bigtravelbuzzWilliamnagar is a town located in the East Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is a quiet and peaceful town that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Meghalaya’s natural surroundings. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Williamnagar
Siju Caves: Located near Siju village, Siju Caves are known for their stunning stalactites and stalagmites formations.
Simsang River: One of the major rivers in Meghalaya, Simsang River is a great place for picnics and river rafting.
Naphak Lake: A serene lake located in the heart of the town, Naphak Lake is a great spot for boating and fishing.
Rongbang Dar Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located in Rongbang Dar village, it is a great place for a day trip.
Williamnagar Town: The capital of East Garo Hills district, Williamnagar town is a bustling hub of activity, with a vibrant local market and plenty of shops and eateries.
Nokrek National Park: One of the largest national parks in Meghalaya, Nokrek is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and the rare red panda.
Siju Bird Sanctuary: Located near Siju village, this bird sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds found here.
Rongrenggiri: A scenic village located in the hills, Rongrenggiri is known for its beautiful landscape and traditional Garo culture.
Best Time To Visit Williamnagar
The best time to visit Williamnagar is from November to March, during the winter season when the weather is pleasant and dry.
Things to Do in Williamnagar
Here are some things to do in Williamnagar:
Visit the Siju Caves: Explore the stunning limestone caves in Siju, which are known for their impressive rock formations and underground rivers.
Go on a wildlife safari: Williamnagar is located in the heart of Meghalaya’s wildlife reserves. Take a wildlife safari to spot some of the rare and endangered species like the Indian elephant, clouded leopard, and Hoolock gibbon.
Trek to the Nokrek National Park: Go on a trek to the Nokrek National Park, which is known for its rich biodiversity and unique species like the Nokrek hornbill, marbled cat, and the red panda.
Visit the Simsang River: The Simsang River is a popular spot for picnics and water sports like kayaking, boating, and fishing.
Explore the culture: Visit the local villages and learn about the Garo tribal culture, customs, and traditions. Attend the traditional festivals and enjoy the local cuisine.
How to get around in Williamnagar
Williamnagar is a small town in Meghalaya, India. The best way to get around the town is by using local transportation options such as buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws. It is recommended to hire a taxi for sightseeing purposes as it is more convenient and flexible. Walking is also an option if you want to explore the town at a leisurely pace. However, it is not the best option for long distances or during the monsoon season when the roads can become muddy and slippery.
Where to eat in Williamnagar
As Williamnagar is a small town in Meghalaya, the options for dining out are limited. However, there are a few local restaurants and small eateries that serve authentic Khasi and Garo cuisine. Some of the popular ones include Rikman Restaurant, Tasek Restaurant, and Shina Restaurant. It is advisable to check with locals for recommendations and opening hours as these places may not have a fixed schedule.
Famous street stalls in Williamnagar
As Williamnagar is a small town, there may not be many street food stalls to choose from. However, some popular food items that can be found in the local markets and shops include:
Momos – steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat
Jalebi – a sweet and crispy dessert made with maida (flour) and sugar syrup
Samosas – triangular-shaped snacks filled with spiced potatoes or vegetables
Vada pav – a popular street food in India, consisting of a spicy potato fritter served inside a bread bun
Bhajiyas – deep-fried fritters made with besan (gram flour) and vegetables such as onions, potatoes, and chilies.
Where to stay in Williamnagar
Luxury accommodation
There are limited luxury accommodation options in Williamnagar, but some of the top ones include:
Hotel Royal Palace: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. It is located in the heart of Williamnagar, making it convenient for travelers.
Hotel Green Hill: This hotel offers well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, an on-site restaurant, and a beautiful garden area. It is located in a peaceful area of Williamnagar, away from the hustle and bustle.
Hotel Durama: This hotel offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the surrounding hills, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. It is located in a quiet area of Williamnagar, making it perfect for relaxation.
Hotel Golden Peak: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views. It is located near the main market area of Williamnagar, making it convenient for shopping and exploring.
Hotel Blue Orchid: This hotel offers well-furnished rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a garden area. It is located in a peaceful area of Williamnagar, away from the noise of the town.
Where to stay in Williamnagar
Budget accommodation
There are several budget accommodations available in Williamnagar, some of which are:
Circuit House
Purno Homestay
Lake View Homestay
D’pearl Guest House
Hotel Royal Hills
These options offer comfortable and affordable accommodation for budget-conscious travelers.
Travel Tips Williamnagar
Some travel tips for Williamnagar are:
The best time to visit Williamnagar is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
It is advisable to carry sufficient cash as there may be limited ATM facilities in the town.
It is recommended to hire a local guide to explore the nearby villages and tourist spots.
Respect the local customs and traditions while visiting the town.
Make sure to carry appropriate clothing and footwear for exploring the outdoor areas and wildlife sanctuaries.