Many popular cities have that one place where you can experience peace and get away from the bustling city life. Well, Shillong - the capital of Meghalaya also has one such place called the Ward’s Lake. Also known as Pollock’s Lake (Nan Polok), the history, scenic beauty and activities to do at Ward’s Lake make it a must-visit spot during your Meghalaya Trip.
Not only is this place popular amongst the tourists, but the locals also visit it quite frequently as it hosts various exhibitions and events. If you want to experience the history of the area, this colonial tourist attraction of Shillong is a must-visit.
Let’s dive into the details like history, entry fees, timings, things to do, how to reach, the best time to visit, and tips for visiting Ward’s Lake Shillong for you to plan your trip.
March to October
Monday to Friday - 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Saturday and Sunday - 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM
November to February
Monday to Friday - 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Saturday and Sunday - 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ward’s Lake in Shillong remains closed every Tuesday.
- The variation in Ward’s Lake timings for different months can be subject to the varying weather in those months.
- Entry Fee of Ward's Lake
₹10 - per Adult
₹5 - per child
₹5 - per Sr Citizen, Disabled Persons, Attendant (ID Proof Compulsory)
₹100 - per person Monthly Pass for Morning Joggers
₹1200 - per person Yearly Pass for Morning Joggers
- Photography Charges at Ward’s Lake
₹20 - Still Camera
₹100 - Non-Commercial Video Camera
₹2000 - Movie Camera, Advertisement
Wards Lake Shillong History and About
If you're making a list of things to do in Shillong, make sure Ward’s Lake is right at the top! This stunning artificial lake, also called Pollock’s Lake, sits right in the middle of Shillong and is surrounded by colorful gardens with a breathtaking view of the hills. It was built way back in 1894 and named after Sir William Ward, a former Chief Commissioner of Assam. While June and July are the best months to visit, this lake is beautiful all year round!
Ward’s Lake has a horseshoe shape and is lined with lush green flower beds and stone pathways. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a long day of exploring Shillong. There’s even a wooden bridge in the middle of the lake where you can feed the fish or just admire the scenic beauty around you. If you love adventures, try boating on the lake or take a peaceful walk along the surrounding valleys. You can also grab a tasty snack at the small café nearby!
And here’s something really cool—Shillong has its very own cherry blossom season, just like Japan! Every November, the trees around Ward’s Lake burst into beautiful shades of pink and purple, making it one of the best places to visit during this magical time. It’s also when the famous Cherry Blossom Festival happens, one of the most amazing festivals of Meghalaya. Tourists from all over come to see the pink blooms against the green hills—it’s truly a sight to remember!
So, whether you're looking for relaxing nature spots, fun activities, or colorful festivals, Ward’s Lake in Shillong has it all!
Activities to do at Ward’s Lake
If you're looking for fun things to do in Shillong, Ward’s Lake has something for everyone:
- Boating: One of the best places for boating in Meghalaya is Ward’s Lake in Shillong. Hop into a boat and glide across the calm waters of Ward’s Lake! It’s a super relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while having some fun on the water.
-The Boating Timings of Ward's Lake in Summer are 9.30 AM to 5.00 PM and in Winter are 9.30 AM to 4.00 PM
-The Boating charges range from ₹50 to ₹250 depending on the boat and no. of Pax
- Feed the Fish: Walk across the wooden bridge and toss some fish food into the lake. Watch as the colorful fish swim up excitedly to grab a bite—it’s a simple but fun activity for all ages!
- Take a Walk: Wander along the stone pathways that go around the lake and soak in the fresh air, greenery, and pretty flowers. It’s a great way to escape from the noise of the city and just chill.
- Photography: If you love taking pictures, this is the perfect spot! From bright flowers and calm waters to the beautiful mountains in the background, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy shots waiting to be captured.
- Bird Watching: Bring some binoculars (or just use your eyes!) and try to spot some colorful birds flying around the trees near the lake. If you’re lucky, you might see some really unique ones!
- Relaxation: Find a bench or a cozy spot by the water, sit back, and enjoy the peaceful vibe. It’s the perfect place to just chill and unwind.
- Picnicking: Enjoying a leisurely picnic along the scenic setting of Ward's Lake is one of the top things to do in Meghalaya. Pack some yummy snacks and drinks and enjoy a picnic with your family or friends in the scenic gardens. Eating good food in a beautiful place? Yes, please!
- Enjoy the Fountain: Check out the amazing fountain in the middle of the lake! The water dances and sparkles in the sunlight, making the whole place feel even more magical.
Best time to visit Ward’s Lake in Shillong
The best time to visit Ward's Lake is when the weather aligns with your preferences and interests. Keep in mind that Meghalaya's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your visit. Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends, offering a more tranquil experience at the lake.
- Spring (March to May): Spring brings pleasant weather to Shillong, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers around Ward's Lake. This season is ideal for leisurely walks, boating, and enjoying the vibrant colours of nature.
- Summer (June to August): While summers in Meghalaya can be warmer and more humid, early mornings and evenings around Ward's Lake can still be pleasant. It's a good time for boating and birdwatching, although occasional rainfall is common during this season.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Ward's Lake, with clear skies, cooler temperatures, and lush greenery. The weather is generally favourable for outdoor activities like boating, picnicking, and photography.
- Winter (December to February): Winter brings chilly temperatures to Shillong, but it's also a beautiful time to visit Ward's Lake, especially if you enjoy a cozy atmosphere. Mornings and evenings can be misty and serene, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying hot beverages at the lake's cafeteria
While the best time to visit Ward’s Lake in Shillong might depend on your preference of associated activities in the area, we can tell you more about places to Visit in Shillong in June if you want to enjoy the Summer.
Ward’s Lake is located in the heart of Shillong and is not difficult to locate. The nearest landmark is the Police Bazaar which is a much-recommended place of shopping in Shillong. The place is bustling with locals and visitors right from its opening time till it closes for the public.
How to Reach Ward’s Lake by Air
1. Take a Flight: Board a flight to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati) from your departure city. This airport is well-connected to the rest of India with regular flights.
2. Choose Transportation to Shillong: You have several options to reach Shillong from Guwahati:
- Shared Cabs, STPS Airport Shuttle & Tata Sumos: Shared transport options are available directly from the airport to Shillong. Look for shared cabs, STPS Airport Shuttle, or Tata Sumos.
- Bus: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) and Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) operate bus services from Guwahati to Shillong. Buses leave from Guwahati starting from 6 am until 5 pm. Look for buses coordinated with train arrivals at Guwahati.
- Helicopter Service: Alternatively, you can opt for a helicopter service from Guwahati to Shillong, which takes approximately 20 minutes.
3. Reaching Ward’s Lake Shillong: Once you reach Shillong, you'll be in the vicinity of Ward's Lake. You can either walk or take a short taxi ride to reach the lake.
How to Reach Wards Lake by Bus
1. Arrive at Guwahati Railway Station: If you're travelling by train, arrive at Guwahati Railway Station, which is the nearest railway station to Shillong. It is well-connected with all major cities of India.
2. Choose Transportation to Shillong:
- Bus: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) and Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) operate bus services from Guwahati to Shillong. Buses leave Guwahati starting from 6 am until 5 pm, coordinated with train arrivals at Guwahati. Look for buses departing from the bus stand at Guwahati Railway Station.
- Shared Taxis: Alternatively, shared taxis are also available at Guwahati Railway Station. Look for shared taxi services to Shillong.
3. Arrive in Shillong: Upon reaching Shillong, you'll arrive at either the Police Bazaar for government buses or the Polo Grounds for private buses. If you've taken a shared taxi, it will likely drop you off at Police Bazar.
4. Reach Ward's Lake Shillong: From the bus stand at the Police Bazaar or Polo Grounds, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to reach Ward's Lake.
Places to eat around Ward's Lake, Shillong
After exploring Ward’s Lake, you’ll definitely want to grab a bite! Whether you're looking for cozy cafes in Shillong or want to try delicious Meghalayan flavours, here are some great places to eat around Ward’s Lake.
- Café Shillong
Cafe Shillong is a cozy spot with amazing coffee, sandwiches, and pizzas! It has a warm vibe with soft music playing, making it a great place to relax after a walk around Ward’s Lake.
2. Dylan’s Café
This is a super cool café dedicated to the famous singer Bob Dylan! Dylan’s Café is perfect for enjoying a cup of hot chocolate, burgers, or pasta while listening to good music.
3. Jadoh
If you want to try authentic Meghalayan Food, this is the place to be! Don’t miss their famous Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish).
4. ML 05 Café
A stylish café with a bike-themed décor, ML 05 serves delicious momos, noodles, and desserts. If you love taking pictures, this place has some Instagram-worthy corners!
5. Trattoria
A tiny but famous eatery serving traditional Khasi food! Their pork dishes, Jadoh, and smoked meats are super tasty and loved by both locals and tourists.
6. Shillong’s Police Bazaar Street Stalls
Want to try some of the best street food in Shillong? Head to Police Bazaar, where you’ll find stalls selling steaming momos, spicy chow mein, and crispy pakoras at budget-friendly prices!
7. Lamee Restaurant
This place serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Khasi food. Their sizzling hot plates and fluffy cakes are a must-try if you’re looking for variety!
Ward's Lake in Shillong is a special place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature's beauty. Whether you visit in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, there's always something magical to see and do.
After exploring the lake, don't forget to try some delicious food at nearby restaurants. From local dishes to international flavors, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
So next time you need a break, come to Ward's Lake for some peace and tranquillity. It's a place where you can relax, have fun, and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
While we have shown you the lovely restaurants in and around the area of Ward’s Lake, there are also several hotels and resorts to stay in, as per your requirements and budget.
