What is the Capital of Meghalaya? Location, History & Quick Facts
The capital of Meghalaya is an important topic for school students, competitive exam aspirants, and anyone interested in India’s geography. Shillong, the state capital, is not only an administrative center but also famous for its culture and stunning landscapes. Knowing the capital of Meghalaya is useful for map reading, quizzes, and understanding North East India’s diversity.
| State | Capital City | Common Nickname |
|---|---|---|
| Meghalaya | Shillong | Scotland of the East |
| Assam | Dispur | Gateway to the Northeast |
| Manipur | Imphal | Jewel of India |
| Mizoram | Aizawl | Land of the Highlanders |
| Tripura | Agartala | Land of Palaces |
What is the Capital of Meghalaya?
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. Shillong is a scenic hill station located in northeast India. It serves as the administrative and political headquarters of the state. This city is well known for its clean environment, pleasant climate, and significant role in Meghalaya's history and culture.
Shillong: Geography and Location
Shillong is located in central Meghalaya in the Khasi Hills. It sits at about 1,495 meters (4,905 feet) above sea level. The city’s location gives it a cool climate and lush surroundings. Shillong can be found near the center of the state, making it easily accessible from Assam and Bangladesh. Shillong is marked as the capital on most administrative India maps.
Historical Background of Shillong
Shillong became the capital of Meghalaya when the state was formed in 1972. Before this, it served as the capital of the Assam province during the British era. Shillong’s old name includes “Yeddo,” and it has long been a hub for governance and trade in the eastern hills. It was chosen as the capital due to its central location and gentle climate.
Cultural and Tourism Significance of Shillong
Shillong is known as the “Scotland of the East” due to its rolling hills and European-style landscapes. The city is popular among tourists for sights such as Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, and Don Bosco Museum. Shillong is a cultural center, famous for music festivals, art, and unique cuisine. It is home to the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes, each with rich traditions and languages. For exploration, visit the Our Country India page on Vedantu for a broad overview of Indian states.
Why Knowing the Capital of Meghalaya Matters
Awareness of Shillong as Meghalaya’s capital is crucial in school social science exams and state-level competitive tests like SSC, UPSC, and bank recruitment. This knowledge helps in quick map identification and understanding India’s political system. Meghalaya’s unique culture and geography make questions about Shillong common in interviews and quizzes. Exam questions also cover its location, climate, and languages.
Key Facts About Shillong
- State: Meghalaya
- Capital City: Shillong
- Elevation: Around 1,495 meters above sea level
- Area of City: About 64 square kilometers
- Population: Approximately 145,000 (Census 2011; now higher)
- Official Languages: Khasi, Garo, English
- Known For: Hills, rainfall, indigenous tribes, tourism
- Nickname: Scotland of the East
- Main Educational Institution: North Eastern Hill University (NEHU)
Comparison of North Eastern States and Capitals
| State | Capital City |
|---|---|
| Meghalaya | Shillong |
| Assam | Dispur |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Itanagar |
| Manipur | Imphal |
| Mizoram | Aizawl |
| Nagaland | Kohima |
| Tripura | Agartala |
| Sikkim | Gangtok |
Usefulness for Students and Exams
Remembering “Shillong” as the capital of Meghalaya is often tested in social science, geography, and general studies papers. The topic is important for map labelling, current affairs, and state capital comparison. Knowledge of Shillong helps in state-level exams, current affairs, and group discussions on India’s diversity. For deepening knowledge, Population of India and Types of Resources are useful related concepts.
Quick Facts Table for Revision
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital of Meghalaya | Shillong |
| Most Spoken Language | Khasi, English, Garo |
| State Formed | 21 January 1972 |
| Major Educational Institute | North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) |
| Tourist Attraction | Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, local music |
How to Identify Shillong in Map-Based Questions
To locate Shillong on a map, find Meghalaya near Assam, in India’s northeast. Shillong is placed toward the central hills and is marked as the capital in most atlases. Practice with map-based activities using the Physical Features of the India Map for accuracy in exams.
At Vedantu, we make Geography easy to understand for competitive exams, CBSE boards, and quizzes. Knowing Shillong as the capital of Meghalaya helps you answer a wide range of questions quickly and strengthens your overall general knowledge for both school and daily life.
In summary, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. Its central location, rich cultural history, and pleasant climate make it a unique and important city in India’s northeast. Remembering key facts about Shillong is helpful for exams, map questions, and building a strong foundation in Indian geography.
FAQs on Capital of Meghalaya: Shillong Explained with Facts & Map
1. What is the capital of Meghalaya?
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It's a scenic hill station in northeastern India, known as the “Scotland of the East”.
2. Why is Meghalaya so famous?
Meghalaya is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and abundant rainfall, making it one of the wettest places on Earth. It's also known for its living root bridges and unique tribal traditions. The capital city, Shillong, adds to its charm.
3. What is the old name of Shillong?
Shillong was historically sometimes referred to as "Yeddo" or the "Scotland of the East".
4. What is the real name of Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is the official and real name of the state. It means "abode of the clouds" in Sanskrit.
5. What language is spoken in Shillong?
Khasi, English, and Garo are the most commonly spoken languages in Shillong. Other languages are also spoken in the region.
6. How was Shillong chosen to be Meghalaya's capital?
Shillong's strategic central location, high elevation, and its historical significance as a colonial administrative center led to its selection as Meghalaya's capital.
7. What are the key geographical features around Shillong?
Shillong is nestled amidst pine forests, rolling hills, and is close to beautiful lakes like Umiam Lake. Its location in the Khasi Hills is significant geographically.
8. How does Shillong's climate differ from other state capitals?
Shillong enjoys a cooler, wetter climate compared to many other Indian state capitals due to its high elevation and the impact of the monsoon season.
9. What economic or educational institutions are headquartered in Shillong?
Shillong is home to the prestigious North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), various government offices, and several cultural institutions, contributing to its economic and educational importance.
10. How do you locate Shillong on an India map for competitive exams?
To find Shillong on an India map, first locate Meghalaya in the northeast. Shillong is situated near the center of the state, atop the Khasi Hills.
11. Capital of Meghalaya in which state?
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is located in the state of Meghalaya itself. It is not in any other state.
12. Capital of Meghalaya in Hindi?
The capital of Meghalaya in Hindi is शिलॉन्ग (Shillong).
