A picturesque spot in the middle of the hills of Meghalaya, some 14 miles from Shillong, also known as Barapani or Big Water, is the most world-class attraction called Umiam Lake. Umiam Lake originated in 1965 due to the Umiam Umtru hydroelectric project that correlates approximately with the state of Meghalaya's birth in 1972.
The lake, covering 10 square km, is principally an engineered reservoir for the first hydraulic plant in the northeast. In the northwest of the city, the convergence of the two Umkhrah and Umshyrpi rivers is formed by the wah ro-ro riverbed and connects the river with the bay. The prominent lake and dam area comprise 220 square kilometres including Shillong and its adjoining districts, in addition to a component of the district of Ri Bhoi.
Umiam Lake is frequently contrasted with the stunning, hypocritical Lakes of Scotland thanks to its tranquil, scenic location, enclosed by the sprawling and elevated Eastern Khasi Hills. The lake also features a lovely Garden called Lum Nehru Park, which adds to its beauty on the shores. Furthermore, the lake emerges with all its glory and splendour, when seen from UCC there are coastal areas that come out of water that look extremely stunning.
Well, outside of the dynamics surrounding city life, a single person's fantasy holiday is a houseboat on a peaceful lake. Boating at Umiam Lake Shillong offers tourists a soothing and revitalising experience.
Legend
Umiam indicates "water of the eyes" or "water of the tears," when translated from Khasi into English.
According to the myth, two sisters from Heaven chose once in a while to visit Meghalaya. These two sisters commenced their journey from heaven together, but only one could strike the Earth. The other sister lost her course and could never hit the planet.
The sister who entered Meghalaya regretted her choice to come to earth and tears began to pour from her eyes. Ultimately, she created this lake with her tears.
Best Time To Visit
From the beginning of November to the end of June, is the best time to visit Lake Umiam, which is also called Barapani Lake. The quiet and mild climate makes it the pleasantest time to discover Umiam's numerous attractions.
Umiam Lake is located just 15 km away from the village of Shillong and well interconnected by cars, buses and cottages. In addition, Umiam Lake is quite prominent also because the houseboats in Shillong are only present at this venue.
How To Reach
By Air
Umroi Airport near Barapani is one of the airports closest to it. It is about 25 kilometres away and also has strong links to other big cities. You have to offset the higher range after deboarding at the terminal with any public transport to enter the ground.
By Train
Guwahati is about 100 km from the nearest railway station. You can then conveniently travel in a cab from the station after deboarding.
By Road
There's a bus you can use. There are many government and standard or luxury online bus tours you can take into consideration after flying. But you can also take shared taxis if you'd rather want the journey to be affordable instead.
Visiting time
The lake is accessible every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for various outdoor activities.
Nearby Places To Visit
The places named Lumpongdeng Island, Ward’s Lake, All Saints Church, Elephant Falls, Air Force Museum, and many other wondrous attractions are what you can experience!!
Activities
Throughout Umiam Lake, tourists can enjoy several thrilling and enjoyable events. In addition to boating, visitors can enjoy many activities related to water sports like kayaking, angling, swimming, fishing, trekking and camping.
To conclude, environmental mountains and meadows around the lovely Umiam Lake make this a scenic place for pictures. Visitors should also try multiple photos as they embrace watersports and boating. So what are you delaying this trip for? Pack your bags after the lockdown and admire this breathtaking sight.
