It was in the month of January 2014 that we went for a trip to Shillong & Cherrapunji. The Journey started in Guwahati and it took 2 and half hours to reach Shillong. NH 40 connects Guwahati to Shillong. The 98 kilometers of road from Guwahati to Shillong was pleasant.The Journey through the Khasi hills and Umsaw forest was splendid.
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It is situated at a height of 1500 m above the sea level. Shillong is also known as the 'Scotland of East India'.
On the way, we halted at Bara Pani. Bara Pani is also known as Umiam Lake. The Lake is popular for Water Sports and adventure facilities that it offers. Water cycling and boating are a few of the facilities available at the lake.
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| Umiam Lake Shillong, Meghalaya |
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After that we visited the Elephant Falls, the spot is always crowded with tourists. It is situated about 12kms away from the city and is a short diversion from the road to Cherrapunji. Stairs has been conveniently made to visit and to view the falls closely. The Fall is very clean and two sub falls of it. Elephant falls gets its name from a rock that was in the shape of an elephant. The beauty of Elephant falls lies in the gradual descend. There are a few shops selling nice local stuff including handicrafts at the entrance. This place is worth a visit as it has very serene and pure feeling to it. One of the main point in local sight seeing. A must Visit Place.
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| Elephant Falls |
The next point was The Air force Museum. It is situated on the National Highway and close to elephant falls. It is really well maintained museum with all the history of India Air force. There are few Generic displays like Mig-21, Hunter, Iskara Trainer, Missiles, bombs etc. The museum gives most information about the defence forces of the country.
The Air force museum in Shillong is something that will enhance your knowledge regarding various aspects of India's defence system. There is a Shop for gifts and other items. I did purchase some souvenirs for myself and family.
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Air Force Museum, Shillong
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Our next tourist point was The Shillong Peak, this is the highest point in the state. We have to show our ID and register our vehicle at the gate to enter this point as the area belongs to Indian Air Force. There were already plenty of visitors at this location. Shillong peak is situated about 10 kms away from which the city derives its name. This peak rises to 1960m. It is an excellent outing place on a bright sunny day for the scenic sights. Shillong being a rainy place, dry season is suitable to visit this point. If the weather is not clear there is no point of visiting this tourist spot. We enjoyed the panoramic view of Shillong from the peak using the telescopes. The long Pine trees makes the place very romantic.
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Watch Towers, Shillong Peak
 
A view of the city from Shillong Peak.
After enjoying the beautiful locations of Shillong, we started our journey to Cherrapunjee(Sohra). It is about 52 kms away from Shillong. The road trip to Cherrapunjee was amazing although it was a short distance. We first visited the Mawsmai Cave, these limestone caves are the only caves in Meghalaya that are well lit to enable tourists to enjoy the natural formations. It has a minimum ticket entry. We went inside the cave, the pathway that circulates the cave is a bit long, which is good. Oxygen level may dip inside some of the caves.The whole tour took about an hour.Had a lovely trip to these caves with family.
I will recommend to wear Sports shoes and be prepared for very narrow ways.
 
Thereafter we headed to Polo Orchid resort, its a nice property nested amongst the mountains. Serenity and calmness is what engulfs you. It was thrilling to see the wondering clouds coming up from the valley and covering the roads which seems a common phenomena there. The property has ample of space for kids to play.The food was good.
The ambience of the restaurant was very good. You can have a clear view of Seven sisters Falls.
We spent a very good time at the Resort enjoying the scenic view of the surroundings.
   
It was a wonderful weekend getaway to Shillong and Cherrapunjee.
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