Laban, Shillong Travel Guide

Discover Laban in Shillong: A Blend of Rich Cultural Heritage, Bustling Markets, and Scenic Spots in the Heart of Meghalaya.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Shillong, Laban is an enchanting neighbourhood that effortlessly blends the old with the new. This area, known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly locals, offers a unique glimpse into the traditional Khasi lifestyle. Wander through its narrow lanes, and you'll discover a treasure trove of historical buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafes. Laban is not just about history; it pulsates with life and energy. The bustling local markets are a sensory delight, filled with the aroma of fresh produce and the vibrant colours of local handicrafts. Food lovers will relish the opportunity to sample traditional Khasi cuisine, with eateries serving up delicious dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Don't miss out on the street food – a true reflection of Shillong's diverse culinary landscape. For nature enthusiasts, Laban provides a gateway to some of Shillong's most scenic spots. Take a leisurely stroll to Lady Hydari Park, or venture a bit further to the serene Ward's Lake. The neighbourhood is also home to several churches and temples, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak in the local culture, Laban promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Laban.

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and a glimpse of daily life in Laban.
Try traditional Khasi dishes like Jadoh and Dohneiiong at local eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as Laban's narrow lanes are best explored on foot.
Carry an umbrella or raincoat, as Shillong's weather can be unpredictable.

Explore Laban: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Laban

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Don Bosco Museum

Discover the vibrant traditions and cultures of Northeast India at Don Bosco Museum, a cultural gem in Shillong.

4.4

Lady Hydari Park

Experience the lush beauty and serene ambiance of Lady Hydari Park, a must-visit destination in Shillong, Meghalaya.

4.1

Air Force Museum

Discover the legacy of Indian aviation at Shillong's Air Force Museum, a treasure trove of historical aircraft and military memorabilia.

4.5

Shillong Gaden Choeling Buddhist Monastery

Explore the tranquil beauty and spiritual serenity of Shillong Gaden Choeling Buddhist Monastery in Meghalaya, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

4.5

Best landmarks in Laban

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Lady Hydari Park

Discover the serene beauty of Lady Hydari Park, a vibrant green oasis in Shillong, perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings amidst nature's splendor.

4.1

Shillong View Point, Laitkor Peak

Experience the majestic beauty of Shillong from Laitkor Peak, a breathtaking viewpoint that showcases the city’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

4.4

Madina Masjid, Laban Shillong

Discover the architectural beauty of Madina Masjid in Shillong, a unique mosque renowned for its stunning glass structure and tranquil ambiance.

4.5

Rhino Heritage Museum

Explore the Rhino Heritage Museum in Shillong and discover the importance of wildlife conservation and the majestic Indian rhinoceros.

4.1

Best restaurants in Laban

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Food Plus

Discover Food Plus in Shillong: A fast food delight offering local flavors and quick bites in a cozy setting.

3.8

Trelly

Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Trelly Restaurant in Shillong – a must-visit culinary destination for all food enthusiasts.

4.3

Around The Corner

Experience delicious fast food at Around The Corner in Shillong - where local flavors meet international delights.

4.8

Nalgre Food Corner

Experience the best of Chinese and Indian cuisines at Nalgre Food Corner in Shillong - where flavor meets tradition.

4.6

Best bars in Laban

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The Loft - Cafe & Restaurant

Discover Shillong's culinary charm at The Loft, where exquisite flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every food lover.

4.1

Tango RestoBar & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shillong at Tango RestoBar & Lounge, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment come together.

4.0

Glass House - Grill & Bar

Discover the essence of Shillong's nightlife at Glass House - Grill & Bar, where delicious drinks and grilled delights meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

The Evening Club

Experience vibrant nightlife at The Evening Club in Shillong, where local rock bands and delicious beverages come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Laban

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Tango RestoBar & Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shillong at Tango RestoBar & Lounge, where dining, drinks, and entertainment come together in perfect harmony.

4.0

The Evening Club

Experience Shillong's vibrant nightlife at The Evening Club, a lively bar perfect for drinks, music, and good company.

4.4

Irish Pub

Discover the lively Irish Pub in Shillong, where traditional Irish culture meets the vibrant spirit of Meghalaya's nightlife.

4.0

Fusion BAR

Discover Fusion BAR, Shillong's top cocktail destination, where local flavors meet innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

3.7

Best shops in Laban

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OB Shopping Mall

Discover shopping bliss at OB Shopping Mall in Shillong, where local flavors meet modern retail experiences in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.8

ILAHUI Store SHILLONG

Explore ILAHUI Store Shillong for unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the essence of Meghalaya's vibrant culture and artistry.

4.1

MAHALAXMI STORE

Discover the rich flavors of Meghalaya at Mahalaxmi Store, your go-to grocery destination in Shillong's Laban neighborhood.

3.8

Hanumanbux Mahesh Kumar - Fabric Store in Shillong

Explore Hanumanbux Mahesh Kumar in Shillong for exquisite fabrics, bedding, and captivating home decor inspired by the region's rich textile heritage.

3.7

Explore Laban on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Laban, mapped for you.

Laban Essentials

Laban is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Shillong. You can reach Laban by hiring a taxi, which is the most convenient option. Local buses also operate from major parts of the city, including Police Bazar and Khyndailad, to Laban. The journey typically takes around 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. For those coming from the Shillong Airport, taxis are available, and the journey takes about an hour.
Laban is a compact neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. However, for longer distances, local taxis are available and are a popular mode of transportation. Auto-rickshaws can also be found for short trips. Bicycles are not commonly used for public transport, but you can rent one to explore the area at your leisure.
Laban is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to exercise caution like in any urban area. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. It is recommended to avoid walking alone late at night in less frequented areas. Areas near the local market can get busy, so keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 108 for medical emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle urgent cases. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Laban for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs; it is polite to remove shoes when entering homes or religious places. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly individuals; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and a handshake; don't use overly casual language with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Khasi cuisine and accept food offerings graciously; don't waste food or show dissatisfaction with local dishes.
To experience Laban like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique handicrafts. Engage with the community; locals are friendly and often willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Attend local festivals if you can, as they provide a deeper insight into the customs of the Khasi people. Don't miss the chance to visit local cafes to enjoy traditional Khasi meals and beverages.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Laban

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Laban. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
- Yesहाँ
  [haan]
- Noनहीं
  [nahin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavaad]
- Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा करें
  [kshama karein]
- How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। और आप?
  [thik hoon. aur aap?]
- Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेजी बोलते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh mein nahin aaya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू देखना चाहूँ
  [krupaya menu dekhna chahoon]
- I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [main maans nahin khata]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं चुकाना चाहूँ
  [krupaya main chukaana chahoon]
- Help!बचाओ!
  [bachao!]
- Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
- Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
- I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [main kho gaya hoon]
- I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimaari hai]
- I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूँ...
  [main khareedna chahoon...]
- I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा हूँ
  [main bas dekh raha hoon]
- How much is it?यह कितना है?
  [yah kitna hai?]
- That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahanga hai]
- Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
- It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
- Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
- Morningसुबह
  [subah]
- Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
- Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
- Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
- Todayआज
  [aaj]
- Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
- 1एक
  [ek]
- 2दो
  [do]
- 3तीन
  [teen]
- 4चार
  [chaar]
- 5पांच
  [paanch]
- 6छह
  [chhah]
- 7सात
  [saat]
- 8आठ
  [aath]
- 9नौ
  [nau]
- 10दस
  [das]
- Where's a/the...?कहाँ है...?
  [kahaan hai...?]
- What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (.... के लिए)
  [ek ticket (.... ke liye)]

History of Laban

Laban, located on the outskirts of Shillong, has significant historical importance dating back to the British colonial period in the 19th century. It served as a principal residential area for British officials and their families, reflecting the architectural styles and urban planning of colonial times. The area is characterized by its large bungalows and sprawling gardens, which were indicative of the lifestyles enjoyed by the British elite during their rule.
Over the years, Laban has transformed into a vibrant cultural melting pot, showcasing a blend of Khasi traditions and influences from other communities. The neighborhood is home to several important educational institutions, including St. Edmund's College, which has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Shillong. The local festivals, such as the Khasi harvest festival, are celebrated with great enthusiasm, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage.
Laban has been pivotal in the political landscape of Meghalaya, particularly in the Khasi Hills. The area has produced several notable political leaders and activists who have contributed to the region's quest for autonomy and statehood. The Khasi Students' Union, a prominent student organization, was active in Laban, advocating for the rights of the Khasi people and influencing local governance.
The architectural heritage of Laban showcases a unique blend of colonial and indigenous styles. Notable buildings, such as the Laban Presbyterian Church, reflect the influence of British architecture intertwined with local designs. This mix not only serves as a testament to the area's history but also as a focal point for community gatherings and religious activities.
After India's independence in 1947, Laban witnessed significant urban development, transitioning from a colonial outpost to a bustling urban neighborhood. The introduction of modern amenities and infrastructural developments has made Laban an attractive residential area. However, the neighborhood has managed to retain its historical charm and cultural significance amidst the changes.