Ri-Bhoi: Lakes, Views and Khasi Traditions

Ri-Bhoi combines striking waterscapes with viewpoints, forest and cultural stories. Water sports take centre stage at Umiam Lake, while Mawkyndur Peak offers a different scene, shaped by panoramic views, a walking trail and monoliths. The area also has lakes, waterfalls, a wildlife sanctuary and places where textile traditions are shared. This diversity helps you tailor your trip to your interests and match your holiday-apartment search to the mix of experiences you have planned.

Lakes and water experiences

Umiam Lake was formed by damming the Umiam River in the early 1960s. Today, the lake offers water sports such as sailing, water skiing and water scooter activities. Visitors can also enjoy activities at Phrut Dak Lake, where you can fish and go boating. The two lakes offer different water experiences. If your travel group has varied interests, this comparison can help you choose: water sports at Umiam Lake, or fishing and boating at Phrut Dak Lake.

Phrut Dak Lake also has a traditional origin story: the lake is said to have originally been built by the three clans Timung, Taro and Bey. Check the current availability of fishing and boating activities before visiting.

Views, trails and distinctive natural sites

From Mawkyndur Peak, panoramic views extend across almost half of the Ri Bhoi plains. A walking trail runs along the slope, lined on both sides by monoliths erected by ancestors. It leads to Mawsyntai village. The peak and trail offer two distinct highlights: sweeping views across the plains and a route flanked by monoliths. Trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out.

The natural Umnget Falls are 4 km from the National Highway. On the other side of the waterfall are a cave and an underground freshwater lake. Water conditions vary by season, so take this into account when planning your visit. Dwar Ksuid, meanwhile, is associated with the film “U Manik Raitong”: its natural surroundings served as a filming location.

Culture, parks and wildlife watching

Lum Sohpetbneng lies against the backdrop of a sacred forest. According to Khasi mythology, the site is an ancient golden staircase that connected Earth and heaven. This gives it a different dimension from the region’s scenic viewpoints: here, a cultural and spiritual story takes centre stage.

Lum Nehru Park has lawns and flowers, as well as an orchidarium and an aviary. Those interested in Meghalaya’s textile traditions can explore a different subject at the Design, Innovation & Resource Centre in the Umden-Diwon cluster. There, weavers, dyers, researchers and aspiring learners can discover and learn about Meghalaya’s rich textile traditions.

Birdwatching expeditions are offered at Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can look for rare and endemic species; sightings are not guaranteed. Soft trekking trails also lead through the forest interior. Trail conditions and permits can change, so check the latest information before your visit.

Getting there and choosing your holiday apartment

Umiam Lake is accessible via National Highway 6 on the Guwahati–Shillong route; private taxis, shared taxis and buses are available. It is worth checking connections for your specific travel date. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Ri-Bhoi, first decide which experiences you want your trip to focus on. You can then choose where to stay based on the destinations and transport options that actually matter to your plans.

A broader look at Meghalaya

The wider destination of Meghalaya also has notable cultural associations. The cultural landscapes of the living root bridges, “Jingkieng jri”, are on India’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage. The Nongkrem Dance Festival is a five-day celebration in Smit village and offers insights into Khasi traditions.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Khanapara, Umsning, East Khasi Hills, West Garo Hills.

Back to the broader travel overview: Meghalaya.