March to June

The summers in Shillong are mild and pleasant with temperatures averaging 24 degrees. Adventure activities like trekking through the dense forests, caving in Krem Mawmluh, camping near Umiam Lake, and River Rafting in Dawki can be carried out during the sunny days. Rock climbing and joomering can also be carried out in Barapani under professional guidance to ignite the thrill in you.

June to September

The monsoon in Shillong is heavy and can be a little counterproductive to your travel plans. But this is also the time when all the waterfalls in the region come alive and flow with magnificence throughout their domain. The Elephant Falls, the Bishop Falls and the Mawphlang Falls are just some of the many natural beauties which can engulf you in awe and make you fall in love with the place.

October to February

The winter season is when Shillong can be experienced in its full glory. The chilly temperatures, add to the ambience of the place with its snow-capped mountains and cold water. The hues of Shillong are truly shown during this part of the year.

How to Reach

The Shillong Airport, located in Umroi is well connected to cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, Guwahati, Ahmedabad etc. The MTC (Meghalaya Transport Corporation) connects the airport with all the cities in the state. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati which is almost 100 kilometers away, as there is no proper railway network in the region. Shillong has a well-connected bus network and can be reached easily by road.

Places to Visit

• Umiam Lake

Umiam, meaning the water of tears, is a huge man-made lake with an area of 221 sq kilometers. Visiting the houseboats of the Lumpongdeng Island, and taking in the expanse of nature’s beauty can soothe one’s mind and provide the perfect ambience to unwind.

• Elephant Falls

The two-tier waterfall, present in the East Khasi Hills district, is the epitome of magnificence. Popular amongst tourists for the proximity with which it can be accessed, the Falls are at a distance of 12 kilometers from Shillong.

• Mawsynram

The wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram has bountiful greenery and waterfalls like Mawsmai Falls and Nohkalikai Falls. The gushing water and serene environment can make any visitor’s spirit alive with its lively aura.

• Don Bosco Museum

This museum is the place to visit in order to learn about the tribal heritage of the indigenous people of the North-East. Highly famed amongst tourists for its architecture and wide collection of artifacts, the Museum has carved a niche among the museums of Indigenous Culture and has to be visited in order to gain a deeper understanding of the culture in the region.

• Shillong Peak

Present at an elevation of around 1950 meters, the Shillong peak is the highest peak in the Himalayas. Thronged by nature and photography enthusiasts for the splendid view and the raw display of nature, the place has a charm which is beyond compare.

• Lady Hydari Park

Designed in Japanese style, the Lady Hydari Park, houses a wide variety of flora and fauna which reflect the dense biodiversity of the region. The Mini Zoo with animals like the Himalayan Black bear, Hornbill, Jackal, and the lush green surrounding flower gardens are a sight to behold.

Aptly called ‘The Scotland of the East’, Shillong is a place of mesmerizing beauty which can hypnotize any person with its splendid marvel.

Here is the list of top 5 places to visit in Williamnagar.

1. Simsang River

The beautiful Simsang river flows through the city of Williamnagar; so, the city was called ‘Simsanggre’ before 1976, when it was christened ‘Williamnagar’. The river finds its source in the Nokrek peak. ‘Sim’ means a salt lick; there is a sim in the nearby area where wild animals pay regular visit.

Simsang River is called the Someshwari river when it flows through Bangladesh. During the winter, a fishing festival is held on the banks of Simsang, by the local villagers.

2. Naphak Lake

The beautiful Naphak lake was previously haunted by spirits, according to the local faith! Now people enjoy fishing here, as a large variety of fishes inhabit the clear water. Lovely birds dwell the trees here and fill the air with their melodious chirp. The beautiful lake was created after an enormous earthquake in 1897. Its distance from Songsak is 6 km. The unearthly scenic beauty of the lake makes it an attractive tourist spot.

3. Rongbang Falls

The Rongbang falls or the Rongbang Dare is situated on the Tura-Williamnagar road. The fall looks most beautiful during the rainy season. A panoramic view of the falls can be experienced from the highway. Bordered by ecstatic hills, the falls has its charming and lively presence amidst the verdant shades of nature.

4. Naka Chikong

Naka Chikong is found in Badaka village, 120 km from Williamnagar. In the middle of River Ildek, a big rock can be seen with deep hollows within it; it is known as Naka Chikong. The holes in the rock are crowded with fishes.

5. Rongrengiri

Rongrengiri is situated on the left bank of River Simsang. The reserve forest in Rongrengiri is covered with Sal trees. The brave warrior from the Garo race, Pa Togan, resisted British invasion in the East Garo region and finally was defeated by the foreigners. A memorial has been erected in his name in Rongrengiri.

Meghalaya is the place where the pristine essence of nature has been preserved for years. While you are staying at Williamnagar, you can visit the places mentioned above, to experience the ecstasy of nature.

Here Are Some More Tourist Spots Of Meghalaya:

• Best Places To Visit In Cherrapunji
• Best Places To Visit In Baghmara
• Best Places To Visit In Jowai

1. Nokrek National Park and Balpakram National Park

Just two km distant from the Tura Peak, the Nokrek National Park is the house of a rich biodiversity. A very rare species of citrus fruit is found in here. To preserve the species, world’s first gene sanctuary has been built up here.

In  Nokrek National park one can see the Red Panda, an endangered species. There are also different species of wild cats, like marble cats, and even the Tiger. It also houses the Asian Elephant.

The Balpakram National Park is another heaven for wildlife. In Balpakram National Park one can see Elephants, Barking Deer, Sambhar Deer, Leopards, Tiger, Elephant, Black Deer and many other wild animals.

2. Tura Peak

872 m above the sea level, the Tura peak overlooks the town of Tura. Locals believe the peak to be a pious guard of the town and the home of God. Previously known as Dura, Tura got its present name from the wrong pronunciation of the British.

The stretch of green on the Tura peak has been announced a Reserve Forest. There is also an observatory. Cinchona farming is a prime activity of the place. There is a Forest Bungalow in the vicinity.

Tura peak offers a panoramic view of the Lower Brahmaputra Valley. And most excitingly, one can also see the golden fields of Bangladesh. A track was built up here by the British to comfortably reach to the top.

3. Siju Caves, Siju Bird Sanctuary

The Siju cave in the Garo hills are a unique creation of nature; they have wonderful limestone formations. It is one of the longest cave line in India and till date, the end of the cave is unexplored! As it houses a number of bats, it is called ‘dabokhol’, meaning the ‘bat cave’.

Siju Bird Sanctuary is close to the Simsang river. It is the house of a big variety of birds and some of them are rare and protected species. The Peacock Pheasant is one such rare specie; the Siberian Ducks are there among the migratory birds which come here during the winter. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from November to March.

4. Pelga Falls

The beautiful, lively and enchanting Pelga falls are located at a distance of 7 Km from Tura. The serene beauty makes it a lovely picnic spot and also a hot-spot for angling. The Tourism Department has developed a footpath and a viewpoint here. It is exciting to see the Bamboo Bridge over the Ganol River.

5. Sasatgre Village

At the base of the Nokrek Peak, the calm Sasatgre village lies amidst the soothing essence of oranges. The village is known for its orange farming and is covered with lush orange bushes everywhere. Visit this place to calm your nerves with the soothing balm of nature’s beauty.

So, you must explore these five spots while visiting Tura, Meghalaya to unfold the mysteries of nature right before your eyes.

Other Interesting Places In Meghalaya:

• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Shillong
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Williamnagar
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Jowai

1. Umiam Lake

Umiam lake is a picturesque location and looks as if it has just come out of a beautiful painting. It is actually a reservoir of a dam that is also the first hydro-electric plant in the north-east. The area of the reservoir is around 220 sq km.  Just looking at the lake leaves you spellbound. There is also a water sports complex on its banks and another attraction is the Orchid lake resort, run by state tourism department. Several water sports can be undertaken here.

2. Lum Sohpetbneng

It is a sacred place for the locals and has great significance. Lum Sohpetbneng means ‘the navel of the earth’. There are many legends associated with the place. It is believed that the golden vine bridge is situated at the peak of the mountain, and it is the bridge that connects earth and heaven. It is also believed that the ‘seven huts’ or Ki Hynniewtrep, which belonged the seven tribes in the Khasi community were the first ones to be settled on the earth. The Seng Khasi tribes revere the place and they hold an annual pilgrimage at Lum Sohpetbneng in February. Tourist vehicles or cab service are available from Shillong to the place.

3. Lum Nehru Park

If you wish to relax in the company of nature, then Lum Nehru park is where you should be. There are gardens, vast lawns, aviaries and also spectacular orchids which lend an unparalleled beauty to the place. It is one of the most popular spots in Nongpoh.

4. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

A distinguishing feature of Nongkhyllem sanctuary is the presence of a variety of migratory birds and hence is a bird watcher’s dream destination.  Exotic migratory birds such as Rufous Necked Hornbill, Brown Hornbill and more can be spotted here. It is spread across 29 sq km and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds. Of course, the different flora species are another attraction. In addition to many wildlife including Himalayan Black Bear, Royal Bengal Tiger, Clouded Leopard and more, it also houses a great variety of reptiles. The best time to visit Nongkhyllem Sanctuary is during March and April. Also, the sanctuary is not open to visitors all through the year.

5. Dwar Ksuid

Though the words ‘Dwar Ksuid’ means ‘Devil’s doorway’, it is actually a beautiful pool which is located in Khapmara on the Umroi – Bhoilymbong road. One of the attractions here are the rock formations which resemble lotus, and there are also several sand boulders that give a unique beauty to the place. It is called as the devil’s doorway because it is believed that devils assemble here.

A visit to Nongpoh is an experience that you will not forget. With its variety in locations, Nongpoh is a nature lover’s paradise and also because it is quite serene and peaceful, a visit to Nongpoh is also very refreshing. It can be visited any time of the year, but it is best to check if the different spots have any particular time for visiting. There is no near railway station or airport and the nearest one is situated in Guwahati in Assam. It is well connected by road and several transport facilities are available to travel to and within Nongpoh.

Some Other Places To Visit In Meghalaya:

• Must Visit Places In Cherrapunji
• Must Visit Places In Tura
• Must Visit Places In Jowai

With its spending natural beauty and apt location, Baghmara is popular with tourists. The top 5 places in Baghmara have to be those that not only give you a chance to enjoy nature, but also help you know the essence of the place. Those places are:

1. Baghmara Reserve Forest

Visiting a forest reserve in any place is a joy in itself, but to visit the Baghmara Reserve Forest is much more enchanting as it offers sighting of wildlife, birds, in a calm and serene environment as no other. Some of the species to look out for are elephants, langurs, leopard, gaur and more. In fact, it is a common sight to see herds of elephants going about their life. There are also several bird species in the forest, which makes it a bird watcher’s paradise. Though there are also several types of plants here, one of the major attractions is the carnivorous pitcher plant. Winter months are the best time to visit Baghmara Reserve Forest as during this time, you can also see many migratory birds.

2. Siju Caves

Even those who are not keen nature lovers will love a visit to the Siju caves in Baghmara. It is the third longest cave in the country and houses remarkable stalagmites and stalactites. It also has fine river passages, which is unique in itself and which cannot be seen anywhere in the country or the world. There are several chambers in the cave, some are even unexplored and offers a marvelous sight to visitors. No wonder that Siju Caves is known as Meghalaya’s pride. It is also known locally as Dobakkol or the bat cave.

3. Siju Bird Sanctuary

Birders anywhere in the world should visit Siju bird sanctuary at least once in lifetime as it offers a birding experience like no other. It is located near Siju caves on the other bank of Simsang river at a distance of 450 km from Shillong, Meghalaya’s capital. Birds such as Siberian Ducks, Grey Hornbill, Peacock Pheasant, etc. can be spotted here. Several migratory birds too visit the sanctuary during winter months and hence that is the best time to visit the Siju bird sanctuary. Many activities such as camping, trekking, river rafting, fishing and angling can be undertaken here.

4. Simsang River

Simsang river is one of the eminent rivers in Meghalaya and it flows through the centre of the Garo hills, which means the area is divided into two because of the river. The tributaries of the river are Chibok, Rompa, Ringdi and Rongdik. It is a picturesque place with enchanting hills, valleys and trees. Be it with family or friends, or even alone, spending some time at Simsang river banks rejuvenates you and lifts your spirits. You can undertake boat rides, either on simple boats or jet skis and it is an adventurous experience. Simsang river is also famous for fishing and an annual fishing festival, Nathok Wari is organized during winter months, which is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

5. Nengkong

The major attraction of the place is the three caves that are really a nature’s marvel, namely, Tetengkol Balwakol, Dobakkol Chibe and Bok Bak Dobhakol. Of these, the Tetengkol Balwakol is the second longest cave in India, with a length of 533 km. Nengkong is quite adventurous to visit the caves and offers a great experience.

A visit to Baghmara offers a thrilling as well as a rejuvenating experience with its different places. A visit to the pitcher plant sanctuary is also recommended. The only way to get here is to travel to Guwahati railway station, and then hire a bus or a jeep to reach Baghmara.

Other Major Tourist Destinations In Meghalaya:

• Popular Places In Shillong
• Popular Places In Williamnagar
• Popular Places In Mawlai

There are many places of interest in Jowai but of all those, there are five places which should be in your must-visit list owing to the variety of experiences these places offer to tourists.

1. Syntu Ksiar

Syntu Ksiar is a vast stretch of land that lies on the banks of the Myntdu river. It is a scenic place and popular as a picnic spot. Syntu Ksiar literally means ‘the flower of gold’ and it just might’ve earned this name due to the scenic surroundings amidst which the place is located. It is also famous as the centre of freedom struggle. A memorial has been erected in memory of freedom fighter Kiang Nongbah, who led an uprising against the British. He was hanged to death on December 30, 1862 in Jowai town.

2. Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake

It is also a picnic spot but with a different and a unique feature that only few places in the country can boast of. As the name suggests, Jarain Pitcher plant lake is a place that has many pitcher plants, which are the unique carnivorous plants. These plants are planted over an area of 50,000 sq.m. To see the vast vegetation of pitcher plants is really an exciting and pleasing experience. To add to the beauty of the place, footpaths and arch bridges have been constructed. Another attraction is a fountain in the middle of the lake that has been built in the shape of a pitcher plant. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride in the lake. It is not in all places that you will be able to see a vast vegetation of carnivorous pitcher plants. That is why this spot is a must-visit place in Jowai in Meghalaya.

 3. Nartiang Monoliths

Nartiang Monoliths is one of the main monuments in India and has national importance. It has several stunning megaliths, one of which is around 27 feet high and 7 feet wide. Some are believed to be of pre-historic times. While visiting Nartiang, not only do you get to witness one of the most important ancient structures in the country, you can also visit the famous weekly market here. There is also a Hindu temple in the vicinity.

4. Lalong Park

The main attraction of Lalong park is the sacred groves, which is quite a sight. It is also important in terms of ecological importance. Another reason to visit Lalong park is that from here, visitors are able to get an amazing view of the beautiful Pynthorwah valley, which overlooks the park. With a vision of making Lalong park a major tourist destination, a water eco-park is being developed here.

5. Tyrshi Falls

Tyrshi falls is situated on national highway 44 on Shillong-Jowai road and is a beautiful waterfall. It is just 5 km from Jowai and is famously known as Jowai’s answer to Shillong’s Elephant falls. There is an arch bridge that takes visitors to the falls. You can enjoy a great view of the Pynthor Nein which is a vast rice valley.

Jowai is also known as a heritage district due to its tribal culture. Visitors thus also get a chance to know the traditional tribal culture of Jowai and also enjoy the festivals and dances of the tribals. It can be visited both during summer and winter seasons. It is also a great place for shopping for handicrafts and tribal arts and items. To reach Jowai, you will have to get down at Guwahati railway station, which is 160 km from Jowai, as there are no railways in Meghalaya, though it can be accessed by road.

Some More Tourist Destinations Of Meghalaya:

• Top Tourist Places In Williamnagar
• Top Tourist Places In Baghmara
• Top Tourist Places In Nongpoh

1. Nokrek National Park

The Nokrek National Park is located about 45 kilometres from the city of Tura in the Garo hills. The park is famous for being the home to the Hollock Gibbons, a rare type of gorilla. The park is having wild elephants and is known to be the home of the ‘ape-man’ or the jungle-man who has been sighted here occasionally! Other than the fauna, the park is a protected biosphere that houses various indigenous plants and herbs found only in this area. Visit the place to experience the only well-preserved forest tracks in the region and also witness the natural miracles of limestone caves that are famous here!

2. Balpakram National Park

The Balpakram National Park is known for its rich archaeological and geological importance, as fossiled sea shells were found here. The park is home to a variety of animals like leopards, langurs, boars and the very rare golden cat. The park is known for being the home to the very rare ‘red panda’ or the lesser panda. The word ‘balpakram’ translates into ‘a place where there are perpetual winds’ is situated about 167 kilometres from Tura. The river Simsang flows nearby situated along with the Siju Bird sanctuary.

3. Siju Bird Sanctuary

Siju Bird Sanctuary is next to the Simsang river that flows on the side of the park. The river attracts various rare and endangered birds like Siberian ducks. The bird sanctuary is one of a kind as the region does not have many sanctuaries solely for birds. Other birds sighted include, grey hornbill and the peacock pheasant.

4. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

Nongkhyllem Sanctuary is covered over an area of 29 square kilometres and is known to be the home to various unique reptiles, animals, birds and fauna. The Sanctuary is known to be as close to real nature as possible and is located in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. The animals here include the Bengal tiger, the black bear, the leopard and many such species at the verge of extinction such as the necked hornbill and the brown hornbill bird. The beauty of the sanctuary lies in the fact that many of these species were not indigenous to the country but were brought to the area later. The experience of seeing such exotic birds in their habitat is one of a kind!

5. Baghmara Reserve Forest

Baghmara Reserve Forest is located in the South Garo Hills and is near the town Bhagmara. The flora and fauna here range from wild elephants to langurs and pitcher plants to wild flowers. The Garo community live here and have their unique way of life that can be witnessed while visiting the area. Locals come and sell vegetables in make-shift shops along the road. The best time to visit the place is between Octobers to January when the birds come to visit the forest. The reserve is a beautiful place to experience local culture and wildlife.

Meghalaya is much more than just the abode of clouds, it is one of the most important habitats of wild and endangered flora and fauna found in the North-Eastern region of the country. The state has much to offer from beautiful lakes and streams to waterfalls and wild pineapples that grow along the roads. Visit Meghalaya to truly witness the amalgamation of exotic and unique species that are indigenous to the area!

Climatic Conditions

During the summer, Jowai is moderately warm. The average temperature in this region ranges between 22 degree centigrade and 30 degree centigrade and humidity is at a minimum. Cool winds blow through the summer and no woolens are required. The winter months bring slight chill in the winds. Winters are moderately cold in Jowai and demand the requirement light woolen garments. The coldest month here is January. It may get slightly chilly during the middle of the month here. The minimum temperatures during the winter reach 10 degree centigrade whereas maximum temperature is 22 degree centigrade. Monsoons are pleasant with slight rains that stay from June till September. The weather during this time turns humid and pleasant. An umbrella is enough as mostly only slight drizzles occur during the monsoon.

Best time to Visit

Jowai can be visited any time of the year however winters and monsoons are ideal for vacations. Monsoon enhances the scenic beauty of the region and the grayish clouds add to the charm of this hill station. Winters cool the environment down and refresh the air. Long outdoor walks are enjoyable during this season in Jowai. Summers may get bright sunlight and heat. It is advisable to remain hydrated during the summers while in Jowai.

Attractions/Things To Do

Jowai is vibrant with inherent culture and tourist attractions. There are a multitude of things to do in this place including spending time by the lake to paying respect at the local Durga Temple. Jowai has a multitude of waterbodies amongst which Tyrshi falls is a marvel to behold. It is situated at a close distance to Jowai and sports a bridge on the base shaped like an arch. The base of the waterfall beholds an amazing view of the Rice Valley. Durga Temple is a revered religious site where locals go to worship the Hindu deity. The temple was reconstructed atop an earlier existing Khasi complex that was constructed with a temporary roof. The Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake is a fine example of natural beauty. There is a side-walk constructed on the periphery of the lake for tourists to take a leisurely stroll. The local boatmen offer boat rides across the length of the lake for a nominal fee. There is a Pitcher plant shaped fountain installed at the center of this lake which adds to its beauty.

How To Reach

Jowai can be accessed via flights through Guwahati. Gopinath Bordoloi Airport is located in Guwahati. A taxi or state bus can be availed from the airport till Jowai. The trip form Guwahati would take a total of three hours. Besides Guwahati, Shilong airport is also an option. The nearest railway station to Jowai is also in Guwahati. Trains from all over the country move to and fro here. Meghalaya State Road Transport Corporation buses come regularly to Jowai on a daily basis. The busses connect Jowai with other neighboring towns including Garampani and Khanduli.

Distance From Major Cities

• Dispur – 152
• Guwahati – 161 km
• Kohima – 326 km
• Darjeeling – 657 km
• Kolkata – 1146 km
• Lucknow – 1489 km
• Agra – 1851 km
• Dehradun – 2028 km
• Delhi – 2048 km
• Jaipur – 2093 km
• Mumbai – 2814 km

Accessibility And Accommodation

The Meghalaya Tourism body of the Meghalaya Government has allotted several guest lodges in Jowai. These lodges are well equipped with all amenities and are comfortable. Other guest houses and hotels can also be found in abundance around the town. The accommodations can be pre-booked or availed on the spot.

1. Shillong

‘The Scotland of the East’ as it reminded the British of Scotland because of the town surrounded by rolling hills. Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. The main city of Shillong lies on the plateau area surrounded by the hills. Shillong is a home to majority of the Khasi tribal folks and also has a significant Christian population. With rolling mountains on the sides, whitish-grey clouds overhead and lush green forests underneath, Shillong has a preeminent charm. The city is also known as ‘India’s Rock Capital’ for its growing interest in the rock music scene. The city also reflects British architecture in its monuments whereas Assamese structuring in its home. The places to visit in Shillong are the Elephant falls, Shillong peak (the highest point of the state), Shillong Golf Course, Wards Lake and Don Bosco Centre of Indigenous Culture. Shillong is one of the most civilized towns of Meghalaya.

2. Cherrapunji

Titled as the World’s Wettest Place, Cherrapunji is a blessing to India. At an elevation of about 4800 feet, the city is spread on a plateau around the Khasi Hills overlooking the neighbouring country of Bangladesh. The city is also known for its oranges and was called as the ‘land of oranges’ by the tourists and hence the name is Cherrapunji was given. With the diverse vegetation in the valleys Cherrapunji is richly blessed with regional species of plants. Cherrapunji is also a paradise for the trekkers as the city is also popular for its living bridges, made by entangling the roots of the trees. These bridges are used to cross the paths and the tradition of twisting the roots started about half a millennium ago. The Seven Sister Falls and the town of Mawsynram are the major tourist attractions of the place.

3. Jowai

Blessed with a scenic beauty the hill-station of Jowai is at an elevation of 4530 feet above the sea level. With the Bangladesh border about 50 km away from the place, the city is an important trade and educational centre of the state. Jowai holds some beautiful waterfalls that will mesmerize you with their enormous charm. The Thadlaskien Lake is one of the most tranquil lakes with clear waters and is famous amongst the tourists. The Ialong Park is a paradise for the nature-lovers because of its diverse flora. With the water gushing from the falls, the shades of green and heavy clouds overhead, Jowai is one of the most beautiful destinations in Meghalaya.

Meghalaya is blessed with a pleasant climate, some seasonal rivers and waterfalls and also some of the most impressive caves. With a sparse population the state is on the quieter side of the country and is utopia for the nature lovers and solace seekers.

Spread across an area of 47.5 sq km, Nokrek National Park lying in the West Garo Hills district is truly one of its kind. It is an exotic, unperturbed piece of land with such unique features and mesmerising scenic beauty. Among the lush green bushes and the tall trees is the home of the extremely rare Red Panda. The presence of Red Panda here, has got the world wondering. The endangered Asiatic elephant can also be found here. Nokrek lies about 2 km from the Tura peak at an altitude of 4650 ft above sea level and has hilly terrain. It is situated near Balpakram National Park. Read on to explore the many hidden secrets of these amazing forests.

[Also Checkout: 100 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of India]

Climatic Conditions

The climatic conditions at Nokrek National Park are of the tropical type characterised by high humidity and elevated temperatures. Being part of the “wetty” state of Meghalaya, this place receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September.

Best Time To Visit

It is recommended that you plan your visit to Nokrek during the months of October to May.

Wildlife & Vegetation

• Animals

Nokrek National Park is a biodiversity hotspot in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya. The park is home to many rare and endangered species including the Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hoolock Gibbons, Serow, Slow Loris, many elephant varieties, Giant Flying Squirrel, Pig-Tailed Macaques, Wild Buffalo, Stump-Tailed Macaques etc.

• Birds

Nokrek is considered an important bird area and bird-watching is one of the activities available here. The bird species found here include green pigeons, hornbill, pheasants, peacocks etc.

• Reptiles

Snakes including python and many varieties of lizards are found here.

• Vegetation

Nokrek is composed primarily of a hilly terrain covered with thick semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Huge rock pieces comprising of migmatites, gneisses, amphibolites, granulites and also the ones containing iron can be found dispersed across the park. The soil type found here is of sandy, red loamy and clay type. The whole landscape seems to be covered with sedimentary rocks including stones, pebbles and shales. A unique variety of oranges called ‘Memang Narang’ (the orange of the spirits) is found here and led to the establishment of the first of its kind National Citrus Gene Sanctuary-cum-Biosphere reserve. Other significant plants include the orchids, wild lemon grass, champak, white meranti etc. All of this adds to create the picture-perfect scene of Nokrek before you.

Distance From Nearby And Major Cities

Cities nearest to Nokrek National Park include William Nagar, Tura and Guwahati. Distance from these and other major cities is as follows:

• William Nagar: 18 km
• Tura: 26 km
• Shillong: 146 km
• Guwahati: 151 km
• Sikkim: 301 km
• Kolkata: 383 km
• Lucknow: 960 km
• New Delhi: 1356 km

How To Reach

• By air: Nearest airport is at Guwahati (128 km).
• By rail: Nearest railhead is at Guwahati (160 km).
• By road: Nokrek can be reached via road from Guwahati and Shillong. Buses are available. Private vehicles can also be hired.

Local Attractions

Popular tourist attractions within the park include the Nokrek Peak which is the highest peak in this region and the enchanting rongbang dare waterfalls.

• The limestone Siju Caves within the park are an ideal adventure destination for these are deep water filled caverns.
• The glistening waters of Napak lake and the simsnag game reserve are worth a visit.
• To get a glimpse of stone-age, visit the Old stone age site at the junction of Ganol and Rongram rivers.

Accommodation

Tourist lodges, hotels, rest houses and resorts are available at Tura, Guwahati and Shillong. Traditional accommodation is available at Daribokgre village, at 3 km from Tura. It is equipped with basic amenities. Log on to http://megtourism.gov.in/accommodation.html for more information.

Other Useful Information

There is no entry fee.