UMIAM LAKE

Alternatively known as Bara Pani, the Umiam Lake is a lake and reservoir located north of Shillong. The history of this lake dates back to damming the Umiam River in the 1960s. The lake is formed by two rivers, namely the Wah Umkhrah and the Wah Umshyrpi, and is a major tourist destination.

Activities like trekking, boating, kayaking, and water cycling happen here on a regular basis. Apart from tourist activities, the lake here also provides a vibrant ecosystem for activities like fishing, thanks to the catchments. The overall setting of the lake is set to look dreamy, so when in Shillong, a visit to the Umiam Lake is sure to make your trip complete. Discover the lush green hills and stunning waterfalls with our Meghalaya tour packages.

The surroundings are pristine and the lake comes with activities like going for long walks, or simply unwinding at the banks of the lake.

Highlights

• Visit Police Bazar to shop for local handicrafts and try out the different types of local and international delicacies.
• Check out the different types of indigenous articles and artefacts of Meghalaya in the Don Bosco Museum.
• Visit the Air Force Museum and know more about the Indian Air Force by checking out the artefacts dating back from the various wars.
• Visit the All Saints Cathedral and admire the fine architecture of the church dating back to the early 1900s. 
• Visit the State Museum and check out the different types of traditional tools, musical instruments, and antique jewellery. 

How To Reach

• By Car: The Umiam Lake is 17 kms from the city centre of Shillong, it will take 47 minutes via the NH 6 route.

Best Time To Visit

The Umiam Lake is accessible throughout the year, so you can plan your visit to this lake at any time of the year. 

• The best season to play your visit will be the summer season between March to May as this is the time when the climate will be favourable enough for your visit. 
• Weekdays are the best days to plan your visit as the chances of crowds are minimal.
• Plan your visit in the afternoon as the climate is favourable and moreover the crowds are still minimal at this time of the day. 

Other Essential Information

Visitor tips

1. If you are planning to walk around, make sure you wear a comfortable pair of footwear, especially ones with a soft inner sole. 

2. Shillong may be prone to a lot of rain, so carry an umbrella, just in case. 

3. You might have to get a permit to visit certain parts of Meghalaya, so be prepared accordingly.

4. Umiam Lake is known for its pristine look, so do not spoil it by dropping trash everywhere.

5. Familiarise yourself with the traditions to understand the place better, especially about the people and their beliefs. 

6. If you are unaware about the nuances of travelling to Shillong, always go for a guided trip.