meghalaya

Meghalaya

Meghalaya means the abode of clouds. Nestled between Assam and Bangladesh, It is one of the most beautiful states in North East India. Meghalaya shares her border with Assam on the north and eastern side and with Bangladesh on the south and western side. Shillong is the capital of the state. Meghalaya‘s natural beauty is captivating. Waterfalls, mountains, lakes, lush green valleys, and rivers make this state so attractive beyond description. As the name suggests, the state is home to two destinations which receive some of the highest rainfall in the world. Mawsynram is the wettest place on the earth and Cherrapunjee used to have that title prior. Though Meghalaya is cosmopolitan in spirit predominantly the state consists of three major tribes namely Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia. Geographically the state consists of three main districts which are Khasi Hills, Garo Hills, and Jaintia Hills. Meghalaya achieved its statehood in the year 1972. Earlier it was part of Assam Province.

Weather

The climate in Meghalaya is quite moderate and enjoyable. Rain plays a crucial role here. The end of May to September receives heavy rainfall. December- January is chilling and February also is quite cold. March to May weather is quite enjoyable though May is a bit humid.

Shillong

We should first start with Shillong the state capital. A jewel in Eastern India, this hill town is stunningly beautiful. Shillong is called ‘The Scotland of the Hills’. The mystic cloud, Pine forests, waterfalls, lakes, mountains, golf course… everything here is just picture perfect.

Elephant Falls – Less than 15 Km from the town and very close to Shillong Peak this is a nice place to visit. This is 2 tiered falls. Surrounded by trees and rocks the place is quite rejuvenating. The sound of water is also quite enjoyable apart from the visual treat.
Sweet Falls – Very close to the town. One of the most picturesque falls in the town. Ideal for photography this fall has its attraction and the surrounding view of this place is just too good.
Shillong Peak – Offers a breathtaking view of the city and surroundings. On a clear day, the entire Himalayan range is visible along with green fields of the neighbouring country of Bangladesh. This is also very close to the main downtown of the city. It is also the highest point in the state.
Ward’s Lake – Immensely popular among the locals, this small yet beautiful lake inside the town attracts tourists. The lake is named after Sir William Ward. The environment is good and the lake offers excellent boating facilities.
Spread Eagle Falls – It lies on the outskirts of the city. Pretty beautiful and looks like an eagle spreading its wings
Shillong Golf Course – The lush green Shillong golf course is a natural play course and one of the most attractive sights in town. Situated more than 5000 ft above sea level and surrounded by pine and Rhododendron trees, it has been considered one of the finest 18-hole courses in the country.
Lady Hydari Park – A refreshing place for both the locals and tourists. Hugely popular for its flowers this park has got its name established in the tourist circuit of shilling.
Don Bosco Museum Of Indigenous Cultures – It has contributed tremendously to the subject of conservation and preservation of the cultural heritage and historical values of the northern states. Though situated in shilling ideally it splendidly represented the seven states. It is famous for its astonishing collections of art effects and Paintings. It also serves as an important research institute in the North East.

Other Popular Destinations Of Meghalaya

Umium Lake – Known as Barapani, this should be considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. It is 15 km from the town and unique in its beauty. It is a reservoir. One can feel a sense of serenity here. Apart from its water supply and power generation activities, it is an ideal destination for leisure tourism. A must-visit place is also famous for water games.

Nohkalikai Falls – The most famous among tourists. It offers a magnificent view. 55 Km from Shillong it is very close to the Cherrapunjee. The speciality of these falls is just beneath the waterfalls a naturally green-coloured water pool was formed.

Mawsmai Cave – It is 6-7 Km from Cherrapunji and nature’s wonder. One of the best limestone caves in the region it ignites a sense of adventure among the tourists immediately once a person enters into it. It was formed due to the deposition of Stalagmite and stalactite. The cave is lighted well. It is a one-way cave means after entering the cave, tourists have to follow a narrow road the outer gate is on the other side. It gives a unique opportunity to feel the thrill of cave walking.

Cherrapunji – The second wettest place in the country this is famous for the fabulous scenic beauty it offers to the tourist. The entire place is surrounded by the mountain range which naturally offers a spectacular view of the valleys. There are viewpoints where one can spot the villages of Bangladesh. The waterfalls flowing down through the walls of the mountains and Deeping down to the gorges is something which is an unmatchable scene.

Mawsmai Falls – It is very close to the village of Mawsmai. It is nature’s marvel. Positioned in such a way that throughout the day it receives sunlight which increases its natural beauty. Water falling in shining sunlight is a treat to watch. It is the 4th highest waterfall in the country. Monsoon is the best time to visit.

Living roots bridges – Found only in the state of Meghalaya and nowhere else in the world. These are made out of the roots of rubber trees which have the botanical name Ficus Elastica. There are quite strong bridges and often can carry more than 50 people. Living root bridges are found in different areas of the state. The Double Decker Bridge is found in the village of Nongriat. Asia’s cleanest village Mawlynnong has got living root bridge. These bridges are a combination of natural wonder and the master craftwork of the local Khashi tribal people.

Mawlynnong Village – This is one of the cleanest villages in Asia. Over time, it has become an important tourist destination of the state. It is around 90 km from the capital Shillong and lies amid East-Khasi hills. The village is a fine example of collective consciousness and meaningful community life. The entire credit for making this village one of the cleanest villages in Asia goes to the inhabitants of the village. They made it possible. Neat and clean roads. blooming flowers, lush green backdrop, small waterfalls everything has just added something to this place. An ideal place to mingle with nature and people. The villagers are warm-hearted and enjoy the tourist activity in their lovely small village. It makes them proud.

Dawki Village – If Mawlynnong is the pride of Khasi Hills then Jaintia Hills has got the village of Dawki. It is famous for its sheer natural beauty. Umngot River flows through this village and boating into the crystal clear emerald green water is a unique experience. The Dawki coronation bridge over the river is also beautiful. It is a bordering town with Bangladesh.

Food and culture of Meghalaya

Meghalaya is a predominantly non-vegetarian population. Their main diet consists of Meat, fish and rice. But they do take fresh vegetables also. Good restaurants are available in shilling offering both veg and nonveg, so for vegetarian people, there are options available. A distinct feature of the society here is that it’s a matrilineal society.