Most of the great Mansions or crumbling Rajbari around Kolkata of which very few are still intact and restored. The Zamindars of Bengal had a life of pomp and show, unimaginable today. Magnificient estates and mansions give a grandeur feeling of old Bengal. The feeling of old zamindars which led to a combination of manipulation, battles, love, arts, and business, set bounded by the abundance and the finest luxury India offered at that time.
The gorgeous Rajbaris’ architectures and designs varied from one another and glorify the indigenous style of Raja and European concepts. The grand mansions are very expensive to maintain and carry on regular repairs by the right artisans. Unfortunately, few of the mansions are so neglected that they are crumbling. And few have been demolished by promoters. The few surviving Rajbaris are converted in museums displaying the lifestyle of the then people, few became the homestays and others are being used as the location for film/tv series.
Jorasanko Thakur Rajbari:
Thakur Bari as it is popularly known is the nerve of Bengal’s cultural life. The nearest metro is Girish Park and it will take 15 minutes to walk from the station to Rabindra Sarani. The entry fee is ₹20 per person and for photography the additional charge is ₹50. The building has been restored keeping the reflection of old Thakur Bari with a nice corridor and a beautiful courtyard. Rabindranath was born, spent most of his life and took the last breath in this house.
The rajbari is converted into a museum displaying around 700 paintings, rare artefacts, scriptures and antique items of various artists in different galleries that can be explored. The rooms of Rabindranath Tagore and the kitchen of his wife Mrinalini Devi display the lifestyle of the Era of Bengal Renaissance. The best time to visit the place is during the great poet Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday (25th Baishakh), the date of his demise (22nd Sravana) and Poila Baishakh when ceremonies and cultural functions are held. During that time, you can participate in those events and celebrations.
Rani Rashmoni House:
Pritam Das, Rani Rashmoni’s father-in-law, started constructing this mansion in 1805. It took around 8 years to complete. There is a Natmandir in front of the verandah, where the famous traditional Durga Puja is still held. Rani Rashmoni was a pillar of strength for women in the male-dominated society of that era. She was a well-known philanthropist and was engaged in numerous charitable activities. She constructed the famous Dakshineswar Kali Temple and funded for Babughat along Ganga.
Now the descendants of Rani Rashmoni live in this Rajbari. The family house is divided into three parts to three of her four daughters’ families. The families are finding it hard to maintain the house as few portions are collapsing as crumbling Rajbari around Kolkata. The falling apart aristocracy of Kolkata requires quick restoration for the future. The traffic along the junction of Surendranath Banerjee Road and Rani Rashmoni Road is extremely heavy, it is a scene of chaos. The best way to get around is by nearest metro station Esplanade and then 15 minutes walk to the place.
Buddhism spread in Bengal during Ashoka. But its effect faded away in the successive period. The presence of Buddhist Pagodas in Kolkata slowly mingled with other cultures of the locals. Still, there are some monasteries in Kolkata and North Bengal. They reveal different stories of their presence with the calmness at their sites with prayer. The Buddhist monks from different parts of Asia as Myanmar, China and Japan came much later to the city and established the temples and prayer halls. But very few people know about these beautiful temples in Kolkata and the amazing stories behind it.
The melodic chants of Mantra make one forget all worries, anxieties, stress and all tribulations. You will find yourself in the divine world of spirituality. The spiritual aura of prayers amidst the calmness and peaceful environment of the Buddhist Pagodas are the best places that one can visit. The best peaceful gesture is when Chinese and Japanese Buddhists jointly built a beautiful temple in Eden Garden leaving the impression of their respective culture.
The different pagodas have their typical architecture which looks out of place in the city of joy. It attracts a few Buddhist locals and some wandering tourists. You will surely experience peace and reconciliation yourself at these breathtaking monasteries.
In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true.
-Lord Gautam Buddha
Hsuan Tsang Monastery (China Temple):
The monastery has been named after the famous monk and scholar Hsuan Tsang who travelled in India in 7th BC. The monastery was constructed by the local Chinese community in 1968. The locals call it China Mandir. The Monastery is two-storied with the monks and nuns residence.
The temple is situated on one end of the premises and the main prayer hall is on the ground floor. The huge hall contains four giant Buddha statues, painted with bright golden colour. On both sides of the main statue, smaller statues of Chinese Gods and Goddesses are placed, creating a mesmerizing environment.
The glass cover around the alter makes photography extremely difficult. Festivals like Buddha Purnima, Chinese New Year and senior citizen’s day according to the Chinese calendar are celebrated every year. The monastery also hosts special sessions of prayers on every full moon day apart from daily prayers.
It is located on the outskirt of Kolkata. the Monastery is best approached from the Ruby Hospital on the EM Bypass from where regular auto services are available which takes 10-15 minutes for Adarsh Nagar, Chowbanga.
Nipponzan Myohoji Temple (Japanese Temple):
Few people living in the region are aware that there is a Japanese Buddhist Pagodas in Kolkata, and even fewer are aware that it is officially called The Nipponzan Myohoji Temple. The Japanese Buddhist Temple is located on the Lake Road at Kabi Bharati Sarani, in Dhakuria.
The two-storied milky white building is lined with golden borders and a beautiful compound with manicured lawns and landscaped gardens. It has a prayer hall on the ground floor, where a marble idol of seated Buddha and the altar is marvellously decorated with colourful fabrics and brass lamps.
There is a meditation room on the second floor and the Arya Dharma Library beside it. The temple was founded in 1935 by Nichidatsu Fujii (1885 – 1985), who held the opinion of the Lotus Sutra. At the entrance of the temple is signage, which reads “Na – Mu – Myo – Ho – Ren – Ge – Kyo.” meaning “I take refuge in the wonderful law of the Lotus Flower Sutra”.
See if you can locate the residence of the ex-President of India, Pranab Mukherjee. To reach the site, come in the middle of the Dhakuria Bridge and climb down the stairs, pass below the bridge, walk a couple of yards away, on the left.
Few Jewish Community Synagogues in Kolkata are left to tell the story about the first Jew who came with his family to Kolkata in 1798 from Allepo in Syria was Shalom Aaron Obadia Cohen and established the first community. Many other families followed him from different parts of Europe, Baghdad, Iraq, and other Middle East countries. It is estimated that around 6000 Jews settled in Kolkata. But they started to shift to Israel & other countries leading to a decline in their population. At present only 20 Jewish as a legacy in terms of Kolata’s heritage remains in the city.
Well, it’s never too late to broaden your knowledge and know about Kolkata’s different communities & their culture. The beautiful Synagogues with long towers and beautiful interior, decorated by wooden architectures and chandeliers, are the holy place of worship for Judaism. There were five Synagogues in Kolkata of which only three are intact after restoration. All three synagogues are on the same campus. Each one is beautiful and has own architectural ambience. The synagogues are situated at China Bazaar near the junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street in the locality of Baghbazaar.
Maghen David Synagogue:
Maghen David is one of the biggest Jewish community Synagogues in Asia. It was built in 1884 by Sir Elias David Ezra in memory of his father David Joseph Ezra. The building, 40 meters high, is of renaissance style with a clock tower.
Its interior stuns the visitors with its black and white checked tiles and in some places, the mosaic tiles, the large stained Belgian glasses, and three curtained doors at the entrance. In the centre of the hall, there is a wooden pulpit and beautiful chandeliers brightening the whole place. A wooden staircase leads up to the gallery having seating arrangements. The warm hue of synagogue presents the best portrait for photography.
The caretaker of the Synagogue is a Muslim, the most heartening gesture in this period when the Jews and Muslims of the Middle East are not in good terms. But here in Kolkata, their relation with other communities is cordial. To visit Synagogue you have to take permission from Hony. Secretary/President David Ashkenazy. They are most helpful and will provide you with all the information. Please follow the instructions and respect the environment of the holiness.
Welcome to Kolkata, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures! From its grand colonial architecture to its vibrant street markets, Kolkata offers a delightful sensory overload for explorers. If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting city, this guide is your ticket to discovering the must-visit places. Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble palace that pays homage to the British Raj era. Marvel at its stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the surrounding lush gardens. Next, lose yourself in the labyrinthine lanes of the bustling New Market, where you can shop for a variety of goods, from handicrafts to clothing and spices. Finally, no visit to Kolkata is complete without experiencing the fervour of a cricket match at the iconic Eden Gardens. Join the passionate fans and soak up the electric atmosphere as you cheer on the players. Get ready to fall in love with the city of joy as you explore the beautiful sights of Kolkata.
Historical landmarks in Kolkata
One of the must-visit places in Kolkata is the iconic Victoria Memorial. This magnificent marble palace pays homage to the British Raj era and serves as a reminder of Kolkata’s colonial past. The Victoria Memorial is not only a piece of architectural brilliance but also a repository of historical artefacts and artworks. As you walk through its corridors and explore its galleries, you’ll be transported back in time to the days of the British Empire. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the surrounding lush gardens, which provide a picturesque backdrop to this majestic landmark. Another historical gem in Kolkata is the Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel that connects the city to its twin, Howrah. Built-in 1943, this iconic cantilever bridge is a symbol of Kolkata’s resilience and ingenuity. As you walk or drive across the bridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Hooghly River and the bustling activity on both sides. The Howrah Bridge is not just a means of transportation but also a beloved landmark that has become an integral part of Kolkata’s identity. The Indian Museum is yet another historical treasure that should not be missed. Established in 1814, it is the oldest museum in India and houses an extensive collection of artefacts spanning various periods of history. From ancient sculptures and coins to paintings and textiles, the Indian Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kolkata and the subcontinent. Take your time to explore the museum’s galleries and soak up the knowledge and beauty that it has to offer.
Cultural attractions in Kolkata
Kolkata is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and one of the best places to experience it is Rabindra Sadan. Named after the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, this cultural centre hosts a wide range of performances, including theatre, dance, music, and poetry recitals. Immerse yourself in the sheer talent and creativity of the artists as you attend a live performance at Rabindra Sadan. Whether you’re a fan of classical music or contemporary dance, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For a taste of Kolkata’s literary heritage, make your way to the College Street Boi Para, also known as the Book Market. This bustling area is home to a plethora of bookstores and second-hand shops, making it a bibliophile’s paradise. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes and browse through the vast collection of books on offer. From rare editions to bestsellers, you’re sure to find something that catches your interest. And while you’re here, don’t forget to take a break and enjoy a cup of traditional chai from one of the street vendors. Kolkata is also famous for its vibrant art scene, and one of the best places to experience it is the Academy of Fine Arts. This cultural institution hosts regular art exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and up-and-coming artists. From paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia art, the Academy of Fine Arts offers a diverse range of artistic expressions. Spend an afternoon exploring the galleries and marvelling at the talent on display.
Parks and gardens in Kolkata
If you need some tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of Kolkata, head to the beautiful Maidan. Spread over 1,500 acres, this vast urban park is often referred to as the “lungs of Kolkata.” Take a stroll or enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns as you soak in the peaceful ambience. The Maidan is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Victoria Memorial and the Eden Gardens cricket stadium, making it a must-visit destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Another green oasis in the heart of Kolkata is the Botanical Gardens. Spread over 270 acres, this expansive garden is home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna. Take a peaceful boat ride on the lake, explore the various themed gardens, or simply relax under the shade of the ancient trees. The Botanical Gardens also house the iconic Great Banyan Tree, which is believed to be one of the largest trees in the world. This majestic tree, with its sprawling canopy, is a sight to behold and a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
Famous markets and shopping areas in Kolkata
No trip to Kolkata is complete without a visit to the bustling New Market. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant market is a shopaholic’s paradise. From clothing and accessories to handicrafts and spices, you’ll find a plethora of goods on offer. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine lanes as you navigate through the maze of shops and stalls. The New Market is not just a place to shop but also a cultural experience, where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Kolkata. For a more traditional shopping experience, head to the Dakshinapan Shopping Center. This open-air market is known for its collection of traditional Indian handicrafts and textiles. Browse through the stalls and pick up unique souvenirs to take back home. The Dakshinapan Shopping Center also hosts regular cultural events and exhibitions, providing a platform for local artisans and craftsmen to showcase their talent. Support local artists and get a taste of authentic Indian craftsmanship at this vibrant market.
Popular street food in Kolkata
Kolkata is a food lover’s paradise, and one of the best ways to experience its culinary delights is through its street food. Start your gastronomic journey with a plate of puchka, also known as pani puri or golgappa. These crispy, hollow puris filled with tangy tamarind water and a spicy potato mixture are a burst of flavour in every bite. Next, indulge in the mouthwatering flavours of kathi rolls, a popular street food that consists of a skewer-roasted kebab wrapped in a paratha. The combination of succulent meat and flaky bread is sure to tantalize your taste buds. For a sweet ending to your street food adventure, try the famous Kolkata rosogolla. These soft, spongy balls of cottage cheese soaked in sweet syrup are a delicacy that Kolkata is known for. The rosogollas are best enjoyed when they are fresh and melt in your mouth. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of refreshing lemon tea or a cup of strong, aromatic Kolkata-style chai.
Religious sites in Kolkata
Kolkata is a melting pot of cultures and religions, and it is home to several important religious sites. One such site is the iconic Kalighat Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. This ancient temple, located on the banks of the Hooghly River, is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, or holy abodes of the goddess. Pay your respects to the deity and soak in the spiritual atmosphere as you witness the rituals and ceremonies that take place at the temple. Another significant religious site in Kolkata is the Nakhoda Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. This magnificent structure, with its intricate architecture and grand domes, is a testament to the city’s rich Islamic heritage. Step inside and marvel at the beautiful prayer hall, adorned with exquisite chandeliers and intricate calligraphy. The Nakhoda Masjid is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of harmony and inclusivity, a reflection of Kolkata’s multicultural fabric.
Museums and art galleries in Kolkata
Kolkata is a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts, with its numerous museums and art galleries. One such institution is the Indian Museum, the oldest museum in India. Established in 1814, it houses a vast collection of artefacts and artworks from various periods of history. From ancient sculptures and coins to paintings and textiles, the Indian Museum offers a fascinating journey through time. Explore the galleries and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kolkata and the subcontinent. If you’re a fan of modern and contemporary art, a visit to the Birla Academy of Art and Culture is a must. This art gallery showcases the works of both national and international artists, providing a platform for creativity and expression. From paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia art, the Birla Academy offers a diverse range of artistic experiences. Take your time to appreciate the talent and innovation on display and let the artwork inspire and provoke your thoughts.
Offbeat attractions in Kolkata
While Kolkata is known for its historical landmarks and cultural attractions, it is also home to some offbeat and unconventional destinations. One such place is the Marble Palace, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the city. This 19th-century mansion is a unique blend of Indian and European architectural styles and is adorned with exquisite marble sculptures and artworks. Explore the opulent interiors and marvel at the collection of antiques and curiosities that the palace houses. The Marble Palace is a testament to Kolkata’s eclectic taste and its love for art and beauty. Another offbeat attraction in Kolkata is the South Park Street Cemetery. This colonial-era cemetery is a tranquil oasis away from the chaos of the city. Take a peaceful stroll among the moss-covered tombs and read the epitaphs that tell the stories of Kolkata’s past residents. The South Park Street Cemetery is not just a burial ground but also a historical site that provides a unique perspective on the city’s colonial history.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Kolkata is a city that captivates and enchants its visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From its historical landmarks to its hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to discover and explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply a curious traveller, Kolkata has it all. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery. Explore the beautiful sights of Kolkata and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Varanasi (Benaras ) also referred to Kashi as its antediluvian name, is one of the oldest city of India which is believed to be more than 3000 years old. My short trip to places near Varanasi took me to instantaneous time travel as this place has mysterious corridors, unearthings and stories that inspired me to cognize its historical eminences.
This city has something to propound – dissimilar Ghats belonging to different Raja and Zamindars, temples of a variegated existence, the ramshackle of stupendous stupas, the forts with antiques and finding serenity on the banks of the Ganges. If you visit this city at least once it becomes immortal in your reminiscence.
Kashi is cultured with the sermons of great saints like Gautam Buddha, Kalidasa, Mahavira, Kabira, Tulsidas and many others. The old Varanasi is the intrinsic edifice of the city with the pilgrimage for Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities. Pilgrims in huge numbers flock to the city for the salvation and purification.
Varanasi is the most treasured pilgrimage place for the Hindus. One of the seven holiest cities, Varanasi also has one of the Shakti Peethas and one of the twelve Jyotir Linga temples in India. It is a heritage city standing tall in all her magnificence for thousands of years and will remain for many more centuries.
How to reach?
Varanasi is well connected by the airport, railways, and roads. The airport is around 20 km. from the main city. The cabs and buses are available from the airport. Make sure you avoid the rental cab drivers who will approach the exit of the airport if you want to travel economically. It’s better to go for prepaid taxis or buses which are much affordable and economical.
Where to stay?
Varanasi is very economical for stayovers. Hostels and cheap lodges are available near the railway station which is the best place to halt as every mode of transport are available and all the major places are well connected from there.
The Cheapest Way to Travel
The most convenient mode of transport to visit in Varanasi or along some nearby places is always the availability of tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaw) and e-rickshaws which are cheap on sharing. The most efficient way to explore places near Varanasi is on foot but be careful with the crazy traffic of Varanasi.
The hills of Meghalaya will amaze you with its sheer natural beauty in the form of crystal-clear lakes and countless waterfalls with pristine valleys. One of the beautiful states which teach us to live in harmony with nature than to use it for self-benefit. The wonders of the living-root bridge, sacred forest and Asia’s cleanest village are a few examples which make Meghalaya an interesting place to visit. If you are looking for a quiet place with stunning landscape then East Khasi Hills lures you into a different world altogether.
Tips: If you are planning to visit these places carry enough water and food for a day.
How to Reach?
Most of the tourist spots in East Khasi Hills are in remote areas. You can hire a cab for a day from Shillong.
Wah Rymben Falls:
Wandering in the Hills of East Khasi of Meghalaya is arduous but the sight of the waterfall can leave any visitor wonderstruck. Nature is truly at its best here. The waterfall is a “secret” one, as per the local guide because people rarely visit the place due to the difficult approach road to it. One cannot hear any sound other than the roar of the falling water and chirping of birds and crickets.
This is located in Lapang at East Khasi Hills about 70km from Shillong. The magnificent waterfall comes to full glory during the monsoon with a massive flow of water. The most distinguishing thing is to see big round holes around the falls which are acting as a funnel.
King’s Residence:
Perched in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, Hill Laitlum is a little-explored as such is village Smit. The village has a traditional house, the Ling Shad, that belongs to the King of the Khyrim and is believed to be more than 100 years old. The fascinating Nongkrem dance is performed during autumn outside the royal residence.
The house is made without any metal nails. The beautiful pine trees around with a big green amphitheatre makes it more beautiful and adorable. Smit is a absolutely pollution-free, serene and a very pleasant village. The road to Shillong and further to Smit is a pretty good one and very well maintained. The natural beauty of the place is a treat to the eye. A must visit if you Wandering in the Hills of East Khasi
Exploring the Hills of Jaintia gives you the glimpse of the 600-year-old holy temple which is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Hindu religion. It is located on the top of the West Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya. The temple has an idol of Goddess Durga, the main deity. It is believed that there used to be the human sacrifice in this temple but now goat masked with a human face is sacrificed.
From the temple, there is a beautiful view of a series of mountains with the downrushing Myntang river “ Guardian Angel“. During the festival, hymns are chanted and the sacrifices lead to blood flowing down the river. Being the Shakti Peethas very few tourists from other states know about this place. Mostly locals and a single priest handling the temple.
Kiang Nangbah Monument:
Kiang Nangbah Monument was built in the honour of a Jaintia patriot “U Kiang Nangbah” who died as a martyr in the struggle for the freedom of the Jaintia land from the British rulers. This historical monument is at the centre of a vast field known as Madiah Kamai Blai which is on the banks of Syntu Ksar.
The field represents great historical importance, as there was a meeting of Jaintia-leaders took place in 1861. There is a school of fish in the river. You can try your luck by throwing your line in the river. The best spot as if your drawing from the child comes to alive before your eyes. Exploring the Hills of Jaintia with vast plains, a small tributary is flowing and small villages around the foothills.
This might sounds out of context for the beginning of the blog. I truly mean as a solo tourist. It’s a great opportunity to experience as a solo traveller. It gave me a chance places to visit in Meghalaya to conformed with new people and make new friends on the way and help me to explore new places that are offbeat for tourist places that many wouldn’t know, as you won’t find on any search engine.
I travelled solo here and if you are fretting over how safe the place is, be assured, there is nothing to worry about. This state will make you feel at home and you would wish if you could stay here forever. The most curiosity arises when we hear about North-East states and about the hidden nature and culture. This realizes the importance of mother nature and its preservation.
We always have more interest in the unknown and mystique places and North-East states never end to surprise and inspire. Most of the stunning sights are pixie rainforests, living root bridges, roaring high waterfalls, mountain drives under dramatic clouds, the blessing of Shakti Peetha, mysterious natural caves, crystal clear rivers with the islands, and the most friendly people! The places to visit in Meghalaya can be very cheap and affordable.
How to reach?
The only way to reach Meghalaya is via road from Guwahati. Guwahati is well connected by railway and airline. From the station, you may take a bus or taxi to Jorabat. From there you will get a taxi on hire or on a share to reach Shillong. The journey will be smooth and safe as roads are well maintained. The scenic beauty will greet you all the way.
Where to stay?
Shillong is flexible according to your budget. A variety of hotels and lodges are available near Police Bazaar City Centre. You will get rooms starting from ₹400. You may book hotels online.
Where to eat?
Shillong’s local street food is as delicious as any other food for you to explore new cuisines. Else you may have different restaurants according to your preference of appetite, it’s mainly available at Shillong or near tourist spots.
Trekking in the Sacred Forest will make you believe that why Meghalaya is compared with Scotland or any English countryside. There is beautiful green carpeted grass at the entrance of the jungle. The beautiful green land beckons you to its amazing environment paradise for photographers. The actual flavour of this sacred groove can be tasted with mystical vibes as soon as you step inside the forest and enjoy the serenity of this forest.
The distance view of the forest will remind you of some famous Hollywood movies. You can follow the whole trek with the small stream is flowing throughout the groove and can be of 3 to 4km. You need to hire a guide before you enter the 800-year-old jungle. Their rates are very reasonable and it’s according to the period you want to trek in the jungle. They are very gentle and knowledgeable. And remember the most important point- you cannot take anything out of this forest, else according to local beliefs, the deity gets upset. The main attraction is sacrifice-stones and pledge-stone.
Khasi Heritage Village:
It’s a model village just opposite the sacred forest. The Khasi Heritage Village exhibits the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi people. The village has houses built with mud and hay-sticks in the conventional Khasi style and has an amphitheatre. The Khasi people living around this model village still perform a few rituals in the forest and some cultural festivals at their amphitheatre.
You can feel the ambience of the village. There are ritual rocks that have been placed in the traditional Khasi style. The endowment of the forest by the local people has kept this wonderful nature preserved. The villagers’ belief of deity and its power have protected from the outlaws of modernization. If you love to travel slow then you might take daybreak at this amazing spot after Trekking in the Sacred Forest.
The top attractions in Cherrapunjee are its deep gorges, luxurious vegetation, and boast of an innumerable variety of ferns, moss, and orchids. It has alms of the Ram Krishna Mission and the Welsh Missionaries started their services in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. There is a famous orange orchard and apiculture around the city are some of the places to visit in Meghalaya. Sohra prevails the British Cemetry locally known as ‘Jingtep Phareng’ wherein eighteen British Officials of the East India Company (1830-1866) lay buried.
How to reach?
There are multiple choices to reach Sohra, Cherrapunjee. Shared taxis are available from Bada Bazaar or you may hire from City Centre. Be brave to bargain before you hire any taxi. For hiring a taxi one-way trip may cost around ₹400-₹600, it depends how good you are at bargaining.
Where to stay?
If you want to feel calm and hear the downrush of waterfalls, it’s the best place to spend a night. There are hotels available at Sohra. The best hotel I found was near seven sister falls. The reception and approach of the staff were very pleasant.
Experience Zip-lining:
If you love the thrill and want to experience zip-lining then it’s the perfect place. Mawkdok is the first viewpoint on the way to top attractions in Cherrapunjee. I must say you will experience the thrill. There are two different routes. One is a small parallel to one hill and the other is the big one across two valleys. The cost of the small one is ₹400 per person and the big one is ₹800.
It is better to book for ₹800 if you are ready to cross the valley, as it covers the route of ₹400 as well, for the warm-up. Their arrangement is really good and safe. The beautiful waterfall carves out of the mountain and forms into a small tributary that you can only experience from the top.
Living root bridge:
The double-decker living root bridges are handmade by Khasi and Jaintia tribes who have mastered the art of guiding the roots into the shape to the bridge. Some of the root bridges in Meghalaya are over 100 feet long and take about 10 to 15 years to get the perfect shape of the bridge. It can bear the weight of more than fifty people at a time It is used to cross the streams across the valley.
One such bridge is located near Mawlynnong village. Drive to Riwai village to reach the root bridge. From there, it’s approximately a 15-minute walk. There are many living root bridges around the hills. All are adorable. In recent double-decker bridges are endowed in the deep jungles of Meghalaya which are precious hard work of the locals. They are more difficult to reach in terms of transportation and long trek. This famous root bridge makes this place one of the most exotic tourist places in Meghalaya to spend a day
Mawlynnong village:
Around 80kms from Shillong, there is a small village- Mawlynnong which earned its status as Asia’s cleanest village in 2003. The streets of Mawlynnong, Meghalaya are lined with traditional Khasi huts with gardens that are full of colorful flowers. There are bamboo baskets outside every house to be used as bins. It’s the hard work of the children of the village who keep it clean.
You may have local Khasi food at their food stall which resembles a typical Khasi hut with machan connected to the verandah. You can know more about there hard works which keeps their village clean. The people are polite, gentle, and friendly and they love to share their experiences.
Dawki:
A couple of hours from Mawlynnong there is the Indo-Bangladesh border town of Dawki. The jeweled emerald water of the Umngot river. popularly called Dawki river owing to its location, looks as if belonging to another world is one of the top attractions in Cherrapunjee. The alcoves on both sides, coupled with the sound of rippling water and chirps of the birds can give one a heavenly feeling as of the fairytale setting.
You may hire a boat and go around the Umngot river and can witness the Bangladesh border and their patrolling boats or can stroll on the riverbank full of naturally chiseled round and shapely pebbles. The small town after which this lake is the most attractive scenic beauty is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Plan your next trip by using our trip planner to get a personalized day by day itinerary for your vacation. Solitary Traveller is a new way to plan your holiday.
