There are lots of things that contribute to Meghalaya's popularity like the refreshing mountain air, the whispering pines, the babbling streams, the hospitable atmosphere, the pleasant climatic condition and exotic flora and fauna gives the tourist to Meghalaya, tremendous value for money. Nature in all its glory; limpid lakes, expansive rivers, unpolluted rushing streams breaking into waterfalls, twisting and turning, disappearing into the jungle. This is MEGHALAYA, nature's bounty.Along with these ,the traditional dances of the tribes here,their way of living and the hospitable nature all too contributes to its tourist attractions.
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Situated in the North eastern corner of India,the state of Meghalaya is termed as "The Abode of Clouds".The destination which soothes the minds of weary travellers.Clouds are always found duing the monsoon season nestling in the tropical forests valleys.The Cherrapunjee belt,which receives worlds highest rainfall is hosted by this state.
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Meghalaya Travel Guide
“Meghalaya – Abode of the clouds !”
General Information
Meghalaya is a tiny gorgeous state in northeastern part of India. Meghalaya means the adobe of clouds. It is a place for the people who enjoy the utter ecstasy of a rapid shower. Meghalaya is known all over the world for its tantalizing sopping climate. The south-facing gradients overlooking Bangladesh are famous for their rain. These slopes receive an average of about 450 inches (1,140 centimeters) of rain a year.Meghalaya’s picturesque beauty together with a revitalizing climate has the distinction of being the wettest place on earth. The undulating haze in the valleys provides it a mystifying charisma that is hard to resist.
History
The history of Meghalaya dates back to the Christian era. At that time, many tribes dwelled on the land of Meghalaya. The tribals like Khasis, Jaintias, Mikirs and Cacharis inhabited the land before the start of the Christian era. The most primitive Jaintia Raja is said to have ruled from 1500AD. The British sway in Meghalaya extended to the enhancement of the landscape, development of roads. Meghalaya was instated as a self-governing state on April 2,1970. It was declared as a state of the Indian Union on January 21, 1972. The works for progress and development of this region is still continuing after independence and formation of Meghalaya into a state.
Geography
Meghalaya, the euphoric land of clouds and downpour is situated in the northeastern region of the Indian sub continent. This tiny land of voluptuous rain is located between the Brahmaputra valley in the north and Bangladesh in the south. Meghalaya is non-coastal, bounded on the north and east by Assam, and the south and west by Bangladesh. Geologically, the state of Meghalaya is known as the “Meghalaya Plateau” or the “Shillong Plateau.” This fertile green stifling land of hills and valleys and a profound rainfall account for a assortment of exotic flora and fauna that portray an ecologist’s dream.
Climate/Temperature
The climate of Meghalaya is breezy and clammy throughout the year. The sultry showers keep the climate cool and moist whole of the year. In summer the temperature is hot with maximum temperature around 28 degrees C. And in winter the temperature is cool with mercury falling to a minimum of around 3 degrees C. Average rainfall in the State is 12,000 mm.
Religions
A cot to many tribes - Khasis, Jhantias and Garos - that inhabit in this immaculate land, Meghalaya affords a prosperous cultural heritage well preserved up on her sleeves. Dance, music and sports imitate their way of life.
Languages Spoken
The main languages spoken in Meghalaya are Garo and Khasi. English is spoken by the educated folks and is the official language of the land. One more language is sspoken on the land and that is Jaintia.
People / Population
The total population of Meghalaya is approximately 23,06,069. A majority of the people are from Garo, Jaintia and Khasi tribes.
Places to Visit / Attractions
Meghalaya is a tourist paradise. While trekking through the dense pines and hybrid woods, trace your footsteps amidst bamboo copse and leave transient impressions on fascinating rock formations, discover exotic ferns and irresistible creepers and feel the pride of touching nature in her true form. Colourful butterflies and a multitude bird-life add to the pleasure while opening up the almost virgin vistas. Some of the main places to visit in Meghalaya are:
The pristine hills and sinister valleys of Meghalaya are a hub for many adventure sports. Meghalaya is an apt place for adventure seekers. The ubiquitous hills provide a perfect place for trekking and rock climbing. Other sports like Para gliding, skydiving, skiing etc are also common in the sporty hills of Meghalaya.
