Shillong View Point, Laitkor Peak — Attraction in Meghalaya

Shillong Peak View Point Located about 10 km south of Shillong City, the Shillong Peak is the highest point of Shillong and it provides great views of Shillong city, surrounding waterfalls, the Himalayan Range, Bangladesh Syllhet Plains and the lush greenery nearby.

You will probably see the peak surrounded by dense fog... that’s how it is on most days of the year and the primary reason is its high altitude of 6,449ft (1,966m) above sea level. The Shillong peak is not steep and can be termed a gentle climb…its structure is rather semi-circular.

You can approach the Shillong peak through upper Shillong or the Jowai road. If you love trekking then do try out the cobbled trekking route from Umkynrut-Kynjat Phutbol to the Shillong View Point a Laitkor. If you decide to drive to the peak from Shillong city, it will take you 20 minutes.

Though the views are lovely all along the path to the top, understandably the loveliest views are available right at the top of the peak. If you do decide to trek to the top of the Shillong peak then carrying packed lunch or some packed snacks along with bottled water is a must.

The top of the Shillong peak has a sacred spot that is dedicated to U Shulong. Each spring, special rituals are organised here to honour the spirit of U Shullong and the pastor of Mylliem comes here to offer prayers. Incidentally legends say that U shulong is a local youth who was born out of holy conception of a virgin maiden Li U Shillong... and U shullong means one who grows naturally. The locals call out to U Shulong by the prayer Khot Shillong in difficult times.

It’s said that the city Shillong gets its name from this peak. According to the mythology of the region, the deity Leishyllong who protects the city of Shillong also resides on this peak.

Usually as alternative road to the peak isn’t present, the bulk of tourists use either of the two roads that pass through the Radar station of Indian Air Force located nearby to access the Shillong Peak view point. It was estimated that more than 300 vehicles entered the radar station each day and that would bring up a security issue. The Shillong peak has to be strictly guarded to stop anti national groups from taking advantage of the huge tourist flow and threatening the Indian Air-force Station. In 2016, a high alert was issued when tourist vehicles were stopped from passing through the station… these restrictions were enforced post the Pathankot Air Force base attack.

The recent Civil Liaison meeting brought up a proposal to construct a 5 km long access road from outside the Air Force Station to the View Point. The road is to be shortly completed though as of now the high alert has been removed and tourist flow to the peak continues smoothly. As of now, all you need to do is to take a permit from the air force office if you want to visit the peak, so carry a photo ID and for security purpose visitors are required to submit cameras for inspection.

At the peak there is a high tower with a telescope that can be accessed for a nominal INR 10 fee. Eateries and souvenir shops abound nearby and somehow the mystique has been robbed away by commercialization. Photographers will not be able to put their cameras away... such is the appeal of the Shillong peak. You can easily spend an hour or more at the...

Standing at an altitude of 1965 metres, Shillong View Point stands at the highest peak in the province of Himalayas. You get to enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Shillong from here. Himalayan ranges also look mesmerizing and beautiful from this point. This attraction in Shillong comes under military area but is open to the public. You can rent a telescope from some locals to get a closer glimpse of the forested lush green mountains. It is a popular tourist destination where you get to see the radar station of the Indian Air Force. However, you need to surrender your cameras before entering this viewpoint.

Historical Context: As per local beliefs, the patron deity 'Leishyllong' had her abode on this hill. She used to protect the city against all evils from here. And it is from her name, the city of Shillong derives its name The Shillong peak offers spectacular view of the entire city...it is very cold and windy there .Steps lead to a viewing point platform which is the best place to click a picture from.The peak closes in the evening so one should reach there latest by mid afternoon..it is also quite crowded and slightly far from the main city so keep ample time to enjoy its beauty..I feel it is a must visit for those visiting Shillong

The Shillong peak offers spectacular view of the entire city...it is very cold and windy there .Steps lead to a viewing point platform which is the best place to click a picture from.The peak closes in the evening so one should reach there latest by mid afternoon..it is also quite crowded and slightly far from the main city so keep ample time to enjoy its beauty..I feel it is a must visit for those...

Shillong Peak: A Panoramic View with an Unexpected Twist

Shillong Peak is one of the highest points in Meghalaya, offering an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding hills. Standing at over 6,000 feet above sea level, the peak provides a breathtaking vantage point where you can see the lush landscapes, rolling hills, and the beauty of nature stretched out before you. On a clear day, the view is truly mesmerizing, with the clouds floating just above the city and the green hills fading into the horizon.

One thing to note, though, is the presence of an army base nearby. While I was enjoying the serene atmosphere, I was startled by the sound of gunshots. It turns out there was army training happening in the vicinity, which added an unexpected and somewhat intense element to the experience. Although the gunshots were a bit jarring at first, it wasn’t a major disruption, and it reminded me of the strong military presence in the area.

The drive to Shillong Peak is equally stunning, with winding roads and forested paths leading you to the top. The military guards at the entrance are friendly, and the area is well-maintained. Be prepared for some light security checks since the peak is located within a restricted military zone.

Overall, Shillong Peak is a must-visit for anyone coming to Meghalaya. The view is unmatched, and while the gunshots from the army training might catch you off guard, they don’t take away from the natural beauty of the place. Just a small quirk of the experience that adds to the uniqueness...