The state of Meghalaya is situated in the northeast region of India, extending from latitude 20°1' N and 26°5' N and longitude 85°49' E and 92°52' E. It extends for about 300 km in length and about 100 km in width. It is bounded on the north and east by the Indian state of Assam and on the south and west by Bangladesh.

BEST TIME TO VISIT :-

The climate of Meghalaya varies with the altitude. The climate of Khasi and Jaintia Hills is uniquely pleasant and bracing. It is neither too warm in summer nor too cold in winter, but over the plains of Garo Hills, the climate is warm and humid, except in winter. True to its name, the Meghalaya sky seldom remains free of clouds (megh, clouds; alaya, abode of). The average annual rainfall is about 1,150 cm.

HISTORY :-

There is not much information on the history of Meghalaya apart from accounts of the more important Khasi kingdoms in the chronicles of the neighboring Ahoms and Kacharis.The first written history of the state came into existence only after Britishers tried to construct a rail line through this area to connect Bengal and Assam that ultimately led to a treaty with the Khasi principality of Nonkhlaw. However, with the treaty came opposition, which forced the ruler to repudiate the treaty in 1829. This led to direct confrontation between Khasis and the Britishers and by 1830s, the local rulers had submitted to the latter. The tribes continued their practices in seclusion until rulers of the region acceded to the newly independent country of India. The region was included in the united province of Assam for administrative region, which led to the agitation by the local population. The region was accorded full statehood on January 21, 1972.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS :-

Tour to Meghalaya Shillong is the capital of the state and the largest city. The city is situated in the Khasi Hills. Shillong is the place to enjoy everything, starting from events, sightseeing, recreation, shopping, or unwinding oneself in a bar. The city has a character which can be felt only after exploring around the city.

Cherrapunji (58 km from Shillong), about two hours south of Shillong, used to the wettest place on earth. This honor is given today to Mausynram, a stone throw further west. The area is lush green with waterfalls and an extensive underground cave network.

A popular picnic spot is the Mawjinbuim Cave (55 km off Shillong) where there is a stalagmite in the form of a Shiva lingam receiving steady drops of water from a stone formed like a breast.

Jowai, the second biggest town in Meghalaya, is situated in the district of the Jaintias. It is the gateway to Nartiang, a delightful village further north that has a bizarre collection of druid stones. Today it is an interesting park but a decade ago, human sacrifices were carried out. The most dominating piece rising up to the sky with red spots on the gray granite carries the story of a boy who was tricked into a trap, offering his life to please the gods. Take a walk through the charming village. There is a monument dedicated to the first freedom fighter hanged by the British in 1862. It is situated by a river surrounded by fields and pine forests and is inviting for a relaxing day's walk.

Other places to visit are Jakrem (66 km from Shillong), which is famous for its hot springs. Nawphlang is a picnic spot, and Ranigodam is known for adventure sports like angling.

The untouched 220-sq-km Balpakram National Park south of Tura features the canyon of the Mahadeo River, with fauna including tiger, elephant, barking deer, and gaur. The park is also known for its medicinal herbs. The valley has been left untouched partly because of a Garo myth that souls linger here for a while after death.

WHERE TO STAY :-

Accommodation is available to suit all income groups including budget and mid-range. Indian, Chinese, Continental, as well as northeastern foods are available in all the major restaurants in Shillong. We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Megahalaya.

HOW TO REACH :-

BY AIR - Guwahati (100 km from Shillong) is the nearest airport connecting Meghalaya to the outer world. From Shillong there are state transport buses from the Police Bazaar stand every half hour to Guwahati and Silchar. Private coaches are also available. Hiring a taxi is the best option to get around the state.

BY RAIL - The nearest railway station is Guwahati, which is well connected to the rest of the country.