A foreign traveler’s visit to Shillong – Meghalaya’s capital and a popular hill station – has drawn widespread attention online after he claimed the northeastern city was markedly different from the rest of the country. Rory Porter, who has visited India several times, expressed his surprise at the city in a video posted on Instagram, describing its atmosphere as unlike anything he had experienced before.
“I feel like a completely different country”
“I just arrived in Shillong and it doesn’t feel like India at all,” Porter said, adding: “This is in Meghalaya and honestly, I feel like I’ve stepped into a completely different country.”
His remarks quickly gained attention and viewers responded to his observations about the distinctive character of the region.
Cleanliness and civic pride stand out
Porter praised the cleanliness of the northeastern city, which he said contrasted sharply with his earlier travels across the country.
“That surprised me the most. I’m sitting here in this park and people are just cleaning up, like proper civic pride. Everyone here is sweeping. I actually tried it with a traditional shovel and basket. So I did my part for the day,” he said.
He also pointed to the unique Khasi culture and diverse food scene as key aspects that set it apart.
“One of the most unique places”
“So far, Meghalaya feels like one of the most unique places I’ve visited in India, and we’re just getting started,” Porter added, indicating he’s just begun exploring the region.
Here’s how social media users reacted:
The video sparked a wave of reactions, surpassing 375,000 views and attracting numerous comments from users online.
“Since you are in Meghalaya, come visit the cleanest village in Asia,” one user wrote, while another said, “Saw you at Ward’s Lake yesterday. Wanted to take a picture with you two. By the way, welcome to Meghalaya.”
A third suggested: “Just drive to Sohra about 1.5 hours from Shillong. Stay a few days and then see what you want to do there. Lots of places. Local hosts know best. Lots of beautiful waterfalls with natural lakes and mountain ranges to die for.”
Another user listed several attractions including Sohra, Mawlyngbna, Mawphanlur, Markham, Phe Phe Falls, Nohkawang Falls, Umbyrlein Falls, Krem Dam Cave, Lymput Cave, Amtasam Falls, Moopun Falls, English Cemetery, Wah Rashi Falls and Nangrna Falls, Pdem Kremli.
