Umiam Lake Shillong: Best Guide to Plan a Perfect Getaway!

About Umiam Lake in Meghalaya

The Umiam Lake Shillong was created as a part of a hydroelectric project on the Umiam River. The clean and glittering waters of this lake are surrounded by lush green mountains, making it a popular tourist destination in Meghalaya for honeymoon couples and tourists seeking peace and serenity.

The Umiam Lake in Meghalaya is situated along the Guwahati-Shillong National Highway (NH 40) and is approximately 18 km before Shillong – the capital city of Meghalaya. Spread across a huge area of 221.5 sq km, this lake was formed by the Umiam River.

The Umiam Lake is one of the most vital water sources in Shillong as well as in the surrounding areas. It can be easily accessed from the Umiam Lake Viewpoint. Staying at the resorts in Meghalaya near Lake Shillong is one of the best things to do at Umiam lake Meghalaya for those who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery for a long time.

The Umiam Lake water activities and adventurous activities  are also popular – such as Umaiam Lake Kayaking, Umiam Lake Boating, and Water Skiing, attracting visitors from all over the country. 

The pleasant weather, peaceful atmosphere, and abundance of plants and animals make Umiam Lake Shillong an ideal place to relax while visiting the Umiam Lake picnic spots and explore in the northeastern part of India, especially for those seeking a romantic honeymoon in Meghalaya.

Also known as the “Lake of Tears” the Umiam Lake in Meghalaya is one of the state’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural attractions.

Why is Umiam Lake Shillong also known as the “Lake of Tears”?

The Khasi language, which is the language of one of the Indigenous Meghalaya tribes, translates the name “Umiam” to “Water of the Eyes” or “Tears”. This captivating name is derived from the heartbreaking story of the River of Tears.

According to a local legend, there were once two celestial sisters who lived in heaven. Their bond was very strong and they were inseparable. They descended from the heaven to the earthly realm.

One sister perfectly landed in the beautiful abode of clouds, which is today known as Meghalaya. But, as faith struck, the other sister tragically lost her way while she was descending. As a result, she could not reach the earth’s surface.

Struck with grief and heartbreak by the loss of her beloved sister, the lone sister wept and wept. Her tears were the reflection of the sorrow and loss that she had faced. She kept on weeping and thus tears that flowed continuously further formed a river. Today, this river is called the Umiam River or the “River of Tears”.

As the Umiam Lake in Meghalaya is formed on the Umiam River, this lake is called the “Lake of Tears”. When you visit Umiam Lake, you won’t just be able to take in the stunning views, but also the story behind it, which is a reminder of how nature and folklore go hand in hand.

The story of Umiam Lake is filled with a deep sense of sadness and beauty like the lake itself holds the tears of a sister who has lost her way. It’s an amazing reminder of how stories and traditions can shape the culture of a place, and it adds a special touch to the natural beauty of the area.

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Umiam Lake Water Activities

Here are the few best Umiam Lake Water Activities to indulge in:

• Jet Ski or Speed Boating – Umiam Lake boating is a thrilling experience with the jet ski and the speed motor boat, which is one of the top adventure sports in Shillong. You can feel the adrenaline rush, as you zoom across the lake, soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding Khasi Hills with Umiam Lake boating.

• Kayaking –  Umiam Lake Kayaking provides an opportunity to explore its far corners at your leisure. You can paddle across the glittering water, enjoying the peaceful vibes of the landscape around you. Thus, Umiam Lake Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Meghalaya.
• Banana Boat Rides – For those seeking fun water sports in Meghalaya to indulge in with your group, the banana boat rides are a popular choice. This is one of the best activities to do with your friends and make some delightful adventure memories for a lifetime. 

Indulging in Umiam Lake water activities is one of the top things to do in Shillong, if you want some adrenaline rush, during your trip to Meghalaya. It is an immersive way to appreciate the region’s breathtaking landscapes while enjoying a variety of aquatic activities, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Things To Do At Umiam Lake Meghalaya

Here are some exciting things to do at Umiam Lake Meghalaya:

• Picnicking by the lake – The Umiam Lake picnic spots offer a perfect setting amidst the lush hills making it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic with family and friends. Spread out a blanket, savor the local delicacies of Meghalaya, and enjoy the peaceful vibes of the lake while basking in the warm sunshine. The Umiam Lake picnic spots offer a perfect natural retreat.
• Camping in nature – Campsites near Umiam Lake are ideal for nature lovers and adventure-seekers who want to camp amidst the green pastures. Many camping spots around Umiam Lake provide an unforgettable experience and allow you to spend time in the natural beauty of the Meghalayan landscape.
• Stay in lakeside resorts – If you’re looking for a cozy and picturesque getaway, there are plenty of lakeside resorts in Shillong to choose from. When you wake up in your room, you can take in the stunning views of the lake and enjoy the scenic atmosphere.
• Photography Paradise –  The natural beauty of Umiam Lake in Meghalaya provides photographers with a unique opportunity to capture the changing colors of the lake and its reflections on the Khasi Hills. Through photography, one can witness the play of light and the vibrant culture of the area.
• Bird Watching – The Umiam Lake Shillong and its surroundings are a paradise for bird lovers. You can spot all kinds of birds, making it a great spot for bird watchers.
• Explore the nature trails – Explore the nature trails around Umiam Lake to immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of Meghalaya. These trails offer a unique perspective on the region’s biodiversity.

In essence, Umiam Lake Shillong is a versatile destination that caters to a wide range of interests, from leisurely picnics and photography to adrenaline-pumping water sports and nature exploration. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Umiam Lake intivites travellers with its natural beauty and a multitude of activities to create unforgettable memories.

Best Time To Visit Umiam Lake

On the other hand, the summer months of June to September are characterized by heavy rain, which can make outdoor activities less enjoyable, and the hot and humid summer months of May to June can make it difficult to enjoy the lake. Therefore, the best time to visit Umiam Lake is the cooler, drier months from October to April in order to ensure the most enjoyable experience.

How To Reach Umiam Lake Meghalaya

• By Roadways: From Shillong, the Umiam Lake is just 15 kms to its north and is easily accessible by roads. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Shillong to reach the lake while also enjoying the scenic views during your journey. If you are traveling from Guwahati, Assam, you can take National Highway 6 (NH6) toward Shillong. Covering a distance of approximately 100 kilometers, the road trip to Umiam Lake takes around 3-4 hours by car. Numerous private and public buses also ply this route.
• By Airways: The nearest airport to the Umiam Lake is the Shillong Airport, also known as Umroi Airport. The Umiam Lake Shillong is located just 30 km away. However, please note that this airport has limited connectivity. For more flight options, consider Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. From Guwahati, you can easily reach Umiam Lake by taxi or bus.
• By Railways: The Guwahati Railway Station in Assam is the nearest railway station to Umiam Lake. It is a major transportation hub with connections to various parts of India. From Guwahati, you can embark on a road journey via NH6, as previously mentioned, reaching Umiam Lake Shillong in approximately 3-4 hours.