12 Indian Towns That Feel Like Foreign Countries

9. Shillong — The Scotland of the East

Shillong’s rolling green hills, misty mornings, and colonial-era buildings earned it the nickname “Scotland of the East” among earlier travelers. The town’s layout, parks, and some architectural details echo the aesthetics of British hill stations, while a lively music and pub scene gives it a young, cosmopolitan edge. Khasi cultural markers—traditional matrilineal customs, local handicrafts, and hill cuisine—blend with the town’s British-built churches and bungalows to create a hybrid identity that feels both international and regionally rooted. For scenic walks, waterfall visits, and cooler climate escapes, October through March are great windows for clear skies and outdoor activities. Regional travel coverage often references Shillong’s hillscapes and colonial heritage when describing why it conjures an international feel for visitors.