Saturday, 9 July 2016

Everything you need to know about Shillong

The Land of Abundant Wonders
 The complete tourist guide, you need to know about Shillong if you ever wonder to visit this place as your destination, some of you may be wandering why people talk so much about Shillong and Meghalaya as a site for tourist spot. Below is the brief detail of the Shillong tourist spots and guide, the reason for your destination when you wanna visit Shillong.
Maybe a week won’t be enough for you to explore all the places in Meghalaya, because there are so many places to visit and yes, trust me, you wouldn’t not regret in life at all if you visit Shillong along to see the nature beauty of the earth. Meghalaya has the coolest weather in India. The pleasant weather would make you feel comfy when you visit.
 But yes am warning you, people who stays in city and is visiting Shillong for the first time, don’t come with your summer wear, weather is too pleasant for you so you always have to be in winter mode.  
If you are not from Northeast, Shillong would be a dream place for you to enjoy the beauty of the nature. Honeymoon trip will be perfect for you because of the peaceful nature of the Mother earth and the people. 
Here is the list of places to visit in Shillong.

Khasi Hills is perhaps best known for Sohra (Cherrapunjee), geographically famous for being the wettest place on earth and also Shillong, one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Infact the entire Khasi Hills region that forms the central part of Meghalaya is richly endowed with natural beauty. Everywhere you go, you will never cease to be mystified by the spectacular charm the state offers.

Dainthlen Waterfalls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Just before reaching Sohra, a road to the right, leads one to the falls which is 5 kms away. Among the many falls that Cherrapunjee boasts of, Dain Thlen Falls is also one of the famous falls. Many tourists flock the falls especially as it has an interesting legend associated with it. The waterfall derives its name from a Thlen or a snake of gigantic size which dwelt in a cave. Legend has it that the people destroyed the snake in order to rid themselves of its reign of terror and this snake was butchered here after the King or Syiem had fed him with a red hot iron rods that killed him instantly a grand feast was held and the whole village partook his meal, but one old lady took it home to give to her grandchild but kept on forgetting, until one day the Thlen revived again. Adjacent to the very spot where the Thlen was slaughtered lies the Dain-thlen Waterfalls. Natural rock carvings of the epi¬sode draw visitors to see the image of the Thlen, the symbol of greed, cor¬ruption and evil. This waterfall is located in East Khasi Hills District, Sohra.
               
Nohkalikai Falls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Located in East Khasi Hills District, Sohra. This waterfall is 335 metres (1,099 ft). A hauntingly beautiful waterfall, cascading merrily down from a rocky precipice into a deep George. It is a legendary fall named after Likai who committed suicide in this fall, when her second husband killed and cooked her daughter by first marriage. Realisation dawned on her when she found the palms after partaking the curry, she ran shrieking like a mad woman and threw herself over the precipice.
                     
Khoh Ramhap
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 It is located in  East Khasi Hills District, Sohra. It is also known as Motrop, is an imposing single rock formation in the shape of a giant cone. Khoh Ramhah, also known as Pillar Rock or Mothorp is another major tourist attraction of Sohra. The very shape of the rock keeps one spellbound as it is an impressive rock formation in the shape of a giant cone. In fact, situated besides there are two very similar rocks, smaller in size. Legend has it that Khoh Ramhah is a fossilised cone shaped basket of an evil spirit. However, the beauty of the place is enhanced by the flow of the stream through the rocks, which takes the shape of a rapid waterfall when seen from behind. On a clear day, the Bangladesh plains yonder are a sight to behold.The clouds ascending from the plains and passing through the rocks add beauty and aura to the place. There is a view point just near the rock which gives one a nice view of the rock. A lesser known façade of the rock from behind can be seen, when one travels through the meandering roads of Cherrapunjee. The gigantic coneshaped stone is Meghalaya’s pride since time immemorial.

Nohsngithiang Falls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Located in East Khasi Hills District, Sohra. It literally means “Falls kissed by the sunset” and it is also known as Mawsmai falls, is 1 km south of Mawsmai village and derives its name due to the fact that the waterfalls are situated in a south westerly position and get illuminated by the sun from dawn to sunset. The vibrant colours of the setting sun on the waterfalls make it beautiful to behold.        
             
Spread Eagle Falls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Located within the Shillong Cantonment, on the outskirts of the city, lies a sparkling waterfall which looks like an eagle with wings spread. Hence the name Spread Eagle Falls. The falls is locally known as Umkaliar or the falls into which Ka Liar slipped. A soothing setting amidst the calmness of nature - a treat to the eyes.







                          
Weinia Falls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

It is located in West Khasi Hills District. Weinia Falls on the river Kynshi and quite near to the Thum falls is another scenic cascade. It is quite deep(depth not yet ascertained) and water vapour rising up from the bottom of the falls, in sunlight, form the colours of the rainbow. Both the sides of the falls is surrounded with rocks of different shapes, sizes and colours. Massive step-like structures formed by natural agencies are also seen on one side of the falls.
                 
Langshiang Falls

Everything you need to know about Shillong The Langshiang Falls is the tallest waterfall in Maghalaya with the height of is 337 metres (1,106 ft) and 3rd highest waterfalls in India. Langshiang Falls one of the important tourist attractions in Meghalaya. It is situated near the village of Sangriang. The nature's panorama that surrounds the fall is a treat to the eyes. The best view of the Langshiang Falls can be experienced from Mawpon village. The other waterfalls located near Langshiang Falls are Wei Spi falls and 'kshaid chong' falls. Langshiang Falls and its surrounding area is suitable for those who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday trip away from the hustle-bustle of city life. It can be enjoyed more during the season of monsoon.
                              



Kynrem Falls
Kynrem Falls Kynrem Falls is a three-tiered waterfalls near Cherrapunjee,situated inside the Thangkharang Park. The spectacular Kynrem Falls is one of the the highest waterfall of Meghalaya which is 305 metres (1,001 ft).

Kynrem Falls is a three-tiered waterfalls near Cherrapunjee,situated inside the Thangkharang Park. The spectacular Kynrem Falls is one of the the highest waterfall of Meghalaya which is 305 metres (1,001 ft).

Beadon Fall
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Beadon Falls which is 135 metres (443 ft) is one of the twin cascades situated amidst dense forestation in Shillong's picturesque Suna Valley. It is located about 2 km away from the bustling Bara Bazar area, thus having easy accessibility from the town's centre. This waterfall passes through steep rocky formations before merging into the watercourse of the Umiam River. Falling from a high ridge into the deep gorge formed by this river, the waterfall mesmerises visitors with its stunning vista. What adds to the charm of this cataract are its scenic surroundings, which consist of lush green forests and large rocks. This waterfall looks best during the monsoon season, when the heavy downpour increases the water current. The most splendid view of the Beadon Falls is offered by a vantage point that can be reached by taking a narrow road from Mawlai.

Bishop Falls

The 22nd highest waterfalls of India, Bishop Falls is located in Shillong is a three-tiered waterfall with a height of 135 metres (443 ft). Bishop Falls and Beadon Falls are twin brother waterfalls at Mawprem and from a view point both the falls can be seen together.        








                                 
Mawlynnong Waterfall
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Mawlynnong Waterfall is located is one of Asia’s cleanest and immaculate villages, Mawlynnong, Shillong. Popularly known as “God’s own garden”, this is a place that teach every visitor a thing or two about cleanliness during their trip to the North East. This pleasant destination creates a completely magical experience with its picturesque beauty and peaceful falls. It is a favourite attraction for several travel enthusiasts and photographers, thanks to the breath-taking view. The sight of the falls and the sounds of the water, coupled with the fresh air in this pristine environment make this place a favourite of all travellers. The Mawlynnong Waterfall is surrounded by forests and beautiful orchids which provides an experience that comes close to visiting paradise. This place is known best for its soothing ambience which makes you want to come back for more serenity. The best time to visit these falls would be during the monsoon months between June and September.
         
Elephant falls
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Located in East Khasi Hills District, Upper Shillong. Near Shillong’s highest Peak, (i.e Shillong Peak) a small road deviates a little further to the edge of the mountain. Out of nowhere, a stream rises from the higher plateau and sloshes downstream, running on rocks forming the Elephant Falls. These falls are just 12km from Shillong and few minutes drive from Shillong Peak.
                    
Sweet falls

Everything you need to know about Shillong It is located in  East Khasi Hills District, Shillong. Situated near Happy Valley at a distance of about eight kilometers from Shillong. It resembles a straight pencil of water emerging from a large size water pipe, as it drops vertically over a distance exceeding two hundred feet. Most suitable for a day's outing and picnic. 
         



                                                      
              
Mawsmai Cave
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Situated around 6 Kms from Cherrapunjee, the Mawsmai Caves are a major crowd puller that leaves tourists spellbound. These  limestone caves have the distinction of being the only caves in Meghalaya that are lit enough to enable tourists to enjoy the natural formations in awe. Though the caves are long, only a distance of 150 meters is open for tourists, while the other section is closed. The stalactites and stalagmites caves have innumerable forms, shapes and sizes inside leaving one to imagine as many life forms as possible. This magnificent natural wonder is the handiwork of years of natural abrasion and underground water.
         
Arwah Cave
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Arwah cave, which was discovered by few local men’s never came to the limelight until recently. This cave sits at a higher altitude which allows visitors to lay their eyes on to the other side of the hill which is the small town of  Sohra. It’s a magnificent place located in small town called Sohra in Meghalaya.

Krem mawmluh
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 According to the Bengal gazette, Krem Mawmluh was the first cave to be explored by a British subject, Lt. Yule, in 1844. It is the 4th longest cave in India. This  is a Grade 2 level cave in terms of difficult and easiness in Meghalaya, which includes about 5 meter vertical drops, waist deep pool of water, belly crawls, vertical climbs at few places and mostly horizontal passages inside the cave. The Cave entrance is a short trek by crossing hills and thick bushes near the Mawmluh village of Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya.  The limestone deposit in the southern part of Meghalaya along with the consistent rains forms these caves. ‘Krem’ is a Khasi word for cave. The length of cave passages is over 7 kilometers.

Krem Dam
Everything you need to know about Shillong

The impressive entrance of Krem Dam, measuring some 30 m across, lies at the foot of a large blind valley approximately 1 km to the east of Mawsynram village. A sizeable stream running down the valley enters the cave. The cave is formed in a coarse grained facies of limestone which almost looks like sandstone. The cave consists mainly of one very large river passage ending in a roof collapse where daylight can be seen. To the side of the main passage a complex maze of side passages and oxbows exist. The cave has no significant calcite formations.

Krem Lymput
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 The cave lies about 6 km. from the village of Nongjri. The inconspicuous entrance hidden in the jungle covered boulders reveals itself by the cool air it blows. It is another beautiful and rather easy cave for any tourist. From the small entrance hole, the main trunk passage runs for about 1 km with inclined walls and ceiling towards west into a passage known as 'Way to Heaven," which is a very loose and slippery climb. It leads into a series of spacious galleries which are very rich in calcite formations. Here, the great attraction is the Mughal Room (more than 25 m wide, 25 m high, and 75 m long). This cave is 6641m in length.

Krem Mawjymbuin
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Half a kilometre before reaching Mawsynram village, a metalled road on the left leads to a parking area by the cave. The entrance chamber of some 50 metres across and 4 metres high at its centre, has a large stalactite over a female stalagmite which gives an impression of a Shiva Lingam. This cave has now become a sacred shrine for Hindu believers. A small stream flows under the left (east) wall of the chamber, around some large boulders before entering a side passage heading east which runs for about 40 m to end in a boulder collapse. A side passage leads to a second rift entrance, called Back Entrance which exits out through the rear. Another side passage at the rear of the chamber forms a series of small rift inlet passages that run north and then east for some 50 metres, before becoming too tight. The cave is formed in calcareous sandstone and is only 209 metres in height.

Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 The root bridges, some of which are over a hundred feet long, take ten to fifteen years to become fully functional, but they're extraordinarily strong — strong enough that some of them can support the weight of 50 or more people at a time. In fact, because they are alive and still growing, the bridges actually gain strength over time — and some of the ancient root bridges used daily by the people of the villages around Cherrapunji may be well over 500 years old. One special root bridge, believed to be the only one of its kind in the world, is actually two bridges stacked one over the other and has come to be known as the "Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge."

Mawlynnong
Everything you need to know about Shillong

  Mawlynnong/Mawlynnong Village located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, also referred as ‘God’s own garden’ has won the acclaim of being the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. The village known for its cleanliness is located around 90 kms from Shillong and is a community based eco-tourism initiative. The community has made collective effort to maintain the ambience of a clean village. The village offers picturesque natural beauty, a trek to the living root bridge at a neighbouring village Riwai. The village also offers a sight of natural balancing rock, a strange natural phenomenon of a boulder balancing on another rock. The village has won accolade for being the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 as well as the Cleanest Village in India in 2005. The village also offers breathtaking view of Bangladesh plains as it is located on the Indo-Bangla border. Suprisingly, the village has hundred percent literacy and most of the villagers are conversant with the English language.  The village offers a number of small tea shops, where you can relish a hot of cup of tea with some snacks. Mawlynnong village has set an example for others that needs to be replicated in other villages.

Shillong Peak
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Shillong Peak is the highest point in state of Meghalaya (1965 meters above sea level this legendary highest peak is believed to be the abode of gods, offers a magnificent view of the spreading township below.

Umiam Lake
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Umiam Lake is a beautiful artificial water reservoir that serves as a popular tourist attraction of Shillong. This lake came into existence in 1965, after the Umiam Umtru Hydro Electric Power Project (the first hydroelectricity venture in the northeast) was started. Covering a vast area of 10 sq. km, this large lake has rightly been termed as Barapani (big water) by locals. The lake is encompassed by sprawling meadows and undulating hills that are carpeted with lush greenery. Apart from being a source of power generation, potable water, fishing and irrigation, Umiam Lake is a frequented tourist destination of the region. The tourism department of Meghalaya has developed this place into a recreation hot spot. Visitors can enjoy boat rides while admiring views of its surrounding landscapes. Those who seek adventure can indulge in thrilling water sports like kayaking, skiing and scooting - facilities for which are available here.

Dawki
Everything you need to know about Shillong
Source: Internet 
Travelling from Shillong to the International trade route border town of Dawki is a splendid drive of 95 kilometres passing through deep gorges and ravines, which is certainly a thrilling experience. On approaching Dawki is the Umngot river, the venue of the annual boat race held during March - April at Umsyiem. The Umngot river is the natural boundary between Ri Pnar or Jaintia Hills with Hima Khyrim of Khasi hills over which is a single span suspension bridge was constructed. This is the gateway to Bangladesh where major export and import transactions take place.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Everything you need to know about Shillong

One of the most remarkable features of the Khasi Hills are the sacred forests, which have been preserved by traditional religious sanction, since the ancient days. One of the most famous sacred forests is the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, about 25 kilometres from Shillong. The sacred grove has an amazing life form of plants, flowering trees, orchids and butterflies. An ideal destination for nature lovers. The sacred-groves which have been preserved since time immemorial are in sharp contrast to their surrounding grasslands. These groves are generally rimmed by a dense growth of Castanopsis kurzii trees, forming a protective hedge which halts intrusion of Pinus kasia (Khasi pine) which dominates all areas outside the sacred groves. Inside the outer rim, the sacred groves are virtually Nature's Own Museum. The heavily covered grounds have a thick cushion of humus accumulated over the centuries. The trees in every sacred groveare heavily loaded with epiphytic growth of aroids, pipers, ferns, fern-allies and orchids. The humus-covered grounds likewise harbour myriad varieties of plant life, many of which are found nowhere else.

Shillong View Point
Everything you need to know about Shillong

9kms (approx) from Shillong town located at Lum Majneh, Laitkor, offers a breathtaking view of the town, especially in the evening when the light glows like twinkling jewels amidst darkness

Ward’s lake
Everything you need to know about Shillong

It is a beautiful little placid lake, with a striking arched bridge, well landscaped and set in a botanical garden this lake has beautiful flower beds and offer boating facilities.
       
Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Scattered by an area of 29 kilometres that houses huge number of animals. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary is found to be alluring wildlife sanctuaries situated in northern eastern part of the region in the Ri-Bhoi district near Lailad village. Has variety of bird species migrated from foreign regions and exclusive flora and fauna which are in extinction. Nongkhylem Sanctuary consists of wide and exclusive range of flora which is in extinction. Paving the way to explore stunning flora, which are not the original habitats of India but were brought from foreign lands that give natural punch to the sanctuary. The park consists of richest botanical habitats with a variety of flora that are worth to watch. It includes variety of reptiles, rodents, avian, mammals like: Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Bison, Royal Bengal Tiger, and many more. Some of these species that are mentioned previously do no longer exist in this sanctuary, which are not found frequently while moving around Nongkhyllem Sanctuary. It is a best place for bird watchers with two winged bird and usually seen birds are Rufous Necked Hornbill, Manipur Bush Quail, and Brown Hornbill which migrate from other regions of the country.  March and April is the suitable month for travellers to visit Nongkhylem Sanctuary which is a famous holiday destination and the sanctuary is not opened all over the year.
                                                         
Lady Hydari Park
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Everything you need to know about Shillong

 It is one of the well-known attractions in Shillong. The Park is frequently visited by locals and is a well-visited tourist spot of the region. Named after the first lady of the province, Lady Hydari, wife of the Governor of Assam, the Park is spread over an area of more than a kilometer and features a mini zoo that has about 73 species of birds, 140 species of reptiles and other mammals. Besides all this the park has a wide variety of local flowering plants and orchids, and is landscaped in Japanese style. The Park is best known for beautiful bed of roses that blossom here in various colours. The park also has a butterfly museum a special play area for kids that offer swings like sea-saws, slips and other small rides for children.
                                    
Thangkharang Park
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 57 kms (approx) from Shillong, located in Mawsmai-Shella road near Saitsohpen. A few kms away from Cherra township, Eats Khasi Hills, it is a well maintained park which attracted visitors throughout the year from far and near. The park offers a breathtaking view of serpentine roads below with lush greenery environment.

India Orchidarium and Botanical Garden Shillong
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Placed alongside the Ward Lake, amidst the virgin forest of Mawphlang, India Orchidarium and Botanical Garden is one of the most famous attractions in Shillong. This Botanical garden houses an amazing collection of rare orchids and plantations. A visit to view these native exotic plants would be a delight, if you are a nature enthusiast. A myth is also associated with the flora and the forest of this area. It is said that the trees and plants here are sacred and if anyone disturbs them, he calls for misfortune. This area basically lies in the outskirts of the main city. Along with the collection of orchids, there is a small aviary where one can see a colourful collection of rare avifauna species. Take a walk at the well-maintained pavement and treat your eyes to the lovely views here.

Diengiei Peak
 Located to the west of the Shillong plateau, Diengiei Peak is just two hundred feet lower than Shillong peak. The peak presents a spectacular view of green mountainous hills. The captivating hills are dotted with tiny shining villages. Diengiei Peak is accessible by the Umiam-Union Christian College-Mawmaram motorable road which takes off from National Highway-40 at Umiam. Atop Diengiei, a visitor is greeted with a commanding view of the Umiam lake with the city of Shillong in the background. On the top of Diengiei, there is a huge hollow, shaped like a cup, which some geologists believe could be the crater of an extinct pre-historic volcano.

Sohpet bneng Peak
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 The navel of Heaven, is a place of pilgrimage for the Khasis of indigenous religion. Located on top of a hill, legend has it, that on this spot a golden ladder connected Heaven and Earth, God and Man. However, the connection was severed in accordance with divine decree. Once a year, in the month of February the indigenous Khasi people gather here to conduct rites and rituals and offer prayers. For visitors, a view of the surrounding countryside from the hill top is breathtaking and the feeling of space and vastness is truly an experience to be cherished.

Nongkhnum Island
Everything you need to know about Shillong


 Nongkhnum Island is the biggest river island in Meghalaya and the second biggest river island in Asia, after Majuli Island in Assam. Located about 14 Kms from Nongstoin, the district hqs. of West Khasi Hills, it is 20 to 25 sq. kms in area. Travelling on foot from Nongstoin through the villages of Lawse, Mawduh and Mawthar, it takes about two and a half-hours to reach the Island. There is a wooden bridge over the Weinia Fall to enter the island. The Island is formed by the bifurcation of Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and the Namliang River. At the point of divergence, there is a beautiful sandy shore about 100 sq. meters in area. The Phanliang River forms a beautiful lake adjacent to the sandy beach. This lake is about 400 to 500 sq. meters. The River then moves along and before reaching a deep gorge, forms a pretty fall about 60 meters high, called Shadthum Fall. At the bottom of the fall, there is a beautiful pool where a variety of fishes can be found. It then continues its journey and finally reunites with the Namliang River, near a place called Thongrin. The Namliang River first flows towards the north and then changes its course towards the west. It then reaches a gorge and forms two narrow falls. The first one is called Riatsohkhe fall and is near Mawthar village. The second one is the wonderful and beautiful Weinia fall, which is about 60 meters high. The River then flows further west till it reunites with the Phanliang River on the western rocky shore and then flow towards the west. After a distance of about 10 kms from the Island, it reaches the deepest gorge and forms the longest fall in the region of about 335 to 340 meters high, called Langshiang fall. The area surrounded by the two Rivers, i.e. Phanliang and Namliang forms the Nongkhnum Island. Within the Island, there are big trees and areas of grassland and natural playground suitable for playing football and golf and even for landing a helicopter. There are plenty of fishing pools, especially near the sandy shore, called Wei-Phanliang. Angling is the only way to enjoy as well as protect the fishes.
         
Mawthadraishan
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Mawthadraishan peak which takes an hour and a half to reach from the main road, is located on the northern side of Nongstoin - Shillong road, near Nongshillong, Mawroh and Markasa villages. It is about 70 kms from Shillong on the Nongstoin road. On top of the range, there is a depression with about 7 to 8 fish ponds of considerable size. The apex of the peak offers a panoramic view of the plains of Assam, and the distant Himalayas after the monsoon, on clear days. The districts of Garo Hills, Khasi Hills and part of Bangladesh come within the Panoramic horizons of Mawthadraishan peak.

Dwarksuid
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 An enigmatically beautiful pool with wide, rocky sand banks located on a stream alongside the Umroi-Bhoilymbong Road is known as Dwarksuid or Devil's doorway. Its lotus-like rock formations are captivatingly scenic and unforgettable.

Lumpongdeng island
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 This place is the perfect getaway from city life.the boathouse is beautiful and well maintained. you need to rent a boat which will drop u at the boathouse and then receive u the next day advance booking is required to stay at this place. it is affordable too. You can swim on the lake or trek around the island.

Golf Link
Everything you need to know about Shillong

 Golf Link in Shillong was the first 18-hole golf course in India. But it is not just for people who can swing the golf club; it is open to common people as well. The extraordinary beauty of the place invites not just golfers but everyone who cares about beauty. It is also called ‘Gleneagles of the East’ because of its natural beauty and resemblance to the Gleneagles by the United States Golf Association Museum.
 In 1898 the Golf Link began with only 9-hole course, but it was converted into 18-hole course in 1924 by Captain Jackson. It is one of the best things the British left behind in Shillong. Standing here, I could imagine the place all covered with pine trees before the Bristish came. They saw the potential and the beauty of the place. The locals could not have spared such luxurious land for a silly game of hitting a small white ball. They would be more interested in using the land for cultivation and other purposes. If this was not done, this place would have been terrace rice fields or occupied by big houses.  Shillong’s golf course is located at the lower valley near the Polo ground. It consist of many small knolls covered in green carpet that rise and fall like gentle waves; and occasionally dotted by golden pine trees. Few years ago it was a secluded place but now people have moved in closer and the risk of losing this beauty to indifferent behaviours has increased.

David Scott’s Trail
Everything you need to know about Shillong

Ladmawphlang to Mawphlang: David Scott.  British Administrator, political agent to the British Raj, and all around bad-boy left something behind that still exists in bits and pieces till this day. His operations and reach stretched about 29 years (1802-1832) in the Khasi Hills and the surrounding low-lying areas. These areas are now in Bangladesh and the Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam. One of the few tangible remainders of the infamous David Scott, is the horse-cart trail that he built which stretched from Cherrapunjee, now properly called Sohra, to Bangladesh. This road caused a war between the Khasi people, led by U Tirot Singh, king of the Khadsawphra Syiemship and the British. The Khasi forces were finally defeated by British muskets, artillery and superior military strength but not before the bows, arrows and guile of the native people had given the English 4 years worth of guerrilla-warfare style grief. U Tirot Singh was ultimately captured and deported to Dhaka, now the capital of Bangladesh where he died on 17th July 1835. The stretch between Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang village is roughly 16 kms long and is a picturesque day hike. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam. Winding around, descending and ascending a rough elevation of about 1400 m, the trail leads from sleepy little Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang. Both villages which deserve their own chapters in the annals of Khasi history, culture and folklore, especially Mawphlan

Well, you must have seen the places in the pictures by now, and if you wish to visit Shillong and don’t know how to go about, well I l briefly helped you locating the place.
Anyways if you are coming from North, East, West, South, It doesn’t matter, Guwahati is the main station for you. Guwahati is the capital of Asssam, the centre hub for Northeast. You can always reach Guwahati by train or by flight which is more reliable on you. As you reach Guwahati, take a bus or a taxi to go to Shillong (through passenger taxi), it is about 150 Kilometres from Guwahati which would take around maximum 2 to 3 hours to reach Shillong. 

By Phoebe Adella Ryngnga


1 comment:

TheMindfulTripper said...

Great article!! I might refer to your blog if I plan to travel solo in Meghalaya as a female Traveller. 😊