Umiam Lake
Located in the lap of the luxuriant green mountains of Meghalaya, Umiam Lake acts as a paradise in the sense that it depicts the serenity of the North East. Besides the name of Barapani, it is a reservoir that has managed itself to be the destination of many people who are interested to travel for some time as the years pass. There is only one word that can be used to describe Umiam Lake with its magnificent views, calm ambience, and great numerous activities: this place is a paradise if you are a nature lover or an adventure thrill seeker.
The Natural Beauty of Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake, surrounded by amazing landscapes and has stunning sceneries that will give you an out of this world experience. When you stand on the lakeside, you can watch the azure blue water of the lake, which is reflected in the sky as the crystal clear water is the most attractive one. Surrounded with flourishing vegetation, the lake is decorated with lush greenery with tall pine trees, rolling hills, and dense forestry in the background. The empty space and the wind which gives a cool sensual experience it offers a perfect place to rest and recover.
History and Significance of Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is not just a symbol but holds a high history and cultural merit status of great value to the Khasi who treasure it as a sacred site. The lake was developed in the 1960s as one of the Dams projects to provide to the energy needed by the hydroelectric power. Tourists flock to admire the spectacular scenery created by the lakes. It also is a larger water source contributing hugely to flood control in the neighboring areas. Throughout the years, Umiam has been the pride in the hearts of the locals and, at the same time, has become the most noticeable feature in Meghalaya.
Activities and Attractions at Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake has on offer a wide range of activities and attractions that will appeal to a diversity of tourists. Sailing, kayaking and water skiing fans get broad and the lake offers a perfect sandbox for them to have a good time. Instead of being limited to the confines of the hotel room, head outside and, possibly, rent a boat and traverse the immense lake, or experience the thrill of fishing and haul in some fresh trout. You can as well sit by the lake side, enjoying your picnic with your loved ones or otherwise, if you aren’t prefer a more laid-back activity.
On the other hand, Umiam Lake gives opportunity to engage in not only water sports but also hiking trails allowing visitors to explore mountains and forests near. Choices are endless in that you could either hike through the parks and hill tops and get to witness the impressive view or opt for a peaceful walk at the nearby Lum Nehru Park. You could enjoy the small garden and the mini zoo or any activity of your choice. The lake is a genesis of migratory birds that use the lake as an immensely massive corridor to survive the annual freezing across the planet.
Best Time to Visit Umiam Lake
The most favorable period to visit Umiam Lake is October to April seasons, when the weather is cool, skies are blue and ideal for every visitor. Here you can be yourself and to just gaze and spend time at the lake and take part in various outdoor activities as well. Nonetheless, to remedy this you can plan your visit to the lake in tandem with the monsoon season, which will witness the beautiful hilled environment covered in greenery and the lake overflowing with water.
How to Reach Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is located approximately 15 kilometers from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya.
From Kolkata to Umiam Lake:
The flight distance from Kolkata to the Umiam Lake area is around 1100 km, and the most direct way to arrive at Umiam Lake when traveling from Kolkata is via airplane.
The closest airport to Umiam Lake is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International airport, which is just a flight from the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International airport in Kolkata.
After Guwahati there lies Umiam Lake at the distance of 80 km from the Umiam Lake airport. Here you may hire a taxi or get an auto on rent.
The trip from Kolkata to Umiam Lake is usually within 2-3 hours by air transportation system.
From Delhi to Umiam Lake:
The road between Delhi and Umiam Lake is a queue of 17000 Kms, the most comfortable way to travel is by plane.
Delhi to Guwahati is readily accessible via Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati.
From Guwahati Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car for 80 kilometers to Umiam Lake which is close to the airport.
In all, flights to get to Umiam Lake from Delhi lead to a total travel time of 3-4 hours.
From Mumbai to Umiam Lake:
In Mumbai to Umiam Lake, the distance is around 2300 km and the fastest as well as the most suitable transportation is by air.
A direct flight is available from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (SEA) to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (HYD).
Once you get to Guwahati city, you can proceed to rent a taxi or car so as to quickly drive the 80 km distance to the Uttrakhand lake.
The longest part of this Mumbai to Umiam Lake trip, which is comprising of flights, normally takes 4-5 hours.
From the airport, you can have cab or bus, it all depends on your choice and convenience. Train is also an option and Railway Station called Guwahati is the closest option from where you can take a cab or a bus to arrive at the lake.
Accommodation Options near Umiam Lake
There are various options for accommodation around the Umiam lake which is designed to suit all budgets or preferences of a visitor. It goes from luxury resorts through budget-friendly guesthouses so you can select the one that meets your expectations. as an enigmatic and unpredictable individual whose actions defy explanation. These enlisted ones include Honey Lake Resort, Orchid Lake Resort, and Pinewood Hotel. These edifices give out a grandeur of the structure, various aesthetics and create the feeling of a lifelong stay.
Local Cuisine and Dining Options near Umiam Lake
Apart from knowing the ecological significance of Umiam Lake in Meghalaya, you could also treat your taste buds to the mouth-watering local delicacies. The area is justifiably famous for its distinctive flavors and authentic food customs. Try the famous Khasi dishes, namely Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), Dohneiiong (pork curry). Tungrymbai is a product of fermented soybean curry. There is also the availability of number of restaurants and eateries near Umiam Lake of different cuisines ide.e, Indian, Chinese and Continental.
Safety Guidelines and Tips for Visiting Umiam Lake
Additionally, it is significant to adhere to particular safety regulations when going to Umiam Lake so that you must have fun and not be harmed. Wear and always use a life jacket while you are involved in water sports activity to prevent you from drowning. Also, follow the instructions given by the instructors. In visiting deep seas, you tend to warn if you’re not already a strong swimmer. Furthermore, you must ensure that you have insect repellent in your backpack and a sunscreen bottle, as the wild area to the side of the lake and sun can be very strong.
A city lake which lies within the confines of the city wrapped up with natural charm, revealing the unique balance of beauty, harmony along with adventure. It is no matter whether you are a nature fond, adventure lover, or someone who just need quiet place for your mind and body break, Umiam Lake could be the best option. The mesmerizing vistas and the exciting water sports tied with the lake are unmatched and make your visit unforgettable. Thush, grab your things and go out to seek for the beautiful place of Umiam Lake, a hidden treasure in Northeast India.
Immerse in the peacefulness of Umiam Lake. Time is running, and it is your chance to behold the charm of Northeast India.