Top 9 Adventure Sports in Meghalaya
Ever wanted a vacation where you could enjoy a peaceful landscape, delicious food, and adventurous sports all in one? Shillong, the Scotland of East, and Meghalaya’s capital city, is that destination. The topography of this city is rich with forests, waterfalls, lakes, hills, and plains, making it the hub of adventure sports in Meghalaya. Here we have combined a list of all adventurous activities in Meghalaya, along with our personal tips on how and when to do these sports. 1. Camping 2. Boating above crystal 3. Cave exploration 4. River Rafting and kayaking 5. Paragliding 6. Trekking 7. Elephant falls 8. Horse Riding 9. Visit Asia’s cleanest village Camping among the Legends in the Sacred Forest: CAMPING IN THE SACRED FOREST The sacred forest of Mawlynnong might as well be named as the scared forest of Mawlynnong for the legend surrounding the forest – nothing goes out of this forest. The native tribe warns that nothing should be taken out of the forest, not even a dead leaf or log, otherwise the doer may suffer a mysterious illness that could even be fatal. Follow the mesmerizing trail of the forest to find a suitable camping sight (make sure you don’t run off-track and end up deep into the forest. It’s unadvisable for obvious reasons). Enjoy the journey spotting frequent monoliths and a mysterious groove called Labasa which natives deem as their deity and believe that Labasa can turn into a leopard/tiger to protect its people from dangers. Cost: Cab ride – INR 1800/-, Entry fees – INR 20 per person, Guide fees – INR 400 for a half-hour (compulsory to hire and you can pay extra for a longer time), Extra charges – INR 20/- for camera, INR 50/- for vehicle. Best time to visit: September- October (avoid monsoon) How to reach: 25 KM cab ride from Shillong Boating above Crystal: BOATING IN UMNGOT RIVER Now, this is where your Meghalaya tourism compares to the Banana beach in Phuket, Thailand. The Umngot river, better known as Dawki river near Shillong is so crystal-clear that boats appear to be floating above glass. You can see unique rocks at the bottom of the river and endless fish species racing alongside you through the course of the river. Apart from boating, activities like cliff jumping and zip-lining are also available here. Or you can just relax with your feet dipped in water at the shallow end of the river. The journey from Shillong to Dawki river, albeit a long one, is full of picturesque views of the beautiful city that won’t let you look at the watch. Cost: INR 600 per person (maximum 4 allowed in one boat Best time to watch: January to May (avoid monsoon) How to reach: 95km cab ride from Shillong Cave Exploration: NATURE MADE SHIVALINGA AT MAWJYMBUIN CAVE Cave exploration is a major part of Meghalaya tourism and if you’re mystery seeking soul, the caves of Shillong are your new best friend. 9 out of 10 deepest caves in India are in Meghalaya and have been the subject of attention of hikers, geologists, and historians alike. Each cave has a mystery, a legend, and a panoramic view to offer. Some caves even have vertical slide-downs, waist-high water passages, and dark, slippery trails. Exploring the caves of Shillong is nothing less than a journey to the mysterious island. The 6 best caves to explore are: 1. Mawjymbuin Cave (Mawsynram Village) 2. Mawsmai Cave (Cherrapunjee) 3. Krem Mawmluh (Cherrapunjee) 4. Krem Umshyrpi (Cherrapunjee) 5. Siju Cave ( East Garo Hills) 6. Marai Cave (Jowai Road). Cost: nominal or no entry fee Best time to visit: any time of the year How to reach: 1-3 hours cab ride from Shillong River Rafting and Kayaking: RAFTING IN THE DAWKI RIVER Water sports make up for a huge part of adventure sports in Meghalaya and White-water rafting tops the list for any water enthusiast. Feel the strong and icy freshwater gushing against your face as you fervently peddle the raft with the flow of the river. River rafting can be enjoyed at the Barapani lake or in the Dawki River. For beginners, we suggest Kayaking in the Kynshi river – one of the best kayaking destinations in India, however, kayaking can also be done in the Umiam lake, which is just a half-hour drive from Shillong. Either way, water sports at Shillong are a major tourist attraction to Meghalaya and will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. Cost: average cost for both rafting and kayaking is INR 700 per person Best time to visit: all year long, avoiding monsoon How to reach: Barapani lake, Dawki river, Kynshi river, and Umiam lake are 17 km, 95km, 53km, and 17km from Shillong, respectively. Paragliding: PARAGLIDING IN MEGHALAYA Meghalaya is one of the best places for paragliding in India. With a gliding height of 700 meters, you’ll be in awe of the exquisite view before you, and no matter how long you stay in the sky, you always land down wanting more. Paragliding tickets can be prebooked or purchased on the spot. Paragliding cost per adult is around INR 2000. A little expensive, but with the best equipment, trained help, and assured safety, the experience is worth the cost. Cost: INR 2500 PER PERSON Best time to visit: any time of the year How to visit: there are several paragliding spots in Shillong depending on the company/agent you choose. Trekking on the David Scott Trail: DAVID SCOTT TRAIL, MAWLYNNONG Thakk gaye Bunny? If not, get ready to trek on one of India’s oldest trek routes, constructed during the British administration in India. The David Scott Trek (named after the British administrator David Scott) is a 16 km long trek that runs in the sacred forest and stretches between two villages – Mawphlang and Lad
Desi Reunion with Friends in SHAAN-E-AWADH Lucknow
Conference call between Jigris “Ah! This Covid has ruined all our plans. Right? We should definitely plan reunion guys”, Kirti said. “Reunion please, are you sure, you’re not thinking about food this time? Because every time we plan something, food is the most exciting part for you”, Muskaan replied. “Jai! You tell her, there is no love sincere than the love of food. Food is everything”, Kirti replied annoyingly. “Yes, she is damn right. What do you think, Prateek?”, Jai enquired. “Umm”, (looking through the pages of his book) Prateek said, “I want to explore some historical sites, something with the deep ruins of past.” “Ahahaha…You will always be a nerd”, Divyansha exclaimed joyfully, “I think we should visit Lucknow. In winters, the essence of this place is so soothing and the flavor of different varieties of food, and, and how can one forget about Lucknow Mahotsav! the huge mela of the city”. “Lucknow’s kebab dude and the biryani, lassi… just wow”, Kirti said excitingly. After several discussions, they finally plan a trip to Lucknow. Capital of Uttar Pradesh- Lucknow In this fast-changing world, where, modernization is overshadowing the charm of the old cities. Lucknow continues to hold on to the silky thread of a bygone era which is, dyed in the golden hue of Awadh’s history. The capital of Uttar Pradesh is among the few cities that have a personality of its own. Here is a list of things that will tell you why Lucknow is so special? 1. PLACES WITH SHAHI BACKGROUND 2. LAKHNAVI ANDAAZ WALI SHOPPING 3. ADAB AUR ZAYKE KA KHANA 4. NIGHTLIFE IN LUCKNOW 1. Places with SHAHI Background Places to visit with friends in Lucknow Bara Imambara One of Lucknow’s most beautiful monuments is Bada Imambara. This structure has immense cultural, religious, and historic significance and worth. It is mostly known for its fascinating Bhool Bhulaiya. The Imambara is one of the most popular tourist sites in the heart of the old city, with its beautiful architecture, a baffling yet amazing echo system, and great interiors. If you are visiting Lucknow this should be on the top of your list. TIMINGS: 6:00 A.M.- 5:00 P.M. ENTRY TICKET: Rs 50 per person (Adult for Indian Citizens) Central hall of Bada Imambara Rumi Darwaza The Rumi Darwaza, Awadh ki Shaan-Navabo ki Pehchan. This place should definitely be included in your itinerary to Lucknow, the word Rumi Darwaza literally means Turkish gateway in English. It is one of the famous architectural wonders of Lucknow. The 60ft tall doorway is situated in the center of Bada Imambara and Chota Imambara. This Darwaza has become so crucial to Lucknow’s pan-India and worldwide character that the door has been used as a symbol for both the city’s and the metro corporation’s logos! So, if you visit Lucknow make sure to stop by and have a look at the beautifully crafted architecture. The place is perfect for clicking pictures that will give an aesthetic view for the gram. TIMINGS: 12:00 P.M.- 12:00 A.M. ENTRY TICKET: Free of cost. Beautiful doorway in Lucknow- Rumi Darwaza 2. Lakhnavi Andaaz Wali Shopping Shopping is the most therapeutic activity during a trip, and in a city like Lucknow – a paradise for street shopping, it becomes one of the important things to do in Lucknow. Chikan Kari embroidery and Attar-E-Khushboo are special souvenirs one can buy from Lucknow. Chikan Embroidered Clothes Even though there are big flashy malls in Lucknow, but the vibrant markets and well-crafted shops, remain in the limelight for travelers across the country. These colorful markets never leave a chance to become a Centre of attraction among tourists. Tehzeeb in the city is quite evident from the way shopkeepers talk to the customers. The most loved product of Lucknow is the Traditional Chikan embroidery work. Famous shops in Chowk, Aminabad, Hazratganj, Janpath, and Alambagh will definitely give you a memorable experience in the crowded yet joyful streets of Lucknow. These narrow streets and shops have very meaningful and deep stories related to the history and rich culture of Awadh. Tip: If you visit these markets be aware of your belongings and be ready to bargain at the lowest price possible. Markets of lucknow Attar (Perfume) Fragrance or Khushboo depicts the personality of a human being. Other than chikankari work, one specialty of Awadh is attar (the perfume). It is the best-suited souvenir from Lucknow. The shahi design and the cut-glass shape of perfume bottles are considered unique features. Lucknow is recognized for its high-quality perfumes. This attar or perfume is made with the use of different aromatic herbs, spices, sandal oil, musk, flower essence, that leaves a long-lasting fragrance. The word ‘attar’ is derived from the Persian word ‘atr,’ which implies scent. During the time of Nawabs, this scent or attar was used in dishes also, in order to enhance the flavor and aroma of food. Perfume bottles 3. Adab Aur Zayke Ka Khana Lucknow city “Jahan Ki Tehzeeb -E- Talim Aur Dawate-Ishq Mashoor Hai”. It is unlikely that there is another city in the country that can surpass the beauty of Awadh’s evening and the taste of its exotic food. Some places are famous for pilgrimage and just like that, Lucknow city is a place where food lovers come for food pilgrimage. Dastarkhwan The famous place for non-vegetarians is Dastarkhwan. Hundreds of royal courts and kitchens have been described in India’s culinary history, but no one has been able to match the perfection of the Dastarkhwan of the nawabs of Lucknow, where Awadhi cuisine originated. The Awadh Nawabs were supporters of the arts, poetry, music, and fine arts. This appreciation for finer things extended to their cuisine, resulting in the birth of Awadhi cuisine, which is adored by foodies all over the country. Non-vegetarian food in Lucknow @Dastarkhwan 1090 food lane 1090 lane is the favorite evening spot
