In a striking shift that reflects the evolving preferences of Indian travellers, Shillong—the picturesque capital of Meghalaya—has officially claimed the top spot among the best travel destinations of 2025. According to a comprehensive report released by travel search engine Skyscanner, flight searches to Shillong skyrocketed by an unprecedented 828% between January and June 2024 compared to the same period last year. This surge places Shillong ahead of global heavyweights like Thailand, Japan, and Norway, signaling a clear pivot toward travelling to new places that offer authenticity, serenity, and cultural depth.
The report highlights a broader trend: Indian tourists are increasingly moving away from overcrowded international hotspots and embracing trending destinations that promise immersive experiences closer to home. The rise of Shillong is emblematic of this shift, as travellers seek out new destinations that blend natural beauty with cultural richness and sustainable tourism practices.
Social media has played a pivotal role in this transformation. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube are flooded with reels and vlogs showcasing Shillong’s misty hills, indie music culture, and vibrant café scene. The city’s growing popularity is also bolstered by government initiatives promoting eco-tourism and infrastructure development across the Northeast, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Travel Trends: Shillong vs. the World
Here’s how Shillong stacks up against other trending destinations globally, based on flight search data from Indian travellers:
| Rank | Destination | Surge in Searches |
| 1 | Shillong, India | +828% |
| 2 | Baku, Azerbaijan | +744% |
| 3 | Langkawi, Malaysia | +433% |
| 4 | Tromso, Norway | +251% |
| 5 | Tashkent, Uzbekistan | +158% |
| 6 | Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia | +133% |
| 7 | Colombo, Sri Lanka | +120% |
| 8 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | +116% |
| 9 | Krabi, Thailand | +106% |
| 10 | Tokyo, Japan | +87% |
This list reflects a clear evolution in Indian travel behaviour—moving from predictable tourist circuits to travelling new places that offer authenticity, adventure, and cultural depth. Shillong’s meteoric rise shows that trending travel in 2025 is all about rediscovering homegrown treasures.
Shillong: Your Gateway to the Scotland of the East
If you’re planning to explore Shillong—the hill station that’s redefining travel trends in India—this guide will help you navigate everything from how to get there to what to eat, where to stay, and how to make the most of your time. With its cool climate, vibrant culture, and offbeat charm, Shillong is no longer just a hidden gem—it’s a new destination that’s now competing with global hotspots.
How to Reach Shillong?
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Guwahati (GAU), about 120 km away. From there, you can take a scenic 3–4 hour drive to Shillong via private cab or shared taxi. Shillong also has a smaller airport at Umroi, but flight connectivity is limited.
- By Rail: Guwahati Railway Station is the closest railhead, well-connected to major Indian cities. From there, road transfers to Shillong are easy to arrange.
- By Road: NH6 and NH40 connect Shillong to Guwahati, Siliguri, and other Northeast hubs. The drive is lush, winding, and full of photo ops.
Where to Stay in Shillong?
If you’re travelling to new places and craving a stay that blends comfort with character, Shillong delivers. From cozy homestays tucked into pine-scented hills to lakeside resorts with panoramic views, this trending destination offers stays that feel as memorable as the journey itself.
- Budget: Stargaze Backpackers, Zostel Shillong
- Mid-range: Royal Pine Homestay, Hills Abode
- Premium: Windermere Resort, Ri Kynjai (on Umiam Lake)
- Best Areas: Police Bazaar (central, lively), Laitlum (quiet, scenic), Mawphlang (eco-lodges, nature stays)
What to Eat? – Local Cuisine & Cafés
- Must-Try Dishes: Jadoh (rice and meat), Dohneiiong (pork with sesame), Tungrymbai (fermented soy), and Khasi-style momos
- Vegetarian Options: Vegetable cutlets, Assamese thalis, and local veg momos
- Top Cafés & Restaurants: City Hut Dhaba, Dylan’s Café (music-themed), Jiva Vegetarian Restaurant, Madras Café
What to Do in Shillong?
From misty canyons to indie music cafés, Shillong offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that make it one of the best travel destinations of 2025. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, trekking sacred forests, or soaking in the rhythm of the “Rock Capital of India,” this hill station is where trending travel meets soulful discovery.
- Nature & Adventure:
- Umiam Lake – boating, kayaking, lakeside walks
- Elephant Falls – three-tiered waterfall near the city
- Shillong Peak – panoramic views of the city and hills
- Laitlum Canyon – dramatic cliffs and trekking trails
- Mawphlang Sacred Forest – guided nature walks steeped in Khasi folklore
- Culture & Music:
- Visit tribal markets and art galleries
- Attend live music nights—Shillong is known as the “Rock Capital of India”
- Explore the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians for its Gothic architecture
- Short Trips Nearby:
- Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village
- Dawki & Umngot River – crystal-clear waters and surreal boat rides
- Cherrapunjee – home to living root bridges and dramatic waterfalls
Best Time to Visit Shillong
Wondering where is best to escape the heat, the noise, or the ordinary? Shillong’s cool climate and seasonal charm make it a year-round contender among the best travel destinations of 2025. Whether you prefer misty monsoons or crisp winter skies, timing your visit right can transform a good trip into a great one.
- September to May: Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural exploration
- Monsoon (June–August): Lush and mystical, but travel can be disrupted by heavy rains
- Post-monsoon (October–December): Clear skies, cool weather, and fewer crowds—perfect for photography and long walks
In a world where destinations are increasingly curated and commercialized, Shillong stands out as a place that still feels personal. It’s not just about ticking off waterfalls or scenic viewpoints—it’s about the quiet thrill of discovering a café tucked behind pine trees, the hum of local music drifting through the hills, and the stories etched into every winding road.
As one of the best travel destinations of 2025, Shillong invites you to slow down, tune in, and travel with intention. Whether you’re chasing trending travel experiences, exploring new places, or simply wondering where is best to reconnect with nature and culture—this hill station offers a kind of magic that lingers long after the trip ends.
So pack your layers, bring your curiosity, and let Shillong surprise you.