1. Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is one of the most popular hill stations in India. The name of the city, meaning the "The Abode of Clouds,” truly suits its nature. Shillong is located at an average elevation of 4,908 feet above sea level and the highest peak here is the Shillong Peak which is 6,449 feet above sea level.
Shillong is visited by tourists from all across India and thus has accommodation facilities for both luxury seekers and budget travelers. Some of the attractions in and around the city include:
The Elephant Falls: Located 12 km from the city, it is a picturesque waterfall set amidst dells of fern covered rocks.
Shillong Peak: 10 km away from the city, the Shillong Peak offers a panoramic view of the countryside outside.
Wards Lake: A beautiful lake with boating facilities.
Lake Hyadri Park: A large park with a mini-zoo that is perfect for picnicking with friends and family.
Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum: This is a government museum in Shillong that offers tourists an insight into the ethnic tribal culture and tradition of the people of the region.
Other attractions here include the Shillong Golf Course, the Motphran (a stone monument), Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, an Entomological Museum that is devoted to butterflies and moths, a Rhino Heritage Museum, etc.
2. Cherrapunjee
Cherrapunji in Meghalaya is a famous hill station that is famous as the Guinness Record holder for he most rainfall in a calendar month and in a year. Cherrapunji’s lush greenery and natural wealth makes it a popular hill station in India.
The major tourist attractions in Cherrapunjee include the living root bridges, the Seven Sister’s Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, and more. The place is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and trekkers. River rafting and swimming are other popular tourist activities here.
3. Jowai
Jowai is a quaint hill station in Meghalaya and is home to the indigenous Pnar tribe. Jowai is based on a plateau that is surrounded by the Myntdu River on three sides. The 1380 meters average altitude of the location allows it to have a pleasant climate throughout the year. 
Tourist spots in and around Jowai include the Tyrchi Falls, the Syntu Ksiar which a valley by the Myntdu River of historical importance, the Jowai Presbyterian Church, Thadlaskein lake, the Ialong Park, and the Nartiang Monoliths.
This hill station in India also hosts the Behdeinkhlam festival during the monsoon season. It is a colorful festival involves dancing on the streets to the beat of drums and music from pipes. A decorative tower like pillar is constructed by each locality and carried to the river for immersion. Women offer sacrificial food to the ancestors and spirits to please them. A soccer-like game is them played between two teams in the valley and the winning team is believed to be blessed with a good harvest.
4. Mawlynnong
Often tagged as the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The place is located 90 km from Shillong and is along India’s border with Bangladesh. The people living in Mawlynnong belong to the Khasi tribe and are known for their cleanliness and sustainable living habits. The society here is strongly matrilineal and property passes from mother to youngest daughter. Daughters also bear the surname of the mother.
In Mawlynnong, people collect wastes in bamboo bins and then use it as manure. The community rules dictate that all residents must compulsorily participate in village-cleaning activities. Rainwater harvesting is highly encouraged here while the use of plastics and smoking are completely banned.
Tourists visit Mawlynnong to observe the scenic beauty of this hill station of Meghalaya, and also interact with these nature-loving villagers.
5. Mawsynram
Located 65 km away from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills district, Mawsynram is a popular hill station in Meghalaya. The place is one of the wettest places on Earth and features a subtropical highland climate. The monsoon season here is quite extended and constant bouts of heavy showers are received during this season. The place experiences a cool climate throughout the year with average temperature varying from 11 °C in January to 20°C in August. Mawsynram hosts numerous caves of geological significance. A cave named Mawjymbuin is specially significant for its stalagmites.
6. Tura
Tura, located in the West Garo Hills is a picturesque hill destination in the state. The main attraction here is the nearby Nokrek National Park (12 km from the town). The national park hosts several iconic and endemic species. Wild buffaloes, golden cats, leopards, pheasants, and others live here. The Rongbang Dar Falls, Siju caves are some other destinations to be explored.
No comments:
Post a Comment