Shillong: Meghalaya

Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, one of the smaller states in India. It is also the district headquarters of East Khasi Hills District and is situated at an altitude of 4,908ft (1,496 m) above sea level. The city has a population of approx. 260,000 according to the 2001 census. Shillong has steadily grown in size and significance in its own traditional way from a mere village as it used to be when it was made the new civil station of Khasi and Jaintia Hills in 1864 by British.

It remained the summer capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam for many years. In 1874, on the formation of Assam as a Chief Commissioner’s Province, it was chosen as the headquarters of the new administration because of its convenient location between the Brahmaputra and Surma Valley and more so because the climate of Shillong was much cooler than tropical India. Shillong remained the capital of undivided Assam until the creation of the new state of Meghalaya in January 21, 1972 when Shillong became the capital of Meghalaya.

The city, as the legend goes, has derived its name from Leishyllong, the Superpower or God, who is said to be dwelling on the Shillong Peak, 1965 metres above sea level, over-looking the city, the highest point of Meghalaya.

Romantic and picturesque and blessed with an abundance of nature’s gifts, Shillong is described as the ‘Scotland of the East’ because of its striking similarity with that of the Scottish Highlands and has been attracting indigenous and foreign tourists for decades. The city boasts of many beautiful churches and cathedrals.

The city is one of the few hill stations with motorable roads all around. Shillong has no rail lines. There is a small airport at Umroi, around 25 miles (40 km) from Shillong. The tourist towns of Cherrapunjee (around 40 miles, or 70 km) and Umiam lake (around 20 miles, or 35 km) are close to the city.