Shillong: What makes Meghalaya’s capital India’s most-searched destination

According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report 2025, Shillong surprised with topping the list as India’s most-searched travel destination. The northeastern beauty and Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong took the crown by beating heavyweights like Goa and Manali.
Shillong has been stealing the hearts of curious travellers, photographers, foodies and culture enthusiasts for a long time now.
Let’s have a look at five compelling reasons this charming hill city is ruling our search bars.

Shillong isn’t just your normal beauty—the city breathes! Rolling hills, forests, and dramatic waterfalls here create postcards that look alive. Elephant Falls is a three-tier cascade framed by greenery. Totally Instagram-worthy and soul-comforting. Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, is another peaceful escape offering crystal-clear water.

It is true that a hill station means quiet evenings but Shillong is different! Police Bazaar here buzzes with energy from dawn till late. There are cafes, music bars which are the pulse of local life. Even more colourful is Lewduh (Bara Bazaar), a marketplace run largely by Khasi women, where heritage crafts, bamboo goods, spices, and tribal wares connect the present to centuries of tradition.

Shillong knows how to celebrate their culture and tradition. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival (held in November) is considered one of the best times to be in Shillong. This is the time when the hill station remains crowded with international artists, food fests, art installations, and floral spectacles. A modern buzz into one unforgettable experience!

Shillong tells tales of music, artists and creative thinkers. The city in itself is a storyteller. The Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures gives you an insight into the region’s tribes, art, and rituals. Add in the architectural grandeur of the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians with its neo-Gothic arches and stained glass. Shillong has history etched in stone and faith.

Shillong is a dream destination of every person who craves some adventure and drama in their lives. Shillong Peak, set at nearly 2,000 m, is a rewarding sight offering the best views of sunset. The hidden Laitlum Canyons will leave you awestruck with their gorges and valley views—truly a trek worth the effort.