Shillong

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Shillong is the capital city of the North-Eastern Indian State of Meghalaya. It is situated on the Shillong Plateau in the northeastern part of the country and is often referred to as the "Scotland of the East" due to its striking similarity with the Scottish highlands.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Shillong is located at an average altitude of 1,496 meters (4,908 feet) above sea level. The city is in the Khasi Hills, part of the larger Patkai Range, which forms the boundary between India and Myanmar. The city experiences a temperate climate throughout the year, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.

History[edit | edit source]

The city was established during British rule in India and served as the capital of Assam until the creation of the new state of Meghalaya in 1972. The name "Shillong" is derived from "Leishyllong"—the supreme deity in the Khasi religion.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Shillong is known for its unique and vibrant culture. The majority of the population belongs to the Khasi tribe and follows Christianity. The city is also known for its music scene and is often referred to as the "Rock Capital of India". The Shillong Chamber Choir and the Autumn Festival are major cultural events in the city.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Shillong is primarily based on its service sector with a significant contribution from tourism. The city is a popular tourist destination due to its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and cultural heritage. Other sectors contributing to the economy include agriculture and mining.

Education[edit | edit source]

Shillong is home to several well-known educational institutions. The North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) is a central university established in the city. Other notable institutions include St. Anthony's College, Shillong and the Indian Institute of Management Shillong.

Cuisine[edit | edit source]

The cuisine of Shillong is a blend of traditional Khasi food and influences from Bengali and Assamese cuisines. Popular dishes include Jadoh, a type of Khasi pulao made with pork or chicken, and Pumaloi, a steamed rice cake.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD