So, you’re planning a trip from Bangalore to Shillong? Buckle up, because you’re about to swap traffic jams for pine trees, honking autos for chirping birds, and filter coffee for steamy momos! Whether you're booking flights on your own or browsing through Meghalaya tour packages, the journey is totally worth it.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Meghalaya, Shillong feels like a breath of fresh, misty air after the chaos of city life. Yes, it might involve layovers, a bumpy cab ride, or a few hours of road-tripping but the moment you spot those dreamy clouds floating above green valleys, you'll know it was the right call.
Whether you're escaping the heat, craving a Meghalaya road trip with a twist, or just tired of the same old Friday scenes, Shillong’s vibe is refreshingly different. So, ready to trade Namma Bengaluru for the Scotland of the East? Let’s go!
How to Reach Shillong from Bangalore
Reaching Shillong from Bangalore is an exciting journey that takes you from the tech capital of India to the serene hills of Meghalaya. While there’s no Bangalore to Shillong direct flight, the most convenient way is to fly to Guwahati and then continue by road. Here’s how you can plan your trip smoothly:
Here's a breakdown of how to reach Shillong from Bangalore:
1. By Air (Recommended and Fastest)
Flight to Shillong from Bangalore (via Guwahati) is the most practical and popular route.
Bangalore to Guwahati Flight:
- Airlines: Multiple carriers like IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India Express operate daily direct flights from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati.
- Flight Duration: Around 3 to 3.15 hours.
- Bangalore to Shillong flight ticket price: Starts from ₹4,000–₹7,000 (one-way) depending on the season, airline, and how early you book.
Guwahati to Shillong (by road):
Once you land in Guwahati, Shillong is about 120 km away.
- Prepaid Taxi: Available at the airport. Comfortable and direct to your Shillong hotel.
- Shared Cabs (Sumos): Economical and available outside the airport. Waits until full.
- Bus (MTC): Operates from Guwahati Paltan Bazaar to Shillong ISBT. Affordable but less frequent.
- Helicopter Service (Pawan Hans): The fastest way (20 minutes flight from Guwahati to Umroi, Shillong Airport), but limited in availability and subject to weather. Book well in advance.
The road journey from Guwahati to Shillong takes around 3 to 4 hours, with scenic views of the hills and Umiam Lake en route.
2. By Train – For the Scenic Overland Lovers
If you’re up for a longer, more leisurely journey, the Bangalore to Shillong train route (via Guwahati) can be a unique experience.
- Bangalore to Guwahati by Train: Multiple trains connect these cities, with a journey time of about 50 hours.
- Departure Points: SMVT Bengaluru, Yesvantpur Jn, or Bengaluru Cantt.
- From Guwahati to Shillong: Follow the same road options (taxi, shared cab, bus) to reach Shillong.
While not the fastest, traveling by Bangalore to Shillong train (via Guwahati) lets you soak in the landscapes and experience a slower, scenic side of India.
3. By Road – For the Hardcore Roadtrippers
If a cross-country drive is on your bucket list:
- Route: Bangalore ➝ Hyderabad ➝ Nagpur ➝ Kolkata ➝ Siliguri ➝ Shillong
- Distance: Over 2,500 km
- Travel Time: 2–3 days depending on stops and pace
A long drive across states, diverse food, changing landscapes—this is the kind of journey made for those who love being on the road.
If you're planning a Meghalaya trip, starting from Bangalore, this breakdown helps you choose the route that fits your budget, time, and travel style best. Whether it's a flight to Shillong from Bangalore or an epic road trip, the Northeast is waiting to wow you!
Best Time to Visit Shillong from Bangalore
Planning to swap Bangalore traffic for Shillong’s fresh air? Great call but timing matters!
- March to June is the best time to visit Shillong, offering cool weather, clear skies, and perfect for exploring waterfalls, markets, and cafes without freezing or getting soaked.
- July to September brings the monsoon mood. It’s green, dramatic, and great for scenic drives, but expect rain and carry good shoes.
- October to early December is crisp and festive—ideal for travelers who like chilly mornings, light jackets, and crowd-free sightseeing.
- Avoid late December to February if you’re not a fan of cold, as winter here gets seriously nippy (and foggy).
Bottom line? Shillong’s beautiful almost year-round, but your ideal time depends on whether you’re chasing sunshine, light rain, or sweater weather.
Travel Tips for Your Bangalore to Shillong Trip
Booking & Timing Tips
- Book flights and hotels early, especially during peak months (Oct–Dec, Apr–May) or festival periods.
- For Indian citizens, no special permits are required to visit Shillong or tourist spots in Meghalaya.
- Foreign nationals may need a PAP/RAP for some restricted areas (not typically required for Shillong).
Where to Stay in Shillong
- Police Bazaar – Central, convenient, and great for shopping/food.
- Laitumkhrah, Polo Hills, Ward’s Lake – Quieter, greener areas ideal for peaceful stays.
Suggested Itinerary
- Minimum 4–5 days to explore Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki & Mawlynnong.
- Consider Shillong as a base and plan day trips or overnight stays in Cherrapunji.
What to Pack
- Layers of clothing – Even summers can be chilly; winters are cold.
- Rain protection – Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothes, umbrella/poncho (essential year-round).
- Footwear – Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes with good grip (a must for waterfalls/root bridges).
- Essentials – Power bank, torch/headlamp, first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and hat.
Money & Mobile Tips
- Carry cash – Many remote areas like Dawki or Mawlynnong have no card machines or working ATMs.
- Mobile networks – Jio, Airtel, and VI work in Shillong.
- Coverage is patchy in Cherrapunji, Dawki, or deep interiors. BSNL sometimes works in remote places.
Getting Around Shillong
- Shared taxis – Cheap and widely used in the city.
- Private taxi – Great for flexibility on day trips to Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong.
- Group tours – Ideal for solo travelers or couples to save cost.
- Self-drive option – Only if you're confident driving in hilly terrain (avoid in monsoon season).
What to Eat
- Local Khasi cuisine – Must-try dishes include Jadoh, Doh Neiiong, Doh Khleh, and bamboo shoot pork.
- Cafés – Check out Dylan’s Café, Café Shillong, and ML 05 Café for good food and cool ambiance.
- Stick to bottled water or bring your own water purifier/filter.
Safety, Etiquette & Environment
- Shillong is tourist-friendly and safe, but be cautious at night and in isolated areas.
- Respect local customs – Dress modestly at religious sites.
- Avoid littering – Meghalaya’s beauty lies in its pristine nature. Leave no trace behind.
- Altitude tips – Shillong isn’t very high, but long drives and treks can be tiring. Stay hydrated.
Whether you’re hopping on a flight to Shillong from Bangalore, enjoying a long train ride, or planning a cross-country road trip with playlists and pit stops—getting from Bangalore to Shillong is half the fun! With the right planning, a dash of curiosity, and a good camera, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure in the hills.
So, whether you're chasing clouds in Cherrapunji, boating in Dawki, or café-hopping in Shillong—with WanderOn, everything becomes easy. Just pack your bags (and maybe a raincoat) and let Meghalaya do the rest!
