10 Essential Facts About Shillong That Every Traveler Should Know
Based in the north-eastern part of India, Shillong is a city that attracts tourists both for its natural scenic beauty and cultural history. Meghalaya is renowned for its hill station known as the “Scotland of the East”, which offers much more than beauty. Whether you are interested in visiting or just want to learn more about this wonderful city which captures the essence of North East India, here are ten noteworthy facts about Shillong which defines its importance.
1. The Capital of Meghalaya
Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya, a state in North-eastern India. Declared as a district in 1972 along with establishing her as the center of administration, Shilliong serves as a key area of controlling the and northeast. Shillong is also among the well known cities in North east as it the modern hub of the region claimed to be, often referred to as the cultural capital of the state.
2. A Name Rooted in History
As per local legends, Lei Shyllong, maintains over the Shyllong peak which is boasts of a 1965 meters of majestic height, Shrine for the Shyllong peaky deity, Lei is revered as a major Shyllong with deity extends the sacred beauty of meghalaya. The name Shillong portrays Shyllong’s Lei which came to being, the spiritual touch to the region makes for a fascinating striking identity.
3. Scotland of the East
During British colonial rule, the British described the features of Shillong, with its rolling hills, cool climate, and valleys, as “Scotland of the East.” This is because the British settlers used to visit Scottish highlands, which bears some resemblance to Shillong. British settlers established it as their summer retreat. traces of colonial architecture can still be found in some parts of the city.
4. One of the Rainiest Places on Earth
Shillong lies in the heart of Meghalaya, a state renowned for receiving some of the highest rainfall globally. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, located near Shillong, hold records for being among the wettest places on Earth. While Shillong itself doesn’t receive as much rain as these neighboring areas, its weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year, making it ideal for tourism.
5. Home to Unique Tribes
Shillong is predominantly inhabited by the Khasi people, one of the major tribes of Meghalaya. The Khasis follow a matrilineal system, where lineage and inheritance pass through the female line—a rare social structure found in very few cultures worldwide. This tradition underscores the importance of women in Khasi society and contributes to the distinctiveness of the region.
6. Music Capital of Northeast India
Shillong has earned a reputation as the music capital of Northeast India. The city boasts a thriving music scene, producing talented artists across various genres such as rock, blues, and folk. The annual Shillong Autumn Festival and Hornbill Festival celebrate this vibrant musical heritage. Legendary bands like Soulmate and artists like Lou Majaw have put Shillong on the global music map.
7. Educational Hub
Education contributes greatly to the growth of Shillong. Some of the prominent institutions in the city include: St. Edmund’s College, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), and Shillong College. These institutions bring learners from different parts of the country as well as from some neighboring countries, thus enhancing the cosmopolitan feel of the city.
8. Umiam lake – A scenic gem
Located around 15 km from the city center lies one of Shillongs most renowned landmarks, which is the Umiam lake. This lake has another name Barapani and it is an artificial reservoir which gives stunning scenery of green hills and clear water. Due to its natural beauty, it is a center for notable recreational activities such as boating, picnics, and nature walks during the weekend.
9. Nearby Living Root Bridges
Not exactly in Shillong, but the surrounding villages in Meghalaya feature astonishing living root bridges made by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. These bio-engineered structures are made by twisting the roots of rubber trees over streams and rivers. Some of the most notable ones include the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village and the Riwai Root Bridge. It is possible for tourists to witness these wonders themselves by taking a short drive from Shillong.
10. Eco-Friendly Initiatives
As far as tourism is concerned, Shillong takes pride in promoting eco-tourism and eco-sustainability. Efforts to conserve its environment makes the city unique and includes clean up drives, waste management programs, and campaigns focused on the protection of natural resources. The commitment of the city towards preserving the ecological balance enables the future generations to experience unrivaled beauty.
Conclusion
Apart from being a picturesque hill station, Shillong is rich in culture, history, and nature. The city has something for everyone, from its mythological roots to its contemporary status as an educational hub. Its stunning landscapes coupled with tribal traditions make it one of India’s Northeastern gems. Shillong is guaranteed to provide a breathtaking experience to anyone, be it a music lover or a tribal culture aficionado.
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