Shillong

Shillong was capital for composite Assam during the colonial times and later till a different State of Meghalaya was shaped. David Scott, British government worker of the East India Company, was the Agent of the Governor-General North-East Frontier. During the First Anglo-Burmese War, the British specialists felt the requirement for a street to connect Sylhet and Assam. The course was to cross over the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. David Scott conquered the challenges his organization looked from the resistance of the Khasi Syiems – their bosses and individuals. Dazzled by the tremendously calm atmosphere of Khasi Hills, they haggled with the Syiem of Sohra in 1829 for a sanatorium for the British. In this manner started the combination of British interests in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills.

CULTURE AND PEOPLE

Shillong is home to three major tribes in the region the Khasi, Jaintia and the Garo tribes. The Khasi tribe hold a majority in Shillong and has a Matriarchal system of society where women are more dominant than men when it comes to household decisions and land rights. The word Khasi literally translates to the first woman. The people are amicable to talk to, and one would really enjoy the stories told by the locals in the area. The people have a few celebrations during the time which are mostly associated with religion. Individuals rejuvenate the fantasies and conventions through representative exhibitions. A portion of the famous festivities in Shillong incorporate Shad Suk Mynsiem, Behdiengkhlam celebration, Autumn Festival, Nongkrem Dance. Celebrations are a significant piece of the social character of the clans of Shillong.

FOOD AND SHOPPING ITEMS

Shillong can be a great place for shopping, considering that it is one of the more commercial sites in the North – East, but one should know the right places to buy from. Some of the significant markets in Shillong are Police bazaar, Bhutia market and Barra Bazaar. You acquire all sorts of souvenirs from small scale shops like handlooms, handicrafts, fruits and spices there a lot to choose from. Food is another big part of the culture in Shillong, with some of the most beautiful cafes and restaurants that you will ever see, they serve some unique dishes like the Jadoh meal, Putharo Dohjem, Doh thak and Doh Snam. However, Shillong doesn’t really have a variety of vegetarian food.

THINGS TO DO

Mausami caves are a must-visit in Shillong, they have a bumpy terrain where you’ll have to continually keep moving due to the heavy traffic that they receive. The ancient root bridge, which is towards the outer sector of the place is also a miraculous place. Dawki river is probably the most beautiful river one would have seen if you visit in the right season when the water is clear. Lake Umami is a similar water body worthy of admiration. Some other activities happen in Shillong like the NH7 weekender music fest, which is arguably the most significant music fest in the country. People come from all over the world come and visit, they also have the Cherry blossom festival when you can go and participate in the different events happening throughout Shillong.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Shillong has a delightful climate throughout the year, it depends on what an individual is going there for or what weather do they prefer. March to June when the sun is light, and the maximum temperature goes up to 24 degrees. The months from June to September see moderate rainfall and October to February is when the temperature drops as low as 2 degrees.

AVAILABILITY OF ACCOMMODATION

There are plenty of Hotels, and Homestays in Shillong due to the heavy traffic they get throughout the year. However, if you are planning your trip during a festival, it is advised to book your rooms in advance as on-spot bookings become difficult and expensive.