Cherry Blossom Shillong 2025 — Exact Bloom Dates, Festival Schedule & Best Hotels to Book Early
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, hosts India’s most loved Cherry Blossom Festival every year when the city turns pink with Himalayan Sakura flowers. If you are planning a trip in 2025, this guide covers the expected bloom dates, festival attractions, and best hotels to stay near the venue.
When Will Cherry Blossom Bloom in Shillong in 2025?
Based on past 5–6 years of trends, cherry blossoms in Shillong usually peak in mid-November.
Expected Bloom Window in 2025:
12 November 2025 – 28 November 2025
Final dates may shift depending on rainfall & temperature, but mid-November is safest to plan.
Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 — What to Expect
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Live music and cultural concerts
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Korean & Japanese experience zones
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Food and handloom stalls
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Night-lit cherry blossom walks
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Photography & cosplay competitions
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Sky-view hot air balloon (expected like 2023–24 editions)
Probable Venue: Ward’s Lake & Polo Ground (subject to official confirmation)
Best Hotels to Stay Near Festival Areas
Here are some good options close to Ward’s Lake / Police Bazaar (most convenient location):
| Hotel Name | Category | Why Stay Here |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Polo Towers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Premium rooms, close to Polo Grounds |
| The Eee Cee Hotel | ⭐⭐⭐ | Budget but very central (Police Bazaar) |
| The Heritage Club – Tripura Castle | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Heritage vibe & scenic surroundings |
| Hotel Centre Point | ⭐⭐⭐ | Most popular at Police Bazaar |
| Quinton Enclave Homestays | Homestay | Family friendly & peaceful |
Tip: Pre-book 60–90 days before November because prices double during festival week.
How to Reach Shillong for Cherry Blossom
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Nearest Airport: Shillong (limited flights) or Guwahati (major hub)
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From Guwahati to Shillong: 3-hour drive by shared cab or rented taxi
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Local Transport: Cabs only — no metro/bus network like other cities
Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors
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Carry winter layers — November evenings are cold
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Buy festival tickets online to avoid queue
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Book hotel near Police Bazaar for food & transport access
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Sunrise & sunset are best for photography under the blossoms
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Avoid weekend peak if you want less crowd
Conclusion
Cherry Blossom Shillong 2025 will again transform the “Scotland of the East” into a pink paradise. If you travel between 12–28 November 2025, book your stay early and plan events around Ward’s Lake & Polo Ground, you will get the best festival experience.