13 Best Shillong Hotels For Every Traveler In 2024
Are you looking for the best Shillong hotels? I’ve got you covered!
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya in India, is known for its picturesque landscapes and unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re a backpacker, a luxury seeker, or somewhere in between, Shillong offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs.
I’ve spent time in Shillong because that is where my husband grew up and his family still lives. He weighed in on this list, so read on to get recommendations from a local about where to stay in Shillong.
If you are planning a trip in the area, there’s many beautiful tourist places to explore in Meghalaya as well as plenty to do locally in Shillong.
13 Best Shillong Hotels
Depending on what you are looking for, there’s 5-star options and budget options to explore. The first two options are best if you’re looking for a luxury stay.
1. Taj Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong
This hotel combines modern luxury with local cultural touches. The rooms and suites are designed to provide panoramic views of the surrounding hills and pine forests.
The hotel’s dining options showcase a fusion of local and international cuisine, satisfying diverse palates.
Plus, as with any Taj property, you get their renowned hospitality.
📍Click here to book your stay at Vivanta Meghalaya
2. Courtyard by Marriott, Shillong
Located in the heart of the city, it’s perfect for those who want to stay close to urban conveniences. The hotel combines modern amenities with impeccable service, ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
It has a multi-cuisine restaurant that I recommend as one of the best restaurants in Shillong, as well as a well-equipped fitness center.
📍Click here to book your stay at Courtyard by Marriott
3. Hotel Polo Towers
Located in the heart of the city, Hotel Polo Towers is perfect for business travelers seeking convenience and efficiency. There’s also a rooftop restaurant worth dining at, Sky Grill.
📍Click here to book your stay at Hotel Polo Towers
4. The Heritage Club – Tripura Castle
This hotel was the summer palace of the Tripura royal family. There’s a nice restaurant on site as well as nice gardens with sweeping views of Shillong.
📍Click here to book your stay at The Heritage Club
5. The Golf Retreat
As the name suggests, this hotel overlooks one of the oldest golf courses in India, Golf Links.
📍Click here to book your stay at The Golf Retreat
6. Hotel Acropolis
This hotel serves up some great views from its spot perched on the outskirts of town. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant is a highlight with the panoramic view of Shillong.
📍Click here to book your stay at Hotel Acropolis
7. Windermere Inn
This hotel harkens back to the colonial era with its vintage architecture and classic decor.
The gardens surrounding the hotel are nicely manicured, offering a peaceful retreat. You can enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace, overlooking the hills.
📍Click here to book your stay at Windermere Inn
Best Resort Hotel in Shillong
For a more peaceful stay outside the city check out resorts in the area.
8. Ri Kynjai – Serenity by The Lake
Ri Kynjai, translating to ‘land of serenity’, lives up to its name with its location by the peaceful Umiam Lake. This resort blends traditional Khasi architecture with modern luxury, offering a tranquil escape with unparalleled views.
📍Click here to book your stay at Ri Kynjai – Serenity by the Lake
Shillong Hotels Near Police Bazar
If you have things to do in town or just like to be in the hustle and bustle of the city, these hotels are centrally located near Police Bazar.
9. Hotel Centre Point
Situated in the heart of Shillong, Center Point is perfect for travelers who want to stay close to the city’s vibrant pulse. The hotel has multiple dining options, including a rooftop restaurant.
📍Click here to book your stay at Hotel Centre Point
10. Pegasus Crown
Situated near the bustling Police Bazar, Pegasus Crown is ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city. Its cozy rooms and warm hospitality offer a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring.
The hotel’s convenient location makes it easy to step out and experience Shillong’s vibrant market life.
📍Click here to book your stay at Hotel Pegasus Crown
11. Hotel Alpine Continental
Centrally located near Police Bazar, Alpine Continental offers convenience and comfort. This is a good option for budget travelers.
📍Click here to book your stay at Hotel Alpine Continental
Best Homestays & Guesthouses in Shillong
If you prefer a more quaint experience than hotels typically offer, there are lots of home stays and guesthouses in and around Shillong.
12. The Habitat Shillong
For those who prefer a boutique experience, The Habitat offers a cozy and intimate setting. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood, providing a peaceful escape with tastefully decorated interiors and warm hospitality.
📍Click here to book your stay at The Habitat Shillong
13. Woodland Hill Stay
Woodland Hill Stay is a charming retreat with nice views from the terraces. Each room is a delightful blend of traditional Khasi design and modern amenities.
📍Click here to book your stay at Woodland Hill Stay
How to Get Around Shillong
Here’s some more information to help you get around during your stay in Shillong.
Arrival in Shillong
Most travelers reach Shillong via the nearest airport in Guwahati, which is about 100 kilometers away. From there, you have several options to reach Shillong:
- Private Taxis: Available right outside the airport, they offer a comfortable ride directly to your hotel in Shillong. You can book them on the spot or pre-book through various apps or travel agencies.
- Shared Taxis: A more economical option, shared cabs can be found at the airport or Paltan Bazar in Guwahati. They offer a cost-effective and efficient way to reach Shillong.
Getting Around the city
Once in Shillong, you’ll find that the city’s charm lies in its quaint and winding roads. Here are the best ways to explore:
- Local Taxis: Widely available and reasonably priced, local taxis are a convenient way to move around. They can be hailed on the street or booked from your hotel. Most taxis don’t use meters, so it’s advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Rental Cars: If you prefer self-driving, several rental agencies offer cars. This option gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, ideal for visiting attractions like Cherrapunji or Dawki, which are a few hours’ drive from Shillong.
- Shared Taxis and Buses: For budget travelers, shared taxis and local buses are a lifeline. They are incredibly cheap and frequent, but be prepared for a crowd.
Exploring Beyond Shillong
To visit the beautiful surroundings of Shillong, you have a few options:
- Tour Operators: Several tour operators offer day trips or longer tours to popular spots like Mawlynnong, Dawki, and the Living Root Bridges. These tours are often comprehensive, including transport, guides, and sometimes meals.
- Private Taxi Hire: For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a taxi for a full day. This way, you can plan your itinerary, take stops at your leisure, and explore the breathtaking landscapes and villages at your own pace.
Walking around Shillong
Parts of Shillong can be experienced on foot, especially in areas like Police Bazar and around Ward’s Lake. Walking allows you to soak in the city’s vibrant culture, explore local markets, and enjoy its usually pleasant weather.
Shillong FAQs
Breaking down some commonly asked questions about traveling to Shillong.
Is Shillong good for tourists?
Yes! The city is surrounded by green hills, stunning waterfalls, and lakes. Places like Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyon, and Shillong Peak are worth visiting. For adventure enthusiasts, there are ample trekking and hiking opportunities outside the city.
What is Shillong famous for?
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It’s famous for the natural beauty surrounding the city.
Some popular tourist places include Elephant Falls in town, visiting nearby Cherapunjee, and hiking to the living root bridges a few hours outside of town.
What language is spoken in Shillong?
The primary language spoken in Shillong is Khasi, which is the language of the Khasi tribe. However, English is widely spoken and understood, given its status as an educational hub and a popular tourist destination. Hindi and Assamese are also spoken by a section of the population.
TL;DR: 13 Best Shillong Hotels For Every Traveler
Shillong’s hotel scene caters to a range of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re soaking in luxury by a serene lake, embracing the local culture, or gearing up for an adventurous trek, one of these hotels in Shillong should suit your needs.
If you are planning a trip to Shillong, don’t miss out on the rest of the state. Check out my 1-week itinerary for exploring the best of Meghalaya.