Shillong,
An ideal picnic spot, 1965 metres above sea level and 10
kms from the city, offers a panoramic view of these country
side, and is also the highest point in the State. Obeisance
is paid to U Shulong at the sanctum at the peak's summit
every springtime, by the religious priest of Mylliem State.
In the evening the city lights below appear like a star-studded
abyss.
Sohpetbneng,
1,343 meter, 20 Kms from Shillong, regarded as sacred by
the Hynniewtrep people, is set amidst a beautiful scenic
view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This 'Navel
of Heaven' as per Khasi mythology is a heavenly peak, which
offers to fill the spiritual void and emptiness, to those
who seek and desire solace and peace of mind.
Lady Hydari Park,
stretching over a km is replete with roses and blossoms
of exquisite hues and colours, is a feast to eyes. Owes
its existence to Lady Hydari, the wife of an erstwhile Governor
of Assam. It has an excellent mini zoo cum deer park.
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. At a short distance beyond the falls, there are two
smaller falls which are none the less beautiful and captivating.
These are the Wei Iaplam Falls and the Wir Phang Falls.
A well paved footpath and a small wooden bridge facilitate
access to these falls.
Cherrapunjee (Sohra), Better
known as Sohra, Cherrapunjee is one of the most visited
tourist spots of North Eastern India. Situated 56 Kms from
Shillong and 1300 metres above sea level, known all over
the world as the rainiest place on the planet. A pleasant
drive to see roaring water falls leaping into deep gorges,
including the famous Nohsngithiang falls is certainly an
ever memorable visual treat. The lovely town is also famous
for its limestone caves, orange, honey, a headquarter of
the Syiem of Sohra and a Centre of the Khasi Culture and
literature. The oldest Theological College in this region
is located here, established by the Welsh Presbyterian Missionaries
in 1888, known as Cherrapunjee Theological College. Extensive
limestone caves abound, with a large number of stalagmites
and stalactites inside, the full length and breadth of the
caves has not been adequately explored. In addition, the
natural beauty is complemented by springs and sacred forests.
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