Overview
About Police Bazar
Police Bazar is the commercial centre of Shillong, a dense cluster of shops, hotels, restaurants and street stalls around the city's main traffic point. It takes its name from the police station nearby and dates to the 1860s, when the administrative headquarters of the Khasi Hills moved to Shillong. Traders from Bengal and Marwar set up some of the first stores, and later merchants from many communities, including Tibetans, added to its mix. The main street, Khyndailad, takes its Khasi name from the junction of several roads that meet here. For most visitors it is the practical base of a Shillong trip: many hotels, travel desks, cafés and taxi stands are within walking distance, and the market is busiest in the evening. It is a good place to shop for warm clothes, shawls, local handicrafts, cane and bamboo items, and Meghalaya snacks and tea. Ward's Lake and other central sights are close by, so Police Bazar is often combined with a short city walk rather than visited on its own.
On the day
What to expect at Police Bazar
Shops: Clothing and winter wear, shawls, handicrafts, souvenirs, footwear and electronics, in both stores and roadside stalls. Food: Restaurants, bakeries and street food; try Khasi dishes such as jadoh and dohkhlieh at local eateries. Bargaining: Expected with street vendors, less so in fixed-price shops. Crowds and traffic: The central square gets congested in the evening and on weekends; walking is easier than driving within the area. Hours: Each shop sets its own hours; most close by evening. Check locally for Sunday and holiday opening.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
Year-round; late afternoon to early evening
Police Bazar can be visited year-round. October to April brings dry, cool weather that suits walking around the market, and winter is a good time to buy woollens. During the monsoon (June to September) expect frequent rain, so carry an umbrella. Late afternoon to early evening is the liveliest time, while mornings are quieter for shopping. Many shops close by evening, and opening on Sundays and public holidays varies by shop.
Getting There
Police Bazar is in the centre of Shillong, about 1 km from the city bus stand and roughly 30 km from Shillong (Umroi) Airport.
Police Bazar is in the centre of Shillong, about 1 km from the city bus stand and roughly 30 km from Shillong (Umroi) Airport. From Guwahati it is about 100 km by road along NH6, usually 3–4 hours depending on traffic. Most hotels in central Shillong are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. Vehicles often cannot stop easily in the busiest lanes, so cabs usually drop passengers at the edge of the market and you continue on foot. A private cab from Guwahati to your Shillong hotel can be booked with Tour Meghalaya.
Entry & Duration
Allow 1–2 hours for shopping and a meal, or longer if you are staying nearby and exploring the surrounding streets on foot.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Police Bazar open on Sunday?
There is no single schedule for the whole market; each shop sets its own hours and some stay closed on Sundays. If you plan to shop on a Sunday, check locally or ask your hotel.
Police Bazar Shillong timings
Most shops open in the morning and close by evening, with listings commonly citing roughly 10 AM to 8 PM. Hours vary by shop and season.
What to buy in Police Bazar Shillong?
Popular buys include warm clothing, shawls, local handicrafts, cane and bamboo products, and local tea and snacks. Bargain with street vendors.
How far is Police Bazar from Guwahati?
It is about 100 km by road, usually 3–4 hours by cab depending on traffic and stops.
Which places are near Police Bazar Shillong?
Ward's Lake is a short distance away, and central sights such as the Shillong cathedral area and Laitumkhrah are a short drive from the market.
