Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is known for majestic mountains and adventure sports. The picturesque northeastern part of India has always attracted travellers from India and abroad and now Malayalam actor Navya Nair has posted a breathtaking video of her boating spree in Shillong with the message – Live life to the fullest…Make happy memories…End of the day only memories remain – on social media.
Though there are many outstanding avenues for water-related leisure activities and adventure sports in Shillong, the most sought-after destination on that league is the Umiam Lake. The lake, which is on the Guwahati-Shillong route, is enveloped by rolling mountains and lush green forest and famous for extreme sports and boating. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed across the Umiam River as part of a hydro-electric project in the early 1960s.
Umiam Lake is spread across 222 sqkm and is the main center for water sports and boating in Shillong. There are many options including pedal boats, water scooters and speed boats to glide through the waters. Moreover, the nature’s artistry during sunrise and sunset is out of this world, to say the least.
The lake and the surroundings are a treat for nature lovers as the region has an enviable variety of flora. It is a feast for the eyes as the shores of the lake will be decorated with bright Gulmohar trees during summer, and with the arrival of winter, the water level dips and the lake turns into blue, which is also a spectacle.
Travellers can stay at the government-run Orchid Lake Resort, which has superlative facilities. You can also relish the local cuisine at the retreat’s restaurant that overlooks the lake. One can also stay on a cute little houseboat on the Lumpongdeng Island situated in the middle of the lake.
The best time to visit the Umiam Lake is between March and June during which the weather would be pleasant. One can hail a taxi from Shillong and travel through the scenic NH6 to reach Umiam Lake. You can also reach the lake by taking the Shillong bypass road from the Shillong airport, which is the nearest airport. Besides the lake, Shillong also boasts of Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak and Don Bosco Museum, among others.