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Must see's  
   

Shillong

Daylong picnics amidst smoky blue hills thick with pine and orchids, singing brooks and crashing waterfalls… for the British, this garrison town was home. The scenic Khasi Hills reminded them of the Scottish Highlands - just perfect for summer holidays away from the heat and the dust of India's plains. They set up schools amidst the unpolluted, heather covered, pine scented slopes.

Leisurely days can be spent at the serene Ward's Lake and the landscaped Lady Hydari Park, which also has a mini-zoo. The Iewduh Market, the biggest in the Northeast, is wonderful for a bit of local flavour. Shillong Peak (1,965 mts), about 10 km from town, offers breathtaking views of the city. Sohpetbneng Peak, 20 km away is also a great place to catch those spectacular views. Amongst the popular waterfalls close to town are Spread Eagle Falls (6 km) and the Sweet Falls (8 km) in Happy Valley. There are also the Bishop Falls, Beadon Falls and the Elephant Falls (12 km) to explore if you have time.

Shillong's popular 18-hole golf course (referred to as the Gleneagels of the East) holds its annual tournament in October, when the Khasi Hills are at their prettiest.

The town is dotted with fine old churches of which the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is a most famed for its stained glass windows and lofty arch. Opposite the State Central Library, is the All Saints Church.

Shillong has regular pop and rock concerts, which are welcomed with great enthusiasm by the local youth. The Butterfly Museum is worth visiting as it has an excellent collection of these winged beauties, many of which are facing extinction.

 

Umiam Lake

Located about 17 km from Shillong is highly popular for a relaxing time. The Orchid Lake Resort here has watersports facilities and the nearby Lum Nehru Park has an aviary and orchidarium.
   
Cherrapunjee

It used to be world renowned for being the wettest place on earth, but eventually lost out to nearby Mawsynram. Cherrapunjee is 54 km. from Shillong, The road is good and the drive scenic. Apart from the gushing waterfalls and the deep gorges, you get stunning views of the plains of Bangladesh. Cherupunjee's oranges and honey are famous and from the Sohra market you can pick up some fine baskets. Best for a day trip, as there isn't much by way of accommodation for overnight stays.

Close to town are the glorious Nohsngithiang Falls (Mawsmai Falls), Dain-thlen Falls, Nohkailikai Falls (world's fourth highest), and many smaller falls.

   

Mawsynram

55 km from Cherrapunjee is the wettest place on earth. It is also reputed for its stalagmite and stalactite cave

 
   

Mauphlang

It's vast floral wealth make Mauphlang ( 24 km away) a great attraction for nature lovers. It's orchids are out of this world. You can also enjoy the hot springs at Jekrem (64 km) which also has a resort where you can stay. If you want to travel close up to the Bangladesh border head for Dawki, (96 km) a popular picnic spot. Mairang, (40 km) was home of the legendary U Tirot Sing Syiem (Raja of Nongkhlaw) who led the fight against invaders in the 1820s.

  
   

Ranikor

Pretty as Kashmir's Pahalgam, Ranikor (140 km) is an angler's delight as its famous for its Mahseer.

  
   

Tura

Headquarters of Garo Hills district, Tura is reputed for its picturesque environs and equable climate. The 1,400mt high Tura peak is a challenge for climbers and you can opt to stay the night. It requires an interesting mix of a hike- cum -climb for about 5 km, but the view from the summit are ample reward for your labours. Tura and its surroundings are a window to the ethnic lifestyle of the Garo people. The region is famous for its Wangala Dance. Tura has a tourist lodge run by Meghalaya Tourism.

Tura is approachable via Guwahati, and is 323 km. from Shillong. The journey from Guwahati takes 6 hours. To go to Tura, it is best to hire a taxi from Guwahati Airport (about Rs. 2,000 one-way) or go by bus. No entry formalities.

  
   
Nartiang

The ancient seat of the Jaintia kings Nartiang (65 km) still has a number of the famous Jaintia stone memorials (monoliths) which have survived the passage of time. The tallest (27-ft-high) is said to have been the walking stick of U Mar Phalyngki, the giant of Jaintia legend. There is also a temple dedicated to Durga here, which is very popular. Legend has it that Thadlaskein Lake (56 km) was dug with arrowheads by subjects of Sajar Nangli, one of the foremost war leaders of the Jaintias. The lake is a popular picnic place and has boating facilities

  
   
 

 

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