Visiting the hinterland villages of the northeastern states is one of the all-time dream destinations for tourists. Meghalaya is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in India. Now, IRCTC has come up with an initiative that gives us an opportunity to ride a Royal Enfield bike to see the beauty of Meghalaya.
This package is called 'Enigmatic Meghalaya Adventure Package'. The duration of the journey is six nights and seven days. You can travel alone or with two people. During the trip, one can visit major cities and many other beautiful places, including Shillong and Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places in the world. Bookings for the trip from November 13 to 19 have now started on the IRCTC website.
The main attraction of this package is that Royal Enfield will provide a motorcycle for travel. Ten people will have the opportunity to participate in the first trip as part of the package that includes food and hotel accommodation. Camping facilities are also provided for tourists in places where hotels are not available. The journey starts from Guwahati. Fuel is also provided along with the Royal Enfield bike. Riders and pillion riders will be provided with helmets, knee guards, riding gloves, riding jackets and other safety gadgets. In addition, there is a multi-utility vehicle with riders to assist bike riders in case of any emergency.
The fare is Rs 44,640 for one person and Rs 38,320 for two people on a bike. For more information and bookings visit the official webpage at https://www.irctctourism.com/pacakage_description?packageCode=EGH030.
10 must-see places at Meghalaya
Meghalaya, also known as the Abode of Clouds, falls in one of the richest biodiversity areas in the world. The famed monsoons, the rich traditional festivals, and the dramatic terrain are just some of the many things this state is famous for. Whether you are looking for an adventure to give you an adrenaline high or a tranquil spot to recharge yourself, Meghalaya has plenty to offer.
Elephant Falls: Originally named after a rock that resembled an elephant, during the British era, this stunning waterfall is composed of three falls. While the first fall is a broad one and concealed by trees, the second one is weak. However, the third one catches the eye with milky white water cascading over rocks that are covered in fern. With thick vegetation on either side, Elephant Falls can be accessed by carefully descending along slippery and steep steps. The good news is that you will find benches at the first and second level of the waterfall, where you can unwind, click pictures and soak in nature’s unparalleled beauty.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Cherrapunji: If you want to start your Meghalaya trip with something awe-inspiring, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Umshiang), nestled in the verdant forests of Cherrapunji, fits the bill perfectly. Suspended at a height of 2400 feet and 3 km in length, this iconic bridge was created by joining the roots of two ancient rubber trees. The creative credit goes to the Khasis, who “train” the roots of many such trees (for 10 to 15 years) to grow in a way so that bridges can be formed. Umshiang Root Bridge, however, is the most well-known, owing to its size and the astonishing way it marries science and nature. It is also robust enough for you to cross the quietly flowing Umshiang River.
Umiam Lake: Umiam Lake is a man-made lake formed by the damming of the Umiam River. The Umiam Lake lies on the Guwahati-Shillong Highway, 18 kilometers outside the Shillong City. Umiam Lake is probably the first tourist attraction a visitor sees on a journey to Meghalaya. Surrounded by dense forest, the lake is a popular weekend destination for the residents of Shillong and Guwahati.
Don Bosco Museum: Many tourists are very much involved in knowing the cultural tale of the state. Don Bosco Museum, located in Shillong, is a 6-stored historical centre having 17 studios on display that take you through the history of Northeast India. Also, this museum displays a wide array of antiques, expressions, weapons, clothing types, and meticulous work that represent the history and culture of different tribes and individuals of Meghalaya. Don Bosco Museum is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya in July.
Mawlynnong Village: Mawlynnong, nestled in the East Khasi Hills, is not just famed for being the cleanest village in India, but it is also lovingly called God’s Own Garden. Everyone in this picture-perfect village, be it a child or an elderly, knows the importance of hygiene, sanitation, and neatness. In fact, children happily clean up the streets before they head to their schools. The village encourages rainwater harvesting and bans the use of plastic and the practice of smoking. The icing on the cake comes in the form of fragrant fruit orchards, dense greenery, and playful streams. You will also fall in love with the quaint European vibe of the Church of the Epiphany and the awe-inspiring living root bridge of Nohwet.
Ka Khoh Ramhah: Also known as Mothorp and Pillar Rock, Ka Khoh Ramhah lure tourists for its shape. It is a rock formation in the form of an upside-down basket in the shape of a cone. As per legends, the basket belonged to a big evil giant. Soak-in the beauty of clouds ascending from the plains and making it worth visiting.
Nongpoh: Nongpoh is a small town and one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. It is close to the Brahmaputra plains and situated in the East Khasi Hills. If you are on your way to Shillong, do plan a pit stop to Nongpoh to enjoy the view of the rivers, greenery and the perfect weather.
Air Force Museum: Scrupulously maintained, Air Force Museum in Shillong, is situated within the campus of the Eastern High Command. The museum showcases actual machines, aircraft models and technology demonstrations used by the IAF Eastern Command. From uniforms worn by the pilots to the miniature model of the aircrafts, the museum showcases it all.
David Scott Trail: The David Scott Trail is a 16-km trek built by David Scott, a British administrator. The historic trail stretches from Mawphlang to Ladmawphlang. Admire the lovely terrain of Eastern Khasi Hills en route. Astounding views of crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, scenic valleys, and typical Khasi villages get etched on the hearts and minds of the onlookers forever.
Shillong Peak: The highest peak in Meghalaya lies in Shillong. With an elevation of 1900 meters above sea level, the Shillong peak is a must-visit site in Meghalaya. The height enables a panoramic view of the city, and one can see the nearby hills and forests of the state. Shillong also serves as the base of the Indian Air Force, and it is the headquarters of Eastern Air Command. There is a small museum built and managed by IAF, which is a must-visit place for kids and defense lovers.
