All about Meghalaya

Meghalaya, located in northeastern India, nicknamed the “Abode of Clouds,” is a state in northeastern India famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique tribal communities. Shillong, often referred to as the “Scotland of the East,” is the capital of Meghalaya and a popular hill station known for its pleasant climate and colonial architecture.

The wettest place in India is Mawsynram, a town nestled in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It receives an eye-popping average annual rainfall of around 11,872 millimeters (467.4 inches), which is more than enough to qualify it as one of the wettest places on Earth. Mawsynram’s claim to fame is often contested by Lloró, Colombia, which reported an average yearly rainfall of 12,717 millimeters (500.7 in) between 1952 and 1989. However, Mawsynram holds the official record according to the Guinness World Records.

Physical features of Meghalaya

1. Etymology and Formation:
   • The name “Meghalaya” translates to “the abode of clouds” in Sanskrit.
   • It was formed on January 21, 1972, by carving out two districts from the state of Assam:
     • The United Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills.
     • The Garo Hills.
2. Location and Boundaries:
   • Meghalaya lies in the northeastern region of India and is one of the Seven Sister States.
   • It is bounded by Assam to the east, north, and northwest, and by Bangladesh to the south and southwest, and the state of Tripura to the southeast.
   • The state comprises mountainous plateaus, valleys, and highland areas.
3. Physical Feature
   • Meghalaya covers an area of approximately 22,429 square kilometers with a length-to-breadth ratio of about 3:1.
   • It extends for about 300 kilometers in length and approximately 100 kilometers in breadth.
   • The northeastern region of India proudly boasts Meghalaya among its states.
   • Assam flanks Meghalaya to the north and east, while Bangladesh borders it to the south. The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong.
   • The British, impressed by Meghalaya’s picturesque landscapes, nicknamed it the “Scotland of the East” during their rule.
   • The landscape of Meghalaya mainly consists of Archean rock formations, which are geologically rich.
   • These rock formations contain valuable minerals such as coal, limestone, uranium, and sillimanite.

Some key points about this beautiful region

1. Culture and Society:
   • Meghalaya’s history is steeped in a matrilineal tradition. This system traces lineage and inheritance through women.
     • The youngest daughter inherits all her wealth and takes care of her parents.
   • The state experiences high rainfall, with the southern Khasi Hills recording an average of 12,000 mm (470 inches) of rain annually.
   • The three major cohorts are the Khasis, the Garos, and the Jaintias. In most cohorts, a matrilineal system dictates that people pass down inheritance and property through the female line.
2. Language and Official Script:
   • English is the official language of Meghalaya, and the script used is the Latin script.
3. Natural Vegetation:
   • The state has diverse natural vegetation, ranging from tropical mixed forests in the Garo Hills to high-altitude pine forests.
   • Unfortunately, unplanned cutting and grazing have adversely affected the natural vegetation.
   • Common trees include pine, sal, and bamboo.
4. Crops and Biodiversity:
   • Major crops grown in Meghalaya include rice, potato, pineapple, maize, and banana.
   • The subtropical forests are home to various bird species, mammals, and unique plants.
   • This region holds an interesting theory: it might be the entry point for tigers into India.

Flora and Fauna

1. Hills and Plateaus: Meghalaya is characterized by its rolling hills and plateaus, which are part of the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills ranges. These hills are covered with dense vegetation and are interspersed with valleys and rivers.
2. Waterfalls: The state is home to numerous waterfalls, some of which are among the tallest in India. Nohkalikai Falls, located near Cherrapunji, is one of the most famous waterfalls in Meghalaya, plunging from a height of over 1,000 feet. Other notable waterfalls include Seven Sisters Falls, Elephant Falls, and Krang Suri Falls.
3. Caves: Meghalaya boasts an extensive network of caves, many of which are still unexplored. The Khasi Hills region boasts numerous limestone caves. These caves, some containing unique geological formations and underground rivers, draw spelunkers and explorers seeking adventure. Mawsmai Cave and Siju Cave are popular tourist attractions.
4. Living Root Bridges: One of the most unique features of Meghalaya’s landscape is its living root bridges. Local communities skillfully train the roots of rubber trees (Ficus elastica) over many years, eventually guiding them to form natural bridges over rivers and streams. The double-decker living root bridge near the village of Nongriat is a famous example.
5. Rivers and Lakes: Numerous rivers and streams snake their way actively through Meghalaya’s hills and valleys. The crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River, near Dawki, draw in visitors for boating and water sports. Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, is a large reservoir near Shillong, offering scenic views and recreational activities.
6. Sacred Groves: Local communities in Meghalaya actively preserve patches of ancient forest as sacred groves for religious and cultural reasons. Mawphlang Sacred Grove is one of the most well-known, serving as a biodiversity hotspot and a site for traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Festivals

Meghalaya is a land of vibrant festivals that showcase the rich culture and traditions of the cohorts. Some of the popular festivals include:

• Nongkrem Dance Festival: A colorful festival celebrated by the Khasi cohort to mark the beginning of the sowing season.
• Wangala Festival: A harvest festival of the Garo cohort, characterized by vibrant songs, dances, and feasting.
• Shad Suk Mynsiem: A post-harvest festival celebrated by the Jaintia cohort, featuring traditional dances and music.

Things to do

Meghalaya is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the popular activities you can do in Meghalaya:

• Trekking: Trek through the lush green forests, explore the cascading waterfalls, and discover hidden caves.
• Caving: Meghalaya is home to some of the longest and deepest caves in India, perfect for spelunking enthusiasts.
• Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the pristine Umngot River or visit the famous living root bridges, and natural bridges formed by the entwined roots of trees.
• Camping: Set up camp amidst the serene beauty of nature and enjoy stargazing under a clear sky.

Meghalaya beckons travelers venturing into Northeast India with its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and renowned hospitality. Meghalaya truly lives up to its name as the “abode of clouds,” with lush greenery, unique cultural practices, and breathtaking natural beauty.

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