1 Day in Shillong Itinerary

Start early — by 8-8:30am ideally — since cloud cover tends to build up through the morning and can blank out the view entirely by midday. It's a 25-35 minute drive from Police Bazar. There's an Indian Air Force base on the hill, so expect a security check at the gate.

Small and manicured rather than dramatic — a paved path around the water, a wooden bridge across the middle, and pedal boats for hire. It's more of a morning stroll than a destination in itself, but it's central and an easy, calm way to start before the longer drives later in the day.

Reached by a paved staircase down through the forest, with viewing points at each of the three tiers. It's one of the more accessible waterfalls in the area — no serious trekking involved — which also means it draws a steady stream of visitors, so it's rarely quiet.

Dense, busy, and a genuine cross-section of the city rather than a tourist-built market — handwoven shawls, bamboo work, and tribal jewellery alongside ordinary shops locals actually use. Good place for dinner too, with plenty of street stalls once it gets dark.