Don Bosco Museum — Attraction in Meghalaya

This museum has an amazing collection of the various artefacts that symbolises the cultural fabric of the people of the north eastern region. I am deeply impressed by the phenomenal efforts made by the Don Bosco authorities over several years, to not just conceptualise but make it all happen to perfection. Anyone who visits Shillong must visit the museum to know the diversity of the region and the richness of the culture of the people. For those interested in ethnic tribal culture and tradition this Govt. Museum under the control of Art and Culture Department offers insights to the lifestyle of the people. This museum is in the State Central Library complex where monuments for the great patriots of the state had been erected besides the statue of Smt. Indira Gandhi and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

It is considered as one of the centre for studies into our history and culture as well as for preserving our rich cultural heritage that is now undergoing tremendous pressure in the face of contacts with various cultures both from the East and the West.

A three-in-one Institution combining a museum with a research and publication centre, for promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of North East India -a unique fusion of all the sister states under one roof.

With seven stories, 56,000 square feet of floor space and 15,154 square feet of display wall space, it ranks among the top 36 or so cultural centres of its kind in the Salesian world. Museums/ Cultural Centres in practice appear to be a significant aspect of the Salesian mission

Even in terms of design the DBCIC is startling: built in hexagonal shape, its seven floors represent the seven states of North East India. The building rises to form a flame, expressing the reality that if cultures are understood well, they can form a communion of cultures for a better society.

DBCIC contains seventeen galleries displaying cultural artefacts and paintings. It offers study and research facilities throughout its specialised library of 10,000 volumes, a media hall and a conference hall. It is frequented by school students and older research students and anthropologists, since this area of India is an...

Nestled in the heart of Shillong, the Don Bosco Museum stands as a beacon of cultural richness and heritage preservation. Our visit to this captivating museum was an enlightening journey through the diverse tapestry of Northeast India's indigenous cultures.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a wealth of exhibits showcasing the vibrant traditions, art forms, and lifestyles of the region's diverse communities. Each floor of the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the unique customs, beliefs, and craftsmanship of the indigenous tribes, allowing us to deepen our understanding of their rich cultural heritage.

The museum's comprehensive collection spans various aspects of Northeast Indian life, including traditional attire, musical instruments, handicrafts, and archaeological artifacts. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations further enhanced our learning experience, making it engaging and immersive for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of our visit was the panoramic view from the museum's rooftop, offering sweeping vistas of Shillong's picturesque landscape and the surrounding hills. It provided the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the cultural diversity and natural beauty of the region.

Moreover, the museum's commitment to education and community outreach was evident in its various initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting indigenous cultures. From cultural workshops to educational programs, the Don Bosco Museum serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, our time at the Don Bosco Museum was a memorable and enriching experience. Through its extensive collection and immersive exhibits, it offers a profound insight into the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply curious about the diverse tapestry of the region, a visit to the Don Bosco Museum is a must-do when exploring the vibrant city...

If museums were Marvel movies, the Don Bosco Museum in Shillong would be “Endgame” — massive, layered, visually stunning, and packed with more tribes than superheroes. Seven floors of jaw-dropping ethnographic brilliance, each dedicated to the vibrant cultures of Northeast India’s eight states, this place isn’t a museum — it’s a time machine, a cultural map, and a tribal Netflix binge rolled into one.

Culture, But Make It Cool Tucked away in the charming Mawlai locality, this towering hexagonal structure is like Google Maps for the soul of Northeast India. From head-hunting Nagas to the bamboo-clad Apatanis, to Mizo musical instruments that look like alien tech — this museum doesn’t just display culture, it celebrates it with confetti and choreography.

Each floor is themed — from agriculture and art, to festivals and fashion, and even tribal weapons that make you wonder how anyone in history survived a wedding argument.

Noteworthy Nuggets: The skywalk on the top floor offers a 360° view of Shillong that can literally take your breath away — partially from awe, and partially because it’s at quite a height! More than 17,000 artifacts and counting. Basically, it makes your attic look like a sock drawer. It’s been dubbed the “largest cultural museum in Southeast Asia” by more than one proud curator (source: Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures). It’s run by Salesian priests, who clearly believe God is in the details — and they've delivered divinely.

Real Talk: The café? Modest. The souvenir shop? Slightly overpriced. But the experience? Priceless. It’s a place where even a grumpy teenager or a sleepy uncle might accidentally learn something fascinating and not even hate it.

Whether you’re a history buff, culture nerd, or someone who just enjoys cool photos with traditional masks — this is your jam.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least 2-3 hours. Anything less is...