Meghalaya Tour
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong, offers much more than just pristine landscapes and marvellous weather.
Meghalaya often referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’ (reminiscent of Scottish uplands), Shillong reflects British influences startlingly clean settlement dotted gorgeous houses and charming byland with a mixed crowd of Garos, Khasis, Jaintias and Christians, the folks are warm and accommodating. is most pleasant (call me a feminist you will), is the equivocal distinction between genders, most tribes are matriarchal and speak of woman power. Unless you’re planning regional excursions, three to four days are adequate to savour the city’s beauty. Here are the top ten things you experience when in Shillong.
Visit Cherrapunjee. (Sohra)
Sohra, 56 km from Shillong. The rainfall recorded in 2007 was l2,475 mm. Most locals live off the mining industry or by selling overpriced trinkets. It’s better to flock to Cherra Bazaar, which houses the same articles at half the price. Also pick up some orange-coloured honey. Visit the serene Ramakrishna Mission and Technical School, a setup created by Pandit Nehru in 1952. The Nohkali Falls were blocked by stubborn fog, but the roaring of the waters below was wonderful.
Explore the Mawsmai Caves (Krem Pubon)
Situated n Cherrapunjee itself, these popular caves are delightful. A heavy shower from the previous night prevents me from venturing too deep. Nevertheless, the 100-year-old limestone structures, with jagged stalactites and stalagmites are enjoyable. The terrain is rugged and slippery, so do equip yourself with sturdy footwear. Shillong has dozens of caves to explore, some of which will take you right across the border to Bangladesh (only feasible with an expert guide).
Travel tip:
With more time, nature lovers should visit Mawphlang, also known as The Sacred Grove’, a botanist’s delight with rare species of flora and fauna. For hikers, several trails like the ones leading to David Scott Memorial and cremation platforms of Sohra kings are pleasant. At Nongsawlia, you’ll see several churches the oldest of them, more than 150 years old.
Climb the Living Root Bridges
Situated around two hours from Cherrapunjee (by foot; vehicles can’t move further), these bio-engineered wonders are exclusive to Meghalaya. The secondary roots of Indian rubber trees were first woven by the Khasis to grow in a desired direction, and these “living bridges” are still used by people to cross the gurgling streams. Crossing these bridges with the Umshiang River heaving below, is one hell of an experience. About 90 km ahead of Shillong lies the Mawlynnong village dubbed to be the cleanest village in India that boasts a 90 per cent literacy rate. Several other outdoor activities such as river canyoning (very physically demanding) are open from November to February every year.
Picnic at Ward’s Lake
The lake, locally called Nan Polok was named after the Chief Commissioner of Assam, William Ward. Situated right in the heart of the city, it’s a pleasant place to unwind and go boating in. Also frequented by picnickers is the Lady Hydari Park, and with carpets of flowers in full bloom in summer (April) and autumn (October) it makes for a very pretty picture. With a museum, mini zoo and deer park in the same complex, it is great entertainment for kids as well.
Sail at the Umiam Lake
This artificial lake, also known as Barapani (meaning big waters), falls on the way from Guwahati to Shillong. Like most landmarks, this name too is derived from local folk tales. Legend has it that two sisters descended upon Meghalaya from the heavens. Unfortunately, one didn’t make it and the tears of her mourning sister formed the lake. The famous Orchid Lake Resort (designed by Charles Correa) offers sailing, kayaking and many other kinds of water sports. Another resort, the Ri Kynjai, steals your heart and if you’re willing to stay half an hour away from the city, this is your best bet.
Stay at the Royal Tripura – Heritage Castel
Not a castle in the typical sense of the word, the summer home of the Maharaja
of the Manikya Dynasty of Tripura stands testimony to the affection the royals had for this hill station. The property still bears of the nobility and luxury of yore, and is the oldest heritage hotel in Northeast India. Built among the hazy hills and less than a mile from the main city, it is nine acres of wooden seclusion and allure. Guarded by a horseshoe gate, a winding road made of Cherra stone leads up to this elegant residence. Try the Khasi fare Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), dohlkeih (spicy pork salad) and tungtop (dried fish chutney). You even get to see autographed photographs of Mussolini, Tagore, Franklin Roosevelt and even Hitler! There are only ten rooms here, so book in advance. For OW final touch of royalty, make note that heir of the Manikya Dynasty, Yuvraj Pradyot fives next door.
Archery contest at Polo Grounds
Archery is a sport much loved here and one can witness it at the Polo Grounds at 4 p.m. every day. At 4.15 P.M. sharp, the archers line up and begin shooting away for four whole minutes. What you will see is a busy shower of arrows, reminiscent of some period film with hundreds zipping by.
Eat, shop and make merry
Being a foodie, the climax of Shillong was brought to light by the abundance of momos. These steamed dumplings containing meat or vegetables and subtle spices that melt in your mouth are made from rice flour. The place to visit for momos is Broadway, the small eating joint right in the heart of Police Bazaar. In the evening, Shillong gets freezing cold and a familiar fragrance of steaming hot jalebies (pretzel-shaped sweetmeats) wafts down-the street. Make sure to some of these. Also try kwai, a local digestive that has betel nut enveloped in betel leaf with a dash of lime. Try rice cakes or yellow rice (known asjostem). Also called Khyndailad, Police Bazaar will provide some great bargains if you hunt with determination. A pair of sturdy golden slippers at a mere Rs 100 was a revelation! The city winds up as early as 10.30 p.m., but social butterflies can hang out in nightspots such as Tango or Cloud 9 at Hotel Centre Point Laitumkhrah, with its cafes and interesting shopping is an extremely popular place to hangout among the locals.
Peaks and waterfalls
The Shillong Peak is the highest point at about 1,965m above sea level and 10 km upwards from the city of Shillong. Being in the vicinity of the army district, the roads are spotless. A stunning panoramic view awaits you at the top, making it worth the ride. In spring, the priests of Hima Mylliem offer their prayers to the goddess who resides here. The Elephant Falls (12 km from Shillong) are a pretty sight, the name given by a Britisher who noticed a massive boulder shaped like an elephant, right next to the falls. Other famous ones include the Bishop’s Falls, Beadon’s Falls, Crimoline’s Falls, Spread Eagle Falls and Sweet Falls.
Putt at the Shillong Golf Course
Considered tough for golfers because of the rolling landscape and the pine and rhododendron trees lining it, this beautiful course was India’s first nine-hole course introduced by British Civil Service officers in 1898. The current 18-hole course is a result of the efforts of a gentleman called Captain Jackson in 1924. Often referred to as the ‘Gleneagle of the East’, with golfers enjoying a Himalayan backdrop to the game, it lives up to its popularity.
Also keep a watch out for local concerts, as Shillong has some of the best rock bands in the country. With more time on your hands, visit Jakrem (64 km from Shillong); the hot springs here are said to have medicinal properties. A land with mystical legends and remnants of history, Shillong is the perfect place to unwind in the lap of nature.
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