City Diary: A Perfect Day in Shillong of Lakes, Waterfalls & Warm Cafés

Whosthat360 is in Shillong, and Jayveer Singh, Whosthat360 content head, shares a day from the hills as we explore the Scotland of the East with Northeast Yatra. This journey is part of the Northeast Influencer Yatra presented by Oriflame, where misty lakes, roaring waterfalls, and warm cafés come together to define 24 unforgettable hours in Meghalaya's capital.

Morning in the Clouds

Shillong wakes up slowly, wrapped in mist and birdsong. Our first stop with Northeast Yatra is Umiam Lake, where the water mirrors the sky and the quiet feels almost sacred. Sipping hot chai by the lake, the city already feels different, unhurried, poetic. The cool air makes you forget deadlines and notifications; this is a place that gently asks you to slow down.

Driving back towards the city, pine trees line the roads, and houses peek through greenery. Shillong doesn't rush you; it reveals itself, layer by layer.

Chasing Waterfalls and Silence:

By late morning, we head to Elephant Falls, where the sound of crashing water cuts through the calm. The falls are powerful yet meditative, framed by moss-covered rocks and dense foliage. A little later, Shillong Peak offers a sweeping view of the city and beyond, clouds drifting at eye level, the horizon stretching endlessly. Standing there, Shillong feels less like a destination and more like a feeling.

Lunch is simple but comforting, with local flavours, warm rice, and conversations that flow easily, just like the rivers around us.

Cafés, Conversations, and Culture:

Afternoons in Shillong belong to its cafés. From ML 05 Café to small, tucked-away spots in Laitumkhrah, every place has a story. Fresh brews, soft rock playing in the background, and locals who wear their creativity effortlessly, Shillong's café culture is deeply personal.

A walk through Police Bazaar adds colour to the day. Street shops, music stores, and friendly chaos blend into a rhythm that's uniquely Shillong.

Nightfall and Reflection

As evening sets in, the city glows softly. Dinner is unplanned, laughter is loud, and the air turns colder. In just 24 hours, Shillong manages to feel like an old friend. As we wrap our journey with Northeast Yatra, one thing is clear: Shillong isn't just visited, it's felt. And that feeling lingers long after you leave.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by WHOSTHAT360 (@whosthat360)