MEGHALAYA - INSIGHT

                            PLACES TO VISIT  IN MEGHALAYA

 

1. Shillong Peak

 

A popular stop just a few kilometers out of town, Shillong Peak – the town’s highest point – provides an expansive look at the capital with hills as the backdrop. The area is administered by the IAF and you’ll need to hand in identification at the entrance. You’ll want to carry a good camera to take photos as the air can get hazy. However, there’s a telescope installed to get close-up views of the town. Take time to look around and have a cup of piping hot tea from the local vendors.
Ideal for: Leisure, hiking

2. Laitlum

 

Deep gorges and majestic hills rising in the distance await at Laitlum. You can spend hours exploring the meadows or just sitting down on the grass and admiring nature’s handiwork. Although tucked away from town, it’s no longer unfrequented and has become one of the most popular tourist places near Shillong. If you’re up for some pulse-racing adventure, head down the 3,000 or so steps towards the hamlet of Raslong. Seeing the residents effortlessly climb up and down the steep, meandering steps will leave you stunned and more than a little envious!
Ideal for: Leisure

3. Sacred Grove

A ways from the town in Mawphlang is an oasis of sorts with old
 trees and meadows creating an Eden-like world. The Sacred Grove is a protected forest overseen by a local deity. You can visit and admire the native flora and fauna but you aren’t allowed to remove anything from here – this goes for leaves, stones, twigs et al.
The Sacred Grove has for long been one of the best places to visit near Shillong especially for those who love nature walks. Local guides will take you in and narrate fascinating tales of lore.
Ideal for: Leisure, history

4. David Scott Trail

One of the most popular places around Shillong for hiking enthusiasts, the David Scott trail is a 16-kilometer hiking route that starts from Mawphlang and ends at Lad Mawphlang in Sohra. The walk is easy although beginner hikers may find it a tad long. The trail winds around hills and crosses streams dotted with rocks. Pack a picnic as there are many scenic spots along the way.
Idea for: Hiking

5. Kyllang Rock

About 50 kilometers from Shillong and around 10 kilometers from Mairang in West Khasi Hills district is a huge granite rock formation that is a treat to climb (steps are built so you don’t need bouldering skills!). It’s believed that you can’t fall off the top of the rock owing to a magnetic field. However, we advise you not to try it anyway! Once at the top, seat yourself down and feel the wind refresh you. Take along a good camera for long-distance shots of villages in the distance.
Ideal for: Leisure