Meghalaya

History

Ancient and Medieval Period: The name “Meghalaya” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “abode of clouds.” The region has been inhabited by various tribal communities for centuries. The Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos are the three dominant tribes. Before British rule, these tribes had their own kingdoms.
Colonial Era: Meghalaya came under British administration in the early 19th century and was part of Assam during the colonial era. The tribal leaders signed treaties with the British to maintain their autonomy.
Post-Independence: After India gained independence, Meghalaya was part of Assam. However, due to ethnic and political differences, Meghalaya became a separate state on January 21, 1972, with Shillong as its capital.

Area: Meghalaya covers an area of 22,429 square kilometers, making it one of the smaller states in India.
Geography: The state is largely mountainous, with the Shillong Plateau forming its core. Meghalaya has several mountain ranges, the most prominent being the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills.
Waterfalls: Known for its breathtaking waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls (the tallest plunge waterfall in India), Dainthlen Falls, and Seven Sisters Falls.
Caves: Meghalaya is home to some of India’s longest and deepest caves, such as Mawsmai Cave, Siju Cave, and Liat Prah Cave.

Tropical Climate: The state enjoys a subtropical climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters.
- Summer: Temperatures typically range between 15°C and 25°C.
- Monsoon: Meghalaya receives one of the heaviest rainfalls in the world, particularly in Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, with the latter holding the title for the highest average annual rainfall.
- Winter: The winter months are relatively cool, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C, especially in the high-altitude regions.

Shillong Peak: Offering panoramic views of Shillong and its surroundings, this peak holds significant cultural and religious importance to the Khasi people.
Nartiang Monoliths: Located in the Jaintia Hills, these monoliths are believed to be the largest collection of monoliths in the world, some of which date back to the medieval period.
Sohpetbneng Peak: Known as the “Naval of Heaven,” this peak holds immense spiritual significance for the Khasi tribe and offers mesmerizing views.
Tura Peak: Located in the Garo Hills, Tura Peak is both a natural wonder and a historical site revered by the Garos.

Shad Suk Mynsiem: Celebrated by the Khasi tribe, this festival marks the beginning of the sowing season and involves colorful dances and rituals.
Wangala Festival: Known as the “100 Drum Festival,” it is celebrated by the Garo tribe to honor the Sun God after the harvest.
Behdienkhlam Festival: Celebrated by the Jaintia tribe, this festival involves spiritual rituals to drive away diseases and ward off evil spirits.
Nongkrem Dance Festival: A traditional festival of the Khasi tribe to give thanks to the Almighty for a good harvest.

Biodiversity Hotspot: Meghalaya is a biodiversity hotspot, with lush forests covering more than 70% of the state. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, butterflies, and several endangered species.
National Parks and Sanctuaries:
- Nokrek National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich biodiversity, including the endangered red panda and hoolock gibbons.
- Balpakram National Park: Known for its unique plateau and rich wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
- Siju Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to diverse bird species and rare mammals.
Sacred Groves: Sacred groves are patches of ancient forests protected by tribal communities due to their religious significance. Mawphlang Sacred Grove is the most famous of these groves.
Living Root Bridges: Unique to Meghalaya, these natural bridges are made by guiding the roots of rubber trees across rivers and streams. The Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong are UNESCO World Heritage contenders.

Population: Meghalaya has a population of around 3.2 million (as per the 2011 Census), with a high concentration of tribal communities.
Tribal Dominance: The Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias are the three main tribes. Meghalaya follows a matrilineal system, where lineage and inheritance are traced through the mother.
Languages: Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia are the most widely spoken languages, along with English, which is the official language of the state.
Economy: Agriculture is the backbone of Meghalaya’s economy, with crops like rice, maize, and potatoes being widely cultivated. The state is also rich in minerals such as limestone and coal.

Mawsynram: Known as the wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram receives an average annual rainfall of 11,871 mm.
Mawlynnong: Dubbed the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a model for eco-tourism and cleanliness.
Unique Matrilineal Society: Meghalaya’s matrilineal society is one of the few such systems in the world. Property and wealth pass from mother to daughter, and the youngest daughter typically inherits the family assets.
Asia’s Cleanest Village: The village of Mawlynnong has earned accolades for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices, attracting tourists from across the globe.