November is one of the best times to visit Shillong. The weather is cool, cherry blossoms turn the city pink, and exciting festivals fill the streets with music, art, food, and culture. From global concerts to poetry readings and amazing local restaurants, Shillong becomes the perfect getaway. Here are the top 3 reasons to visit Shillong this month.
1. Enjoy Global Music at the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
Every November, Shillong celebrates the famous Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, one of Northeast India’s biggest cultural events. This year, the festival (November 14–15, 2025) will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Polo Grounds.
Visitors can enjoy:
-
Performances by global artists like Jason Derulo, The Script, and Tyga
-
Fun activities like food stalls, contests, cosplay competitions, and more
-
Beautiful pink cherry blossoms blooming across the city
With international stars and local talent sharing the stage, this festival is a must-visit for music lovers.
2. Experience Words, Art & Ideas at the Shillong Literature Festival
The Shillong Literature Festival (20–22 November 2025) takes place at Ward’s Lake, offering a peaceful and inspiring setting for book lovers.
What to expect:
-
Sessions with top writers and thinkers like Francesc Miralles, Rajat Kapoor, and Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka
-
Poetry readings, storytelling sessions, art performances, and discussions
-
Special events like The Whispering Mountains session, Poetry Echoing through the Garo Hills, and a British musical performance titled If Music Be The Food Of Love
Beyond books, the festival area comes alive with local food stalls, live acts, and beautiful lake views.
3. Taste Shillong’s Amazing Food Culture
Shillong’s food scene this month is better than ever, with restaurants celebrating local Northeast flavours.
Rynsan
-
One of the top restaurants in India (CNT Top Restaurant Awards 2025)
-
Located in a charming Assam-style bungalow
-
Serves dishes inspired by Garo, Khasi, Jaintia, Naga, Mizo, Burmese, and Thai influences
-
Must-try dishes: wild fern salad, smoked pork with perilla, banana blossom stew, famous fish cakes
Rynsan also hosts craft events and music nights, making it more than just a place to eat—it’s a cultural experience.
Why Visit Shillong Now?
November brings perfect weather, cherry blossoms, two major festivals, and incredible food. Whether you love music, books, culture, or just want a peaceful break, Shillong is the place to be right now.
#Shillong #ShillongTravel #VisitShillong #CherryBlossomFestival #ShillongFestival #ShillongLiteratureFestival #Meghalaya #TravelIndia #NortheastIndia #ShillongFood #RynsanShillong #TravelGuide #IncredibleIndia #ExploreIndia #NovemberTravel