Shillong- Meghalaya the Scotland of east

About: Shillong- Meghalaya the Scotland of east

The paradise on earth where colors come home. Relax and enjoy the pleasant climate, the captivating beauty of the green clad hills, milky White Waterfalls, the flora and fauna and the warm hospitality of the Khasis, Jaintias and Garos. Meghalaya means the abode of clouds. Cherrapunjee the rainiest place on earth had been the inspiration for the name the rolling mists in the undulating hill numerous lakes, waterfalls, caves, sacred forests exotic flora and fauna, together with the unique tribal culture makes Meghalaya a unique and interesting destination.

These undulating green carpeted hill were nostalgically called by the British as “The Scotland of The East”.

Shillong:The capital set midst a picturesque landscape of pine covered Hills rapid stream and captivating waterfalls provides a perfect gateway from the heat.

Shillong is situated at an altitude of 1496 m above sea level and was the capital of Assam,till formation of Meghalaya in the 1972. 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.

Shillong has much to offer being pleasant and pollution-free. During summers the temperature varies around 23 degree Celsius and 4 degrees Celsius during winters.

Besides its breath taking waterfalls, Meghalaya is also famous for its many caves, which attract tourists not only from India but abroad too. A few of the caves in the state have been listed amongst the longest and deepest in the world.

HOW TO REACH:

By Air: The nearest Airport Guhati (145km )is directly connected with Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai by all major Airlines.

By Rail: Nearest railway stations are Guhati (103km)/is directy connected by rail to all the major places in India .

By Road: National Highway 40 an all weather road, connects Shillong with Guwahati.

Best Places to Visit in Shillong

Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park : Lady Hydari park was named after the wife of sir Akhbari Hydari the First Indian Governor of Assam who assumed charge on the eve of independence. It has a very attractive garden and the best months to see the flowers in bloom are April to October. Next to the park, is mini zoo, where many species of birds and animals are kept.

Museum of Entomology

Museum of Entomology : This place is a treasure house of various kinds of exquisite Meghalayan Butterflies and insects. Some of which are bred and reared by naturalists and then preserved. The most beautiful and sought after Meghalayan butterfly is Kaiser-I-Hind.

Shillong peak

Shillong peak : Forested Shillong peak at 1,965 meters above sea level acts a vast catchment area. A steep winding road goes right to the top o the peak. On a clear day, you can see the Himalayan peaks and plains of Sylhet from the summit.

Ward’s Lake & Umiam Lake

Ward’s Lake : This artificial lake located in Shillong received its name from Sir William Ward, Chief commissioner of Assam in 1893-94, because he took a personal interest in beautifying it .

The Umiam Lake,is a scenic place that renders a breath-taking view is located in the hills around 15 km to the North of Shillong. The Umiam Lake is a confluence of the two streams Umkhrah and Umshvrpi form the Wah Ro-ro stream in the north-west of the town and joins River Umiam, the main source of water for the lake. It was created by damming the Umiam river in the early 1960s. The dam has the distinction of being the first Hydel power project in the North-east region of India. The Lake is popular for the Water Sport and adventure facilities that it offers. Kayaking, Water cycling/ scooting and boating are a few of the facilities available at the Umiam Lake.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls: In and around Shillong there are numerous waterfalls especially during during the monsoon when they run in milky white torrents. Bishop Falls, Elephant falls, Spread Eagle falls, Sweet Falls, Crinoline Falls and Beadon Falls are the best known. Bishop or Suna Pani Falls are located west of Mawprem in Shillong. They are 135 meters 135 meters high and particularly impressive in monsoon. The beautiful Elephant or Umdiengpun Falls are en-route to Sadew, 12 kilometers from Shillong city .

Golf Link

Golf Links : Shillong’s Golf Course is considered one of the best in India. It is situated in the center of the city, close to the polo ground. It was established in 1898, by group of British Civil Service. Officers. Golfers from all over world come here to test their skills.