A Tranquil Retreat in West Jaintia Hills

Nestled at an altitude of 1380 meters, Jowai emerges as a quaint town and the district headquarters of West Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya. Recently finding its place on the tourism map, Jowai enchants visitors with its scenic beauty, rich heritage, and warm local culture. Let’s unravel the treasures that make Jowai an emerging tourist hub.

Nature’s Bounty and Unique Flora

Jowai is bestowed with mesmerizing flora and fauna, creating a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts. The town’s lakes, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it an alluring destination, blending the tranquility of nature with the vibrancy of local life.

Accessible Oasis in Meghalaya

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Umroi Airport (near Shillong), approximately 72 km away.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, well-connected to Jowai.
• By Road: Jowai is easily accessible from both Shillong (66 km, 2 hours) and Guwahati (160 km, about 4 hours) through shared or exclusive taxis.

Day Excursions:

Tourists can include a day excursion to Shillong, exploring the vibrant capital of Meghalaya.

Key Attractions in Jowai

1. Thadlaskein Lake:

• Historical Significance: Crafted in medieval times by Khasi general Sajar Nangli, the lake holds historical importance.
• Local Name: Known as “Pung Sajar Nangli” by locals.
• Campers Sanctuary: Adjacent to the lake, a popular spot for camping and picnics.

2. Lalong Park:

• Nature Lover’s Paradise: Situated west of Jowai, this nature park, maintained by the forest department, boasts diverse Meghalaya flora and avifauna.

3. Jowai Presbyterian Church:

• Oldest Church: Established by the Welsh Presbyterian Mission nearly 150 years ago, this church offers a serene retreat.

4. Syntu Ksiar:

• Riverside Picnic Spot: Located on the banks of Myntdu river, offering dams, bridges, hanging bridges, and angling opportunities.

Other Noteworthy Attractions

• Local Durga Temple: A testament to local religious practices.
• Stone Bridge of Maput: An ancient megalithic bridge.
• Umlawan Cave: Among the least explored, deepest, and longest caves.
• Tryshi Falls: A beautiful waterfall in the vicinity.
• Nartiang Monoliths: Touted as the tallest monoliths globally.
• Krang Suri Falls: En route between Jowai and Dawki, a picturesque waterfall.

Cultural Tapestry and Festivals

Local Population: Around 30,000, predominantly belonging to the Pnar tribe with a matriarchal society.

Festivals:

• Chad Sukra: Celebrating mental and physical well-being through music and dance.
• Behdeinkhlam: A prominent local festival.

Weather and Ideal Visiting Time:

• Climate: Pleasant throughout the year, with March to May being particularly favorable.
• Nearby Places: Combine a tour of Shillong, Cherrapunjee, Dawki, and Mawlynnong from Jowai.

Unveiling the Gem

Jowai, with its serene landscapes, cultural richness, and hidden wonders, emerges as a hidden gem in Meghalaya. Explore this tranquil retreat to witness nature’s bounty and immerse yourself in the warmth of local traditions.