- Meghalaya Tours

MEGHALAYA:-The direcrtor of tourism holds two festivals annually. The 10-day Summer Festival (Mav) has a flower show, archerv and cultural events and the 10-day Autumn Festival (Oct) which highlights martial arts, wrestling, orchid displays and a garment show.

Created in 1972 from a section of Assam, it is one of the smallest states of India, it occupies the plateau and rolling hills between Assam and Bangladesh. Meghalaya's main offerings in terms of activity are related to its scenic beauty, its colorful people and its pleasant climate. To add to the charm of the tranquil atmosphere, the greenery and the clouds, there are a number of sports the place offers like golf, angling and walking. In the outlined areas one can witness occasional "Bull Fights" where two bulls take on each other, and their loyalists, and provide amusement in a rather loud and boisterous atmosphere.



Alcoholic drinks are an integral part of the tribal culture of Meghalaya and prominently figure in every day life and all celebrations starting from birth to death. There is a bar in Shillong every few steps that find both men and women enjoying their favorite drinks (Rice wine being a local favorite).


Besides containing the bureaucratic infrastnicuffe of a capital, Shillong is the iditical and industrial hub of Meghalaya. Another reason for Shillong's irtance is of its being an educational centre with the North Eastern Hill ersity and some schools. It is a popular shopping centre, attracting shoppers i from Guwahati. Shillong offers picturesque landscapes, a golf course and many spots of touristic Test. A local 'special' is the daily archery competition. Shillong is different ton other hill stations as one does not haw to walk unless one chooses to as it i India's most 'motorable' hill station. Shilong should be made the base for visiting other places in Meghalaya. Although Is pleasant most of the year, in winter the temperature falls to 4 degrees MSJUS, but there is enough sunshine to dispel the chill, qualifying it as a year-end destination. The summer and autumn months are the best for a visit. Shillong takes between 30-45 minutes.
Cherrapunjee: 54 km from Shillong, the trip takes two hours, on a good road with some hilly sections. Once the wettest place on earth, now the 'credit' has been taken awav bv nearbv Mawsvnram. Cherrapunjee is worth a visit due to the impressive view of the gorges in the dry season, and huge waterfalls in the monsoons. There is also the panaromic view of the plains going down to Bangladesh. It is also famous for its oranges and honey. The market is an interesting place and features a lot of local produce, including basketry. There is not much in terms of suitable accommodation so it is best to make a day-trip from Shillong.

Sightseeing
The best wav to enjoy Shillong's sights is on foot. With no significant monuments, the attractions here lie in the scenic beautv, parks, waterfalls and panoramic views. The waterfalls are at their best in the monsoon. Places worth visiting include:

Ward's Lake : in the heart of Shillong, is an ideal spot for boating. Shillong Peak is a nice climb rewarded by a superb view from the highest point (1,960 m). Considered the abode of gods, Shillong gets its name from this peak.

Bishop's Falls : Beadon Falls, plunging down the same ridge, are an impressive sight in the monsoon.
Crinoline Falls and Swimming Pool, an enchanting spot. Fruit Garden, a peach orchard and nursery, is a government-run complex. Plants, orchids sold here.

Polo Ground : though polo is no longer played, the famous archery competitions are held here.
Golf Course : where the 18-hole course is reputed to be one of Asia's best.
Bara Bazar : for all types of goods, run mostly bv women.
Buddhist Lamasery : Lumparing, is worth a visit but be prepared for a mini-trek.

Excursions
Maphlang Sacred Grove : 22 km, a forest held sacred by locals and therefore unexploited commercially.
Elephant Fall: 12 km, are two successive falls from the same stream.
Spread Eagle Falls : 6 km, and Sweet Falls, 8 km, are other scenic waterfalls.