A Colonial Romance, 130 Years in the Making
Just a leisurely 10-minute stroll from Police Bazaar, where the hum of Shillong's shopping district fades into whispers of pine-scented air, lies a horseshoe-shaped sanctuary that has stolen hearts for over a century. Ward's Lake—or Nan Polok as locals affectionately call it—is where colonial grandeur meets botanical serenity, where cherry blossoms drift onto glassy waters, and where the iconic white bridge has launched a thousand Instagram posts (and probably a few marriage proposals).
Built in 1894 by the visionary Chief Commissioner Sir William Ward and engineered by Colonel Hopkins, this artificial lake isn't just Shillong's prettiest picnic spot—it's a living postcard from the British Raj, lovingly preserved by the Meghalaya Forest Department Times of India.
The Story Behind the Name: Sir William Ward's Vision
Sir William Ward served as the Chief Commissioner of undivided Assam in the late 19th century. Known for his progressive approach to urban planning, Ward envisioned a recreational space where British officials and local residents could escape the administrative grind. Colonel Hopkins, a skilled engineer, transformed this vision into reality, creating an artificial lake surrounded by landscaped gardens East Khasi Hills Government.
The lake is also called Pollock's Lake (Nan Polok in Khasi) after a British engineer named Pollock who contributed to its development—though Sir William Ward remains the name that stuck Wikipedia.
The Horseshoe Design: Engineering Meets Aesthetics
Ward's Lake follows a distinctive horseshoe shape, curving gracefully through the botanical gardens like a liquid embrace. This wasn't just aesthetic whimsy—the design maximized water surface area within a compact urban footprint while creating varied vantage points for visitors Grokipedia.
Key Features:
- Clear, calm waters stocked with koi fish and visited by ducks and swans
- Grassy slopes descending to the water's edge—perfect for picnics
- Paved walking/jogging paths encircling the lake (~1 km loop)
- Botanical gardens with seasonal flower beds, rhododendrons, and orchids
- Cherry blossom trees that transform the park into a pink paradise each November
The Iconic Bridge: Shillong's Most Photogenic Spot
If Ward's Lake has a superstar, it's the white arched bridge that gracefully spans the water. This elegant wooden (now reinforced) structure is:
- The most photographed landmark in the park
- A favorite for pre-wedding shoots and couple portraits
- The ideal vantage point to watch koi fish glide beneath the planks
- Particularly stunning during cherry blossom season when petals carpet the bridge
A 2026 TripAdvisor reviewer gushes: "The white bridge at Ward's Lake is pure magic during sunset. The way the light hits the water and reflects off the blossoms—it's like stepping into a painting." TripAdvisor
Cherry Blossom Season: When Ward's Lake Becomes a Fairytale
Every November, Ward's Lake becomes the centerpiece of Shillong's Cherry Blossom Festival, when Himalayan cherry trees (Prunus cerasoides) burst into bloom, dusting the lake with pink petals Wanderlog.
Why It's Special:
- Petals float on the lake surface like confetti
- The white bridge becomes framed by pink blossoms
- Boat rides feel like gliding through a Monet painting
- Cultural performances and music add to the festive atmosphere
Pro Tip: Visit during the first two weeks of November for peak blooms. Mornings (8:30-10:00 AM) offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Boating: Paddle Your Way to Peace
One of Ward's Lake's biggest draws is paddle boating, available year-round (weather permitting).
Details:
- Cost: ₹250-₹300 for 30-40 minutes (4-seater boats)
- Experience: Glide across calm waters, duck under the arched bridge, feed the ducks (bring your own bird-safe food)
- Best Time: Late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) for golden-hour glow
- Who It's For: Couples seeking romance, families with kids, photographers hunting reflections
An Instagram post from July 2025 notes: "Boating at Ward's Lake is so relaxing. The atmosphere is calm, perfect for walks, reading, or quiet conversations." Instagram
The Botanical Gardens: A Riot of Color
Surrounding the lake is a meticulously maintained botanical garden showcasing Meghalaya's floral diversity:
Flora Highlights:
- Rhododendrons: Deep reds and purples (spring bloom)
- Orchids: Native species along shaded pathways
- Roses: Seasonal displays in dedicated beds
- Marigolds & Dahlias: Vibrant bursts during autumn
- Cherry Blossoms: The November showstoppers
The Forest Department—which manages the park—employs full-time gardeners who ensure year-round blooms. A 2026 TripAdvisor review praises: "The Forest department is doing a splendid job of maintaining the lawns, the gardens, and the lake itself." TripAdvisor Ireland
Wildlife: Ducks, Swans & Koi
Ward's Lake isn't just for humans—it's home to a resident wildlife community:
- Ducks: Mallards and local species paddle near the shores, happily accepting breadcrumbs from visitors
- Swans: Occasionally spotted gliding across the water
- Koi Fish: Colorful carp visible beneath the bridge and near feeding areas
Children especially delight in the duck-feeding experience (though officials encourage bringing bird-safe food rather than processed bread).
Lakeside Café: Sip, Savor, Soak It In
Perched overlooking the water is a cafeteria/restaurant offering:
- Chai & Coffee: Perfect for lakeside sipping
- Snacks: Samosas, pakoras, sandwiches
- Light Meals: Thalis and noodle dishes
- Desserts: Ice cream and local sweets
Ambience: Outdoor seating with direct lake views; ideal for post-walk refreshments or lazy afternoon reading sessions.
Practical Information: Plan Your Visit
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Ward's Lake (Nan Polok / Pollock's Lake) |
| Location | Walking distance from Police Bazaar (10 min walk) |
| Entry Fee | ₹10-₹20 (adults); ₹5-₹10 (children); 50% off for senior citizens |
| Timings | Summer (Mar-Oct): 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM; Winter (Nov-Feb): 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
| Boating Cost | ₹250-₹300 for 30-40 minutes (4-seater) |
| Visit Duration | 1-2 hours |
| Best Time | October-March; mornings (8:30-11 AM) or evenings (4-6 PM) |
| Plastic Policy | Plastic-free zone; deposit bottles at entrance |
Note: Entry fees may be slightly higher during Cherry Blossom Festival (November).
How to Reach
From Police Bazaar:
- Walking: 10 minutes (approximately 1 km) - the most convenient option!
- Simply head towards the city center; Ward's Lake is well-signposted
From Other Parts of Shillong:
- Taxi/Auto: ₹50-₹100 from outlying areas
From Outside Shillong:
- By Air: Umroi/Shillong Airport - 29 km; taxi to city center
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station - 105 km; 3-hour drive to Shillong
- By Road: 100 km from Guwahati via NH6 Travel Triangle
Pro Tip: If you're staying near Police Bazaar or anywhere in central Shillong, skip the taxi and walk. The 10-minute stroll through Shillong's streets is part of the experience!
Photography Tips: Capture the Magic
Best Shots:
- The White Bridge: Golden hour (6:00-7:00 PM summer, 4:00-5:00 PM winter) for warm backlighting
- Cherry Blossom Reflections: Shoot downward from the bridge to capture petals on water
- Duck Interactions: Kids feeding ducks make heartwarming candid shots
- Wide Garden Views: From elevated spots near the café, capturing the full horseshoe curve
Camera Fee: May be charged separately (₹10-₹20); confirm at entrance.
Sustainability: The Plastic-Free Pledge
Ward's Lake is proud to be a plastic-free zone. Visitors must deposit plastic bottles and containers at the entrance, where they're collected for recycling TripAdvisor.
This initiative keeps the lake pristine, protects wildlife, and sets an example for sustainable tourism practices across Meghalaya.
Nearby Attractions: Build Your Walking Itinerary
All within easy walking distance:
- Police Bazaar (10 min walk): Shopping, dining, local market
- Lady Hydari Park (15 min walk): Mini zoo and butterfly museum
- Don Bosco Museum (20 min walk): Seven-storey cultural center
- All Saints Cathedral (25 min walk): Gothic architecture gem
Half-Day Walking Itinerary:
- 9:00 AM: Start at Police Bazaar - breakfast and chai
- 9:30 AM: Walk to Ward's Lake (10 min) - boat ride, garden stroll (1.5 hours)
- 11:30 AM: Walk to Lady Hydari Park (15 min) - explore zoo and gardens (1 hour)
- 1:00 PM: Walk back to Police Bazaar for lunch
Visitor Testimonials: What Travelers Say
From TripAdvisor (2026): "Enchanting experience. The expanse and greenery around the lake was nothing but magical. Great ambience—a must-visit in Shillong." – Ravi M, Mumbai
"Good place to unwind. The lake is neat and clean with a huge garden surrounding it. You definitely need 1-2 hours here." – Anjali K, Delhi TripAdvisor NZ
From WanderOn (2025): "Ward's Lake looked magical with cherry blossoms in full bloom. The whole place felt calm, colorful, and picture-perfect—such a soothing spot!" WanderOn
Best Time to Visit: Seasons & Hours
By Season:
- October-March: Best overall—pleasant weather, flowers in bloom, clearest skies
- November: Peak cherry blossom season (don't miss it!)
- April-June: Warmer; occasional pre-monsoon showers
- July-September: Monsoon—wet, foggy, fewer visitors
By Time of Day:
- Morning (8:30-11:00 AM): Fresh air, softer light, fewer crowds
- Afternoon (2:00-4:00 PM): Warmer, busier, good for social atmosphere
- Evening (4:00-7:00 PM summer): Golden hour magic, romantic ambiance
The Verdict: Is Ward's Lake Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—especially if:
- You're already in Police Bazaar (it's literally a 10-minute walk!)
- You appreciate colonial-era architecture and landscaping
- You're visiting during cherry blossom season (November)
- You need a peaceful urban escape
- You enjoy low-key activities (boating, walking, photography)
For ₹10-₹20, Ward's Lake offers exceptional value—a 130-year-old slice of history, year-round botanical beauty, and the kind of serenity that makes you forget you're in a bustling city.
Final Tips
- Walk from Police Bazaar—no need for transport!
- Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds
- Bring cash (no card facilities)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Pack a book or sketchpad for lakeside relaxation
- Check cherry blossom updates on shillong.com before November visits
- Respect the plastic-free policy—bring reusable water bottles
- Arrive before 6:00 PM (summer) or 4:30 PM (winter) to enjoy before closing
