"The Legacy of Shillong as Assam’s Capital"

Shillong: The Former Capital of Assam

Shillong, famously known as the “Scotland of the East,” served as the capital of Assam until 1972, before Meghalaya was carved out. Selected by the British in 1864 for its cool climate and strategic location in the Khasi Hills, Shillong became the administrative, political, and cultural hub of Assam. It hosted key government offices, educational institutions, and cultural centers, shaping the region’s governance and identity. Even after losing its status as Assam’s capital, Shillong remains historically and culturally significant, reflecting its legacy as the heart of Assam’s administration during the British and post-independence era.