Festival · Meghalaya
Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
November's pink Himalayan cherry trees, concerts and culture in Shillong.
At a glance
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1–2 days
- Best season
- Mid-November (blossoms late October – November)
- Base
- Shillong (East Khasi Hills)
- Permits
- No permit; festival tickets may apply.
About this experience
Every autumn, Himalayan cherry trees (Prunus cerasoides) burst into pink bloom across Shillong and the Khasi Hills — unusually, this species flowers in late October and November rather than spring. The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the season with music concerts, food stalls, cultural performances, fashion shows and Japanese-themed cultural events.
In recent years the festival has drawn major international and Indian artists to its main stage, alongside local bands and choirs that reflect Shillong's strong music culture. Daytime activities include walks among blossoming trees at Ward's Lake, Upper Shillong and the Umiam area, wine tastings and craft markets.
Exact dates, venues and line-ups are announced by Meghalaya Tourism each year, and the festival has typically been held over two or three days in mid-November. Hotels in Shillong book up fast during festival weekend, so plan early.
Where to do it
Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival FAQs
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Shillong?
From late October through November, with peak bloom usually in mid-November.
Where are the best blossom spots?
Ward's Lake, Upper Shillong, the Shillong–Umiam road and around the North-Eastern Hill University campus.
When is the festival held?
Typically over two or three days in mid-November; check Meghalaya Tourism for each year's dates.
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