This festival, which started in 2016, is the only one of its kind in India and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It showcases the unique autumn flowering of the Himalayan cherry blossoms, which cover the city in a blanket of pink and white. The festival also features a variety of cultural and musical events, such as fashion shows, concerts, beauty pageants, food stalls, and more.

What time and location does the Cherry Blossom Festival take place?
Mid-November, when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, is typically when the Cherry Blossom Festival takes place. Depending on the flowering season and the weather, the precise dates might change. Together with other partners, the Meghalaya Tourism Department organizes the festival.


The festival will take place this year from November 15–16.
What are the Cherry Blossom Festival's attractions and activities?
The Cherry Blossom Festival honors culture, music, and the natural world. For guests of all ages and interests, the festival provides a variety of attractions and activities. Among the festival's highlights are:

With live performances by regional and international artists, the Cherry Blossom Festival is an unforgettable celebration of music and culture. Savor music from a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, folk, rock, and pop. Akon's live performance will add his worldwide hits to the lively atmosphere, making it a special highlight!

Meghalayan and other northeastern states' traditional and contemporary clothing is displayed in fashion shows and beauty pageants.
Food and drink stands serving Japanese and Korean food, wine, beer, and regional specialties.

Workshops and exhibitions featuring the paintings and handicrafts of regional artists.

Prominent writers and poets from Meghalaya and other regions of India will be featured at literary events and storytelling sessions.

Adventure sports and games include golf, cycling, archery, rock climbing, zip-lining, and more.

Shillong and Meghalaya's history and culture can be explored through heritage walks and guided tours.

How can I get to the Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong?
Shillong has excellent air, rail, and road connections to other regions of India. About 30 kilometers from Shillong is Umroi Airport, the closest airport. However, there are only a few flights from Guwahati and Kolkata to this airport. Flying to Guwahati Airport, which is around 120 kilometers from Shillong, is a better choice. From there, you can travel to Shillong by bus or taxi. By road, the trip takes roughly three hours.

Guwahati Railway Station, which has excellent connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, etc., is a good place to go if you would rather travel by train. From there, you can travel to Shillong by bus or taxi.

Where can I stay during the Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong? Shillong offers a wide range of lodging choices to suit various tastes and price ranges. Hotels, resorts, guest houses, homestays, hostels, and more are available for you to select from. Among the well-liked lodging options in Shillong are:

1. The Center Point Shillong

This four-star hotel is close to Shillong's main marketplace, Police Bazar. It provides free Wi-Fi, a conference room, a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, and roomy accommodations with contemporary conveniences.


2. Hotel M Crown

This three-star hotel is close to Ward's Lake, where the Cherry Blossom Festival is held. It provides free Wi-Fi, a banquet hall, a restaurant, a coffee shop, and comfortable rooms with tasteful décor.

3.Shillong's Pinewood Hotel

This is a heritage hotel located near Lady Hydari Park. It offers charming rooms with wooden furnishings, a restaurant serving local cuisine, a bar with live music, a garden area with cherry blossom trees.

What are some tips and precautions for visiting the Cherry Blossom Festival?

The following advice and safety measures will help you have an unforgettable time at the Cherry Blossom Festival:

Since many locals and tourists attend the festival, reserve your lodging and tickets in advance.

Keep warm clothing with you because November can be a cold month. Additionally, since it might rain occasionally, bring an umbrella or a raincoat.

Respect the customs and culture of the area; do not pluck or litter the cherry blossoms.

Taste the wine and cuisine of the area, but avoid the spicy and fermented foods as they might upset your stomach.

Be mindful of the traffic and road conditions as you explore the city and its environs. Additionally, stay away from going out alone at night or in places you're not familiar with.