Tura is a small town located in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is known for its scenic beauty and diverse culture.
Places to Visit in Tura
Tura Peak: The highest point in Tura and an excellent spot for a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding hills.
Balpakram National Park: Located about 90 km from Tura, this national park is home to a variety of wildlife such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and bears.
Siju Caves: Also known as the Dobakkol cave, it is a limestone cave system located near Naphak lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Pelga Falls: A picturesque waterfall located about 7 km from Tura, surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.
Nokrek National Park: This park is located about 45 km from Tura and is home to several rare and endangered species, including the red panda and the Indian bison.
Rongbang Dar Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located about 25 km from Tura, surrounded by greenery and natural beauty.
Naphak Lake: A scenic lake located about 14 km from Tura, surrounded by hills and greenery, perfect for a relaxing picnic.
Siju Bird Sanctuary: A bird lover’s paradise, located near the Siju Caves and home to several species of birds such as hornbills, kingfishers, and peafowls.
Tura Town Hall: Built during the British era, this heritage building is an excellent example of colonial architecture and a must-visit for history buffs.
Best Time To Visit Tura
The best time to visit Tura is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Tura
Visit Nokrek National Park: This park is famous for its rare species of plants and animals. Take a walk in the park, spot some wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Explore Pelga Falls: Pelga Falls is a popular picnic spot in Tura. Enjoy a refreshing bath in the cool waters and take in the stunning views of the waterfall.
Visit Siju Caves: Siju Caves is a must-visit attraction for adventure lovers. The limestone caves are home to some rare species of bats and other creatures. Explore the caves and marvel at the beautiful formations.
Go for a Trek: Tura is surrounded by hills and offers several trekking opportunities. Go for a trek and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Visit the Tura Peak: Tura Peak is the highest point in the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular spot for trekking and picnics.
Visit the Balpakram National Park: The Balpakram National Park is located near Tura and is known for its unique flora and fauna. Take a safari and spot some wildlife or simply enjoy the beautiful views.
Visit the Tura Market: Tura Market is a bustling market where you can buy local handicrafts, clothes, and other souvenirs.
Attend the Wangala Festival: The Wangala Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by the Garo tribe in Tura. Attend the festival and experience the local culture and traditions.
How to get around in Tura
The best way to get around Tura is by hiring a taxi or a private car. There are also shared taxis and buses available, but they may not always be reliable or comfortable. Walking is also an option for shorter distances, but it’s important to note that Tura is a hilly area, so be prepared for some steep climbs.
Where to eat in Tura
As Tura is a small town, there are limited dining options available. However, you can find some local restaurants and eateries serving authentic North-Eastern cuisine. Some popular dining options in Tura include:
Nogor Restaurant
Sengsam Eatery
Swastik Restaurant
Hira Restaurant
La Tandoor Restaurant
These places are known for serving delicious and affordable meals.
Famous street stalls in Tura
As Tura is a small town, there are not many famous street stalls or food vendors to mention. However, visitors can try local delicacies and street food items like Momos, Chowmein, Thukpa, and Wai-Wai noodles available at small restaurants and food stalls. Some popular eateries in Tura include Shillong Cafe, Royal Treat, and Hotel Rikman.
Where to stay in Tura
Luxury Accommodation:
Hotel Polo Orchid Tura: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Tura Range and is located just 4 km from the Tura Peak. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine.
Hotel Royal Park: This upscale hotel is located in the heart of Tura and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a banquet hall and conference rooms for events and business meetings.
Budget Accommodation:
Hotel RIKMAN Continental: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Tura and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel features a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine, and a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Tura Inn: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Tura and offers basic accommodation at an affordable price. The hotel features a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine, and a 24-hour front desk.
Travel Tips Tura
Here are some travel tips for Tura:
Plan your trip during the winter season (November to February) as the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing.
Carry appropriate clothing as Tura experiences both hot summers and cold winters.
Carry insect repellents as there are a lot of mosquitoes in the area.
Keep a first aid kit with you, especially if you plan to go trekking or hiking in the surrounding hills.
Avoid traveling alone, especially at night.
Respect the local culture and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Carry cash as there may not be many ATMs or credit card facilities available in some areas.
Hire a local guide to explore the town and its surroundings, as they can provide valuable insights into the local culture and history.