BEST TIME TO VISIT SHILLONG

No matter what, the northeastern beauty of the Indian subcontinent can in no way remain avoided. Having said that, the hill station named Shillong, hailing from the state of Meghalaya, is one such wonder that nature has to offer. It is often regarded as the ‘Scotland of the East’ owing to the multiple facets that it has to offer. For the nature lovers out there, this is one such place that ought to be present in your travel bucket list. Words can in no way be enough to portray the beauty that the place beholds. It is only after a visit that one can rightly appreciate and experience the true essence of the place. It ought to be giving you a heart-throbbing experience.
However, it is to be noted that the Shillong is symbolic of rains that form a part of probable weather conditions. Hence, if you are planning out for a trip, it is quite essential for you to know about the different seasons in detail that would in turn help you decide on the best time to visit Shillong. This article has therefore come up as a guide to help the backpackers out there. Let’s go!

Shillong In Summer

The place lies 1520 meters above sea level and hence ideally experiences the heat of summers between March to June in all probability. This is perhaps the ideal time if you want to avoid heavy rains that might act as a barrier to your adventure and discovery. The temperature generally goes as high as 24° C to as low as 15° C which is still very much capable of providing a pleasant experience during the day as well as at night.
The weather condition during summers ought not to be a bothering factor as it is usually mild and pleasant throughout the day with the average humidity ranging from about 80% to 87% in April and May respectively. Nevertheless, you might be experiencing a trivial amount of drizzle, it only contributes to the satisfaction of the prevailing weather condition.
Well, if you are willing to go beyond sightseeing and enjoy the culture and tradition of the place, the summer season is perhaps the best. The local festival named Shad Suk Mynsiem occurs in the summers and is symbolic of the local traditions and culture being presented to you.
All sorts of adventure sports can be embarked on during summers such as waterfall hopping at elephant falls, boating at Umiam Lake, kayaking, and many more.
However, do not forget to carry your summer essentials such as sunscreen, moisturizers, and perfume to make you feel and smell refreshing and energetic all day long. Also, light cotton clothes and versatile footwear are a must on your tour to be enjoying to the fullest.

Shillong In Monsoon

Monsoons in Shillong prevail between July to September with the annual rainfall reaching as high as 3300 mm. It is ideally not a suitable time for planning out on a trip as it tends to act as a barrier to your tour plans. However, for budget backpackers, monsoon stands out to act as a pocket-friendly deal that you just can’t miss out on.
The month of July experiences the ultimate rainfall with heavy winds blowing and no hope for the sun to be seen. Well, if you want to sit back and relax watching the beautiful downpours of Shillong, monsoons are the best for you. The chilly weather and the beautiful rains can be ideally suitable for a newlywed couple to stay indoors and enjoy each other’s company amidst the beauty of nature.
Though sightseeing might not be the thing to undertake during monsoons, other equally interesting activities like visiting the local market, cafes, restaurants with local delicacies, and enjoying live band performances indoors can be your go-to thing.
It is suggestive that you carry extra clothes and other monsoon essentials while embarking on your trip. Extra care needs to be maintained for electronics as rains seem to be uncertain and sudden in Shillong.

Shillong In Winter

Talking about winters in Shillong, the experience is way more freezing than in many other places in the Indian subcontinent. Between October to February, the place witnesses the ultimate chilly weather condition. During the day, the temperature ranges from 16°C to 12°C, whereas, at night, one might even witness temperatures as low as 2°C.
The temperatures in themselves suggest how chilly an atmosphere one might be expecting during winters. Though performing usual activities during the day can be interesting, nights demand nothing other than remaining indoors in a cozy environment. Other than that, since most festive occasions ( Wangala Festival, etc.) take place during the year-end, one can opt to witness the same.
However, winter trips can be highly unpredictable especially to a hill station and similar is the case with Shillong. Do not miss out on carrying warm woolen clothes along with other winter essentials to prevent yourself from winter dryness.

Frequently Asked Questions