Nestled amid rolling hills and whispering pines, Shillong—the capital of Meghalaya—is a traveler’s delight. For those flying into the region, Shillong Airport (also known as Umroi Airport) acts as the primary air transit hub. While the airport is small and still growing in terms of connectivity, the journey from the runway to the city becomes memorable, thanks to the taxi services that whisk visitors into the heart of this charming hill station.

Let’s unravel everything you need to know about Shillong Airport taxi services—from fares and convenience to the scenic ride that awaits.

Welcome to Umroi Airport: The Entry Point to Meghalaya

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Shillong city, Umroi Airport caters primarily to domestic travelers, with flights operating from cities like Kolkata and occasionally other regional destinations. Though compact, the airport is clean, efficient, and set against a stunning backdrop of misty hills and dense forests.

The moment you exit the terminal, the crisp mountain air hits your skin, and taxi drivers wait to welcome you to their beloved city.

Types of Taxi Services Available

1. Prepaid Taxis

   • Offered through airport counters regulated by local authorities.

   • Rates are fixed and transparent, ensuring hassle-free travel.

   • You’ll receive a voucher detailing the fare and driver information.

2. Shared Cabs and Sumo Vehicles

   • Ideal for budget travelers.

   • These vehicles wait outside the airport and often fill up with fellow passengers heading toward Shillong or smaller towns.

   • Fares are split among riders, and the ride, though longer, is often lively and scenic.

3. Private Tourist Taxis

   • Ideal for couples, families, or those desiring comfort and privacy.

   • Rates may be slightly higher but come with added perks like air-conditioning, local guidance, and flexible stops.

4. Online App-Based Cabs (Availability Varies)

   • Services like Ola or Uber may not operate fully in Shillong, but some regional apps and operators provide bookings via phone or website.

   • Always confirm in advance, especially during monsoon season or peak travel months.

Fare Structure and Booking Tips

• For a standard private taxi to Shillong city, expect to pay anywhere from ₹600 to ₹1200, depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Shared cabs usually cost ₹200–₹400 per person.

• Pre-booking during festivals (like Nongkrem or Shad Suk Mynsiem) or peak travel season (March to May) is highly recommended.

• Some drivers also offer full-day packages for sightseeing, which can be negotiated directly or via tour agencies.

The Journey: Airport to Shillong

The drive from Umroi Airport to Shillong is nothing short of cinematic. Winding roads flanked by wildflowers, distant waterfalls, sleepy villages, and panoramic cloud-kissed hills make the 45-minute journey a teaser of what’s to come.

Drivers often double up as storytellers—sharing local legends, pointing out hilltop shrines, and even suggesting hidden cafés or viewpoints. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a double rainbow or a spontaneous Khasi folk tune on the radio.

Airport Taxi Tips for Travelers

• Always check your flight timing and coordinate taxi pick-up accordingly—weather in Shillong can be unpredictable.

• Verify the condition of the vehicle before confirming, especially during rainy months (June–September).

• If traveling late at night or solo, opt for prepaid or verified tourist taxis for added safety.

• Have some cash handy—card payments may not be accepted, and ATM availability is limited around the airport.

More Than Just a Ride

Shillong Airport taxis aren’t merely about transport—they’re about transition. They move you from the concrete of runways to the softness of pine forests, from check-ins to chai stalls. Every turn on the road tells a story, and your first hour in Meghalaya is often shaped by the warmth and wit of your driver.