The grounds are historically associated with traditional horse racing in Shillong, which gives the surrounding locality its name.
The venue is frequently used for Meghalaya Day celebrations and other large-scale state cultural events.
The location is uniquely integrated into a wider recreational landscape that connects directly to the Shillong Golf Course.
The pitch is one of the few high-altitude football venues in Northeast India that supports year-round local league matches.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, widely known locally as the Polo Ground, serves as the primary multi-purpose sports facility in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is a central hub for football matches, hosting the Shillong Premier League and various regional tournaments. The stadium features a natural grass turf surrounded by tiered seating areas. Beyond its primary function as a venue for professional football, it serves as a public space for local fitness enthusiasts during non-event hours. It is situated within the expansive Polo area of Shillong, which also includes adjacent golf links and horse racing tracks. The facility has undergone significant structural upgrades in recent years to enhance spectator capacity and pitch conditions. It remains the most important site for large-scale outdoor public gatherings and sporting events in the city.
The elevated viewing stands during a match provide the best vantage point for panoramic shots of the stadium and surrounding hills.
Check local sports schedules or local news portals before visiting to see if a match is occurring, as the stadium may be restricted during games.
Carry a light jacket, as the altitude of Shillong results in rapid temperature drops, especially in the evening.
Do not attempt to enter the main pitch area during organized team practice sessions or ongoing matches without permission.
Subject to closures during major state government events or professional league matches.
