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Geography :
Abode of the Clouds”, this is Meghalaya, the destination which soothes the minds of weary travellers. Clouds are always found during the monsoon season nestling in the tropical forest valleys of Garo Hills or in the temperate pine forests of the Khasi and Jaintia hills. Situated in the North Eastern corner of India, Meghalaya is bounded by Assam in the north and east, and the plains of Bangladesh in the south and west. The state covers an area of 22,429 sq. kms with a population density of 78.5 per sq. km.
The name describes the climatic phenomenon that brings torrential rain to its hills and forests, these same hills and mountains are responsible for this climatic experience as they force rain clouds coming in from the Bay of Bengal to move up - resulting in heavy rain. The Cherrapunjee belt receives the highest rainfall in the world.
The higher ranges of the Khasi/Jaintia hills enjoy a cool, bracing, temperate climate while the winters can be cold. The Garo hills on the other hand, is at a lower altitude, and has tropical vegetation. The summer months in Tura, the administrative capital of Garo hills, are warm and humid whereas winters are pleasant with a slight chill.
Meghalaya became the 21st State of the Indian Union, when it achieved full-fledged Statehood in 1972. Home to the Khasi, Garo, Jaintia and some lesser known tribes, Meghalaya boasts of a unique matrilineal lineage system practiced by all the three major tribes with some degree of variation. Property is inherited by the women, and the youngest daughter is the heiress of the ancestral property in the Khasi/Jaintia tradition. The Garos have a slight variation, if the youngest daughter is found not worthy, the property may be given to any of the other daughters.
The Khasis and the Jaintias predominantly inhabit the districts of Eastern Meghalaya. They are known to be amongst the earliest ethnic group of settlers belonging to the Proto Austroloid, Mon-Khmer race. The Jaintia Kingdom was a known kingdom in bygone years with mention in the Ahom chronicles. The Garo Hills are predominantly inhabited by the Garos, or as they prefer to call themselves, the Achiks. Belonging to the Tibeto-Burman race, they are said to have migrated from Western China via Tibet.
Traditionally, the Khasis believe that their religion is God-given and not founded by man. It is Mono-Theistic based on the belief of One Supreme God who is called ‘U Blei Nongthaw’. Respect is paid to ancestors as they are believed to keep a watch over the family. To the Khasi, life is God’s greatest gift and he therefore has to account for it in the hereafter.
The Garos, like the Khasis, believe in One Supreme God called ‘Rabuga’ who is the Sustainer and Commander of the world. The spirits connected to the agricultural life are very important to them and are appeased only by sacrifices and never worshipped. However, many members of the Khasi, Garo and Jaintia communities profess Christianity which was introduced in the middle of the 19th century. Today one can see churches, temples, mosques, gurudwaras and monastries in Meghalaya. By nature, the people of Meghalaya are cheerful, hospitable, peaceful and social; something reflected in their music, dance and sports.
Climate :
The state of Meghalaya is directly influenced by the south west monsoon and the northeast winter winds. The four seasons of Meghalaya are: Spring - March and April, Summer (Monsoon) - May to September, Autumn - October and November and Winter - December to February. During March and April, the atmosphere gradually warms up with the advent of Spring. From the middle of April the temperature starts rising to the maximum in the month of June and then decreases gradually. This period may be termed as the Summer (Monsoon) Season. The maximum temperature recorded is 34 Celsius at Tura and West Garo Hills District and 28 Celsius at Shillong. October and November are the two months when the climate is cool and temperate. After November, the winter season sets and continues upto the end of February. During these months the temperature comes down to as low as 2 Celsius in the Khasi Hills. Rainfall starts by the third week of May and continues right up to the end of September and sometimes well into middle of October. The maximum rainfall occurs over the southern slopes of the Khasi hills, i.e over Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram platform which receives the heaviest rainfall in the world. The average rainfall in the State is 12,000 mm.
People :
 Meghalaya is dominated by three principal groups of people. The Garo in the east and west Garo hills, the Khasi-Pnar in the east and west Khasi hills and the Jaintia hills. They follow primarily a matrilineal system. The Khasi group belongs to the Mon-Khemar sub-family of the Austro group of people. The Garo group is a part of the greater Bodo Kacheri family both by ethnic group and language. Their present location enabled them to maintain many of their traits and characteristics.
The Khasi-Pnar group indicated two prominent sub-groups of the Khasi and the Pnar. The former occupied the central highlands or the Khasi hills and the latter towards east, the Jaintia hills. The groups living in the northern and southern part of the main central highland, section were known by the terms of 'The Bhoi and War'. They are divided into number of clans and are essentially differentiated from each other by their location and function they perform.
Within the four districts of the combined Khasi and Jaintia hills there are number of dialects. Based on the dialects, the community is generally divided into five groups namely the Khasis of the central plateau, the Pnars or Jaintia in the east, the Wars in the south, the Lyngams in the west and the Bhois in the north.
The Meghalaya plateau is inhabited by three dominant tribes. These are:
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The Garos in the western section of the plateau
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The Khasis in the central section of the plateau
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The Jaintia in the eastern section of the plateau
The Mongoloid migration to Assam took place at long intervals and from widely varied sources. They, in general, belong to the Tibeto-Burman family of the Indo-Chinese group. The early waves of this group constituted the ancestors of the present-day Kacharis, Dimasas, Bodos, Rabhas and Lalungs, as also most of the tribes living in the hills neighbouring modern Assam.
Garos :
The Garos call themselves Achiks. 'Garo' is believed to have been derived from the name of one section of the tribe who are found in a compact area in the middle of the districts southern belt. The Garo tradition speaks of their migration from Tibet.
In course of time, the Garos society was divided into three major exogamous, 'Kin-groups' or Katchis, namely Marak, Sangma and Momin. These are further sub-divided into such groups as Areng, Shirra and Ebang.
Marriage between members of the same Katchi is totally prohibited by tribal law. Each of these Kin-groups is further sub-divided into a number of lineages called Machong. The Machong with its component households is the basic unit in the Garo social organization. A Garo belong to his particular Machong from his birth. In each village, the dominant Machong selects the headman who is Nok-ma literally means house-mother. Usually Nok-ma would be a man.
Inheritance among the Garos is restricted to the female line. Each family selects an heiress (nok-ma). A couple with no children may adopt the daughter of the wife's sister as heiress. The heiress is usually linked in marriage with the son of the father's sister.
The institution of the 'Bachelors Dormitory' (Nok-pante) is found only among the Garos. All unmarried young men and growing boys must live in the dormitory. These young people carry out allotted tasks entrusted to them by the village elders.
The Garo tribal groups consists of sub-tribes . They are
(a) Ambeng (in the western part including Tura)
(b) Atong (in the lower Simsang valley)
(c) Akawa (north-eastern parts and extend upto Goalpara and Kamrup in Assam)
(d) Matchi (upper reaches of Simsang valley)
(e) Chibok (upper Bhugi valley)
(f) Ruga (lower Bhugi valley)
(g) Dual (upper Simsang valley)
(h) Chisak (north of Matchi and Dual in central highlands)
(j) Kotchu (eastern parts)
(k) Koch (south-western parts)
Besides these, there are others like Megamo in the mid-western parts and the Dikos.
The Khasis
The Khasis are known by different names according to the tracts they occupy. Those who inhabit the northern lowlands and foothills are collectively called Bhois, those who live in southern tracts are called Wars. While those inhabiting the tracts adjoining Garo hill are called Lyngngams or Dkos but Khasi is the general name. The Khasi name for the people of the plains is Dkhar usually contracted to Khar. The Khasis which enumerates the exogamous clans of Khyrem Syiemship alone will show that a good proportion of the clans is made up of those descended from original ancesters from the plains. These clans or sects is called Kurs in Khasi. These Kurs are invariably exogamous. Marriage within the Kur is unthinkable to a Khasi. Ostracism is the least form of punishment. Society can inflict on those who contravene the law, the ultimate punishment.
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Religion :
The indigenous faith of the tribal people of North-eastern India, follow a familiar and largely identical pattern. All of them believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, a powerful creator, and a benign protector. They also believe in a host of the spirits, good and bad, whom they propitiate or appease by appropriate offerings. Their ordinary day to day life is believed to be influenced by actions of these spirits. Sickness, misfortunes, accidents are believed to be caused by their wrath, owing to some lapses on the part of the sufferer. It is because of this that tribal religion has for long been described as animistic.
The above observations are equally true of the hill people of Meghalaya.
The creator in Garo religion is Tatara-Rabuga. He created the world and also the creatures that live upon the earth. He also gives protection against some of the most dreaded diseases that afflict mankind. His worship demands elaborate rituals and expensive sacrifices: a bull, a goat, and a cock.
Less important divinities include Chorabudi, the protector of crops, and Saljong, the god who blesses man's labours in the fields. This God is represented by the sun and the annual festival, the Wangala is held in his honor. He is propitiated by the sacrifice of a cock and an offering of liquor before the commencement of festivities. The God Kalkame is invoked to protect the people of the village from the evil intentions of the spirits of the forests. He demands the sacrifice of a goat or a cock, the blood of which is smeared on the asong (sacrificial stone erected in his honour).
Nawang among the evil spirits is greatly feared - the monster that could even swallow the sun or the moon, causing eclipses. This spirit may also try to waylay souls on their way to Garo purgatory.
In other tribal religions, there is little place for corporate worship. When sacrifices are necessary, temporary altars or shrines generally of bamboo are erected where these are performed. Religious duties are generally individual or family obligations, though these may be limited to meeting the prescriptions of the priest (Kamal) who intercedes for them before the divinity or spirit concerned when called upon to do so. Harvest rites involve the community as a whole as does the Asongtata ceremony, concerned with the well-being of the village. This is performed at the Asong. This place acquires lasting sanctity although it is restored to for that particular purpose only.
The Khasi Pnars believe in one Supreme God whom they call U Blei Nongthaw or U Beli Nongpynlong (Creator-dispenser). The Deity is also occasionally addressed as Ka Blei (Goddess) perhaps not surprising, in the matrilineal society of the Khasis.
Minor deities include U Lei Long Ung who is the household deity and U Ryngkew-U Basa and U-Phan-U Kyrpad venerate as village deities. The Khasis also venerate spirits of their ancestors. It is they who protect their descendants as long as they lead good lives and after death it is the hope of everyone to be able to join them in the house of God.
Among the Malignant sprits are those believed to be responsible for several kinds of diseases like malaria and cholera.
Like the Garos, Khasis have their institutions of priesthood. In respect of the higher ceremonials or of state religious functions, the services of the priests called U Lyngdoh are sought, but in cases of illness, those of U Nongkha (Diviner) or U Nongkmia (Sacrificer) are looked for.
For divination, the Khasis resort to the breaking of eggs or sacrifice of a cock. In the first, omens are sought in the position of eggshell fragments on the egg-breaking board and in the second, they are sought in the conditions of two appendages in the entrails, one representing God and other representing man. Emptiness in one or the other betrays the cause of the illness.
The cock plays a very important part in the Khasi religion. It plays the part of a mediator between God and man. Tradition says that at the beginning of time, sins had become rampant among man. So much so that even the sun refused to appear. It was the cock, among all living creatures that agreed to risk its life for the good of man. At its crowing, the sun came out of his hiding.
With the establishment of British rule, Christian missions began their work in the hills about 1841. In Jaintia Hills the work started about a decade later. In both the hills, the mission work was carried out by the Presbyterian Mission from Wales. The Roman Catholics started their work about a half a century later. In the Garo hills the American Baptist Mission was begun in 1870's. Many people were converted into Christianity.
The Hindus make up another important group. Most of those who fall within this group belong to non-tribal communities.
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Religion :
Assam has communities representing many different religions, but the major religion is Hinduism (63.13%). Islam (32.43%) has the largest proportional population among all Indian states except Jammu and Kashmir. Other significant religions (4.44%) include Animism (followed by many tribal communities), Buddhism (by ethnic communities like the Khamti, Phake, Aito etc.) and Sikhism (followed by communities in Borkhola, in Nagaon).In Hinduism, Assam has played a significant role in the growth of the Shakta form of worship and Tantricism which continues in the present times. Saivism too continues to be important as there several important Shaivite shrine in Assam. The medieval times saw the emergence of a Bhakti movement led by Vaishnava Srimanta Sankardeva, which continues to be strong today.The benefit of development in Assam is relatively evenly spread. It has a larger representation of leadership in panchayat and regional levels and a relative gender equality.
Economy :
Of the total area 10% is used for cultivation. The important crops of the state are potato, rice, maize, pineapple, banana etc.
Rice is the main crop . Other crops include jute, ginger, mustard, sugarcane, chilli etc. These crops are produced in substantial quantities and are being marketed in adjoining states. Meghalaya is important for fruit cultivation. Fruits include pineapples, oranges, bananas etc.
The irrigation potential is much larger than the achievement. Only about 18% of the ultimate capacity for providing water to the land is being used.
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 Jaintia
The people of the Jaintia Hills belong to the same race as those who live in the Khasi hills to their west. They share some traditions of origin and with some understandable local variations, same customs, beliefs and habits. These language is variant of the standard Khasi language.
The people of the Jaintia hills have various names given by various anthropological authorities such as Jayantias, Syntengs. The people commonly refer to themselves as Pnars.
The Khasi and Jaintia tribal groups include :
(1) Khynriam in the central upland
(2) Pnar of the Jaintia hills. They are also called as the Jaintia and Syntang
(3) War in the southern parts.
(4) Bhoi in the northern parts.
Besides these, there are Mikirs in the north, Lalung, Viate, Vaiphe and Hmass in the Jaintia hills, Rabhas and Garos in the north and the Ayongs or Hajongs found scattered in the southern parts.
The inhabitants of this area trace their origin to Austro-Asiatic family and have migrated from the south-east Asia. They came from the east and settled in groups to form scattered village settlements in the hilly terrain. The Khasis were shifting cultivators and widely practiced jhum cultivation.
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Places of interest in Meghalaya |
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Shillong:
 Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a hill town, situated in the north eastern part of India. Shillong in Meghalaya is situated at an altitude of 1496 m above sea level. Shillong remained the capital of Assam, before the formation of Meghalaya in the 1974. The place, the people and the climate all combined together to create an amiable atmosphere, to make Shillong Meghalaya an ideal holiday destination throughout the year. Cherrapunjee, the wettest place on earth is only 56 kms away from Shillong. Shillong has beautiful lakes and waterfalls, and is set in pine forests and green mountains. It is a popular hill-station which the British used to call the Scotland of the East.
Best time to travel : October to March
Weather Conditions : Pleasant, pollution-free; Summers: The temperature varies from 23 degree Celsius; Winters: The temperature varies from 4 degree Celsius.
Location : Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya is just 56 km Cherrapunji, the world's wettest place.
How to get to Shillong?
By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong and Tura to Guwahati.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places to see in and around Shillong:
Shillong Peak:
An ideal picnic spot, 10 km. from the city, 1965 m above sea level, offers a panoramic view of the scenic country side, and is also the highest point in the State. Obeisance is paid to U Shulong at the sanctum sanctorum at the peak's summit every springtime, by the religious priest of Mylliem State. In the evening the city lights below appear like a star-studded abyss.
 Cherrapunjee (Sohra):
56 km from Shillong, situated in one of the rainiest rain-belt in the world, 1,300 m above sea level. A pleasant drive to see roaring water falls leaping into deep gorges, including the famed Nohsngithiang falls. The lovely town is also famous for its limestone caves and orange honey. Centre of Khasi culture and literature, it also has the oldest Presbyterian Church and also an establishment of the Ramkrishna Mission
Sohpetbneng Peak:
1,343 m, 20 km from Shillong, regarded as sacred by the Hynniewtrep people, is set amidst a beautiful scenic view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This 'Navel of Heaven' as per Khasi mythology is a heavenly peak which offers to fill the spiritual void and emptiness, to those who seek and desire solace and peace of mind.
Ward's Lake:
Located in the heart of the city, popular for short garden walks and boating, celebrated its centenary recently.
Umiam Lake:
Umiam Khwan (Barapani), 17 km from Shillong, offers water sports facilities including sailing, water skiing, water scooter The Orchid Lake Resort and the adjacent Lum Nehru Park is an ideal quiet holiday resort.
Botanical Garden:
A secluded but captivating spot with plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is located just below the Ward's Lake.
Lady Hydari Park:
A popular charming tourist draw, the adjacent mini zoo is an added attraction.
Golf Course:
The third oldest golf course in India. Developed in 1889 as a nine hole course, was later converted to 18 holes in 1924 by Captain Jackson and C. R. Rhodes. It is termed as the 'Gleneagle of the East' at the United States Golf Association Library and Museum.
The State Museum of Meghalaya:
The museum has a habitat section showing the living places of tribes, instruments used for hunting, fishing appliances, weapons, agricultural implements, transport equipment, domestic articles like pots, spoons, water jug, tobacco box, baskets.
Tribal Research Institute
The displayed exhibits include the colourful textiles, especially the shawls and garments worn by the local people, wooden and bone images, totems and masks, weapons and utilitarian implements, baskets and jewelry.
Botanical Garden & Museum
Just 2 km from the city of Shillong is the Botanical Garden & Museum. The museum exhibits several species of the plant kingdom. Most of the plants displayed here are the found in Meghalaya. There are also some rare to find orchids on display.
Arunachal Pradesh Museum
About 3.5 km away from Shillong is the Arunachal Pradesh Museum. The museum is here to display the exquisite items of Arunachal Pradesh. If you are not able to visit Arunachal Pradesh, then do visit this place.
Butterfly Museum
This is about 1 km fromShillong. Meghalaya is home to numerous variety of butterflies, in exotic colours and patterns. If you have not yet seen them, the do visit this museum, which displays a wide spectrum of butterflies found in Meghalaya. Cathedral of Mary Help of Christian:
At Laitumkhrah, it attracts devotees and visitors alike.
Bishop and Beadon Falls:
Both cascade down the same escarpment into a deep valley, the mass of water dissolving into misty sparks.
Elephant Falls:
12 km on the outskirts of the city, the mountain stream descends through two successive falls set in dells of fern covered rocks.
Spread Eagle Falls:
A soothing setting amidst the calmness of nature-a treat to the eyes.
Sweet Falls:
Situated near Happy Valley, most suitable for a day's outing and picnic. Explore it!
Crinoline Falls:
Near Lady Hydari Park, a cool spot within the city limits. This is a must visit place in Meghalaya.
NONGPOH:
Nongpoh is an important town and district headquarters of Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya. It forms the northern lower portion of the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. Once Nongpoh in Meghalaya was a good overnight resting spot on the way to Shillong in Meghalaya. The nature around is just spell-binding. The green trees around, the sky above, the tranquil atmosphere of Nongpoh is perfect for the tourists looking for a peaceful holiday.
Best time to Travel : Through out the year.
Weather Conditions : Pleasant.
Location : Nongpoh is 53 km away from the state capital, Shillong in India.
How to Get to Nangpoh?
By Air: The nearest airport is at Guwahati 124 km from Shillong is also well connected by roads and NH 40 passes through Nongpoh.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Guwahati, , 124 km from Shillong. It is also well connected by roads and NH 40 passes through Nongpoh.
By Road: Nongpoh is well connected by roads and NH 40 passes through Nongpoh, linking it to Guwahati and Shillong.
Places to see in and around Nangpoh:
The Road Side Market:
The road side market of Nongpoh has a flavour of its own. The fruit stalls are a major attraction, with luscious fruit at throw away prices. For the everyday traveller there is a variety of vegetables, both from the plains and the hills. The Nongpoh market was once famous for its venision, parrots and mynas pet stalls, but for them to be available today one needs a fair share of luck also, you can buy orchids at unbelievably low prices, if you are lucky.
The Nature Around:
A appealing up-hill drive through idyllic country scenario with the winds whisper through the pineland, the sonorous chirping of the birds, broken by the roar of water gushing down to lap up the boulders and rocks below is just mesmerizing.
The Orchid Lake Resort:
Nestled in the hills is a majestic placid lake amidst the sylvan heights. The greenery of the surroundings, the azure blue of the skies above have a hypnotising effect. The placid setting is truly astounding. Water sports and angling are the prime attractions in the Orchid Lake Resort here.
KHASI HILLS:
Khasi Hills in Meghalaya forms the central part of the state of Meghalaya in the north east of India. Being close to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is best know to the world. Khasi Hills in Meghalaya is the best known hills resort in north east India and is regarded one of the best in the country.
Khasi Hills is the picture perfect destination in Meghalaya with numerous places to visit.
Best time to Travel : September to May.
Weather Conditions : Pleasant, Pollution-free.
Location : Close to Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, India
How to get to Khasi Hills?
By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from whereShillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong to Guwahati.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country. From here you can take a bus or taxi to Shillong and then to Khasi Hills.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places to see :
Umiam Lake: The majestic lake with its surrounding sylvan hills clothed in the beauty of the myriad emerald green Khasi-pines and the azure blue skies reflected on its clear water, have a hypnotising effect not only on casual visitors but upon all who find themselves in its idyllic setting. The Water Sports Complex situated in the lake provides a choice of row-boats, paddle-boats, cruise boats, sailing boats, water scooters and speed boats.
Lum Nehru Park: Adjacent to the Orchid Lake Resort, on one of the surrounding spurs, there is a charming Park. Besides beautiful lawns and flowers, there is also an orchidarium and aviary.
Mawsynram: 55 Kms. From Shilong, it closely rivals Cherrapunjee in annual rainfall. Its major attraction is a picturesque cave of vast and unexplored depth, featuring a giant stalagmite, the slope of a natural Shivalinga. A place of pilgrimage and a natural wonder of sightseers.
Jakrem: A popular health resort with hot sulphur springs 64 Kms. From Shillong.
Ranikor Scintillating place of scenic beauty, it is located 140 Kms from Shillong. It is one of Meghlaya's most popular spots for angling.
Dawki: 96 Kms. From Shillong, it is another excellent picnic spot with silver streams and deeep water, magnificent views of the Khasi Hills on one side and Bangladesh on the other.
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GARO HILLS
 Garo Hills known for its abundance of wildlife attracts naturalists and photographers to capture the multifaceted sights of a unique range of flora and fauna. Two mountain ranges - the Arabella range and the Tura range, pass through the Garo Hills, forming the great Balpakram valley in between. The headquarter town of Tura is 323 Km via Guwahati, at an altitude of 657 Km. The highest point in the Garo Hills is Nokrek Peak with elevation of 1412 m.
Tura has an amazing landscape of hills against a backdrop of low-lying plains. A sunset view can be best seen from Tura Peak at 1,400 m and its summit can be reached by a 5 km trek, partly by hiking and also by rock-climbing.
Best time to Travel : September to May.
Weather Conditions : Pleasant, pollution-free.
Location : Situated in the headquarter town of Tura in the state of Meghalaya, about 323 km via Guwahati in India.
Access:
By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shilliog and Tura to Guwahati.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places to see in and around Garo hills:
Siju Cave: Located on the cliff overhanging the right bank of the Simsang River in south Garo Hills district, the cave is locally known as Dobakhol or the cave of bats. The cave consists of innumerable internal chambers and labyrinths, which have not yet been fully explored. The depth of the cave is yet to be fathomed. The cave is totally dark with a perennial stream flowing out of it, which abounds with different forms of aquatic life. The formation of stalagmites and stalactites in these caves resemble those of blue grotto in the isle of Capri.
Nokrek: The highest point of the Garo Hills region of the state is the Nokrek Peak. A virgin canopy of thick, tall and lush green forests cover Nokrek and its environs. The Nokrek National Park has been established at Nokrek and it abounds in various wildlife including herds of wild elephants, rare varieties of birds and pheasants, beside rare orchids.
Siju Bird Sanctuary: Just across the Siju Cave on the other side of Simsang river in the south Garo Hills- where you can spot many rare and protected wild birds-during winter some migrating birds have been visiting this places, which will be an added attraction to wild life lovers.
Imilchang Dare: It is a waterfall of immense visual beauty. The deep green environs full of large ferns, tall creepers and elegant climbers complete the desired effect, making Imilchang Dare a memorable sight. The deep wide pool at the bottom of the falls with its wide and expansive surrounding make it an exciting natural swimming pool, full of fish of varied size and colour, besides being an ideal picnic spot.
Sisobibra: Sisobibra is a place of historical importance where the Garos fought their last battle against the British under the command of Pa Togan Nengminja. It is just 12 km from Williamnagar on the way to Tura on the bank of the mighty Simsang River.
Bhaitbari: Located on the western frontier of the state, Bhaitbari is a small village of West Garo Hills district. The site is renowned for the archaeological finds having been uncovered after protracted 'excavations' on the area. The finds are of artifacts, which reveal the existence of planned places of worship. The Bhaitbari excavations are certainly of immense historical and anthropological interest and importance.
 Chibragre: Meaning confluence of 2 rivers is just 25 minutes drive from Tura, a veritable picnic spot with its lush green surrounding and breath taking beauty. The traditional hanging bamboo cane bridge suspended over the Ganol River from bank to bank lures many picnickers to try this swinging bridge.
Rongbang Dare: This sprightly fall though perennial, is at its best during the monsoon months. It presents motorists deriving from Asanangre towards Willaimnagar, a romantic visual of lasting satisfaction. Clustered on either side by vast evergreen hills of Bamboo, the falls itself appears to be on the sway, leaving the viewer with memories of ecstatic joy.
Williamnagar: Headquarter of East Garo Hills district encircled by the Simsang River - has been named after the 1st chief minister of Meghalaya Captain Williamson A. Sangma.
Rongdang Falls: Just above the famous Siju Cave in the midst of green thick jungle one can see a beautiful waterfall cascading down.
NONGSTOIN
Nongstoin Meghalaya is the headquarter town of the West Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. Nongstoin lies about 93 km from Shillong. Nongstoin Meghalaya is famous for a very unique stone which has natural embroidery colour in itself. The stone is found only here. The first saw mill of Meghalaya was established here and hence it became the capital of log works, which was later banned by the honourable Supreme Court of India.
How to get to Nongstoin?
By Air: Shillong Barapani Airport is the nearest airport.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places to see in and around Nongstoin:
Nongkhnum Island: The second largest island in Asia, Nongkhnum Island is situated a few kilometers away from Nongstoin.
Other Attractions: Some of the other attractions are Jakrem, Ranikor and Shillong Peak.
TURA
Tura is a peak, about 2,500 ft above the Tura town in the north eastern state of Meghalaya in India. Tura in Meghalaya is famous for its picture postcard beauty. Tura Megahalaya, a town in the Garo Hills, boasts of a wonderful landscape of lofty hills, against a backdrop of low-lying plains, with the mighty river Brahmaputra, dramatically rushing through, towards Bangladesh.
How to get to Tura?
By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong and Tura to Guwahati.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places to see in and around Tura:
Tura Peak: A majestic hill stands on the eastern flank of Tura, the largest town in the Garo hills area of Meghalaya. It rises 872 m above sea level over looking Tura. A tourist-bungalow, an observatory and a Cinchona-plantation are located at Tura Peak and its environs. A spectacular view of the lower Brahmaputra Valley as well as the golden yellow plains of Bangladesh is available all year round to visitors coming to Tura Peak.
Balpakram: The Balpakram National Park is about 165 kms from Tura. It is also known as 'the abode of perpetual winds'.
Naphak Lake: Located at a distance of 112 kms from Tura, it is ideal for fishing, and bird-watching, with the river Simsang flowing nearby.
Siju Caves: The famous limestone caves of Siju are located near the Naphak Lake. This place is worth visiting.
JAINTIA HILLS
The home of the Jaintia tribes, forming the eastern part of the Meghalaya, is the Jaintia Hills. The Jaintia Hills District in Meghalaya was created in Feb. 22, 1972. Bestowed by nature with bountiful of rainfall, smiling sunshine, green surroundings, high plateaus, bewildering valleys, rippling rivers, cascading waterfalls and magical streamlets, the Jaintia Hill displays some of the most alluring sights of Meghalaya. The beauty around the hill district is an unforgettable aesthetic-feast to every visitor.
Jaintia Hills is a picturesque town circled by the majestic Myntdu River in Meghalaya.
Best time to Travel : September to May.
Weather Conditions : Pleasant, Pollution-free.
Location : Jowai, headquarters of the Jaintia Hills District is located 64 km away from Shillong at 1380 m along the Shillong-Silchar highway.
Access:
By Air: Guwahati is the nearest airport from where Shillong can be reached by bus or car. Daily buses also connect Shillong with Guwahati airport. Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd, under the aegis of the Government of Meghalaya, has commenced regular helicopter flights connecting Shillong to Guwahati.
By Rail: Guwahati is the nearest railhead and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
By Road: Both Deluxe and ordinary bus services are available. Meghalaya Road Transport also run regular bus services in Meghalaya.
Places of Interest:
Thadlaskein Lake: On the way to Jowai from Shillong, passing through grasslands, rice terraces, woods of oak or whispering pine and the flowing Myntdu River, one riches the historical Thadlaskein Lake, about 8 km from Jowai. Legend has it that the lake was dug with the bow tips of the followers of Sajar Nangli, one of Jaintia's foremost war leaders.
Nartiang; Nartiang about 65 km from Shillong and 24 km from Jowai, is the site of the cluster of giant Monoliths, one of which is said to have been the walking stick of Mar Phalyngki 'the Goliath' of Jaintia legend. There are clusters of monoliths in Nartiang that are among the tallest anywhere in the world.
Syntu Ksiar: This is a vast pool of calm water, where the flow of the meandering river Myntdu which almost encircles the Jowai town, appears to come to a sudden halt, is known as Syntu Ksiar which means Golden Flower. At Syntu Ksiar, the Myntdu provides a memorable scene of remarkable beauty.
Syndai: Syndai is an important village, located in the Jowai-Dawki Road, dotted with a number of caves and caverns. Collectively the caves are called as Syndai Caves.
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Suggested Tours in Meghalaya |
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Choose your tour and click to view program |
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Tours are based on entry/exit by flight from Meghalaya International Airport. |
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Tour program can be customised as per requirement |
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Shillong Tour No. 1
Scotland Of East- Meghalaya (2 Nights/3 Days) Tour .
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Day 01 : |
Day 01: Guwahati Airport – Shillong (130 Kms / 3 ½ Hrs Drive)
Meet & Greet On Arrival At Guwahati Airport & Transfer To Shillong. Enroute Visit Umium Lake. Check In Hotel. Overnight In Shillong
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Day 02 : |
Shillong – Cherrapunjee – Shillong (60 Kms / 2 Hrs-One Way)
After Breakfast Excursion To Cherrapunjee. Later Return Back To Shillong. Enroute Visit Shillong Peak & Elephant Falls. Overnight In Shillong.
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Day 03 : |
Shillong - Guwahati Airport Departure
After Breakfast Transfer To Guwahati Airport. Tour Ends Here With Sweet Memories.
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Shillong Tour No. 2
Scotland Of East- Meghalaya (3 Nights/4 Days) Tour.
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Day 01 : |
Guwahati Airport – Shillong (130 Kms / 3 ½ Hrs Drive)
Meet & Greet On Arrival At Guwahati Airport & Transfer To Shillong. Enroute Visit Umium Lake. Check In Hotel. Overnight In Shillong
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Day 02 : |
Shillong – Cherrapunjee – Shillong (60 Kms / 2 Hrs-One Way)
After Breakfast Excursion To Cherrapunjee. Later Return Back To Shillong. Evening Visit Local Markets. Overnight In Shillong.
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Day 03 : |
Shillong Local
Full Day Local Sightseeing In Shillong. Overnight At Shillong.
Shillong - The ‘Gleneagle Of The East’ Lies In The Centre Of A Plateau Surrounded By Khasi Hills. The Gorgeous City Offers Amazing Tourist Spots. The City’s Own Ward’s Lake Is Popular For Short Garden Walks & Boating. The Botanical Garden Offers Plethora Of Indigenous And Exotic Plants & Rare Collection Of Orchids. Butterfly Museum Is A Storehouse Of Finest And Rarest Species Of Butterflies And Moths. Lady Hydari Park Is A Japanese Style Landscaped Park Endowed With Streaches Of Roses & Exquisite Flowers. The Mini Zoo Adjacent To The Park Has About 73 Birds, 140 Reptiles & Mammals. One Of The Largest Golf Courses In Asia Is An 18 Hole Golf Course Is Charted Amidst A Surging Valley Full Of Thick Pine Groves & Rhododendron Trees. Spend The Evening In The Splendid Arena ! The State Museum Is A Display Of The Lifestyle And Heritage Of The People Of Meghalaya. Shillong And Its Surrounding Is Dotted With Splendid Waterfalls Cascading Down Deep Valleys Forming Misty Sparks As They Break The Silence Of The Surroundings. Elephant Falls Is A Mountain Stream Gorging Down Two Successive Falls Set In Dells Of Fern Covered Rocks.
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Day 02 : |
Shillong - Guwahati Airport Departure
After Breakfast Transfer To Guwahati Airport. Tour Ends Here With Sweet Memories.
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Shillong Tour No. 3.
Scotland Of East- Meghalaya (4 Nights/5 Days) Tour.
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Day 01 : |
Guwahati Airport – Shillong (130 Kms / 3 ½ Hrs Drive)
Meet & Greet On Arrival At Guwahati Airport & Transfer To Shillong. Enroute Visit Umium Lake. Check In Hotel. Overnight In Shillong
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Day 02 : |
Shillong – Cherrapunjee – Shillong (60 Kms / 2 Hrs-One Way)
After Breakfast Excursion To Cherrapunjee. Later Return Back To Shillong. Evening Visit Local Markets. Overnight In Shillong.
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Day 03 : |
Shillong – Mwallynnong – Shillong (85 Kms / 2 ½ Hrs-One Way)
Early morning go for Elephant ride@ 5AM.Return for Breakfast Jeep safari in the Central Range. Overnight at Kaziranga.
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Day 04 : |
Shillong Local
Full Day Local Sightseeing In Shillong. Overnight At Shillong. Shillong - The ‘Gleneagle Of The East’ Lies In The Centre Of A Plateau Surrounded By Khasi Hills. The Gorgeous City Offers Amazing Tourist Spots. The City’s Own Ward’s Lake Is Popular For Short Garden Walks & Boating. The Botanical Garden Offers Plethora Of Indigenous And Exotic Plants & Rare Collection Of Orchids. Butterfly Museum Is A Storehouse Of Finest And Rarest Species Of Butterflies And Moths. Lady Hydari Park Is A Japanese Style Landscaped Park Endowed With Streaches Of Roses & Exquisite Flowers. The Mini Zoo Adjacent To The Park Has About 73 Birds, 140 Reptiles & Mammals. One Of The Largest Golf Courses In Asia Is An 18 Hole Golf Course Is Charted Amidst A Surging Valley Full Of Thick Pine Groves & Rhododendron Trees. Spend The Evening In The Splendid Arena ! The State Museum Is A Display Of The Lifestyle And Heritage Of The People Of Meghalaya. Shillong And Its Surrounding Is Dotted With Splendid Waterfalls Cascading Down Deep Valleys Forming Misty Sparks As They Break The Silence Of The Surroundings. Elephant Falls Is A Mountain Stream Gorging Down Two Successive Falls Set In Dells Of Fern Covered Rocks.
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Day 05 : |
Shillong - Guwahati Airport Departure
After Breakfast Transfer To Guwahati Airport. Tour Ends Here With Sweet Memories.
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