Set amidst emerald-green trees and a rich vegetation, Mawlynnong village is a peaceful village situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Often referred to as ‘God’s own garden’, this village, located 90kms from Shillong, has won recognition for being the cleanest village in Asia. This charming village known for its cleanliness is a community-based eco-tourism initiative. The commitment of the villagers in keeping up with the reputation of a clean village is inspiring. With its serene natural beauty, a day spent in this village would be a change from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Tourists can enjoy a trek to the living roots bridge at a neighbouring village called Riwai. With roots entangled to form a bridge on top of a stream, the living roots bridge provides an amazing sight. Another attraction is the bamboo sky-walk (an 85 feet bamboo structure), which presents a general view of this picturesque village and a panoramic view of the Bangladesh plains.

The primary occupation of the villagers is agriculture. Most of them engage in growing betel nut. A waste paper bin made of bamboo can be seen all along the village. With hundred percent literacy, the villagers are working towards conservation and protection of the forest. They are also on a mission to ban plastic. Most of them are familiar with the English language. A small village with around 82 households, Mawlynnong is considered as one of the cleanest villages in Asia. Though accommodation facilities are limited, they are in the process of being developed.

With variety of colourful orchids blossoming amidst lush green trees, Mawlynnong village provides a mesmerizing sight of nature.

Situated near Songsak block, just off the Darugiri-Songsak road in the East Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, Tasek lake is a large inland lake which was created when the 1897 earthquake took place. The lake is formed by the Damring river and is said to be the home of a huge water serpent called Sangkini (monstrous snake) by the locals. Tasek lake has vast potential for pisciculture and the state government has lately established a major fishery there.

This natural inland lake serves as a suitable picnic spot and camping site, with its relaxing ambience and cool waters. One can also enjoy fishing here. Tourists can simply laze around in the wilderness of Mother Nature – East Garo Hills. Amidst the soothing environment, Tasek lake is a popular tourist spot.

Referred to as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew by the local Khasi people, which means ‘Three Steps Waterfall’, Elephant Waterfalls is situated at a distance of 12kms from Shillong, away from the busy city life.The British people found it difficult to pronounce the local name of the falls and therefore renamed it as ‘Elephant Falls’. The waterfall is said to have drawn its name from a huge elephant-shaped rock situated near it. Though the rock was demolished in an earthquake, the name of the waterfall still remains. Elephant Falls stand among the most prominent tourist spots of Shillong city in the East Khasi Hills district.

Set amidst lush green vegetation, Elephant Falls serve as an ideal picnic spot for tourists. Offering the perfect backdrop, it grabs attention of photographers due to its scenic beauty. This two-tier waterfall is an accumulation of three smaller falls that combine together to form the stream that falls over fern-covered rocks. The crystal white water gurgling down the stony steps, with greenery on the side of the waterfall offers a mesmerizing view. Other waterfalls in the region are the Wir Phang Falls and the Wei Laplam Falls.

During the monsoon period (especially in July and August), the water flows down with great force. Even the local people come to witness the mighty force of water gushing down the falls. The gushing of water in full power makes it look all the more striking and stunning. Tourists must make sure to visit this beautiful place.

Situated in the heart of the city, Sillong, Wards lake is a stunning man-made lake which was named after Sir William Ward, the then Chief Commissioner of Assam. This place is a must-visit if you are in Shillong. Surrounded by lush green gardens, this artificial horse-shoe shaped lake is a well-known tourist spot. One can enjoy several recreational activities such as boat rides, picnics and lazy walks in cobble-stoned paths amidst the greenery and appreciate the colourful flowers implanted and fountains dancing.

There is a story behind the construction of the lake. A Khasi prisoner, tired of the labour camp routine, wanted to bring some changes to his dreary daily life and hence requested the warden for some creative endeavour. On being granted permission to create the artificial Wards Lake, he is remembered even today for his role in beautifying the place.

There is also a Botanical Garden near the lake which is adorned with extensive range of exotic plants and flowers like orchids. Tourists can spot a variety of colourful fishes in the lake. A beautiful wooden bridge in the heart of the lake presents a best place to enjoy the view of the whole lake and feed the fishes. A cafeteria which offers a wide range of eatables and beverages can also be seen within the lake premises. Located below the Raj Bhawan (Governor’s Residence), the lake is easily accessible through local transport.

Visiting Hours: 8.30am to 5.30pm (November – February), 8.30am to 7pm (March – October)

Known as the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, the Cathedral Church, situated in the Laitumkhrah locality of Shillong, is one of the most elegant churches which attract a great number of tourists. Since the church has the throne of the Bishop, it is referred to as Cathedral Church. This 50-year-old historical shrine of peace and sanctity is designed in the Gothic architectural style with high arches and stained glass windows. It provides a remarkable sight amidst lush green lawns.

One of the most unique and interesting feature of the church is the fact that it is built on sand and not on rock. Since Shillong is prone to earthquakes, the church has been erected on sand to combat and absorb the shocks. The grave of the first Archbishop of Shillong, Late Rt.Rev. Hubert D’Rosario, stands on this church. The main place of worship for 3,00,000 Catholics in the area, the church is a pride for them. Special church services are held every Wednesday.

People from diverse religious backgrounds come here to offer their prayers, seek blessings and divine favours through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Cathedral Church serves as a prominent landmark of Shillong with its hilltop location and charming architectural design.

Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday - 7am to 6.30pm, Sunday – 8am to 6.30pm.

The temple tells the real story atop the abode of cloud. Only you need to travel 5 KM in the upper portion of the capital city. It’s the wonderful temple of The River Umshyrpi drifts that strikes the attraction of thousands of tourists and pilgrims in the outskirt of the Meghalaya capital city. Its history is magnificent.  Popularly known as Mahadev Khola dam, it is a 150 years old temple providing much space for the Shiva devotees. It is popularly believed to have been set up by a saint 150 years back when the entire area was a dense jungle.
 
An army major dreamt there of a red robbed saint with a string in his  hands. It was at his instance the army officer set up the temple where he looked after the saint. He, futher, foud out the Shivaling to offer pujas to the Lord Shiva. This is what the beginning of the temple that beckons many tourists who visit the spot cutting across the castes, creeds and beliefs. It welcomes the tourists from atop the Upper Shillong at a stone’s throw distance from the 101 Canteen area. Those traveling on cars need not be worried. Parking space is the additional advantage. 
 
According to popular belief, there was a time when the entire area was bushy. Later, a section of devotees installed the idols of other gods and goddesses to be worshiped in and around the area. The temples of Gauri Shankar Mahadev,Ganesh Durga,Lakshman Parivar,Surya Narayan,Bajrang Bali welcome no less devotees from sun rise to sun set. You will get to see a wonderful cave here connecting, perhaps, to the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati.     
Now a days, Yagnas and marriages are regular events in this spot. So make it an occasion to visit the spot.   

Shillong, the Scotland of the East is a natural target for umpteen number of foreign and domestic tourists. The capital city of the abode of cloud (Meghalaya) in its East Khasi Hills district is situated at an average 4,908 altitude from the sea level. Shillong is known for its natural beauty and bounty. But your visit is incomplete if you fail to land at the 6,449 feet high Shillong peak.

According to history, Shillong was the natural choice for European settlers of Scotland before the Independence. Shillong was the capital of an undivided Assam until the creation of the new state of Meghalaya on 21 January 1972. The best time to visit Shillong is September-November.  

The state capital city of Meghalaya is well connected with both air and surface services. Sumo and bus services are available from all north eastern capital cities apart from flight and chopper services.