Meghalaya is often known as the “abode of the clouds”.
It is renowned for its diverse cultures, tribes, flowing waterfalls, rain-soaked hills, caverns, and live root bridges.
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Among all the popular tourist attractions, many historical landmarks and sites are located all across Meghalaya.
In this article, you will get to know about the following historical places in Meghalaya,
- Nartiang Monoliths
- Kiang Nangbah
- Khasi heritage village
- David Scotts Memorial Stone
- Manipur Memorial
- Um-Nyankanah
Let’s see each of these places in detail…
1. Nartiang Monoliths
Nartiāng Monoliths is located in the Jaintia hills.
These are constructed and revered by Jaintia kings.
According to local legends, the most towering monoliths are known as Moo Long Syiem, consisting of approximately 9 meters.
These monoliths were erected Between the year 1500 to 1835.
Nartiang monoliths have a great collection of menhirs and dolmens from a few monoliths, making them famous monuments in Meghalaya.
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2. Kiang Nangbah
Kiang Nangbagh is a monument situated on Syntu Ksiar along the Myntdu river.
It was built in honor of a Jaintia Patriot named U Kiang Nangbah.
The monument was constructed in the middle of a vast field known as Madiah Kmai Blai.
U Kiang Nangbah fought against the British without any fears of death.
He, unfortunately, died in a war with the British for freeing the Jaintia lands from their troops.
Since then, it has become historically very significant.
This place is visited by many tourists from all over the world every year to pay tribute to Kiang Nangbah.
3. Khasi heritage village
Khasi heritage village is located at a distance of 27 km from Shillong.
The sprawling town spread over 8 acres of land has been created to display the culture, tradition, and lifestyles of the Khasi tribes.
The village also has some Khasi-styled houses, consisting of bedrooms, kitchens, storehouses, etc.
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A museum is built to show the artifacts, tools, and weapons.
There is also a region for archery where you can see traditional arrows and bows.
The visiting time to the heritage building and museum is from the morning 8 AM to 6 PM.
4. David Scotts Memorial Stone
David Scotts Memorial pillar in Cherrapunji honors David Scott, an employee of an East Indian company under British Rule.
He later became an agent of the Governor-General of the North-East Frontiers of Bengal.
David Scotts was considered one of the most dedicated, sincere, and intellectual workers.
His memorial is in the shape of an obelisk.
It is constructed of ashlar stone masonry resting on a square platform.
An inscription is engraved on the memorial pillar with his name sculpted on it.
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The David Scott Trail is one of the most famous trekking trails in Meghalaya.
It is stretched along 100 kilometers, including places in Meghalaya, Assam, and Bangladesh.
The trail takes you through the scenic landscapes of the villages of Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang in East Khasi Hills.
Trekkers can witness various small streams, surging waterfalls, sacred grounds, and tribal villages on this trail.
5. Manipur Memorial
Manipur Memorial is one of the top historical monuments in Meghalaya.
This octagonal monument built up of ashlar stone masonry was erected to commemorate Mr. Quinton and other British military officers who died in Manipur in CE 1891.
The monument was built over raised platforms.
There is an inscription engraved on this memorial pillar that describes the cause of death of these military officers of the East India Company.
6. Um-Nyankanah
Um-Nyankanah is a megalithic bridge built over the Um-Nyankanah River, supported by huge stone pillars.
According to local legends, the bridge was built under the commands of Jaintia kings of the medieval period.
They constructed several of these megalithic bridges built over 100s years to promote trade and communication between many cities.
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It also facilitated the movement of their armies.
For history buffs and heritage lovers, this stone bridge is one of the must-visit historical monuments of Meghalaya.
The bridge is re-constructed under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
These are some of the popular historical places to visit in Meghalaya.
The hypnotic charm of these places not only attracts nature enthusiasts but also attracts many art lovers and history buffs every year.
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