Introduction: Welcome to my photographic journey through the mystical landscapes of Meghalaya, the abode of clouds, a land blessed with breath-taking beauty and enchanting vistas. As an avid traveller and passionate photographer, I embarked on a captivating adventure to explore the wonders this Northeast Indian gem has to offer along with my close friends Rajesh Vashisht, Neeraj Pandit and Prakhar who were very supportive and patient. Join me as I reminisce about my unforgettable visit to Meghalaya, where each frame captured a story of its own.
1. Serenity at Umiam Lake: Our first stop on arrival in Shillong was the serene Umiam Lake, where tranquillity enveloped my soul. Surrounded by rolling hills, the calm waters mirrored the beauty of the surroundings. Besides capturing the serene silhouettes during sunset, the Lake offered a palette of emotions and photographic opportunities.
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2. The next day we went to Living Root Bridge at Nohwet, one of the most unique and fascinating sites in Meghalaya. The living root bridges are formed by the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, which are trained to grow across streams and rivers to create natural bridges. These bridges can support the weight of multiple people and are still used by locals today. It was an awe-inspiring sight to see the power of nature at work.
3. Exploring the Cleanest Village - Mawlynnong: Intrigued by the tales of Asia's cleanest village, Mawlynnong, I couldn't resist experiencing its pristine beauty first hand. As I strolled through the spotless pathways adorned with vibrant flowers, I captured the village's harmonious blend of natural beauty and sustainable living. The symphony of colors, from the quaint houses to the bamboo structures, provided a perfect canvas for my lens.
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4. Nohkalikai Falls: Nature's Majestic Symphony: The majestic Nohkalikai Falls beckoned me next, with its awe-inspiring grandeur and raw power. As I gazed at the tallest plunge waterfall in India, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sheer force of nature. With my camera poised, I clicked away, capturing the eternal dance of water, while the mist added an ethereal touch to each frame.
5. Dawki River: A visit to Meghalaya wouldn't be complete without venturing to the Dawki River. A boating adventure took me through the surreal landscape. The Dawki River is famous for its crystal clear waters but i couldn’t experience that joyful sight as the rains the previous day made the water soiled.
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6. Garden of Caves, Laitmawsiang: The Garden of Caves is one of the best attractions in Sohra and quite a hidden gem. You experience here caves, a river, so many beautiful waterfalls and rich flora.
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7. Tyrshi Falls - Nature's Symphony in Motion: The enchanting Tyrshi Falls welcomed me with its gushing waters and the symphony it created. As I stood at its base, I felt the power and energy reverberating through my being. With great anticipation, I framed the majestic waterfall, freezing the moment of its perpetual motion, capturing the essence of its natural rhythm.
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8. Krang Suri Falls - Nature's Pristine Oasis: My lens led me to the Krang Suri Falls, a hidden gem surrounded by dense forests. The turquoise blue waters cascaded gracefully, forming natural pools that invited me for a refreshing dip. Immersed in the serenity of this pristine oasis, I captured the tranquility and untouched beauty that made it a photographer's paradise.
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9. Bophill, Dainthlen and Prut Waterfalls: Nature's Cascading Gems: I ventured further into Meghalaya's captivating landscapes, discovering the captivating Bophill Falls, Dainthlen and Prut Waterfalls. These cascading wonders showcased the raw power of nature, as water plummeted from great heights, creating mesmerizing patterns and a symphony of sounds. My camera eagerly seized the moment, freezing the dynamic motion in timeless frames.
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Bophill Falls | ​ Dainthlen Falls | ​ Prut Falls |
10. Monoliths of Nartiang: The Jaintia districts of Meghalaya have a distinct royal history and Nartiang is one of the best places to see well-preserved remnants from this glorious chapter. The garden of monoliths features a collection of large monoliths that were erected as monuments for the old kings. Some of these stones were erected half a millennia ago and additions were made till the middle of the nineteenth century. The monoliths provide a captivating sight – arguably the largest collection of monoliths in a single place and loaded with so much historical and cultural significance. The standing monoliths or menhirs are dedicated to the male ancestors while the flat ones, the dolmens, are dedicated to the women.
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Conclusion: Meghalaya, with its ethereal landscapes and captivating culture, left an indelible mark on my heart and camera lens. From the enchanting waterfalls to the misty valleys and hidden caves, this land of clouds gifted me unforgettable moments and frames that will forever hold stories. As a fellow traveller and photography enthusiast, I encourage you to embark on your own journey to Meghalaya and discover the beauty that awaits. Let your lens paint the canvas of memories, capturing the essence of this hidden gem in all its glory.
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