About Air Force Museum, Shillong
The Air Force Museum, also called the Command Museum, is inside the headquarters of the Indian Air Force's Eastern Air Command at 7th Mile, Upper Shillong. It covers the history of the Indian Air Force, with particular attention to the eastern sector and the 1971 India–Pakistan war. Aircraft and helicopters are parked outdoors, and the indoor galleries hold photographs, uniforms, ceremonial dress, medals, plaques and scale models of aircraft. There is also a section on the cultures of Northeast India. The museum has been renovated in recent years and has a small souvenir shop. Because it is on an active military base, entry is controlled. You need a valid government photo ID to get in, and photographing the base itself is not allowed. Shillong Peak is also inside the base area, so the two are usually visited on the same trip, along with Elephant Falls further down the same road.
What to expect at Air Force Museum, Shillong
Gate check: Show your photo ID at the base entrance. Security staff may note your details before you go in. Outdoor display: Aircraft and helicopters on open ground near the museum building, popular for photographs. Indoor galleries: Air Force history, the 1971 war, uniforms, medals, aircraft models and a Northeast culture section. Shop and snacks: A small souvenir shop is attached. Some visitors mention a canteen nearby. Parking: There is parking near the museum. Taxi drivers who regularly run Upper Shillong trips know the gate procedure.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to May (open year-round)
This is mostly an indoor stop, so it works in any season. October to May usually has clear skies, which also helps if you are adding Shillong Peak, where monsoon cloud (June to September) often blocks the view. Winter mornings in Upper Shillong are cold, so carry a warm layer. Arrive in the morning or by early afternoon: the museum closes in the late afternoon, and some sources mention a lunch break.
Getting There
The museum is at 7th Mile, Upper Shillong, about 13 km from Police Bazaar, a drive of roughly 30–40 minutes.
The museum is at 7th Mile, Upper Shillong, about 13 km from Police Bazaar, a drive of roughly 30–40 minutes. Take the Shillong–Sohra road up through Upper Shillong past Elephant Falls, then turn into the Eastern Air Command area. After the ID check at the gate, it is a short drive to the museum building, and there is very little walking. Shillong Peak lies within the same base, so most people plan the museum, Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls together as a half-day trip. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya.
Entry & Duration
Allow about 1 hour for the museum and outdoor display. Allow 2–3 hours if you combine it with Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the Air Force Museum from Shillong?
It is at 7th Mile, Upper Shillong, about 13 km from Police Bazaar. The drive takes roughly 30–40 minutes.
Is ID required to visit the Air Force Museum Shillong?
Yes. The museum is inside the Eastern Air Command base, and every visitor needs a valid government photo ID, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID or passport. Some sources say foreign nationals may not be admitted, so check in advance if you are not an Indian citizen.
Is the Air Force Museum Shillong open every day?
No. It has weekly closing days, but published sources disagree on which days these are, and it may also close on some holidays. Confirm locally before you go.
Entry fee for the Air Force Museum Shillong?
Sources differ: some list entry as free, while others mention a small charge of a few tens of rupees. Carry some cash just in case.
Can I visit Shillong Peak and the Air Force Museum together?
Yes. Shillong Peak is inside the same Air Force area, and the two are usually visited on the same trip, often with Elephant Falls.
