The Enchanting Heights of Upper Shillong

• Helloহাই
  [hai]
• Goodbyeবিদায়
  [biday]
• Yesহাঁ
  [ha]
• Noনা
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeদয়া করে
  [doya kore]
• Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonyobad]
• Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukhit]
• How are you?আপুনি কেমন আছন্ন?
  [apuni kemon achonno?]
• Fine. And you?ঠিক আছি। আপুনি?
  [thik ashi. apuni?]
• Do you speak English?আপুনি ইংরেজি কথা বলা পারেন?
  [apuni ingreji kotha bola paren?]
• I don't understandআমি বুঝিনি
  [ami bujini]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseঅনুগ্রহ করে মেনু দেখাবেন
  [onugroh kore menu dekhabe]
• I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsho khai na]
• Cheers!চিয়ার্স!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseঅনুগ্রহ করে টাকা দিতে চাই
  [onugroh kore taka dite chai]

• Help!সাহায্য!
  [sahayyo!]
• Go away!চলে যান!
  [chole jan!]
• Call the Police!পুলিসকে কল করুন!
  [policeke kol korun!]
• Call a doctor!ডাক্তারকে কল করুন!
  [daktarke kol korun!]
• I'm lostআমি হারাইয়ে গেছি
  [ami haraiye gesi]
• I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [ami osustho]

• I'd like to buy...আমি ... ক্রয় করতে চাই
  [ami ... kroy korote chai]
• I'm just lookingআমি শুধু দেখছি
  [ami shudhu dekhchi]
• How much is it?এটা কত টাকা?
  [eta kot taka?]
• That's too expensiveএটা খুব বেশি দাম
  [eta khub beshi dam]
• Can you lower the price?দাম কমাবেন?
  [dam komaben?]

• What time is it?এখন কতটা বাজে?
  [ekhon kotta baje?]
• It's one o'clockএকটা বাজে
  [ekta baje]
• Half past (10)দশের অর্ধেক
  [dasher ordhek]
• Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
• Afternoonদুপুর
  [dupur]
• Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondhya]
• Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gatkal]
• Todayআজ
  [aj]
• Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
• 1এক
  [ek]
• 2দুই
  [dui]
• 3তিন
  [tin]
• 4চার
  [char]
• 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
• 6ছয়
  [chhoy]
• 7সাত
  [shat]
• 8আট
  [at]
• 9নয়
  [noy]
• 10দশ
  [dash]

• Where's a/the...?কোথায় আছে ...?
  [kothay achhe ...?]
• What's the address?ঠিকানাটা কি?
  [thikanata ki?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি আমাকে দেখাতে পারবেন?
  [apni amake dekhate parben?]
• When's the next (bus)?পরবর্তী (বাস) কবে?
  [porborti (bus) kobe?]
• A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকেট (প্রায় ....)
  [ekti ticket (prae ....)]

Upper Shillong, situated at a higher altitude than the rest of the city, has historical significance that dates back to the British colonial period. The area was developed as a summer retreat for British officials due to its cool climate and scenic beauty. The neighborhood's establishment in the late 19th century was part of a larger trend of British colonial expansion in the northeastern region of India, where they sought refuge from the heat of the plains.

Upper Shillong is a vibrant mix of Khasi culture, which is predominant in the region, alongside influences from the British colonial era. The Khasi people have a rich heritage, characterized by matrilineal traditions, and their unique customs are still prevalent today. The presence of English-style houses alongside traditional Khasi huts highlights this cultural fusion.

During World War II, Upper Shillong was strategically important as it housed military camps and served as a base for the Allied forces. The region's geography made it a vital location for operations in Southeast Asia. Post-war, this military legacy contributed to the development of infrastructure and the establishment of educational institutions in Upper Shillong.

The Shillong Accord was a significant political event that took place in the city, impacting Upper Shillong and the surrounding areas. It aimed to address the aspirations of the Khasi people and other indigenous communities, leading to the establishment of the Autonomous District Council. This accord played a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity and administrative rights of the local population.

In recent years, Upper Shillong has seen a rise in urbanization and development, with new residential areas and amenities being introduced. However, there are ongoing efforts to preserve its historical and cultural heritage. The construction of cultural centers and the promotion of local festivals aim to maintain the unique identity of Upper Shillong amidst modernization.

Upper Shillong is accessible from the main city of Shillong, approximately 10 kilometers away. You can take a local taxi or a shared auto-rickshaw from the city center. Buses also operate frequently, connecting various neighborhoods to Upper Shillong. The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi), about 30 kilometers away, with limited flights primarily from Guwahati. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Upper Shillong.

Upper Shillong is best explored by local taxis, which are plentiful and a convenient way to navigate the area. Bicycles can also be rented for a more adventurous experience, allowing you to enjoy the scenic landscapes. While public buses operate, they may be less frequent, so it's advisable to check schedules in advance. Walking is a great option for short distances, as the area is relatively safe and pedestrian-friendly.

Upper Shillong is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to exercise caution, especially after dark. Avoid isolated areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While there have been no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur in busier locales. Always stay alert and trust your instincts.

In case of emergencies, dial the local emergency number 100 for police assistance or 108 for ambulance services. The nearest hospital is Shillong Civil Hospital. It is recommended to carry travel insurance that includes medical coverage. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; always remove your shoes before entering homes or religious places. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod; a handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy street food; don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it can be deemed rude.

To experience Upper Shillong like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with residents, who are usually welcoming and eager to share local stories. Don’t miss out on visiting the picturesque Shillong Peak for stunning views of the region. Explore local cafes and eateries to savor authentic Khasi cuisine, such as 'Jadoh' (rice with meat) and 'Dohneiiong' (pork with black sesame).