Shillong is Calling: Plan a Green Vacation In The Scotland Of The East
Shillong, which serves as the capital of Meghalaya, is a stunning hill station in the Northeast India region. It is famously referred to as the 'Scotland of the East' for its greenery, mountains, rich culture and traumatic waterfalls. Travelers around the globe have started focusing on eco tourism which means that the beauty and nature of the location is preserved for generations to come. Here is a detailed guide on how to eco tourism in Shillong.
1. Pick Eco-Friendly Accommodation
The first step towards planning an eco-friendly vacation is choosing accommodations that promote sustainable tourism. There are several eco-friendly stays in Shillong for items such as hotels and guest houses. When reserving a guest house, check if the place uses self-sustaining energy resources, practices waste recycling, and reduces the amount of water consumed. Some of the more established properties such as Orchid Lake Resort and Ri Kynjai have already adopted more eco-friendly practices. An amazing cultural experience is taking a homestay with a local family, who generally have a smaller carbon footprint.
2. Engage in Responsible Travel Practices
One of the greatest offenders for carbon emissions is the mode of transportation used throughout a journey. When traveling to and within Shillong, use public transport or hired services to lessen your environmental footprint. This city has an infrastructure of buses and taxis that is cost effective and environmentally friendly. If you are coming from nearby places such as Guwahati, it is best to take a train or a bus rather than a flight. While in Shillong, put on comfortable walking shoes or rent a bicycle to move around and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the city without increasing your carbon emissions.
3. Buy Local and Eco-Friendly Tourism
Shillong has a number of non-governmental tourism ventures doing sustainable tourism that actually helps communities. Check out the Living Root Bridges in the surrounding villages that are curated by the native Khasi tribes. These are constructed in a sustainable way, while demonstrating advanced engineering skills. These bridges are ideal for ecotourism. Do not forget to pick some hand-made souvenirs such as hand woven rugs, bamboo crafts, and pure green tea from the local market instead of mass produced ones to help the local craftsmen and protect the environment.
4. Show Respect for Nature and Animal Life
Nature enthusiasts will never run out of sights to visit and photograph in and around Shillong and the most popular include the Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and the Shillong Peak. It is equally important that these areas are not disrespected by the way people treat them. Stay on marked paths, do not disturb animals, and ensure no littering is done. Carry a refillable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. Some of these places of natural beauty are held sacred by the local Jaintia and Khasi people, so it is essential to follow local rules and be respectful of their culture.
5. Participate in Eco-Friendly Activities
Shillong provides an array of opportunities for ecotourism starting from taking a stroll in Mawphlang's green woods to visiting Asia's cleanest village – Mawlynnong. You can also head to the Dawki River for kayaking or canoeing into its clear waters. Shillong also boasts a rich variety of birds which makes bird watching a perfect eco-friendly hobby.
6. Reduce Waste and Save Natural Resources
A green vacation will need an extra effort to cut waste and save natural resources. Bring reusable bags, utensils, and containers so as not to use disposable plastics. Many restaurants in Shillong have started adopting eco-friendly policies, so pick those which do not use non-biodegradable packaging. Save water and electricity while you are there, especially during the dry months when Shillong runs short on water. Simple things like switching off the electricity when you leave a room and taking shorter showers can greatly help.
7. Learn and Educate the Public
Make sure you learn about Shillong's environment, culture, and issues beforehand, as those are vital shapeshifters during your trip. Research the biogeographical region, the significance of the forests within it, and how climate change affects Meghalaya. Communicate with local people to learn how they are trying to save the environment. Post your eco travel stories on social media platforms so that you can motivate others to travel sustainably. In doing so, you become part of a larger initiative that advocates for responsible tourism.
Conclusion
As stated above, Shillong is breathtaking and rich in culture, making it a tourist hotspot, but it is also important to travel in a way that protects the environment. By using green accommodations, engaging in community activities, respecting nature, and reducing waste, one can relish a wonderful vacation while doing their part to protect Shllong's environment and cultural heritage. Ecotourism is beneficial for the planet and greatly enhances the experience of the traveler in that particular region. So, grab your bags, be a responsible tourist and head out for an amazing trip to Shillong.
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India.com
12 hours ago
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Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is referred to as the 'Scotland of the East' due to its lush, rolling hills and favorable climate. This city is dotted with unique attractions making it worth visiting throughout the year. In this post, we will analyze the best times to visit Shillong and all it has to offer during every season. and Summer from March to June is Blossoming Beauty March marks the beginning of spring, which is a whimsical season for Shillong. The city is bursting with blooming flowers, new leaves, and a refreshing feeling in the air. Slowly in April, summer begins to take over but is still a moderate 24°C, making it one of the coolest summer getaways in India. In these months, the natural beauty of Shillong is at its pinnacle. Wards Lake is a stunning man-made lake encircled by multi-colored flowers that make it a favorite among picnickers and boaters. The Shillong Golf Course is also known as the 'Gleneagles of the East' which has vast greenery ideal for long, refreshing walks. For adventure seekers, this is a great time to enjoy The Elephant Falls and the beautiful forests of Mawphlang Sacred Grove. The season is further enhanced by Shad Suk Mynsiem, a festival celebrating Thanksgiving in Khasi culture. Reasons to Visit in Spring/Summer: Ideally suitable for travel sightseeing. Pleasant weather with greenery. Good time for photography and flower enthusiasts. – September: Monsoon A prominent feature of Shillong is the heavy rainfall during monsoon season. The entire city is transformed into a beautiful green paradise filled with lush plants. Although the rain can spoil the outdoor plans for travel, it gives the city a sense of beauty. The waterfalls surrounding Umiam Lake also become more breathtaking with the visibility of the Umiam hills which become more serene. Although the driving experience is unforgettable and highly recommended, the trekking experience can be difficult. This is also the period when Meghalaya's celebrated living root bridges and caves around Shillong are stunning. The monsoon season is perfect for nature lovers who seek a bit of wilderness and adventure because it showcases nature in its renewed and untouched form. Why Visit in Monsoon: Experience the breathtaking waterfalls and landscapes hidden under mist. For those that enjoy rain, experiencing the monsoon magic in Shillong is a must. The tranquil atmosphere can be enjoyed with fewer tourists around. (October to November): Festive Vibrance Once the rain has stopped, the first sign of autumn in Shillong is clear blue days and a chilly breeze. With the Nongkrem Dance Festival, a Sioux harvest festival, there are plenty of yields to celebrate this time of year. 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India.com
5 days ago
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Shillong is Calling: Plan a Green Vacation In The Scotland Of The East
Shillong, which serves as the capital of Meghalaya, is a stunning hill station in the Northeast India region. It is famously referred to as the 'Scotland of the East' for its greenery, mountains, rich culture and traumatic waterfalls. Travelers around the globe have started focusing on eco tourism which means that the beauty and nature of the location is preserved for generations to come. Here is a detailed guide on how to eco tourism in Shillong. 1. Pick Eco-Friendly Accommodation The first step towards planning an eco-friendly vacation is choosing accommodations that promote sustainable tourism. There are several eco-friendly stays in Shillong for items such as hotels and guest houses. When reserving a guest house, check if the place uses self-sustaining energy resources, practices waste recycling, and reduces the amount of water consumed. Some of the more established properties such as Orchid Lake Resort and Ri Kynjai have already adopted more eco-friendly practices. An amazing cultural experience is taking a homestay with a local family, who generally have a smaller carbon footprint. 2. Engage in Responsible Travel Practices One of the greatest offenders for carbon emissions is the mode of transportation used throughout a journey. When traveling to and within Shillong, use public transport or hired services to lessen your environmental footprint. This city has an infrastructure of buses and taxis that is cost effective and environmentally friendly. If you are coming from nearby places such as Guwahati, it is best to take a train or a bus rather than a flight. While in Shillong, put on comfortable walking shoes or rent a bicycle to move around and enjoy the picturesque beauty of the city without increasing your carbon emissions. 3. Buy Local and Eco-Friendly Tourism Shillong has a number of non-governmental tourism ventures doing sustainable tourism that actually helps communities. Check out the Living Root Bridges in the surrounding villages that are curated by the native Khasi tribes. These are constructed in a sustainable way, while demonstrating advanced engineering skills. These bridges are ideal for ecotourism. Do not forget to pick some hand-made souvenirs such as hand woven rugs, bamboo crafts, and pure green tea from the local market instead of mass produced ones to help the local craftsmen and protect the environment. 4. Show Respect for Nature and Animal Life Nature enthusiasts will never run out of sights to visit and photograph in and around Shillong and the most popular include the Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and the Shillong Peak. It is equally important that these areas are not disrespected by the way people treat them. Stay on marked paths, do not disturb animals, and ensure no littering is done. Carry a refillable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. Some of these places of natural beauty are held sacred by the local Jaintia and Khasi people, so it is essential to follow local rules and be respectful of their culture. 5. Participate in Eco-Friendly Activities Shillong provides an array of opportunities for ecotourism starting from taking a stroll in Mawphlang's green woods to visiting Asia's cleanest village – Mawlynnong. You can also head to the Dawki River for kayaking or canoeing into its clear waters. Shillong also boasts a rich variety of birds which makes bird watching a perfect eco-friendly hobby. 6. Reduce Waste and Save Natural Resources A green vacation will need an extra effort to cut waste and save natural resources. Bring reusable bags, utensils, and containers so as not to use disposable plastics. Many restaurants in Shillong have started adopting eco-friendly policies, so pick those which do not use non-biodegradable packaging. Save water and electricity while you are there, especially during the dry months when Shillong runs short on water. Simple things like switching off the electricity when you leave a room and taking shorter showers can greatly help. 7. Learn and Educate the Public Make sure you learn about Shillong's environment, culture, and issues beforehand, as those are vital shapeshifters during your trip. Research the biogeographical region, the significance of the forests within it, and how climate change affects Meghalaya. Communicate with local people to learn how they are trying to save the environment. Post your eco travel stories on social media platforms so that you can motivate others to travel sustainably. In doing so, you become part of a larger initiative that advocates for responsible tourism. Conclusion As stated above, Shillong is breathtaking and rich in culture, making it a tourist hotspot, but it is also important to travel in a way that protects the environment. By using green accommodations, engaging in community activities, respecting nature, and reducing waste, one can relish a wonderful vacation while doing their part to protect Shllong's environment and cultural heritage. Ecotourism is beneficial for the planet and greatly enhances the experience of the traveler in that particular region. So, grab your bags, be a responsible tourist and head out for an amazing trip to Shillong.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Time of India
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