Photo Travelogue :
As I was trying my scooty on the various Guwahati roads, I was wondering if I could make a quick trip to some interesting place which was within 1 hour or so radius from my place. Where I could make the trip and be back in a single day. But the place had to be interesting, adventurous and most importantly in another state. There are many states close to Guwahati, Assam; but, none quite as close like Meghalaya. So without a doubt it had to be Meghalaya. But I didn't want to go to shillong as its three hours away,and, very crowded. I knew the route well and got ready. I'll ride one hour, I thought to myself...see where I reach...enjoy and then come back. So without a proper location in mind I got on the NH 40. To keep time on my side and also to beat the nasty city traffic I always start my trips early. Fall season is comparatively cooler and pleasant, so, just the best time to be out on the roads.. After crossing the Khanapara section, I soon found myself speeding up the hills. There are some crazy twist and turns near Jorabat. Uptil Byrnihat, you do encounter several truckers, but, gradually they fade off and you gradually find yourself alone in the highway. I loved this part the most as I didn't have to navigate traffic and had the full road to myself. One comes across a flyover, so, be mindful to notice the sign that says "shillong" and take right; else, you might find yourself someplace else ( the other route goes to sonapur ). I followed the sign... however, my end destination was not Shillong. One hour was not up yet so I rode on and on, on the fabulous wide roads. The Guwahati Shillong road is one of the best and well maintained.
I spotted a sign on left that said 'Amsing Forest' but had to supress the temptation. A small narrow path behind the sign board promised sheer 'green heavens'. But, that would be another adventure ~ another day. Reluctantly, I peeled my eyes away and concentrated on the road ahead. The place I was riding through was no less magic. When it rains it becomes quite an experience.
I halted at Nongpoh, 40kms from Ghy...
There is a toll-plaza on the way, but they don't charge two-wheelers. I wheezed past the other vehicles who were stuck there.. With the splended road cutting through green 'leafy' hills on both the sides I was reaching my one hour deadline fast. And soon I saw the board that said 'Nongpoh'. So, that was it...my destination for the day. It was an exhilirating trip. I enjoyed it thoroughly. And my watch indicated that my one hour was up as well. Mission successfully accomplished.
clicking a mirror selfie...down below lies those meadering roads I came up...
No matter how many times I go, this is one trip ( route ) I'll always enjoy and cherish the most and recommend to everyone for a quick relaxing getaway. There are several restaurants and resorts nearby. But I love eating at the local dhabas the most that one finds in their plenty along the whole way. Also, don't miss those khasi ladies selling pineapples and yummy home-made pickles. They make the journey so much more fun and refreshing with their wide friendly welcoming 'smiles'.
tiny khasi kids waving at moi..I wave back...
Alas, it was time to head back. Before sunset I reached back home with an equally interesing downhill fun-ride. Oddly, the return journey took way less than an hour ;-)
November is also the month of the 'Cherry Blossom Festival' held in Shillong every year with international artists lining up to entertain everyone along with exotic khasi and garo cuisines. Lots of fun, games, art, shopping, music, camping and other creative activities. Venue for the 2024 Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is RBDSA Sports Complex in Bhoirymbong, Ri Bhoi District,Shillong on November 15–16
Address : Nongpoh, Meghalaya
Stay tuned for all my road, rail, flight, cruise & walk trips.
( Images - Google & ©Mine. All rights reserved. )
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