Places in and around Shillong

When you are in Shillong (you may read Getaway To Meghalaya - The Abode Of The Clouds for your reference) you must visit Cherrapunji, which is just 56 km from Shillong. A meandering road would take you to Sohora. The highest rainfall of the world is recorded in a called Maushinrum. There is a Ram Krishna Mission set up by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime minister of independent India, in 1952. You would constantly hear the roaring waters of Nohkali falls while you are in an around Cherrapunji.

Your next stop should be Sail at Umiam lake. This artificial lake, also known as Barapani, meaning ‘big waters’ is just before Shillong. Situated in Barapani, is the famous orchid lake resort, designed by Charles Correa, which has a lot to offer in terms of sailing, kayaking and many other water sports. Another resort, the Ri Kynjai, would surely steal your heart and you would be willing to stay, half an hour away from the city, in this beautiful fervour.

Staying at the Royal Tripura Heritage Castle will be an experience, which you are going to cherish for long. This castle is the summer home of the Maharaja of Tripura and stands testimony to the affection the Royals had for this hill station. It still bears signs of luxury and nobility and is the oldest heritage hotel in North East India. It is a 9 acre wooden seclusion built among the hazy hill less than a mile away from the city. Try the Khasi fare – Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Dohlkeih (spicy pork salad) and Tungtap (dried fish chutney). You even get to see the autographed photographs of Mussolini, Tagore, Franklin, Roosevelt and even Hitler. There are only 10 rooms here, so book in advance.

Archery contest at Polo Grounds will introduce you to the ancient event, which is practiced in this region historically. Archery is a much-loved sport in and around Shillong and one can witness it at the polo grounds at 4 pm sharp every day. What you will see is a busy stream of arrows, reminiscent of some period film with hundreds zooming by. Cheap car rental services are available for visiting the places around. If you plan beforehand some discount airline ticket will help you save some money.

Eat, Make Merry, and Shop till you drop! If you are a foodie don’t forget to try the steamed dumplings, containing meat or vegetables and spices, that melt in your mouth, made from rice flour known as momos. The place for momos is Broadway, a small eating joint in the heart of Police Bazar. Evenings in Shillong tend to be much colder. Also worth trying are Kwai and Jastem. Police Bazar will provide you with some great bargains if you hunt with patience and determination. The city winds up as early as 10.30 PM but you can also hangout at the night clubs such as Tango or Cloud Nine at Hotel Centre Point. Last but not the least, keep a watch for local concerts, Shillong has some rock bands best in the country.

A Land with mystical legends, blended with an alluring history, Shillong is a perfect place to unwind in the lap of nature.