Swaddled amidst wraith-like a mist is aptly called the abode of the clouds. It is one of India's prettiest and youngest states having split away from Assam in 1972. Inhabited by the Khasis, Jaintia and Garos, it is best known for the pretty hill station Shillong, which has been Meghalaya's first city for a long time. Standing out amongst the other states, not just for its traditional and natural beauty, Meghalaya is also known for its unique matrilineal society, which governs lineage and ancestral inheritance through the female line. For centuries now, Meghalaya's historical strengths have been irreversibly linked with its superlative natural setting. For the discerning holiday-maker, nothing could be more enticing..

SHILLONG

An erstwhile colonial town, Shillong is fondly known as the Scotland of the East due to its striking similarity with the Scottish highlands. A romantic city, Shillong has been one of the important tourist destinations in the northeast. The city derives its name from 'Leishyllong' - the Superpower or God who is believed to reside on the Shillong peak, overlooking the city. Lying in the cradle of the tall pine conifers and pineapple shrubs, Shillong's undulating terrain is a constant source of attraction for tourists from both home and abroad. The Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes add color to this beautiful city. Offering great views of the snow clad Himalayas, it is perfect for those seeking solitude amidst calm and serene environs.

Sight Seeing

The Shillong Peak and the Sohpetbneng Peak are two most popular view points offering gorgeous views of the countryside. The Ward Lake is a horse-shoe shaped artificial lake that abounds in grass carp fish. The State Museum is located at the State Central Library complex in Laichumiere houses a rare collection of butterflies and moths. This is also a good place to see the heritage and lifestyle of the Khasi tribes. Besides these, you must see the milky white waterfalls here. The Crinoline Falls approximately 13 metres in height and Elephant Falls located in Upper Shillong are excellent picnic spots. Other waterfalls worth visiting include Gunner's Falls and Spread Eagles Falls.

Head to the Umaim Lake situated at Umiam, 17 kilometres from Shillong for a day picnic. It is a popular excursion point to enjoy water sports like sailing, water skiing and water scooters. About 12 kilometres on the outskirts of Shillong is yet another tourist spot, the Elephant Falls, offering beautiful sights especially in the rainy season. Sherrapunjee or Sohra situated about 50 kilometres from Shillong is blessed with roaring water falls, including the famous Nohsngithiang Falls.