Shillong is the capital of the state and the largest city. The city is situated in the Khasi Hills. Shillong is the place to enjoy everything, starting from events, sightseeing, recreation, shopping, or unwinding oneself in a bar. The city has a character which can be felt while exploring the city.
Cherrapunji (58 km from Shillong), about two hours south of Shillong, was once the wettest place on earth. Today the wettest place is Mawsynram, which is situated in Cherrapunji but is further west. The area is lush green with waterfalls, and an extensive underground cave network.
A popular picnic spot is the Mawjinbuim Cave (55 km off Shillong) where there is a stalagmite in the form of a Shiva lingam receiving steady drops of water from a stone which is in the shape of a breast.
Jowai, the second biggest town in Meghalaya, is situated in the district of the Jaintias. It is the gateway to Nartiang, a delightful village further north that has a bizarre collection of druid stones. Today, it is an interesting park but a decade ago, human sacrifices were carried out here. Also situated here is a piece of rock rising up to the sky with red spots on the gray granite, which tells the story of a boy who was tricked into a trap of offering his life to please the gods. While taking a walk, through the charming village, one can see the monument dedicated to the first freedom fighter hanged by the British in 1862. It is situated near a river surrounded by fields and pine forests.
Other places to visit are Jakrem (66 km from Shillong), Nawphlang, Ranigodam, and Balpakram National Park. |
