Places To See In Meghalaya
Meghalaya to the south of Assam is
abound in beautiful hills, dazzling waterfalls, crystal clear lakes,
orchids and exotic butterflies. Often called the Scotland of the East,
the land has lot of places where the undulating hills, snaking river
and thrilling wildlife is best suited for people of adventurous
spirit. The Capital of Meghalaya, Ward's Lake and Elephanta falls can
enchant any tourist.
¤ Shillong (Capital)
Inhabited predominantly by the three tribal groups, the capital is
perched on an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level showcasing a
picturesque panorama. The Ward's Lake which is man-made and located at
the heart of the city has a lot to offer, starting from the cobbled
sand stones paths to the flower beds and pleasant lighting. A variety
of exotic plants and a number of rare and colourful species of bird
are found at the Botanical Garden. There is a well-laid pavement
where city-dwellers and tourists run for their health. Shillong
Cathedral is so spacious that it can accommodate a few thousand
worshippers at a time. It is among the many churches and cathedral
that were built when the British were in Meghalaya.
¤ Shillong Peak
The peak is 10 kms from Shillong and at 1965 meters above sea level.
It is the highest point in the state. Best suited for picnics, it
offers the visitors a panoramic view of the country. Obeisance is paid
to U Shulong at the sanctum at the peak's summit every springtime by
religious priest.
¤ Elephant Falls
The mountain stream cascades over two successive falls set in dells of
fern-covered rocks and forms the beautiful Elephant Falls. Situated at
a distance of 12 kms on the outskirts of Shillong, the waterfalls draw
many people. After a short walk on the well paved footpath and a small
wooden bridge, one can again come across two smaller waterfalls by the
name of Wei Laplam Falls and Wir Phang Falls.
¤ Tura Peak
Tura is the largest town in the Garo Hills region and a unique hill
known as Tura peak stands on the eastern flank of Tura. From the peak,
one can see a spectacular view of the lower Brahmaputra valley as well
as the golden yellow plains of Bangladesh. The altitude of the peak is
eight hundred and seventy two meters above sea level. In addition to
the scenic beauty of the peak, there is an attraction of observatory,
a tourist bungalow and a Cinchona-plantation.
¤ Ward's Lake
Ward's lake also known as the Polok Lake, located at the heart of the
city is named after an executive engineer named Mr. Pollock. It is
popular in the city of Shillong for its short garden works and
boating. The highlight of the lake is the arched bridge over it and
when the serenity of the place and the reflection on the water
materialize, a dazzling and arresting sight is seen.
¤ Golf Course
It is situated in Shillong and set in an undulating valley covered
with thick groves of pine and rhododendron trees at an altitude of
5200 ft. The golf course had 9 hole course in 1898 and was later
converted into 18 hole course in 1924 by Captain Jackson and
C.K.Rhodes.
¤ Other Beautiful Waterfalls
Spread Eagle Falls located within the Shillong Cantonement which is on
the outskirts of the city is a treat of the eyes and the senses. Sweet
Falls (8kms away from Shillong) and Crinoline Falls at the heart of
the city are the many wonders that is known as waterfalls.
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