A place where the clouds come alive during the monsoon season. Meghalaya, aptly called the “Abode of Clouds,” transforms into a breathtaking paradise every monsoon. Dense greenery blasts forth, breathing life into the landscape with a magical charm. Waterfalls come alive, creating a symphony of sound that blends with the pitter-patter of rain on rooftops.
The monsoon in Meghalaya, spanning from June to September, is a sight to behold. It’s not just the visual splendor that enchants visitors; the vibrant culture of the state comes alive during this time. Locals celebrate with a multitude of festivals, showcasing their rich heritage through music, dance, and traditional attire.
While the monsoon might prevent some adventure seekers, it’s a season that holds a unique charm for those who love nature’s raw beauty. You can imagine experiencing the majesty of cascading waterfalls at their peak or the serenity of Umiam Lake surrounded in mist. The monsoon paints a picture of Meghalaya that’s both breathtaking and mystical, making it a time to visit Meghalaya that you won’t forget.
Key Festivals During Monsoon in Meghalaya
Wangala Festival
The Wangala Festival is a vibrant celebration held by the Garo tribe of Meghalaya, marking the culmination of the agricultural year and thanking the Sun God for a bountiful harvest. While traditionally celebrated in November, the roots of the festival lie in the monsoon season.
The monsoon, with its plentiful rain, is seen as a time of fertility and holds immense significance for the Garo people. The preparatory rituals for Wangala commence during this period, reflecting the tribe’s deep respect for nature’s cycle.
The festival itself is a joyous occasion, marked by the rhythmic beats of the “Dama” drums and the captivating “Dama Gogata” dance. The synchronized steps and colorful attire of the dancers create a mesmerizing spectacle. Wangala is a testament to the Garo’s close relationship with nature, their way of life intrinsically linked to the rhythm of the seasons.
Behdienkhlam Festival:
The Behdienkhlam Festival is a vital celebration for the Pnar tribe residing in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills. Held at the peak of the monsoon season in July, this unique festival serves a dual purpose: warding off evil spirits and illnesses, and seeking blessings for a prosperous harvest.
The monsoon, with its heavy rains, is a crucial time for the Pnar people. The festival incorporates rituals like driving away evil spirits and communal prayers specifically for rain and bountiful crops. A fascinating aspect of the celebrations is the creation and immersion of decorative wooden structures called “Rongs.”
These Rongs are carried in processions and then symbolically cast into rivers or water bodies.
Another key element of the Behdienkhlam Festival is the energetic Laho Dance. This vibrant dance form, performed by the community, adds to the festive spirit and serves as a display of unity and collective hope for a healthy and prosperous future.
Nongkrem Dance Festival
The Nongkrem Dance Festival is a cornerstone celebration for the Khasi tribe, held annually in the village of Smit. This vibrant festival honours the revered goddess Ka Blei Synshar, seeking her blessings for a bountiful harvest and the overall well-being of the community.
While the festivities culminate in October/November, laying slightly after the monsoon season, the roots of Nongkrem are deeply entwined with the monsoon. The introductory rituals and offerings begin during the monsoon months, reflecting the Khasi people’s deep appreciation for nature’s cycle and the hope for a fruitful season ahead.
The festival itself is a spectacular display of Khasi culture. Unique rituals involving animal sacrifices are performed, followed by the much-anticipated Nongkrem dance. Dressed in their finest traditional attire, both men and women of the Khasi tribe come together to perform this captivating dance, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that embodies the spirit of community and thanksgiving.
Monsoon and Cultural Practices
Agricultural Rituals
The monsoon season in Meghalaya is a time of celebration and agricultural activity. The lifeblood of the state’s agriculture, the monsoon rains are crucial for a bountiful harvest. This deep connection between nature and farming is reflected in the vibrant festivals and rituals that come alive during this time.
As the monsoon arrives, farmers in Meghalaya gear up for planting rice, their main crop, along with other seasonal favorites. This is a communal affair, often accompanied by prayers and offerings to deities like those for rain and fertility. These rituals pay homage to nature’s bounty and express hope for a successful harvest season ahead. The success of the monsoon literally sets the tone for the festivals and celebrations that follow, making it an integral part of Meghalaya’s cultural tapestry.
Rain and Spirituality
The monsoon rains in Meghalaya hold a deep spiritual significance for the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. These heavy downpours are seen as a life-giving blessing from the gods, bringing not just bountiful harvests but also spiritual renewal.
Khasi Tribe: The Khasis believe the god Lei U Blei, the sky god, brings the rains. Legends speak of a time when humanity angered Lei U Blei, leading to a great drought. The story goes that a kind woman named Um Dieng Sohphoh climbed the sacred peak Shillong Peak to appease the god with offerings. Lei U Blei, touched by her sincerity, sent down the life-giving rains once more.
Jaintia Tribe: The Jaintias have their own creation myth tied to the monsoon. They believe that the first thunderstorm marked the separation of heaven and earth. The heavy rains are seen as a time of renewal, washing away the sins of the past and ushering in a period of prosperity.
Garo Tribe: The Garos associate the monsoon with fertility and the abundance of nature. Their creation story tells of a celestial being who descended to earth, bringing with him the first rains. These rains not only nourished the land but also gave rise to life itself.
Experiencing Festivals as a Visitor
Sure, here’s a tourist’s perspective on experiencing the vibrant monsoon festivals of Meghalaya:
Travel Tips
Timing Your Visit: If you’re interested in experiencing the rich cultural tapestry of Meghalaya’s monsoon festivals, aim to visit between July and November. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Catch the Behdienkhlam Festival’s lively dances and rituals in July.
Witness the reverence for the Sun God at the Wangala Festival in November.
Immerse yourself in the shukor – meaning “thanksgiving” – spirit of the Nongkrem Dance Festival around October/November.
Local Participation: Remember, these are primarily religious festivals. Dress modestly and be respectful of local customs. Observe from a distance if ceremonies are ongoing, and avoid using flash photography. If you’re invited to participate in a dance or meal, graciously accept – it’s a fantastic way to connect with the locals!
What to Expect: Prepare to be swept away by the energy and enthusiasm of these celebrations. The monsoon itself adds a dramatic touch, with lush green landscapes and cascading waterfalls. The people of Meghalaya are renowned for their hospitality, and you’re sure to be welcomed with warm smiles and invitations to join in the festivities. Expect vibrant attires, rhythmic drumming, and a contagious sense of joy that fills the air.
Practical Information
Research beforehand – specific dates for these festivals can vary slightly each year.
Book your accommodation well in advance, especially around festival times.
Pack for the monsoon – a raincoat, sturdy umbrella, and quick-drying clothes are essential.
Carry cash – many villages may not have ATMs.
Remember, be an eco-conscious traveller and dispose of waste responsibly. Appreciate the unique experience – monsoon festivals in Meghalaya are a chance to witness a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and spiritual traditions.
Accommodation and Transportation:
Here’s a continuation of the previous response focused on accommodation and transportation during the monsoon season in Meghalaya:
Accommodation
Shillong: As the capital city, Shillong offers a wider range of options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable hotels. During festivals, booking in advance is recommended, especially for homestays that provide a more immersive experience. Hotels such Arbour inn, M Crown, Hotel Polo Tower, Pine Hill Homestay.
Festival Locations: While the festivals themselves are held in specific villages like Smit (Nongkrem) or Jowai (Behdienkhlam), staying in nearby towns like Shillong or Cherrapunjee is a good option. These towns offer easier access to public transport and a wider variety of accommodations. Homestays in these villages can also be an option if you prefer a more local experience.
Transportation
Getting to Meghalaya: Pack your patience! Landslides are common during the monsoon, so be prepared for potential delays if traveling by road. Shillong has the Umroi Airport, connected to major cities in India.
Getting Around: Public transportation within Shillong is reliable, with taxis and buses readily available. However, reaching the festival locations might require hiring a car for the day. This is a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Negotiate fares beforehand, and ensure the car is in good condition for monsoon travel.
Monsoon Travel Tip: Roads can get slippery during the monsoon. Opt for taxis or drivers familiar with the local routes, especially if you’re not comfortable driving in the rain.
Health and Safety:
Here are some tips to stay healthy and safe during the monsoon season:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of boiled or filtered water to avoid waterborne diseases.
Boost immunity: Include vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables like oranges, lemons, and leafy greens in your diet. Consider adding yogurt for probiotics to support gut health.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the restroom.
Avoid contaminated food: Be cautious of street food, and ensure fruits and vegetables are washed properly.
Mosquito control: Eliminate stagnant water sources around your home to prevent mosquito breeding. Use mosquito repellents and nets when outdoors.
Travel safety: Be aware of weather forecasts and avoid travel during heavy rains. If you must travel, wear sturdy shoes with good grip and carry an umbrella.
