Tourism in East Khasi Hills District comprises visits to several amazing sites including parks, waterfalls, museums, lakes and more. Visiting East Khasi Hills District will give the travellers a peaceful and memorable experience. There is no dearth of tourist attractions in East Khasi Hills District. The scenic beauty of the nature adds charm to the travelling experience of the tourists.
Some of the popular attractions of East Khasi Hills District are as follows -
Shillong Peak: An ideal picnic spot, 1965 metres above sea level and 10 kms from the city, offers a panoramic view of this country side. It is also the highest point in Meghalaya.
Sohpetbneng Peak: This peak is 1343 metres above the sea level, 20 kms from Shillong, and is regarded as sacred by the local people. It provides a beautiful scenic view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This `Navel of Heaven` as per Khasi mythology is considered as a heavenly peak.
Ward`s Lake: Ward`s Lake is century old picturesque lake also known as Polok Lake. Located in the heart of the city, it is popular for boating. The lake has a striking arched bridge over it.
Umiam Water Sports Complex: The Water Sports Complex has been developed upon the mighty reservoir of the Umiam Hydro Electric Project, at Umiam Lake, 16 kilometres before reaching Shillong. The campus offers a wide choice of exciting water sports activities with row-boats, paddle-boats, cruise-boats, sailing-boats, water-scooters, speed-boats and a floating restaurant with ferry services.
Botanical Garden: A secluded but captivating spot with a plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is located just below the Ward`s Lake. It also houses a mini-aviary with rare and colourful species of birds. The secluded setting of the Botanical Garden with its well-laid paved walks makes it a favourite resort for city dwellers as well as the tourists.
Lady Hydari Park: Lady Hydari Park, stretching over a km is replete with roses and blossoms of exquisite hues and colours, is a feast to eyes. It has an excellent mini zoo cum deer park.
State Museum: State Museum is located in the state central library premises with a good collection of artifacts of North Eastern India.
Elephant Falls: 12 kms on the outskirts of the city the mountain stream descends through two successive falls set in dells of fern-covered rocks.
Crinoline Falls: Located in the heart of the city adjacent to the Lady Hydari Park, lies the Crinoline Falls which cascades through its jungle path.
Diengiei Peak: Located to the west of the Shillong plateau, Diengiei Peak presents a spectacular view of green mountainous hills. The captivating hills are dotted with tiny shining villages.
Dwarksuid: An enigmatically beautiful pool with wide, rocky sand banks located on a stream alongside the Umroi-Bhoilymbong Road is known as Dwarksuid or Devil`s doorway. Its lotus-like rock formations are captivatingly scenic and magnificent.
Cherrapunji: Better known as Sohra, Cherrapunji is one of the most visited tourist spots of North Eastern India. Situated 56 kms from Shillong and 1300 metres above sea level, Cherrapunji is known popularly known as the rainiest place on the planet. The town is also famous for its limestone caves, oranges and as a Centre of the Khasi Culture and literature. The oldest Theological College in this region is located here. In addition, the natural beauty is complemented by springs and sacred forests.
Moreover, there are several caves in Khasi Hills like Krem Mawmluh and Krem Phyllut that attract the tourists from all parts of the country.
How to Reach East Khasi Hills District
The headquarters of the district Shillong is connected to Guwahati and Silchar by National Highway 44. The nearest Rail head and airport are at Guwahati. Further, Shillong is well connected with other parts of the state. Similarly, all the block headquarters in the district are also connected by roads.
