All set for an epic vacation? Planning a trip to Meghalaya ’s dreamy capital? If you’ve been daydreaming about rolling green hills, misty mornings, and the charm of the Scotland of the East, then it’s time to figure out how to reach Shillong from Delhi.
The good news? Getting there is not as complicated as it sounds, and you’ve got plenty of options depending on whether you’re the “fly high and land quick” type or the “long road trip vibes” kind of traveler. From hopping on a direct flight to Guwahati and driving through scenic hills, to catching trains or even making an epic road journey, every route has its own adventure.
So, before you pack your sweaters and cameras, let’s map out the easiest, fastest, and most fun ways to get from Delhi’s bustle to Shillong’s calm. Because the journey is just as magical as the destination!
How to Reach Shillong from Delhi by Air
The best way to reach Shillong from Delhi is by air, as it’s the fastest and most convenient option. You can fly directly to Shillong’s Umroi Airport or take a Delhi to Guwahati flight and then drive about 100 km to Shillong.
1. Delhi to Meghalaya Flight via Guwahati (Most Common Option)
Since direct flights are rare, most travelers choose to fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati — the Shillong nearest airport with better connectivity.
- Flights Available: All major airlines (IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, SpiceJet).
- Frequency: Multiple flights daily from Delhi to Guwahati.
- Flight Duration: About 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Average Fare: ₹4,000–₹7,000 (depends on season and booking time).
From Guwahati, you need to cover the Guwahati to Shillong distance of ~100 km, which takes about 3–4 hours by road.
2. Direct Flights from Delhi to Shillong
- Shillong has a small airport called Shillong Airport (also known as Umroi Airport), located about 30 km from the city center.
- There are limited direct flights from Delhi to Shillong, mostly operated by Alliance Air (a subsidiary of Air India).
- These flights may not run daily, so availability is inconsistent. Always check schedules in advance.
- Travel time: ~2 hours 30 minutes.
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How to Reach Shillong from Delhi by Train
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to travel and don’t mind a longer journey, you might wonder: how to reach Shillong from Delhi by train. While there is no direct train to Shillong (the city doesn’t have its own railway station), the journey is still possible and quite popular among backpackers.
Step 1: Delhi to Guwahati by Train
The nearest major railway station to Shillong is Guwahati Junction, located about 100 km away. From Delhi, multiple trains connect to Guwahati:
- Rajdhani Express (New Delhi → Guwahati) – Premium, fastest, comfortable.
- Northeast Express (Anand Vihar → Guwahati) – Frequent and affordable.
- Brahmaputra Mail (Delhi → Dibrugarh via Guwahati) – Good option with more stops.
- Travel Time: 28–36 hours, depending on the train.
- Ticket Price: ₹800–₹3,000 (Sleeper to AC).
Step 2: Guwahati to Shillong by Road
Once you reach Guwahati, Shillong is about 100 km (Guwahati to Shillong distance). You can cover this in 3–4 hours by:
- Taxi/Private Cab (₹2,500–₹3,500)
- Shared Taxi (₹500–₹600 per seat)
- State-run Buses (ASTC/MTC) (₹200–₹350)
Delhi to Shillong by Train: Travel Time & Costs
- Delhi → Guwahati train: ~30–36 hours.
- Guwahati → Shillong road trip: ~3–4 hours.
- Total Time: ~34–40 hours.
- Total Cost: ~₹1,000–₹4,000 (depending on train class + onward transport).
Why Choose the Train Route?
- Best for budget travelers and those who enjoy long journeys.
- Good option if you book last-minute and flights are too expensive.
- Gives you a chance to enjoy scenic Northeast landscapes after Guwahati.
How to Reach Shillong from Delhi by Road Trip
If you’re the adventurous type who loves highways, pit stops, and scenic drives, then you might be wondering: how to reach Shillong from Delhi by road trip. While this is the longest option, it’s also the most exciting for those who want to experience India’s diverse landscapes along the way.
Delhi to Shillong by Road: Distance & Route
- Shillong distance from Delhi: ~2,000 km.
- Travel time Delhi to Shillong: Around 35–38 hours of non-stop driving.
- Main Delhi to Shillong route: Delhi → Lucknow → Gorakhpur → Siliguri (West Bengal) → Guwahati (Assam) → Shillong (Meghalaya).
- Highways: Mostly along NH27, which is well-maintained.
Road Trip Itinerary (Recommended Stops)
Here’s a short itinerary for a Meghalaya road trip from delhi:
- Delhi → Lucknow (500 km) – Great for the first night halt.
- Lucknow → Siliguri (via Gorakhpur & Bihar) – 1,000+ km, may need 2 days.
- Siliguri → Guwahati – Drive through Assam’s lush tea gardens.
- Guwahati → Shillong – The final scenic 100 km hill drive.
Travel Options
- Private Car/SUV: Best for flexibility, comfort, and stopping where you like.
- Self-Drive Rental: Available in Delhi, but check policies for interstate driving.
- Delhi to Shillong by Bus: There are no direct buses from Delhi to Shillong. Instead, take a Delhi–Guwahati bus/train/flight, then a Guwahati–Shillong bus (₹200–₹350).
Costs Involved
- Fuel + Tolls: Around ₹12,000–₹15,000 one way (for a standard car).
- Hotel Stays: Budget ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night depending on halts.
- Food & Miscellaneous: ₹500–₹1,000 per day.
Why Choose a Road Trip?
- Perfect for road trip lovers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- You get to see multiple states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, and finally Meghalaya.
- The drive from Guwahati to Shillong is especially beautiful, with rolling hills, waterfalls, and pine forests.
Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Shillong
If you’re planning a Shillong trip from Delhi, timing your journey can make a huge difference. The city’s charm changes with every season, and the weather plays a key role in your travel experience. So, here’s the breakdown of the best time to travel from Delhi to Shillong:
Peak Season (October – April)
- Widely considered the best time for Delhi to Shillong travel.
- Pleasant days, cool nights, and clear skies.
- Perfect for sightseeing, trekking, boating at Umiam Lake, and enjoying the waterfalls.
- Winters (Dec–Feb) can get chilly with temperatures dropping to 2–4°C, so pack warm clothes.
Shoulder Season (May – June)
- Spring to early summer brings blooming flowers and mild heat.
- Ideal for travelers who want fewer crowds.
- Good time for road trips from Delhi to Shillong by road as highways are dry.
Off-Season (July – September)
- Monsoons hit Shillong hard with heavy rain.
- Waterfalls are at their best, but road trips can be risky due to landslides.
- Not the best time to visit Shillong for first-timers, but photographers and nature lovers might enjoy the dramatic landscapes.
Travel Tips for Shillong Trip from Delhi
Planning a Shillong trip from Delhi can be super fun, but it’s always smart to keep a few things in mind for a smooth journey. Here are some useful tips before you pack your bags:
- Book tickets in advance – Whether you’re taking a Delhi to Meghalaya flight or planning a road trip, early bookings save money and guarantee better options.
- Layer your clothing – Shillong’s weather can change quickly; carry light sweaters, jackets, and rain gear, especially if you’re visiting during monsoon.
- Connectivity matters – Mobile networks can be patchy in some areas. Keep offline maps handy when driving the Delhi to Shillong route.
- Cash & ATMs – Though digital payments are common, carry some cash for remote markets and small shops.
- Health prep – Roads to Shillong include winding hills; if you get motion sickness, keep medicines ready.
- Local transport – Shared cabs are the most popular way to travel around Shillong. They’re budget-friendly and easy to find.
- Respect local culture – Shillong is home to warm Khasi people. Be mindful of traditions, especially when visiting villages.
Planning your Shillong trip from Delhi doesn’t have to be complicated — whether you choose to fly, take a train, or even enjoy a long road adventure, each route has its own charm. But if you’re looking for comfort and time-saving, flights remain the top pick. No matter which option you choose, the breathtaking landscapes, fresh mountain air, and vibrant culture of Meghalaya will make the journey worthwhile. So, get your itinerary ready and start your Delhi to Shillong travel with excitement — the Scotland of the East is waiting!
