bigtravelbuzzNongpoh is a town located in the Ri Bhoi district of the state of Meghalaya in northeastern India. It is situated about 52 kilometers from the state capital, Shillong. Nongpoh is an important commercial and transportation hub in the region, as it lies on the National Highway 6 that connects Guwahati in Assam to Shillong.
The town has a population of around 10,000 people and is predominantly inhabited by the Khasi tribe. Agriculture is the primary occupation of the people in Nongpoh, with rice, potatoes, and vegetables being the major crops grown in the area.
Nongpoh is also known for its scenic beauty, as it is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to several waterfalls and lakes. Some of the popular tourist attractions in and around Nongpoh include the Umiam Lake, the Elephant Falls, and the Mawphlang Sacred Forest.
Places to Visit in Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town in Meghalaya, India, known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Nongpoh:
Umiam Lake: It is a beautiful artificial lake located on the outskirts of Nongpoh. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers various water sports activities like boating, kayaking, and water skiing.
Elephant Falls: It is a three-tiered waterfall located near Shillong and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. The waterfall is named after a nearby elephant-shaped rock, and the water cascades down in steps, creating a breathtaking view.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest: It is a dense forest area located near Nongpoh and is considered a sacred site by the Khasi tribe. The forest is home to several rare species of plants and animals and is a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Lum Nehru Park: It is a beautiful park located in the heart of Nongpoh town and is a popular spot for picnics and family outings. The park has a children’s play area, a jogging track, and several seating areas.
U Soso Tham Auditorium: It is an auditorium dedicated to the renowned Khasi poet U Soso Tham and is a cultural center that hosts various events and programs related to the local arts and culture.
Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a wildlife sanctuary located near Nongpoh and is home to various species of animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and primates. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails and camping sites for nature enthusiasts.
Best Time To Visit Nongpoh
The best time to visit Nongpoh is during the months of October to May when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C. During this time, the sky is mostly clear, and the rainfall is minimal, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
However, if you are interested in experiencing the monsoon season, then you can plan your visit between June to September when the region receives heavy rainfall, and the landscape is lush green and beautiful. However, keep in mind that heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and cause landslides in some areas, so it’s best to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
Overall, the best time to visit Nongpoh depends on your interests and preferences, but the months of October to May are generally considered the most comfortable and convenient time to explore the region.
Things to Do in Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town in the state of Meghalaya, India. Here are some things you can do in Nongpoh:
Visit Umiam Lake: Umiam Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located about 17 km from Nongpoh. You can go boating or kayaking, or simply enjoy the scenic view of the lake.
Explore the Kyllang Rock: Kyllang Rock is a massive granite rock located near Nongpoh. It is considered sacred by the locals and is also a popular tourist spot. You can trek to the top of the rock for a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Visit the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary: Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 30 km from Nongpoh and is home to a variety of animals and birds such as leopards, langurs, wild boars, and hornbills. You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and spot some of these animals in their natural habitat.
Experience the local culture: Meghalaya is known for its unique culture and traditions. You can visit local villages around Nongpoh and interact with the locals to learn more about their way of life.
Go trekking: Meghalaya is known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails. You can explore the nearby hills and trek to places like David Scott Trail, Nongkhnum Island, and Mawphlang Sacred Grove.
Try the local cuisine: Meghalaya’s cuisine is a unique blend of different flavors and influences. You can try local delicacies like jadoh (rice dish), doh-nei-iong (pork with black sesame), and tungrymbai (fermented soybean).
How to get around in Nongpoh
Getting around in Nongpoh is relatively easy, and there are various modes of transportation available. Here are some options:
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Nongpoh and can be hired for a day or a few hours to explore the town and nearby attractions. You can negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a more economical option than hiring a private taxi. They operate on fixed routes, and you can share the ride with other passengers. They are usually available from the taxi stand, which is located near the main market area.
Local Buses: Local buses are a cheap and convenient mode of transportation in Nongpoh. They operate on fixed routes and can take you to nearby villages and towns. However, they can be crowded and may not be very comfortable for long journeys.
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Nongpoh. They are cheaper than taxis and can be hired for short distances. You can negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Self-drive: If you are comfortable driving in India, you can rent a car or a bike to explore Nongpoh and nearby areas. However, it’s essential to have a valid driving license and insurance.
Where to eat in Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town in Meghalaya, India, and offers a variety of dining options that serve both local and international cuisine. Here are some places where you can eat in Nongpoh:
Nongpoh Food Corner: Nongpoh Food Corner is a popular restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine, including jadoh (rice dish), doh-nei-iong (pork with black sesame), and tungrymbai (fermented soybean). The restaurant also offers vegetarian options.
Lake View Restaurant: Lake View Restaurant is located near Umiam Lake and offers stunning views of the lake. The restaurant serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine and is known for its seafood dishes.
The Lounge: The Lounge is a cozy cafe located in the heart of Nongpoh. The cafe serves a variety of snacks, beverages, and desserts, including sandwiches, cakes, and coffee.
Thangkyrmit Restaurant: Thangkyrmit Restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its thali meals, which offer a variety of dishes on a single plate.
Cafe Shillong: Cafe Shillong is a popular cafe located in Shillong, about 50 km from Nongpoh. The cafe serves a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Indian, and Continental. The cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and live music performances.
Famous street stalls in Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town in Meghalaya, India, and doesn’t have many famous street stalls. However, here are some popular street stalls where you can try local snacks:
Jadoh Stall: Jadoh Stall is a small food stall located near the Nongpoh market that serves delicious jadoh (rice dish) and other local snacks like momos and pakoras.
Tea Stalls: There are several tea stalls located throughout Nongpoh that serve hot and refreshing cups of tea. You can also try local snacks like samosas and biscuits with your tea.
Puchkas Stall: Puchkas or golgappas are a popular street food in India, and you can find a few stalls selling them near the Nongpoh market. They are crispy balls filled with a tangy and spicy mixture of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind water.
Fruit Stalls: You can find several fruit stalls selling fresh and juicy fruits like pineapples, oranges, and bananas. These fruits are grown locally and are known for their sweet and tangy taste.
Fried Chicken Stall: There are a few stalls located near the Nongpoh market that serve crispy and delicious fried chicken. You can also try other snacks like french fries and onion rings with your chicken.
Where to stay in Nongpoh
Luxury accommodation
Nongpoh is a small town located in the state of Meghalaya in India. While it may not have a lot of luxury accommodations, there are some options available for travelers looking for a comfortable stay. Here are a few options:
The Habitat Shillong: This luxury hotel is located in the nearby city of Shillong, about an hour’s drive from Nongpoh. It offers well-appointed rooms and suites, along with amenities like a spa, fitness center, and restaurant.
Ri Kynjai Serenity by the Lake: Another option located in Shillong, this luxury resort is situated on the banks of Umiam Lake and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills. It features spacious cottages with traditional decor, as well as a restaurant, spa, and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
Polo Orchid Resort: This luxury resort is located in the neighboring state of Assam, about two hours’ drive from Nongpoh. It features elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities, along with a spa, outdoor pool, and restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa: This luxury resort is located in the nearby city of Gurgaon, about two hours’ drive from Nongpoh. It features luxurious rooms and villas, along with a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
It’s worth noting that these options are not located directly in Nongpoh, but they offer a luxurious stay within reasonable driving distance of the town.
Where to stay in Nongpoh
Budget accommodation
Nongpoh is a small town located in the state of Meghalaya in India. While it may not have many options for budget accommodations, there are some guesthouses and lodges available for travelers looking for a more affordable stay. Here are a few options:
Hotel Starlight: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Nongpoh and offers simple rooms with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning. It also has an on-site restaurant serving Indian cuisine.
Lamlyn Guest House: This guesthouse is located on the outskirts of Nongpoh and offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and en suite bathrooms. It also has a garden and terrace where guests can relax.
Highway Nest Guest House: This budget guesthouse is located on the highway near Nongpoh and offers clean, basic rooms with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. It also has an on-site restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Thadlaskein Lake View Guest House: This guesthouse is located about 10 km from Nongpoh and offers basic rooms with free Wi-Fi and scenic views of the nearby lake. It also has a garden and terrace where guests can relax.
Keep in mind that these options are not luxurious and may not have many amenities, but they offer a more affordable stay for travelers on a budget.
Travel Tips Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town located in the state of Meghalaya in India, known for its natural beauty and unique culture. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Nongpoh:
Plan your visit during the dry season: Meghalaya is known for its heavy monsoon season, which can make travel difficult and limit outdoor activities. If possible, plan your visit to Nongpoh during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
Respect local culture and traditions: Meghalaya is home to many different tribes, each with their own unique traditions and customs. It’s important to be respectful of these traditions and dress modestly when visiting local villages or attending cultural events.
Try the local cuisine: Meghalaya has a unique cuisine that blends Indian, Chinese, and tribal flavors. Some popular dishes to try in Nongpoh include jadoh (rice and meat), doh-neiiong (pork with black sesame), and tungtap (smoked pork).
Explore the natural beauty: Nongpoh is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Some popular natural attractions to visit include the Wah Umiam and Umiam Lake.
Be prepared for road conditions: Nongpoh is located on the highway between Guwahati and Shillong, but the roads can be narrow and winding in some areas. It’s important to be prepared for road conditions and plan for extra travel time if needed.
Stay hydrated: Meghalaya’s climate can be humid and warm, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while exploring the town and surrounding areas.
By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to Nongpoh and experience all that this beautiful town has to offer.