Flying from Varanasi (VNS) to Shillong (SHL): what you need to know
Leave plenty of time to catch your VNS to SHL flight. It's generally best to arrive two hours before international departures and an hour ahead for domestic flights.
Flying during a peak month like February? Public holidays and other high seasons can result in longer lines and delays at security. Be extra cautious and arrive up to four hours before international flights and two hours before a domestic departure.
How to find the cheapest flights from Varanasi (VNS) to Shillong (SHL)
The lowest price we've seen for a one-way Varanasi to Shillong flight is ₹ 11,928. A return plane ticket is currently ₹ 21,131. Depending on the availability and when you book, these fares could change.
Don't wait until the last minute. You're more likely to find cheap tickets from VNS to SHL if you book in advance. Airlines often offer some terrific early bird rates.
Finding cheap flights from Varanasi to Shillong is easier if you're flexible with your trip dates. Use the 'Whole month' tool to see the best prices throughout the month and score a great deal.
Picking up cheap flights from VNS to SHL is easy with Price Alerts. All you need to do is create one of these automatic alerts and we'll get in touch when there's a better deal.
Choose your preferred departure and arrival times, airlines and number of stops with the filters. Alternatively, sort your results by 'Cheapest' to find the best deals on flights from Varanasi to Shillong.
Handy information about Varanasi (VNS)
53% of flights taking off from Varanasi land at their destination on time.
Varanasi is about 26 kilometres from central Varanasi. If you're catching a taxi, ride-sharing or driving from the centre, it'll take you 35 minutes or so to arrive, depending on the traffic.
The trip when using public transport typically takes 1 hour 10 minutes.
Booked an early flight from Varanasi to Shillong? Avoid the stress of rushing to the airport (and sneak in some extra snooze time) by picking one of these stays near VNS:
What is the baggage allowance on flights from Varanasi Airport (VNS) to Shillong Airport (SHL)?
Flights from VNS to SHL typically include a carry-on bag with standard fares, though baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket type. Here is what you can expect with airlines operating this route:
IndiGo
Carry-on allowance: 7kg cabin bag (55x35x25cm) plus personal item
Checked baggage: 15kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: Varanasi Airport (VNS), Terminal 1
Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before departure
SpiceJet
Carry-on allowance: 7kg cabin bag (55x35x25cm) plus personal item
Checked baggage: 15kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: Varanasi Airport (VNS), Terminal 1
Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before domestic departure
You can access essential facilities including free Wi-Fi, dining options, and parking services at Varanasi Airport (VNS). The airport also provides ATM facilities, currency exchange services, and medical assistance for passengers. Prayer rooms and baby care facilities are available to ensure your comfort during your journey through Varanasi Airport (VNS).
Arriving at Shillong (SHL)
Consider staying in a hotel near SHL if you're catching a late Varanasi to Shillong flight. Choose one of these options and skip the long transfer after landing:
Getting from Shillong (SHL) to central Shillong
From Shillong, Shillong is approximately 31 kilometres away. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the centre by car.
Getting there on public transport takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.
When to fly to Shillong (SHL)
The quietest month for a flight from Varanasi to Shillong is March, while June is the most popular. Choose the best time to visit Shillong based on whether you prefer a more fast-paced or easygoing experience.
The warmest month in Shillong is April, with the temperature ranging between 14ºC and 27ºC. Lock in your flights from Varanasi to Shillong in this month if you enjoy this type of weather.
January sees average temperatures of between 5ºC and 19ºC. Look for cheap tickets from VNS to SHL sometime around then if you want to travel when it's cooler.
Weather snapshot
The weather in Shillong offers a pleasant subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures, refreshing monsoons, and comfortable conditions year-round. Here's what to expect throughout the year:
December – February: Winter brings cool, crisp weather to Shillong, making these some of the best times to explore Shillong with clear skies and fresh mountain air. Pack warm layers for chilly evenings.
March – May: Spring brings warm days and refreshing breezes to Shillong, with occasional light showers that cool the air. Keep a light jacket handy for evenings when temperatures drop.
June – September: The monsoon season brings refreshing rainfall and cooler temperatures to Shillong's hill station climate. You'll enjoy comfortable weather perfect for exploring nature trails and outdoor attractions. Light waterproof clothing works well for the occasional shower.
October – November: Post-monsoon season brings clear skies and mild weather perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and nature walks. You'll enjoy excellent visibility for sightseeing, with light layers ideal for the refreshing mountain air.
Sightseeing and travel inspiration
Shillong sits in the rolling hills of Meghalaya, where cool weather and pine forests create a refreshing escape from India's heat. The city combines colonial architecture with local Khasi culture, offering misty landscapes, waterfalls, and a growing music scene that draws visitors year-round. Whether you're booking flights to Shillong for the natural surroundings or cultural experiences, this hill station delivers both.
Things to do in Shillong: Stroll through Ward's Lake, a horseshoe-shaped water body just 2 kilometres south of the city centre where you can enjoy boating and lakeside walks. Head to Elephant Falls about 12 kilometres southwest to see multi-tiered waterfalls cascading through rocky terrain, or explore Police Bazaar roughly 1 kilometre north for local handicrafts and street food.
Cultural experiences: Sample traditional Khasi cuisine at local eateries in Police Bazar, the main commercial hub just 2 kilometres northeast of the city centre, or attend live music performances at venues around Laitumkhrah, about 3 kilometres north. Don Ward's Lake hosts cultural festivals and art exhibitions throughout the year, sitting roughly 4 kilometres southwest in the heart of the city's cultural district.
Seasonal highlights: Experience the Cherry Blossom Festival during November when pink blooms transform the hillsides into natural gardens. The Shillong Autumn Festival in October celebrates local culture with traditional music and dance performances. Pleasant weather from October to April makes this the best time to visit Shillong for outdoor exploration and photography.
Explore more of India
You've seen Shillong, now it's time to discover other parts of India. Travel around 483 kilometres south-west to Kolkata to check off its popular sights. From Victoria Memorial to Howrah Bridge and Trip to Sundarbans, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Guwahati is another sought-after destination in India and is around 64 kilometres north of Shillong. No trip is complete without dropping by Brahmaputra River, Kamakhya Temple and Jai Mata Vaishno Devi Temple.
