Nearest Airport to Shillong: Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” due to its lush green hills, picturesque landscapes, and colonial-era charm. Known for its pleasant weather, waterfalls, and vibrant culture, Shillong is a top destination in northeastern India.
Travelers often wonder about the best way to reach this hill city. While Shillong has its airport, its connectivity is limited, and most visitors prefer to use larger nearby airports. This article highlights the nearest airports to Shillong and the best ways to reach the city.
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Nearest Airport to Shillong: Shillong Airport (Barapani – SHL)
1. Shillong Airport (SHL)
- Location: Umroi, about 30 km from Shillong city center.
- Type: Domestic airport with limited connectivity.
- Airlines and Routes:
- Shillong Airport primarily serves flights to and from Kolkata.
- Airlines like IndiGo operate from this airport.
- Facilities: Basic amenities are available, but the airport is small and caters to limited traffic.
Why Choose Shillong Airport?
If you are flying from Kolkata or nearby locations and prefer a direct route, Shillong Airport is the most convenient option.
Alternative Airports Near Shillong
2. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati
- Distance to Shillong: Approximately 115 km.
- Travel Time: 3–4 hours by road.
- Type: International airport with excellent connectivity.
- Airlines and Routes:
- Guwahati Airport connects to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and international destinations like Bangkok.
- Facilities:
- A modern airport with lounges, restaurants, and transport facilities.
Why Choose Guwahati Airport?
For travelers from cities across India and abroad, Guwahati Airport offers more frequent flights and better connectivity.
How to Travel to Shillong from the Nearest Airports
From Shillong Airport (SHL):
- By Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport for direct travel to Shillong City.
- Distance to City Center: About 40–50 minutes by road.
From Guwahati Airport (GAU):
- By Road:
- Private Taxis: Easily available at the airport, offering a direct and comfortable journey to Shillong.
- Shared Taxis: Cost-effective option for solo travelers, available at Paltan Bazaar in Guwahati.
- Buses: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) operates buses between Guwahati and Shillong.
- By Helicopter: Pawan Hans operates helicopter services between Guwahati and Shillong, reducing travel time to about 30 minutes (subject to availability and weather conditions).
Choosing the Best Airport for Your Journey
- If You Value Proximity:
- Shillong Airport (SHL) is the closest option, but limited flight options may not suit all travelers.
- If You Seek Better Connectivity:
- Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati is the better choice, offering more flight options and international connectivity.
- For Cost-Effective Travel:
- Guwahati Airport is often more economical due to its larger number of flights and competitive pricing.
Best Time to Visit Shillong
The ideal time to visit Shillong is between March and June for pleasant weather or October and February for the winter chill. Monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, adding to the region’s beauty but making travel challenging.
Key Attractions in Shillong
Once you arrive, Shillong offers a plethora of attractions:
- Nature: Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, and Lady Hydari Park.
- Culture: Don Bosco Museum and Shillong Peak for panoramic views.
- Music: Shillong’s vibrant music scene makes it the “Rock Capital of India.”
- Nearby Destinations: Cherrapunjee (Sohra), Mawlynnong (Asia’s cleanest village), and Dawki for its crystal-clear river.
At The End
The nearest airport to Shillong is Shillong Airport (SHL), but travelers often prefer the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati for better connectivity and convenience. Whether you’re flying directly to Shillong or taking a scenic road trip from Guwahati, reaching Meghalaya’s capital is a delightful experience.
Plan your journey based on your schedule and preferences, and get ready to explore the enchanting beauty of Shillong!