Meghalaya: The Abode of Clouds
Key Facts
- Capital: Shillong (popularly called the "Scotland of the East")
- Largest City: Shillong
- Official Language: English (Khasi, Garo, and Pnar are widely spoken)
- Formation: January 21, 1972 (Carved out from Assam)
- Neighboring States: Assam (North and East), Bangladesh (South and West)
Geography
- Area: 22,429 square kilometers
- Climate: Subtropical; Meghalaya experiences heavy rainfall, particularly in Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, among the wettest places on Earth.
- Famous Rivers: Umngot (known for its crystal-clear waters), Simsang, and Myntdu.
Culture and People
- Tribes: Predominantly inhabited by three major tribes – Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia.
- Traditions: A matrilineal society, where lineage and inheritance pass through the mother.
- Festivals:
- Shad Suk Mynsiem: Celebrating the harvest season.
- Wangala Festival: Post-harvest thanksgiving by the Garo tribe.
- Behdienkhlam Festival: Seeking blessings for prosperity and health.
Tourist Attractions
- Cherrapunji (Sohra):
- Famous for living root bridges, Nohkalikai Falls, and caves.
- Mawsynram:
- Known as the wettest place on Earth.
- Dawki:
- A serene village on the Indo-Bangladesh border, featuring the crystal-clear Umngot River.
- Shillong:
- Attractions include Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, and Ward's Lake.
- Mawlynnong:
- Asia’s cleanest village, showcasing sustainable living.
Economy
- Agriculture: The backbone of Meghalaya's economy. Key crops include rice, maize, potatoes, and spices.
- Industries: Cement, limestone mining, and tourism.
- Handicrafts: Bamboo and cane products are highly regarded.
Biodiversity
- National Parks and Sanctuaries:
- Nokrek Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Balpakram National Park (often compared to the Grand Canyon)
- Unique Flora: Carnivorous plants like the pitcher plant thrive here.
- Wildlife: Home to elephants, leopards, and a wide variety of birds and butterflies.
Key Highlights
- Root Bridges: Ingenious bioengineering marvels crafted by the Khasi people using the roots of rubber trees.
- Caves: Meghalaya has some of India’s longest and deepest caves, like Siju and Mawsmai.
- Music and Arts: Shillong is considered the rock music capital of India, hosting numerous music festivals.
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