Meghalaya- The abode of clouds

It covers all the aspects related to Megahlaya tourism from culture to food .

1. Meghalaya “the abode of clouds”

2. SHILLONG : THE STATE CAPITAL is a  hill station  in the northeastern part of India and the capital of  Meghalaya , which means "The Abode of Clouds " It is the headquarters of the  East Khasi Hills district . Shillong is the  330th most populous city in India with a population of 143,229 according to the 2011 census .  It is said that the rolling hills around the town reminded the British of  Scotland Hence, they would also refer to it as the "Scotland of the East " TourismCanvas with Ruchika

3. Meghalaya is a place that is blessed with natural landscapes and a variety of natural resources. The state is still in its raw form with very less population density. The place is full of refreshing mountains and very beautiful flora and fauna. It is one of the most beautiful and rich states in the northeastern part of the country. Also, popularly called the Scotland of India. Meghalaya , state of India, located in the northeastern part of the country. It is bounded by the Indian state of Assam to the north and northeast and by Bangladesh to the south and southwest. The state capital is the hill town of SHILLONG , located in east-central Meghalaya . Mawsynram,60.9km away from Shillong appears to be the wettest place in the world, or the place with the highest average annual rainfall. Mawsynram receives over 10,000 millimeters of rain in an average year, and the vast majority of the rain it gets falls during the monsoon months.

4. Culture and Heritage of M eghalaya The main ethnic communities of Meghalaya include Khasis, Garo, and Jaintia . It is believed that people from these communities came to Meghalaya from South East Asia. The people of Meghalaya are known for their cheerful nature and adaptability. Each community has its customs and cultural traditions the Khasis (of Mon-Khmer ancestry), the Garos (of Tibeto-Burman origin) and the Jaintias said to be from South East Asia. The common trait binding all three communities is its matrilineal system in which the family linage is taken from the mother’s side. While many people from the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities have converted to Christianity hence we can easily see many churches, temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and monasteries in Meghalaya. The region is rich in tribal culture and folk tradition. Dance and drinking along with the sound of buffalo horns, flutes and mridangas form an integral part of the social ceremonies and religious ceremonies. Marriage relationships are outside their clan. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

5. LANGUAGES OF MEGHALAYA English is the most spoken and official language of the state. The other main languages ​​of the state include Khasi and Garo. Many other languages ​​are also used in Meghalaya. For example, Panar, Tiwa, Baite, Nepali language is used in almost all parts of Meghalaya state. Most of the people in the cities use the English language and people in rural areas use different languages.

6. COSTUMES Jaintia Tribe Women belonging to this tribe have a traditional style of clothes in comparison to other tribes. They use a Kyrshah which is a small piece of cloth having checks on it to cover their heads post harvest season. They cover their bodies with a velvet blouse and an ankle length sarong known as Thoh Khyrwang. women accessorize their costumes with silver and gold ornaments Khasi tribe Jainsem is the traditional costume for women and is usually made of mulberry silk, a local specialty. Over the jainsem, they wear cotton shawls called tap- moh khlieh. . Kynjri Ksiar is a unique gold pendant which is adorned by the women belonging to the Khasi and Jaintia tribe. Garo Tribe Garo women can be seen wearing eking — a wraparound. The women wear a blouse along with dakmanda, another sarong-like garment with floral patterns and attractive designs embroidered on it.

7. JAINTIAS KHASIS GAROS The men of Meghalaya usually wear dhoti kind of apparel which is mostly unstitched and they pull on a jacket along with headgear or turban. Men’s dress is a sleeveless coat worn until the close of the last century, cotton cloth of thick texture having a fringe below. A waist gridle of cotton was worn beneath. Over the sleeveless coat Jymphong, a wrapper was suspended. Jymphong is traditionally worn but only limited to festivals, in daily life you don’t see men sporting Jymphong. Later on, a dhoti was replaced for the waist girdle. A triangular car and a wooden headgear were worn. Ordinary men wear mostly cotton clothes while Syiems and other dignitaries prefer silk patterns. Jeans and Jackets are common in daily wear. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

8. FESTIVALS OF MEGHALAYA 1. WANGALA Wangala Festival of Meghalaya is a most popular festival among the Garos of Meghalaya, India. Wangala Festival is a harvest festival held in honour of Saljong, the Sun-god of fertility. The celebration of the Wangala Festival marks the end of a period of toil, which brings good output of the fields .  It is a thanksgiving festival to the god of fertility, known as Misi-A-Gilpa-Saljong- Galapa The festival is celebrated from September and December at popular places across Garo Hills . This festival is celebrated at Asasang village in West Garo Hills. It attract local, national and foreign tourists who come to be entertained by the dances competitions, gorge themselves on local food and drinks made from fermented rice popularly called Rice Beer . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

9. 2 . Shad Suk Mynsiem       The Shad Suk Mynsiem is celebrated in April. The rituals or ceremonies are conducted by individual family clans or the Khasi state (Hima). The dance is performed to signify the matrilineal and patrilineal structure of the Khasi society. The dance is performed by unmarried girls dressed in their traditional best, dancing in slow painful steps with coyness; while the man circles the women in their lashing out swords and whips. The significance of the dance is that a man is the protector of a woman's honour. The Dance is performed at the Weiking Grounds near the capital city of Shillong and other places FESTIVALS OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

10. 3 .   Behdeinkhlam Festival      O ne of the most important festivals of the Jaintia people is the Behdeinkhlam Festival. It is celebrated by the people of the Niamtre religion. It is celebrated in July before the seed sowing season. The literal meaning of Behdeinkhlam is 'Chasing away the Plague'. Rituals and sacrifices are made by the priest accompanied by the beating of drums and flutes. Tall minarets are paraded to the holy ground and are then submerged in a river. Men, both old and young accompany the drums and flutes with dance while the women stand watch in their finest traditional and heavily decked in gold. The main event is the wrestling of a tree trunk that is chosen with care it is said to bring good luck to whoever touches it. The festival is celebrated every year at Jowai Town and other villages of the Jaintia hills . People from all over the country and the world come to witness this colorful and bewitching festival. FESTIVALS OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

11. 4.   Strawberry Festival    Meghalaya has been hosting the Strawberry festival every year to promote farmers and food production from the fruit. The climate of the state is perfectly fit for the much-loved fruit. People throng to Umsning and Sohliya village in Ri-Bhoi district every February on Valentine's Day to enjoy lush and sweet strawberries. The festival is not only for families and loved ones to come and enjoy but to contribute to the growth of the local farmers and support their economy. FESTIVALS OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

12. 5.  Bacardi NH7 Weekender Meghalaya is not complete without its music scene. The capital city of Shillong is dubbed as the Rock Capital of India for a reason. With the pleasant climate and a laid-back attitude of everyday life, the youth and the old indulge in music. The Bacardi NH7 Weekender is a yearly event that is much awaited by the music-loving crowd of the state. With the scenic beauty and immense hospitality of the local people, the festival is indeed a happy one. The active part of the festival by offering food and drink stalls offering the best of the local cuisine. It is a must visit by music lovers from all over the country and abroad FESTIVALS OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

13. CUISINES OF MEGHALAYA The main food of the residents here is rice, dried fish and meat, it can be called as “Non-vegetarian’s” paradise. These hunting people are very fond of them, meat is their delicacy. They eat wild animals like deer, bison, wild pigs, fish, prawns, crabs, eels and dry fish . They take cooked, dries and smoked meat and fish. Beef is popular in Meghalaya, you will find shops selling the red meat in every corner of Shillong city. Kyat  is a local drink made of rice and beer and alcohol features in their everyday menu. They prepare rice beer, where rice is first boiled and sprinkled with some yeast. The preparation is laid in a ware, the mouth is covered with a plantain leaf neatly rolled. The ware is kept as it is for a few weeks until it is ready. Bear is also prepared from sticky millet and tapioca. Wanti is a specially prepared beer fermented rice and sprinkled with a special medicinal plant TourismCanvas with Ruchika

14. CUISINES OF MEGHALAYA 1.JADOH The name, “Jadoh” is taken by the Khasi community of Meghalaya the most popular dish from the land of the hills, Jadoh rice. Its made with rice and pork mixed with the best spices, chopped vegetables and garnished with eggs or fried fish . 2.NAKHAM BITCHI It is a delicious soup, which is taken mainly after a heavy spicy meal. This dish is quite popular among Meghalaya People. The people of Meghalaya serve their guests with this delicious soup. This dish is made from dry fish with vegetables. Make it with boiling vegetables and fish. They do not add water to it. It is really nutritious and delicious . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

15. CUISINES OF MEGHALAYA 3. DOHKHLIEH It is a pork salad. Just boil the pork pieces in a pot or pressure cooker and once it is fluffy, drain the water or keep the stock for some other tangy recipe. So just mix the pork with lots of Onions, Chillies , Spices and Salt, and you have Dohkhlieh ready to enrich your eating-healthy experience . 4. PUMALOI The “Pumaloi” is the type of rice which is “Steamed”. The Pumaloi is a special kind of a rice in Meghalaya. These are the special powdered rice and a favorite of the Khasis people. They love to have it at any time, be it during breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is something simple, devoured with something very spicy. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

16. CUISINES OF MEGHALAYA 5. BAMBOO SHOOTS Bamboo Shoots is one of their favorite dishes and you can have it in many styles, but Khasi people love to have it with thin chunks of pork. Firstly, marinate the pork with soy sauce, then fry the marinated pork. When it gets a little brown in color , add veggies. After some time add bamboo shoots. Pour some sliced onions and spices, not forgetting the salt . 6. MOMOS We all might have had Momos in other places, but the best Momos in India are only made in Meghalaya. You will get it almost at any food stall in the state that too in same big round shape, texture and size. As for the filling, they do substantial stuffing with whatever you like, boiled Vegetables, Pork or Chicken. You can have them fried or steamed . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

17. ART AND CRAFTS OF MEGHALAYA The state is endowed with a rich tradition of art and handicrafts . The people of Meghalaya have long perfected the art of weaving, be it cane or cloth . The markets of the state can be browsed for such amazing handicrafts. The most prominent art here is woodcarving and cane and bamboo work as the state produces abundant wood material. The craftsmen weave amazing  cane mats, winnowing fans , caps, umbrellas, stools and baskets . The special kind of cane mat weaved by the Khasis is known as  ‘ Tlieng ' which is highly durable. They are also known for making domestic knives, utensils and even guns. The Garo weave the material used for their dresses called  'Dakmanda' . They also weave shirts, bed covers, bed sheets and tablecloths. The Garo people manufacture beautiful baskets known as ‘ Meghum Khoks' which are used by them to store different items. Another speciality of the Garo people is expertise in Pokerwork in which designs are burnt into the bamboo with a red-hot pointed rod. Jaintia tribe of Meghalaya are skilled in making  bamboo fishing traps  which function very well. Meghalaya is also known for other arts such as  silk weaving, carpet weaving  and manufacturing of ornaments and musical instruments. The best bazaars to buy the Meghalaya handicrafts are in Shillong. Police bazar, Bara bazar and Laitumkhrah are a few to name. Meghalaya Handicrafts, Khadi Gramodyog and Purbashree offers fantastic handicrafts. STOOL DAKMANDA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

18. ART AND CRAFTS OF MEGHALAYA CANE MATS UMBRELLAS WINNOWING FAN TLIENG BASKET BAMBOO FISHING TRAP CARPET WEAVED ERI SILK TourismCanvas with Ruchika

19. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES OF MEGHALAYA SIJU WILDLIFE SANCTUARY It is located in the South Garo Hills District. Close by on the other side of Simsang River is the Siju Bird Sanctuary, a home for many rare and protected birds and other wildlife species. The Siberian ducks also migrate here during the winter months. Grey Hornbill is also seen around Siju caves and one interesting and rare bird is the Peacock Pheasant seen in Siju. Area :5.18 Sq. Kms. Location: South Garo Hills District, about 45 kms distance from Baghmara , 160 kms from Tura and about 475 kms distance from Shillong. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

20. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES OF MEGHALAYA NONGKHYLLEM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY The Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary (NWS) is located near Lailad village in the Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya and covers an area of 29 square kilometers. The animals here include the Bengal tiger, the black bear, the leopard and many such species at the verge of extinction such as the necked hornbill and the brown hornbill bird Area :29.00 Sq . Kms Location: Ri-Bhoi District, about 53 km distance from Shillong and about 51 km distance  from Dispur . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

21. BAGHMARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is named after the location of the Sanctuary and Pitcher plant,  Nepenthes Khasiana  a rare insectivorous plant which is being protected and conserved in the Sanctuary. The Pitcher plant is locally known as " Me'mang - Koksi" (Me'mamg = Ghost; Koksi = Basket). The locals, Garos regard it as a sacred plant or the Ghost basket . Nepenthes Khasiana  is the only endemic species of genus  Nepenthes  that occurs in India, and in Meghalaya State  The vegetations of the Sanctuary provides home to small animals such as squirrels, foxes, mongoose, lizards, snakes etc. in the heart of the town. The Sanctuary also protects soil erosion and provide water to section of the surrounding villages . Area  :2.7 hectares Location: South Garo Hills District, Baghmara about 112 kms distance from Tura WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

22. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES OF MEGHALAYA NARPUH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY  This area has some of the tallest evergreen and semi-evergreen forest left in Meghalaya. The Sanctuary is also home to many Schedule I species such as Hoolock gibbon, Serow , Slow Loris , Pied Horn bill, Leopard  .  About 92 species of Birds like Rufous - throated Partridge have been recorded,91 species of butterflies ,and reptiles like the Copper headed Trinket Snake , Red-necked Keelback , monitor lizard and species of frog ( Kaloula spp.)  have been recorded from the region Area  :59.9 Sq . Kms Location: East Jaintia Hills District, about 78 kms distance from Jowai and about 155 kms distance from Shillong. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

23. NATIONAL PARKS OF MEGHALAYA BALPAKRAM NATIONAL PARK The literal meaning of Balpakram is the “land of perpetual winds”.  Balpakram is famous for its forest covered canyon-cum-gorge and numerous geo-physical formations, all of which makes the place a land of mystery. It is often compared to the Grand Canyon National Park of the United States of America, to the local Garo inhabitants, Balpakram is the abode of the spirits of the dead. It is believed that here, the spirits of the dead dwell temporarily before embarking on the final journey. The park consists of a succession of hills and valley with constant abrupt variation in altitude, aspect and gradient. The deepest gorge is the Mahadeo gorge, locally known as Kundulop with drop of over 600 meters. The most prominent physical feature of the park is the bullock hump shaped Chitmang peak or Kailash, rising to a height of about 1023 meters . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

24. NOKREK NATIONAL PARK UNESCO added Nokrek National park to its list of Biosphere Reserves in May 2009 .   The park is home to a variety of animals, birds and pheasants, beside some rare and endemic flora. Important animals found here are Indian Elephant, Hoolock Gibbons, Capped Langur , Stump Tailed Macaque, Clouded Leopard, Leopard , Gaur, Sambar , Barking Deer , Himalayan Black Bear, Sloth Bear. Many species of birds can also be spotted here and the national park is considered to be an important bird area and an ideal spot for bird watchers.  Citrus indica  which is mother of all citrus fruit in the world is endemic to this place and the locals call it by name  memangnarang  ('orange of the spirits'). Nokrek is also believed to be the home of  Mande Burung  (jungle man or ape man) and reported cases of sightings found in and around the villages of Nokrek . NATIONAL PARKS OF MEGHALAYA TourismCanvas with Ruchika

25. BIOSPHERE RESERVE OF MEGHALAYA NOKREK BIOSPHERE RESERVE Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is the First Biosphere Reserve in the North-East India to be designated for inclusion in the World Network of Biosphere Reserve of Man and the Biosphere Programme , UNESCO on 2009 . Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is a rich gene pool of citrus species, especially the  Citrus indica Tanaka  and other related cultivars. Apart from several other species of wild animals such as - Himalayan Black Bear, Slow Loris, Guar, Clouded Leopard etc., Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is home to a large population of Hoolock gibbon , the only ape found in India. It is catchment area of several streams, including the streams providing drinking water to Tura and other towns. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

26. WATERFALLS OF MEGHALAYA NOHKALIKAI FALLS(SOHRA) Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Its height is 1115 feet. The waterfall is located near Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth . Nohkalikai Falls are fed by the rainwater collected on the summit of a comparatively small plateau and decrease in power during the dry season in December - February. Below the falls there has formed a plunge pool with unusual green colored water KRANG SURI WATERFALL(JOWAI) Nestled amidst the mountains of Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya, Krang Suri Waterfalls is one such offbeat destination whose reason behind popularity lies in its picturesque landscapes. The cobbled path leading to the waterfalls are made from naturally colored stones found in the region, the trail would also cross through dense vegetation covers of the Jaintia Hills. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

27. WATERFALLS OF MEGHALAYA ELEPHANT FALLS(SHILLONG) Elephant Falls is situated at the outskirts of the main city of Shillong in the East Khasi Hills District, Upper Shillong. It is almost 12 km away from the Shillong city center. The first fall of Elephant Falls is an example of a  horsetail - punchbowl  waterfall. The first fall is very broad and is hidden among the trees. The second fall however, is quite domesticated and in the winters (and drier months) looks inconsequential. The third fall is the tallest and comes to view suddenly and looks most spectacular with crystal clear water falling over sharp rocks of myriad shapes . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

28. WATERFALLS OF MEGHALAYA TYRSHI FALLS(JOWAI) Tyrshi Falls is another one of the little-known treasures of Meghalaya. It is situated alongside the Jowai-Shillong Road. The beautiful falls come down in steps with the water gushing swiftly looking like an enormous white veil. The falls are connected by an arched bridge, consisting of more than 20 hundred steps, which go down to the bottom of the falls. On the way, it gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the Pynthor Nein paddy fields . SWEET FALLS(SHILLONG) Sweet Falls (also called Kshaid Weitden , in the native dialect) is a waterfall in  Shillong It lies about 5 km from Happy Valley and is about 96 meters (315  ft ) in height. It is often termed as the "most beautiful" yet "most dangerous" waterfall in Shillong . It is believed by the local people that this fall is haunted. If people go in odd number, they return in even number. The waterfall has also been the subject of numerous suicides and is infamous for many deaths . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

29. LAKES OF MEGHALAYA U WAH UMNGOT(DAWKI) Dawki river or called by its local name (U Wah Umngot) is famous for the transparency of its water; if anyone goes for boating in the river he can see the river bed from its surface. This pristine and clear watered river has a suspension bridge over it for transportation .It was constructed by the British in the year 1932. When visitors stands on the bridge they can see fishermen fishing sitting on the banks of the rivers and its quite interesting to see a crowd of fishermen almost fishing for the fishes which are caught in the net. UMIAM LAKE Umiam Lake (locally known as Dam sait ) is a reservoir in the hills 15 km (9.3 mi) north of Shillong in the state of Meghalaya, India. It was created by damming the Umiam River in the early 1960s. The principal catchment area of the lake and dam is spread over 220 square km . The lake serves as a major tourist attraction for the state of Meghalaya. It is also a popular destination for water sport and adventure facilities. Tourists visit this spot for kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

30. LAKES OF MEGHALAYA WARD’S LAKE(SHILLONG) The Ward's Lake is well known locally as the Pollock's Lake or Nan Polok . Incidentally This is one of the most important tourist attractions of Shillong. Take a walk around this horse-shoe shaped lake on the cobble-stone path or simply admire the colorful floral beds in the garden. It is equally popular amidst locals, family vacationers and honeymooning couples, as a picnic spot. SAJAR NANGLI THADLASKEIN LAKE(JOWAI) Thadlaskein Lake also '‘ Pung Sajar Nangli'' is man-made historical Lake in  Meghalaya , India . It is located besides National Highway 6 by the side of a small village called Mukhla village which falls under West Jaintia Hills district Jowai. It is about 58 kilometers (36 mi) from the city of  Shillong . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

31. SURREAL CHURCHES OF MEGHALAYA Cathedral of Mary Help Christians This Cathedral is one of the largest in Asia located in the heart of Shillong. The structure is beautifully designed by high arches and tinted glass windows, which add to the grandeur of the church. Situated on the brink of the hill, the huge and lavish campus of the church is a great space to take a walk and soak in the tranquillity of the calm ambience. Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church This beautiful church is one of the most popular tourist spots, which is sure to revive your senses as you get soaked in spirituality. The astonishing architecture, inventive layout, and the peaceful ambiance make it one of the most coveted places where one can connect with God and enjoy the spirit of adventure at the same time. The artistic market outside the church is another attraction that will make your day a memorable one. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

32. SURREAL CHURCHES OF MEGHALAYA All Saints Church This is one of the oldest churches in Meghalaya, which was destroyed in 1897 in an earthquake and was rebuilt by the British people in 1902. The elegant carvings, striking glasswork, and wooden interiors are a description of its scenic history. The church is located just opposite the State Central Library in Shillong and the entire wooden campus is designed decoratively with a calm and serene atmosphere. First Presbyterian Church It is also known as the Nongsawlia Church and is located in the beautiful city of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji. The church came into existence in 1848 and since has been a major attraction worldwide. The architecture of the church is an artwork of history depicting the wisdom of the Presbyterians and stories that they carried during their travels 200 years ago. If you are a history lover then this is a must-visit place while travelling to Meghalaya . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

33. SURREAL CHURCHES OF MEGHALAYA Church of Epiphany This lovely church was established in 1902 and is located in Mawlynnong , which is the cleanest village in India. The European architecture, peaceful surroundings, unruffled ambiance, and the lavish grounds outside the church are just breathtaking. Try visiting the church on a Sunday afternoon when the church choir sings to the praise of Jesus in their beautiful voices that will serve as a cherry on the cake and rejuvenate your soul. Church of God This indigenous church was constructed in 1902 in Mylliem, a beautiful village located at a distance of 8 kilometers from Shillong. The Church of God was formed by a native group of locals and by now has created numerous followers. The contemporary and artistic design of the church is a symbol of its history and origin. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

34. SURREAL CHURCHES OF MEGHALAYA Pohkseh Presbyterian Church This ancient church is located in the Rynjah region of Shillong. The simple and elegant exterior design of the church is sure to entice you with its pleasing appearance and calming environment. Enclosed with the pine laded mountain range the church is a must-visit place for both God and Nature lovers for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

35. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya Meghalaya has a mix of terrain and hence provides some of the best nature walks through different terrains. The whole hike is full of picturesque landscapes and you will get to witness various waterfalls, streams, meadows, jungles, and valleys on your way 1.HIKING THE LIVING ROOT BRIDGE(CHERRAPUNJEE) This trek involves trekking over bridges made completely out of roots, made by the Khasi tribe by ancient rubber trees as it provides more durability than wooden bridges. Starting from the village itself and ending at Rainbow falls, this is a short, yet exhilarating trek in Meghalaya , it shakes a lot but are really sturdy. TourismCanvas with Ruchika

36. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya 1.HIKING MAWLONBNA VILLAGE TREKKING(MAWSYNRAM) This trek involves trekking over bridges. Trekking at Mawlongbna Village is a mix of adventure sports and camping and is usually done with an overnight stay in the village. There's plenty to do - right from observing fossils of extinct carnivores, walking amidst unique flora, canoeing, and zip-lining amidst the thick jungle. This is one of the best treks in Meghalaya for someone who loves nature and adventure equally . TourismCanvas with Ruchika

37. DAWKI TREKKING Trek in the border town of Dawki for an unforgettable experience. Dawki is only 2 km away from neighbour Bangladesh and is a major trade hub between the two countries. Notes of Bangladesh's rich culture is clearly seen in the town. This experience of trekking in Meghalaya will teach you more about the locals and regional history. You could also set up a picnic at Umngot river, one of the cleanest rivers in India. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya 1.HIKING TourismCanvas with Ruchika

38. Weiloi to Umngi Trek Located at a distance of around 50 km from Shillong, Weiloi is a village in Meghalaya famous for its scenic natural beauty which stretches till Umngi, a place famous for its natural hot water springs. With over 18 km of walking and tricky routes on the way, the trek may come off a tad difficult, but it's totally worth it once you reach the water springs. If you don't wish to take up this challenging route, there is another route to fulfil your trek in Meghalaya at its base in Weiloi that goes towards Mawblang. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya 1.HIKING TourismCanvas with Ruchika

39. 2. CAVING MAWSMAI CAVE(CHERRAPUNJI) Mawsmai cave is amongst one of the popular tourist places in Cherrapunji, just 6 km away from Cherrapunji city and 58 km from Shillong. A short hike through the forest takes you to the main entrance of Mawsmai cave . stunning limestone formations along the cave walls and ceiling. The cave also has fossil carvings of some pre-historic creatures on the walls. Caving in Meghalaya is not just about visiting the caves but also discovering such unseen marvels of nature . Adventure Sports in Meghalaya TourismCanvas with Ruchika

40. 2. CAVING ARWAH CAVE(CHERRAPUNJI) The sheer beauty of the path is so pleasing that you will feel absolutely rejuvenated after walking across the bridge . Once inside the cave, you can explore myriads of unseen gems of nature. The walkway is well lit by artificial lights, though you might still find many dark chambers inside . There are  lots of stalagmites & stalactites along the walls and ceiling of the cave. All the limestone formations look spectacular and highly artistic . Several fossils of marine creatures along the cave walls including fishes, snails and other marine species. Locals say that these fossils could be millions of years old. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya TourismCanvas with Ruchika

41. 2. CAVING SIJU CAVES(BAGHMARA) also known as Bat Cave in English, is located in the North East Indian state of Meghalaya near the Napak Lake and Simsang River game reserve. It is a limestone cave and is famous for its stalagmites and stalactites . The Siju cave-system is more than 4 kilometers long, but nearly all of it is filled with water and inaccessible.   It contains some of the finest river passages to be found any where in the world Adventure Sports in Meghalaya TourismCanvas with Ruchika

42. 2. CAVING KREM MAWMLUH CAVE(SOHRA) Considered to be the fourth longest cave in the Indian subcontinent, the Krem Mawmluh Cave is definitely for  adventure seekers . The cave is located about half a kilometer to the west of Cherrapunji, and is popular among tourists . The cave has a height of 4,503 m, and is located 10 ft above sea level . Adventure Sports in Meghalaya TourismCanvas with Ruchika

43. 2. CAVING KREM LIAT PRAH CAVE Prah is one of approximately 150 known caves in the Shnongrim Ridge of the East Jaintia Hills district in the state of Meghalaya, northeast India. Explored and surveyed as part of the ongoing Abode of the Clouds Expedition project, its current length of about 34 kilometers will likely be increased as nearby caves continue to be connected . Adventure Sports in Meghalaya TourismCanvas with Ruchika

44. Adventure Sports in Meghalaya 3. KAYAKING Kayaking is an extremely exciting activity in which a person moves across the water using a paddle on a kayak. Kayaking is considered to be the ultimate adventure here as it offers opportunities for swimming and water sliding as well. the river crowded with tourists who come here especially to enjoy the thrill of this activity KYNSHI,KOPILI AND UMTREW KAYAKING Kynshi River , located in the West Khasi Hills, is very popular for this activity and is in fact considered to be the best destination for this sport . Activities in Kopili River( interstate river between Meghalaya and Assam) destination is a heaven for outrageous kayakers and free fall paddlers. The Adventure Sports In Kopili River has upwards of 54 kinds of fish in it.  Umtrew river is one of the best places to kayak in India, and even learn the basics of kayaking. The river's configuration is almost unbelievable as to how it creates the perfect rapids for professional kayakers and still water pools or eddy's, for beginners. The three fundamental kayaking goals in Meghalaya are Kynshi, adventure Sports In Kopili River and Umtrew .  Kynshi river Umtrew river Kopili river TourismCanvas with Ruchika

45. THANKYOU