Jowai

In the Indian state of Meghalaya, the town of Jowai is a striking location. The natural beauty that encircles this town is breathtaking and mesmerizing. The hills are enveloped by thick blankets of lush green trees. The cool and calm wind that comes from the river named Myntdu, located close by, brings peace to the visitors. The climate of the town is very enjoyable and is devoid of any pollution.

The administrative headquarters of the Jaintia Hills is located in the town of Jowai. The town is situated close to the National Highway between Shillong-Silchar. The distance between Jowai and Shillong is 64 Kms.

                                   TOURIST PLACES IN JOWAI

Syntu Ksiar: This place is a beautiful valley. The Myntdu River flows through this valley. One of the historical location situated in the valley is the “Madan Madiah” or the “Uncle’s Ground”. This location is of great significance since the upheaval of the freedom movement initiated from here. A memorial of the Kiang Nangbah is located here at present. He was a very brave fighter. 

Jowai Presbyterian Church: The Welsh Presbyterian Mission has constructed this church in the Jaintia Hills. This church is considered to be the most ancient church in the entire area of the Jaintia Hills. The existence of the church can be traced back to a 150 years. The style of architecture of the church resembles the British style of architecture and it is also one of the few buildings that mirror that kind of style and design. 

Ialong Park: For the people, who love nature, this place is a great attraction. It is an ecological park. One can obtain a spectacular site of Myntdu River’s pynthor wah valley from this point.

Nartlang: The Sutnga state’s Jaintia Kings had made this place their summer capital. The presence of the huge stone of thickness of 30 inches, breadth of 6 feet and altitude of 27 feet, has made this location quite renowned. One can also witness the ancient Goddess Durga temple, whose existence can be traced back to a 500 years back.

Syndai: Another location of tourist attraction is Syndai which has caves for people to see. These caves functioned as the locations for concealing themselves during the battles that went on between the Jaintia kings and the outside intruders.

Thadlaskein Lake: The story related to the origin of this lake is quite intriguing. The lake is situated at Jowai. As per myths, it is so believed that the people of almost 290 tribal groups belonging to U Sajjar Niangli have carved out this lake. U Sujjar Niangli was known to be Jaintia Raja’s rebel general. 

                                       HOW TO REACH JOWAI

By air: The closest airport is located in Shillong.

By rail: There is no railway station in Jowai. The closest railway station is present I Guwahati, at a distance of 102 Kms.

By road: One can arrive at this place via buses, private cars, jeeps and taxis.