Shillong derives its name from the Shillong peak, the highest point in Meghalaya. There are numerous legends and myths surrounding the Shillong city. The local people are Khasi –Pnars who inhabit the Khasi and the Jaintia Hills are the predominant tribes of Meghalaya. They were the first tribe to be exposed to the British rule in the 19th century and the first to have well established business transactions with the neighboring plains districts on the north and south of their hills. Today, the tribes have finely impregnated the both life- simple village culture with a distinctly tribal world view and the more sophisticated urban culture of which Shillong is the clearest manifestation.
Sights And Activities
Ward’s LakeWard’s Lake has been completed more than 100 years of its alluring existence. Situated in the heart of the city, it is an artificial lake crafted with beauty in those laid-back days of the British Raj. Serenaded by tall conifers and laced with stone walkways, this peaceful and tranquil lake is encircled by manicured stretches of grass interspersed with flowers of every conceivable color. The lake is set off by a charming white, wooden bridge with hordes of cavorting, gold and silver fish below it. The colorful paddle and row boats start out from a quaint boat house and dot the sparking green expanse of the lake.
Waterfalls In And Around
On your way to Shillong, after the refreshing cuppa at Nongpoh, look out on your right for the Margaret Falls, rushing through green virgin woodland. Just after reaching Shillong, a narrow by way at Mawlai takes one to a view point from where the 135m high Bishop Falls and trhe 120m Beadon Falls can be seen together. Spread Eagle Falls is near the MES Head quarters at upper Shillong. Elephant Falls is a unique two tiered waterfall 10km on the way to Cherrapunji and is a must on the tourist itinerary.
Shopping
The vast market place at Bara Bazaar is th bustling market place in Shillong. Thousands of Khasi tribes people selling variety of items ranging from tribal baskets to fish traps and edible frogs. Other good place for shopping are Police Bazaar and Laitumukhrah where you can find beautiful hand wooven shawls, handicrafts, orange flower honey and cane work. Also you can visit emporium like Meghalaya Handicrafts, Khadi Gramodyog and Purbashree.
Siat Khnam
This is a unique sport: a semicircle of photogenic old Khasi men fire hundreds of arrows at a straw trussed target. Those that stick are counted and bets predict the last two digits of this total. It is actually a gambling but shooting is the main attraction. The small Siat Khnam is located opposite the big Nehru Stadium on the south river bank.
Excursions
Cherrapunjee (Sohra) – Located 56km from Shillong, it is one of the wettest region in the world. The lovely town is renowned for limestone caves, orange honey and waterfalls. Don’t forget to see Nohsngithian falls. Mawsynram – Cherrapunjee has lost it claim to Mawsynram to be the place with the highest rainfall in the world. the primary attraction of the place is giant stalagmite formation shaped into a Shivalinga, called locally as ‘ Mawjymbuin’.
Water Sport
The Umiam Lake resort offers splashing water sports facilities. You can take motorboat rides, water scooters, skiing or sailing. Angling is another good option that you can turn over here.
