conclusion
This Shillong one-day itinerary covers the best viewpoints, waterfalls, lakes, and markets—perfect for getting the true essence of the “Scotland of the East” in a short visit.
