CULTURAL SHOWCASE
A multitude of museums and churches bear testimony to the rich, and largely unexplored culture and heritage of the state.
8 The State Museum and Don Bosco Museum offer insights into the ethnic tribal culture and traditions of Shillong through exhibits, clothing and artefacts. 9 The Wankhar Entomology Museum houses an outstanding private collection of rare varieties of moths, butterflies, beetles, centipedes, and tarantulas. The 10 Air Force Museum, located in the Eastern Air Command headquarters just outside Shillong, features weaponry, aircraft models, and technology used by the Indian Air Force. The beautiful 11 Mary Help of Christians Cathedral is the most prominent among dozens of churches in Shillong. The stunning blue facade of the cathedral stands on the site of the first church built by the German fathers, who were the first Catholic missionaries to set foot on these hills. The annual Bob Dylan Festival showcases Shillong’s love for music. Held in May, on the birthday of the singer-songwriter, the decades-old festival sees live music shows by local and touring artists, poetry slams, and tribute gigs.