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Garo
hills known for its abundance of flora
and fauna should interest
naturalists and photographers to capture the variegated facets of life, of
a unique range of flora and fauna.
Two mountain ranges, the Arabella range and the Tura range, pass through
the Garo hills, the headquarters; town of Tura is situated 323-km via
Guwahati from Shillong at an altitude of 657m. The highest point is Nokrek
Peak with an elevation of 1,412m.
Tura has a picturesque landscape of hills against a backdrop of low-lying
plains. A sunset view can be best seen from Tura Peak at 1,400m and its
summit can be reached by a 5-km trek, partly by hiking and also by
rock-climbing.
Siju Cave
Located on the cliff overhanging the right bank of the Simsang River in
south Garo Hills district, the cave is locally known as Dobakhol or the
cave of bats. The cave consists of innumerable internal chambers and
labyrinths, which have not yet been fully explored. The depth of the cave
is yet to be fathomed. The cave is totally dark with a perennial stream
flowing out of it, which abounds with different forms of aquatic life. The
formation of stalagmites and stalactites in these caves resemble those of
blue grotto in the isle of Capri.
Siju Bird Sanctuary
Just across the Siju Cave on the other side of simsang river in the south
garo hills- where you can spot many rare and protected wild birds-during
winter some migrating birds have been visiting this places, which will be
an added attraction to wild life lovers.
Nokrek
The
highest point of the Garo Hills region of the state is the Nokrek Peak. A
virgin canopy of thick, tall and lush green forests cover Nokrek and its
environs. The Nokrek National Park has been established at Nokrek and it
abounds in various wildlife including herds of wild elephants, rare
varieties of birds and pheasants, beside rare orchids.
Sisobibra
Sisobibra is a place of historical importance where the Garos fought
their last battle against the British under the command of Pa Togan
Nengminja. It is just 12-km from Williamnagar on the way to Tura on the
bank of the mighty Simsang River.
Imilchang Dare
It is a waterfall of immense visual beauty. The deep green environs full
of large ferns, tall creepers and elegant climbers complete the desired
effect, making Imilchang Dare a memorable sight. The deep wide pool at the
bottom of the falls with its wide and expansive surrounding make it an
exciting natural swimming pool, full of fish of varied size and colour,
besides being an ideal picnic spot.
Williamnagar
Headquarter of East Garo Hills district encircled by the Simsang River -
has been named after the 1st chief minister of Meghalaya Captain
Williamson A. Sangma.
Bhaitbari
Located on the western frontier of the state, Bhaitbari is a small
village of West Garo Hills district. The site is renowned for the
archaeological finds having been uncovered after protracted 'excavations'
on the area. The finds are of artifacts, which reveal the existence of
planned places of worship. The Bhaitbari excavations are certainly of
immense historical and anthropological interest and importance.
Rongbang Dare
This sprightly fall though perennial, is at its best during the monsoon
months. It presents motorists deriving from Asanangre towards
Willaimnagar, a romantic visual of lasting satisfaction. Clustered on
either side by vast evergreen hills of Bamboo, the falls itself appears to
be on the sway, leaving the viewer with memories of ecstatic joy.
Chibragre
Meaning confluence of 2 rivers is just 25 minutes drive from Tura, a
veritable picnic spot with its lush green surrounding and breath taking
beauty. The traditional hanging bamboo cane bridge suspended over the
Ganol River from bank to bank lures many picnickers to try this swinging
bridge.
Rongdang Falls
Just above the famous Siju Cave in the midst of green thick jungle one
can see a beautiful waterfall cascading down.
The Festival Of Wangala
The festival of the Garos, Wangala, celebrates the autumn harvest. Held
every year between the months of November and December, it begins with
propitiation, ceremonies to the deity Patigipa Rarongipr held in every
village. This followed by other elaborate rituals entailing four days and
nights of universal dancing and merriment. It culminates in the warrior's
dance - the dance of a hundred drums - on the final day. It is a festival,
which is colourful, spectacular and enjoyable for the entire community.