Christmas and New Year in Shillong 2026
Quick take: Christmas is Shillong's biggest celebration: much of the city is Christian, the streets and churches are lit up, and carols fill the evenings. New Year's Eve is lively too. It's about 100 km from Guwahati, 3–4 hours by road. December is cold and the city gets busy, so book your stay and your vehicle early. A car (our 7-seater at ₹2,799/day, or a private car with a driver) is the warmest way to go; experienced riders can take a bike.
Why Shillong for Christmas
- The lights. Police Bazaar and the main streets are decorated through December.
- Churches and carols. The Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians in Laitumkhrah and the city's many other churches hold midnight services, and carol singing goes on through the evenings.
- Food. Christmas markets, bakeries and Khasi food stalls.
- New Year's Eve. Celebrations around Police Bazaar and at cafés and venues across the city.
Getting there from Guwahati
About 100 km on NH6, 3–4 hours. Traffic is heavier around Christmas and New Year, so leave Guwahati early and be off the hill section before dusk.
| How you go | Cost | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Self-drive 7-seater | ₹2,799/day | Families and groups; warm and roomy |
| Private car with a driver | from ₹4,200/day | No driving or parking in holiday traffic |
| Bike | ₹999/day | Experienced riders with proper winter gear |
| Scooty | ₹799/day | Short rides in good weather; it's cold on two wheels |
More options are in how to reach Shillong from Guwahati.
Where to go
- Police Bazaar: the lights, the crowds and the New Year's Eve buzz.
- Laitumkhrah: the cathedral and the cafés around it.
- Ward's Lake: a calm walk in the afternoon.
- Day trips: clear December days are good for Cherrapunji or Laitlum Canyons.
Our self-drive car
Plan ahead
- Book early. Stays fill up for Christmas and New Year, and so do our vehicles.
- Dress warm. December nights in Shillong are cold; bring proper layers, more if you're riding.
- Leave the car at your stay for evenings in Police Bazaar; parking is very tight and streets get crowded.
- Ride and drive in daylight. Fog and holiday traffic make the hill road slower after dark.
- Respect the services. Churches are places of worship first; dress modestly and ask before taking photos.
FAQs
Is Shillong good for Christmas? Yes. It's one of the most festive places in India at Christmas, with decorated streets, church services and carols.
How cold is Shillong in December? Cold, especially at night. Pack warm layers, and more if you're on two wheels.
How do I get to Shillong from Guwahati for New Year? By road, about 100 km and 3–4 hours. Leave early, as holiday traffic is heavier. A self-drive car or a private car with a driver is the most comfortable in winter.
Should I book my rental early for Christmas and New Year? Yes. Message us as soon as you have your dates.
Contact / Book
Message us on WhatsApp with your dates for Christmas or New Year, and we'll keep a car or bike for you.
The information in this post is indicative. Final terms and policies are discussed and confirmed when you take the vehicle on rent.
