Getting to Meghalaya: -

The state of Meghalaya is well connected to the rest of the country.Visiting Shillong, one can opt for any of the following routes: - By Air: - There is a small airport at Umroi, about 35 km from Shillong. At present, Air India operates with ATR42 type of aircraft on this route. Buses / Taxis are available from Shillong to Umroi and back. Flight Schedule Flight No To/From Days CD9719/9719 Kolkata-Shillong, Shillong-Jorhat-Kolkata Mon, Tues and Thurs CD9711/9712 Kolkata-Shillong-Kolkata Wed, Sat and Sun M.T.C. Bus Service from Shillong to Umroi Airport Departure time from Shillong : 11.00 hrs Departure time from Umroi : On Arrival of flight from Kolkata Embarking and Disembarking point : M.T.C. Station, Police Bazar Type of Bus : 28 seater Starbus Fare : Rs.100/- per passenger Schedule days : Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Another convenient airport, the Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati (128 km from Shillong) is connected to rest of India with regular flights. Shared cabs (typically small cars from the airport, and larger Tata Sumos from Guwahati town center) are available from outside airport connecting to Shillong. The rate is Rs. 300 per passenger from Guwahati Airport to Shillong. The cab drops you off at Police Bazaar from where you can get a ride to almost any part of Shillong. En route from Guwahati to Shillong, you'll probably stop mid way at Nongpoh to freshen up and get some refreshments. Flight Schedule from Guwahati Airport MTDC Airport Transfer services from Shillong to Guwahati Airport Departure time from Shillong : 6.30 a.m & 9.00 a.m Departure time from Guwahati Airport : 2.00 p.m & 4.00 p.m Fare : Rs.250/- Tickets will be available at Tourist Information Centre, Police Bazaar and Meghalaya Tourism Information Centre, Guwahati Airport. For further information contact : (0364) 2222731/ 2224933/ 2505012/ 2224471Helicopter service: - Helicopter is available from Guwahati to Tura and Tura to Shillong on Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Friday and from Guwahati to Shillong and Shillong to Guwahati daily except on Sunday. It takes 20 mins. to reach Shillong from Guwahati and one hour from Guwahati to Tura. This means of transportation is very economical and convenient. Helicopter Schedule with effect from 07th January 2011 For details and bookings, contact: Meghalaya Helicopter Service MTC Bus Stand, Police Bazar Tel 2223129 Sheba Travels Tel 2227222 Tower Tours & Travels Tel 2220075

Welcome to Meghalaya - The abode in the clouds!

Carved from the earstwhile state of Assam, the state of Meghalaya came into being on January 21st, 1972. The state is bounded by Assam on the north and east andBangladesh on the south and west. Shillong is the capital city of the state. The capital city has a bracing climate throughout the year. This city has been the seat of Government since the consolidation of the British administration in this part of India more than a century ago. The city is well connected with motorable roads all-over, has its own charm, different from other hill stations, and presents a natural scenic beauty with waterfalls, brooks, pine grooves and gardens. The place, the people, the flora and fauna and the climate all combine to make Shillong an ideal resort throughout the year. Shillong offers amenities for tourists with good hotel accommodations, facilities for sports, angling, trekking and hiking. Principal Languages: - The principal languages in Meghalaya are Khasi, Pnar and Garo with English as the official language of the State. It was at the initiative of the Christian missionaries that the Khasi, Pnar and Garo languages and literature have developed and emerged in the list of Modern Indian Languages. The Khasi language is believed to be one of the very few surviving dialects of the Mon-khmer family of languages in India today. People, Culture & Religion: - Meghalaya's main ethnic communities, each having its own distinctive customs and cultural traditions are the Khasis (of Mon-Khmer ancestry), the Garos (of Tibeto-Burman origin) and the Jaintias said to be from South East Asia. The common trait binding all three communities is its matrilineal system in which the family linage is taken from the mother's side. The people of Meghalaya are known to be hospitable, cheerful and friendly. Traditionally, the Khasis believe that their religion is God given and is based on the belief of one supreme God, the creator 'U Blei Nongthaw' A Khasi is a deeply religious person, who has an intense love of life. He believes that life is God's greatest gift and he has to account for it again in the hereafter. The Jaintias and Khasis have the same religion, although the Jaintias are more influenced by Hinduism. They have a superstition that the Jam, like the Khasi Thlen, is an evil spirit bringing riches to its owner and disease or death to its enemies or victims. The Garos believe in one supreme Creator, Rabuga, who is the sustainer and commander of the world. The other spirits are the representatives of the supreme Creator. The spirits connected to the Garo's agricultural life, are appeased by sacrifices but never worshipped. The headman is an integral part of the village and acts as religious head. However, many members of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities have converted to Christianity and one can see a number of churches as well as temples, mosques, gurudwaras and monasteries in Meghalaya.

Tourism Places in Manipur

Shaheed Minar:- The indomitable spirit of the patriotic Meitei and tribal martyrs, who sacrificed their lives while fighting the British in 1891, is commemorated by this tall Minar at Bir Tikendrajit Park in the heart of Imphal city. Khwairamband Bazar/ Ima Market: - A unique all women's market, having 3,000 or more "Imas" or mothers who run the stalls. It is splited into two sections on either side of a road. Vegetables, fruits, fishes and household groceries are sold on one side and exquisite handlooms and household tools on the other. Kangla: - The centre of Manipur's power till 1891, the historical embodiment of Manipur Rulers and the people of Manipur, Kangla have a significant place in the heart and mind of the people of Manipur Govindajee temple, outer and inner moat and other relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and culture of Manipur and her civilization. War Cemetery: - Commemorating the memories of the British and Indian soldiers who died during the World War II, these War Cemeteries are managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Serene are well maintained, the War Cemetery carries little stone markers and bronze plaques recording the sacrifice of those gallant soldiers. Khonghampat Orchidarium: - 10 kms. from Imphal on National Highway No. 39 is the Central Orchidarium which covers 200 acres and houses over 110 rare varieties of orchids, which include dozens of endemic species. The peak blooming season is March-April. Red Hill (Lokpaching): - Red Hill is a hillock about 16 kms. from Imphal on Tiddim Road (NH - 150). It is a thrilling spot where the British and the Japanese fought a fierce battle during World War II. War Veterans had constructed "India Peace Memorial" a monument in memory of Japanese soldiers who died in the battle. It is a place of pilgrimage for Japanese tourists. Loktak Lake: - 48 Kms. from Imphal, is the largest fresh water lake in the North East Region. From the Tourist Bunglow set atop Sendra Island, visitors get a bird's eye view of life on the Lake small islands that are actually floating weeds on which the Lake-dwellers live in the backdrop of the shimmering blue water of the Lake, labyrinthine boat routes and colourful water plants. The Sendra Tourist Home with an attached Cafeteria is an ideal tourist spot. Boating and other water sports are organised here in Takmu Water Sports Complex. Moirang: - 45 kms. from Imphal, and situated near the Loktak lake, this town is one of the main centres of early Meitei folk culture with the ancient temple of the pre-hindu deity, Lord Thangjing, situated here. In the month of May, men and women, dressed in colourful traditional costumes sing and dance in honour of the Lord at the Moirang "Lai Haraoba" which is a ritual dance festival held every year. This town also has a special place in the history of the Indian Freedom struggle. It was at Moirang that the flag of the Indian National Army was first unfurled on April 14, 1944. The INA Museum containing letters, photographs, badges of ranks and other memorabilia reminds the visitors of the noble sacrifices made by the INA under the charismatic leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Keibul Lamjao National Park: - The only floating National Park in the world, on the Loktak Lake is the last natural habitat of the Sangai (Rucervus eldii eldii) the dancing deer of Manipur. A glimpse of the deer in this unique wetland ecosystem is a must for any wildlife enthusiast. Other wildlife to mention a few are: Hog deer, Otter and a host of water fowls and migratory birds can also be sighted during November to March. The forest Department of Manipur maintains watch towers and two rest houses within the park. Moreh: - This is a busy market town on the Indo-Myanmar border, located at a distance of 110 kms. from Imphal. A commercial town and a real shopping paradise for shoppers where sundry products ranging from electronics to daily consumables are available in plenty. This place holds importance for the visiting tourists not only for being a border town but also for providing a unique opportunity to experience the different cultures, lifestyles of Myanmar through its border town at Tamu which is only 5 kms. away from here. There are ample hotels of medium range providing comfortable stay at Moreh. Dzuko Valley: - It is a very beautiful green valley and the mostpicturesque place in Senapati District bordering Nagaland. It is famous for its rare terrestrial lily called Dzuko Lily and the enchanting snow clad valley during January & February. The highest peak of Manipur Mount Iso is also located behind this valley.

Festivals in Manipur...

A Taste of Manipur Festivals: - Manipur is a land of festivals, merriment and mirth all the year round. A year in Manipur presents a cycle of festivals. Hardly a month passes without a festival or two. To the Manipuri's, festivals are the symbols of their cultural, social and religious aspirations which , besides removing the monotony of life by providing physical diversions, mental recreation and emotional outlet, it also helps them lead a better and fuller life.... 1.Yaoshang (Holi)- Festival Of Manipur Hindus:

2.Kut-Festival Of Kuki-Chin-Mizo:It is an autumn festival of the different tribes of Kuki-Chin-Mizo groups of Manipur. The festival has been variously described at different places amongst different tribes as Chavang Kut or Khodou etc. It is a happy occasion for the villagers whose food stock is bountiful after a year of hard labour. It is observed on the 1st November every year.

3.Gang-Ngai-Festival Of Kabui Nagas:Celebrated for five days in the month of December/January, aGang-Ngai is an important festival of the Kabui Nagas. The festival opens with the omen taking ceremony on the first day and the rest of the days are associated with common feast, dances of old men women and of boys and girls, presentation of farewell gifts etc.

4.Cheiraoba- The Manipur New Year:During the festival special festive dishes are prepared which are first offered to various deities. Celebrated during the month of April, a part of the ritual entails villagers climbing the nearest hill tops in belief that it will enable them to rise to greater heights in their worldly life.

5.Kang - The Rath Yatra Of Manipur:One of the greatest festivals of the Hindus of Manipur, athis festival is celebrated for ten days in the month of July. Lord Jagannath leaves his temple in a car known as ‘Kang’ in Manipur pulled by devotees who vie with one another for this honour.

6.Heikru Hitongba:elebrated in the month of September. Long narrow boats are used to accommodate a large number of rowers. Idol of Lord Vishnu is installed before the commencement of the race.

7.Ningol Chak-Kouba- A Social Festival Of Manipuris:It is a remarkable social festival of the Meiteis. Married daughters of the family come to their parental house along with their children and enjoy sumptuous feast. It is a form of family reunion. It is celebrated on the second day of the new moon in the month of Hiyangei (November) as per Manipur Calender system.

8.Lui-Ngai-Ni:It is a collective festival of the Nagas observed on the 15th day of February every year. This is a seed-sowing festival after which tribes belonging to the Naga group begin their cultivation. Social-gathering, songs, dances and rejoicing highlight the festivity. The annual festival also plays a great role in boosting the moral and strengthening the bond of Naga solidarity. 9.Chumpha-Festival Of Tangkhul Nagas:Celebrated for seven days in the month of December, the Chumpha festival is a great festival of the Tangkhul Nagas. The festival is held after harvest. The last three days are devoted to social gatherings and rejoicing. Unlike other festivals, here women play a special role in the festival.

10.Christmas- Festival Of Christians:Christmas is the greatest festival of all the Christians, observed for two days on December 24 and 25 with merriment, joy and gaiety.

Hotels in Manipur

Imphal Hotel, located in the heart of Imphal, Hotel Imphal is one of the finest hotel in the city, run and managed by Manipur Tourism Department. The Hotel is located in a spacious environment with gardens and with all modern amenities to provideallcomforts to any visiting tourist. The spacious surroundings and serene beauties coupled with efficient services make this hotel the perfect choice for any tourist visiting Manipur. Phone:+91-0385-2421373/2423372 The Classic Hotel

The Classic Hotel , Imphal a three star category and an ISO 2200:2005 Certified hotel in the state. The Hotel offers 59 luxurious accommodations, multi-cuisine specially restaurant, a modern fitness centre, a traditional handloom boutique, business centre, 24- hour room service, Wi-Fi Internet connectivity, spacious basement car park, concierge service, travel desk, 24- hour power back up, doctor on call, laundry service, credit card / debit card payment facilities, electronic safety lockers, to-and-fro transport facility from the airport, taxi service, centralized air-conditioned conference and banquet facilities at its two major conference halls, a mini-conference hall and the executive board-room .Phone:+91-0385-2443967/2423369

How to get to Manipur

Air Communication: - Imphal is the second largest airport in the region. Imphal is connected to KOLKATA , NEW DELHI , GUWAHATI, AIZAWL , DIMAPUR & SILCHAR by Air India , Jet Airways , Indigo , Kingfisher & NE Shuttles. IMPHAL - NEW DELHI (DAILY) IMPHAL - KOLKATA (DAILY) IMPHAL - GUWAHATI (DAILY) IMPHAL - AIZAWL (4 TIMES A WEEK) IMPHAL - SILCHAR (4 TIMES A WEEK) IMPHAL - DIMAPUR (4 TIMES A WEEK) IMPHAL - AGARTALA (4 TIMES A WEEK) Contact Details For Airlines In Manipur AIRPORT Tulihal Airpot Tel:0385-2455074 AIRINDIA M.G Aveneu, Imphal Tel:0385-2450199 INDIGO Tel:0385-2455368/2455369 JET AIRWAYS(I) Ltd Tel:0385-2455054 KINGFISHER Tel:0385-2433013 NORTH EAST SHUTTLE Tel:0385-2455111 Mobile:+919862207568

Manipur - an Overview

Manipur, a little Shangrila located in North-East India, is a Jewel of India. This little corner is a paradise on Earth where Mother Nature has been extra generous in her bounty. Least touched and least discovered Manipur promises to be the great tourist discovery of the 21st century. An oval shaped valley surrounded by blue green hills, rich in art and tradition has inspired description such as the “Switzerland of the East” with its cascading rapids, tripling rivers, varieties of flowers, exotic blooms and lakes. The people of Manipur include Meitei, Nagas, Kuki-Chin-Mizo and Gorkhas groups and Muslims and other colourful communities which have lived in complete harmony for centuries. These are the people whose folklore, myths and legends, dances, indigenous games and martial arts, exotic handlooms and handicrafts are invested with the mystique of nature and an indefatigable “Joie de vivre”.