Jowai Tourism
Jowai Tourism: A Complete Travel Guide
Nest in the hills of West Jaintia, Jowai is the home to the people of the Pnar tribe along with the never-ending beauty of the nature. The village of Jowai sits on a plateau surrounded by the river Myntdu on three sides. The village is about 50 kilometres away from the Indo-Bangladesh border in the south. It is an important hub for the people as it serves as the education and business hub for the district. It is at a height 1365 metres above the sea level. Jowai experiences warm summers and cool to chilly winters because of its height. Jowai surprises tourists with not only its beauty but also the different cultural attractions. From falls to lakes to parks, Jowai has it all. Known for its scenic beauty and stunning views of the hills, it has grown to be a major tourist attraction for tourists. Jowai has been one of the most unexplored places in Meghalaya. People have recently started discovering the true beauty of this place. The beauty it offers throughout the year, even during the monsoon, is incomparable. This place has beautiful tourist spots with a little history attached to every one of them. Each place has to offer something that will take one’s breath away. Though the views of the hills offer much to the tourists, the people are no less. They have a diverse culture, that celebrates many vivid festivals in a year. The Pnar is close to the Khasi tribe and share the same religion and cultural practices.
What makes Jowai so famous?
Jowai not only offers scenic beauty but also history to its tourists. Places like Lalong park, Tyrshi Falls, Thadlaskein Lake and Presbyterian Church of Jowai makes this place so special for anyone who visits Meghalaya. Meghalaya remained undiscovered and unexplored even a few years back. But recent developments and improvements of major tourist places have made it very attractive. If someone craves to be in the lush green hills with the chirping of crickets as the sun goes down, Jowai is the perfect place. But the most famous place is the Syntu Ksiar which located on the bank of the Myntdu river. The Myntdu river is a significant historical spot for tourists to visit.
Best time to visit Jowai
The best time to visit Jowai is the month of October to November and again from March to July. This is when the weather is cool and the scenery is at its best. The best time to visit Jowai is during the autumn season, when the weather is cooler and the scenery is at its best. During this time of year, the town comes alive with colour as the leaves change. There are also many festivals and events held during the autumn season, making it the perfect time to experience all that Jowai has to offer. The months of August and September are the monsoon season of Jowai. Generally, it is a good idea to avoid the monsoon months since the rainfall becomes too heavy for any tourist to travel around. It practically becomes pointless to visit during the rainy season as one cannot go out their houses to explore.
How to Reach
Arriving at Jowai is a bit tricky since it belongs to an off-beaten road. Not many tourists decide to visit. The railway station in Shillong is the nearest one from Jowai. The best way is to reach Shillong and then avail transportation till Jowai.
Jowai has no direct connectivity through air. Airports close to Jowai is the Guwahati Airport in Assam and the Shillong airport. Direct flights are available to almost all the parts of the country. Among the two, Shillong airport is the closest. The Shillong airport is about 60 kilometres from Jowai. The Guwahati airport is 104 kilometres from Jowai. Tourists prefer the Guwahati airport since it has a greater number of flights and is accessible easily.
There is no railway station in Shillong. So, any tourist availing the railways will have to get off at the Guwahati Railway Station and then take private transportation services to Jowai.
Language, History and People
The major population in Jowai constitute mostly of the Pnar tribe. But apart from them, the War, the Biates, the Karbis, the Marwaris, the Nongphlang also lives in Jowai. The language of Khasi is spoken almost by all. Languages like Hindi, Garo and Bengali are also spoken by few people.
Jowai is a commercial and cultural hub for the people of Meghalaya since the British rule. The history of this place goes back to the Pnar kings. They were once a dominant force in the region of Jowai. The Pnar kings had their own rules and administration under the Jaintia Kings. Their headquarters were initially in the Surma Valley in the village of Jaintiapur. But in the year 1863, after a brave fight against the British soldiers, the Pnar lost their rule to the British administration. Introduction to missionary churches to the Khasi locals happened in 1891.
Jowai locals share common traditions like customs, family traditions and religion with the Khasis. But the differ in dialect, land system and dress from the Khasis. The people of Jowai celebrate the occasion of Behdeinkhlam. ‘ Behdeinkhlam’ literally means to drive away any evil or bad spirits. It is a four-day festival that takes place in the month of July. It is a grand festival that is celebrated especially by the Niamtre religion of the Jaintia Hills. The festival reaches its zenith when the sacred tree of Khnong is brought in the middle of each village.
Other festivities include the Laho Dance and Chad Sukra. In the region of Jowai, pork is a delicacy along with meat and fish. Dishes like Jadoh, Doh Snam, Doh Khleh and Doh Gem are the traditional recipes in Jowai. A strong smelling Tungtoh is prepared from fermented beans and a Tungtap, a dish prepared from dry fish, are two of the most popular forms of local chutney.
Top tourist attractions in Jowai
Lalong Park, Jowai
Famous for its sacred groves and beautiful Pynthorwah Valley, the Lalong park is filled with exciting tourist destinations and many adventure spots. A water eco-park is also taking shape with an intention to change Lalong into a major Tourism Hub of the District. It is only 8 kilometres from the town of Jowai. This place is perfect to visit with families especially the young ones. It is a perfect place to enjoy a day out with families and friends. It is in the Jaintia hills. The Lalong village reflects the beautiful culture and the simple lives the local people lead. The park is decorated with dams and canals. And the green valley view below makes the scene more mesmerizing. A few cottages in the Lalong village also provides excellent homestay services. With homecooked meals to comfy beds to sleep in mingled with the village experience, it is truly once in a life-time experience. This is place you will not like to leave behind, for rest assured it will give you the best memories to take back home.
Thadlaskein Lake
A historic lake indeed. Thadlaskein lake, also known as Pung Sajar Nangli is a man-made lake just beside the village of Mukhla. It is located in Jowai, nested in the hills of West Jaintia. The lake is said to be of the medieval period. It was dug by a medieval leader named, Sajar Nangli, and his followers after they were tired of the long journey they had. Eventually, it turned out to be this beautiful lake. Today it is considered sacred to the people of Mukhla village and is worshipped by the Niamtre community. They even make sacrifices to the lake as a part of their worship. This sacrifice is made once in every hundred years and is conducted by the indigenous priest of the Niamtre community called Lyngdoh. The lake is a very good spot for picnic to the tourists. It is on the national highway 6 in Jowai and is very easily accessible from Shillong as well. The scenery around the lake is a view to behold. The flora and fauna of this place will leave anyone absolutely mesmerized.
Tyrshi Falls
Tyrshi Falls, also known as Tyrchi Falls, is one of the little-known treasures of Meghalaya. It is situated in Jowai. The water from the beautiful falls come gushing down like an enormous white veil along the hill in steps. The falls are connected by an arched bridge that goes down till the bottom end of the falls. The bridge consists of more than 20 hundred steps. On the way, it gives you a beautiful panoramic and of course a stunning view of the Pynthor Nein paddy fields. Like the Elephant Falls in Shillong, one can enjoy the bursts of water by going close to the falls and the roaring sound of the fall can be heard even before it has unfolded itself before the eyes. However, it would be unfair to not to mention that the Tyrshi Falls stand almost three times taller than the Elephant Falls. Best time to visit the falls would be the monsoons when the falls are in their optimum verve and the full beauty of the falls is unveiled.
Syntu Ksiar
The meaning of Syntu Ksiar is “Flower of Gold” and is located on the banks of the Myntdu river. One can expect to take home vignettes of the stunning West Jaintia agrarian life and learn more about the symbolic and literal importance of sacred groves along with the diverse historical stories with a trip to Syntu Ksiar. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in India, look no further than Syntu Ksiar in Jowai. This beautiful town is located in the north-eastern part of the country, and it’s well worth a visit. With its stunning scenery and friendly people, you’ll fall in love with Syntu Ksiar in no time. The magical beauty of Syntu Ksiar, Jowai is something that has to be seen to be believed. This hidden gem is nestled in the heart of Meghalaya and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true beauty of India. With its lush green hills, crystal-clear rivers, and breath-taking views, Syntu Ksiar is truly a sight to behold.
Mawkdok Dympep Valley
Looking for a breath-taking destination to add to your travel bucket list? Look no further than Mawkdok Dympep Valley. Mawkdok Dympep Valley is an alluring tourist place on the way to Shillong. It is another place that one can visit for adventure and especially if someone loves nature. It is an ideal spot for aerial sports. Mawkdok Dyempep Valley is one of the most beautiful and least visited places on Earth. With its towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, it is a true paradise. If you’re looking for an adventure, this is the place for you. It is a place where one can witness the natural beauty of Meghalaya in its full glory. It is also a great spot for adventure lovers because they can indulge in various activities. It is an ideal spot to visit with family and friends as well. It is also a great place for camping as it has many campsites available. It is a perfect place for trekking and people who love nature will surely enjoy their time here.
Umlawan Caves
The Umlawan Caves of Jowai are a mystery. They are said to be a portal to another world, and many people have claimed to see strange things in the caves. Some say that the caves are haunted and that they have seen ghosts in the cave. Others say that they have seen strange creatures, or even monsters, in the cave. The caves are said to be haunted by the spirits of those who have died there. The caves are also said to be cursed, and many people have died trying to explore them. The Umlawan Caves in Jowai, Meghalaya are a hidden gem. The caves are located in the heart of the town and are a great place to explore. The caves are also a great place to take photos and enjoy the scenery. It is thrilling and adventurous to crawl through the narrow opening and trek all through the darkness, surrounded by the projecting the stalactites.
Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake
This pitcher plant lake is made by the water conservation department of the government of Meghalaya. This one-of-a-kind lake is located lake on the right side of the Jowai-Amlarem Road. It is surrounded by extremely interesting flesh-eating pitcher plants. You can do a boat ride on this lake for a beautiful experience. This beautiful lake is serving these flesh-eating plants spread over fifty thousand square metre in its lap. A unique artificial pitcher plant has been installed in the centre of the lake, which makes it really a beautiful tourist site. This lake is surrounded by exciting gravelled paths, arch bridges, a pitcher plant garden, and a hothouse centre. If you love nature and birdwatching, then you’ll be mesmerized by the artificial pitcher plant lake. This is a truly unique and beautiful tourist site that is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. You’ll be able to see all sorts of different bird species here, making it an exciting and memorable experience. The lake is a beautiful place to spend a day. The water is calm and clear, and the nearby hills are reflected perfectly in its surface. It’s also great for enjoying a leisurely boat ride.
Stone Bridge, Jowai
You can find this stone bridge in Thlumuwi Which is approximately 16 kilometres away from the Jowai bus terminal. This bridge was built by the warriors belonging to the various tribes of the Jaintia hills, U mar Phalyngki and U Luh Lamare, while traveling from the then Summer Capital Nartiang to the then Winter Capital Jaintapur. It is made up of huge slabs of stone supported on a tall stone column. It was built about five hundred years ago and it is supposed to be one of the strongest bridges of all time. Unfortunately, once an elephant attempted to cross and it collapsed. The bridge denotes the prehistoric monuments made up of enormous stones. The villagers couldn’t cross the Thlumuwi river during the monsoon season, due to the immense flood. This bridge was built so that they could cross during the monsoon. Water from the Muwi Falls gushes down in to the stream of Thlumuwi which look on to the Stone Bridge, giving an unforgettable stunning natural scenic view to its visitors.
Mawlynnong
As far as Indian villages are concerned, Mawlynnong is way ahead of its time, with its clean, functional toilets in every house, and plastic ban. It is 91 kilometres from Jowai. But is a must visit for whoever visits Meghalaya. Mawlynnong is a village that has made its mark on history by being the cleanest village in India. It is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya and was recognized as the cleanest village in Asia by The Guinness Book of World Records. And yet, the rustic and old-world charm that it manages to preserve, makes you feel like you have travelled in time. Mawlynnong is a small village with just about one thousand five hundred people. However, it attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year because of its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices. The fruit orchards, the roaring streams, the lush evergreen surroundings, the swaying pines, and the well-preserved traditions of the Khasi culture provide a picture-perfect place on the edge of Meghalaya’s southern ranges. The most attractive place in this tiny village is the double decker living root bridge. After enjoying the bridge to its fullest, one can go for a dip into the gushing river below.
Travel advice on Jowai
Though Jowai has no restaurants, travellers coming to the city can dine at numerous places near Shillong and along highways. Some of the most popular tourist spots include The Wok, Jaintia Food Stall, Trattoria and City Hut Family Dhaba. Travelers are also advised to carry umbrellas at all times. It is advisable for tourists to carry raincoats and umbrellas at all times. This will help them stay safe from getting drenched in the monsoon showers. Travelers are also advised to carry a backpack with them since it can be quite difficult to find places that rent out luggage in Jowai. Jowai does not have any ATMs, but travellers can find plenty of banks and currency exchange counters in nearby Shillong. It is advisable for tourists to carry enough cash with them at all times.
Try to stick to the local transportation in Jowai since they are much cheaper than private transportation. Be aware of what you consume. You may not be tolerant of every local food available. Make sure you have full knowledge about what you are eating.
It is also advised to not go anywhere alone without proper guidance since Meghalaya is a hilly region and getting stuck alone is a big problem. Always stick to a group and travel with a guide. Do not go swimming in areas with no population or where it is not allowed to. Apart from these, Jowai can be considered a pretty safe place to travel around.
Tips for visiting Jowai
If you are vacationing in a place far away from your home town then you must take a few tips. It is advised to not go alone without proper guidance since Meghalaya is a hilly region with a population only in selected areas and getting stuck alone is a big problem. Always be with a guide. Apart from the risk of becoming lost in its vastness, Jowai can be considered a pretty safe place to travel around.
Pack an umbrella! That is a must. It’s important to pack a suitcase that is sturdy, waterproof, and well suited for the climate.
Try to stick to the local transportation in Cherrapunji since they are much cheaper than private transportation. Make sure you have a piece of full knowledge about what you are eating. Stay healthy and eat healthy, always.
Rainfall in Jowai
Jowai experiences the monsoon season in the month of August to September end. But it may start early from the middle of July and may not stop until the middle of October. After the monsoon, the chilly to cold winter starts. Jowai also gets rainfall once in a while during the rest of the year. Since it is in Meghalaya, it always receives rainfall, minimum to maximum. In the September, it is practically impossible to go out of the house. It rains so profusely that villages near waterfalls and rivers often experiences flood in the monsoon season.
Things to do in Jowai
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, Jowai is the perfect place for you. This hidden gem in India is full of culture and natural beauty. From its stunning waterfalls to its vibrant markets, Jowai has something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, be sure to add Jowai to your list! From water sports to trekking, every activity is possible in Jowai.
Boat ride at the Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake is something to remember for the rest of the journey. The Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake is a must-visit place in Jowai. This lake is situated at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level. The lake has a beautiful waterfall flowing into it, which adds to its charm. It’s also known as the pitcher plant lake because of the pitcher plants growing around it. You can enjoy boating on this mesmerizing lake and watch the sunset over its waters.
Jowai is also famous for its trekking trails. The best time to visit Jowai is from June to October as the weather during this period is pleasant. The place offers many trekking trails for tourists, including the Khardang-Lachikhowa Trail and Daruwalka Trail. The Khardang-Lachikhowa Trail is a moderately difficult trek that takes two days to complete. This trail begins at Jowai and ends at Lachikhowa, which is located close to the border of Assam. It passes through forests with beautiful flora and fauna. The Daruwalka Trail is also a moderate trek which starts from Jowai and ends in Daruwalka, near Cherrapunji. This trail passes through the hills of Meghalaya and offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. The place is also popular for its natural attractions like waterfalls, caves, forests and mountain peaks. Tourists can also visit places like Cherrapunji and Nongriat which are located near Jowai.
Adventurous activities to do in Jowai
Trekking is the most active and trending adventurous activity in Jowai. Because of the terrain of this region, trekking is the most trending. Apart from this camping is also allowed by the banks of Myntdu river. Boat rides are also available. But trekking in this region is once in a lifetime experience. If you are lucky enough, you can catch the sunrise as well. Catching sunrise on the river of Myntdu is a sight to behold. The golden shimmer on the ripples and waves of the river is something that will imprint in one’s memory for life. Start the trek before the sunrise so you can reach the top of Krang Suri to see the beauty of Jowai just when the sunlight washes over the entire waterfall. One can even view a rainbow over the falls once in a while. The hike is a moderate one, going through some hilly terrain and forested areas. You will find yourself walking along the river for most of the trek, with only a few breaks to catch your breath. If you are planning to camp overnight at Jowai Falls, make sure that you start early in the morning so you can reach the top before noon.
Best places to stay in Jowai
Jowai has a lot of cottages that provides services to tourists. The cottages in Jowai provides a whole new experience for the tourists. They are also very affordable and not very costly at all. They usually serve food that is tolerant to people from all the parts of the country. Although they also serve delicious traditional recipes that will leave you wanting for more.
Hotels are less available in Jowai. Only a hand full of them are located in Jowai. The cost for staying is not that high but they are costlier than staying in cottages.
Weather in Jowai
Jowai experiences summer from the month of April till the month of June. Then comes the monsoon from July till September end. At last, comes the winter season which varies from chilly to shivering. The winter lasts from the month of October till the month of March. In the month of March, the cold does not really persist and the place has a more pleasant weather. Although Jowai experiences distinct seasons, rainfall in something one can expect to happen anytime of the year. But July end till September mid, Jowai gets some shower as well. The weather of Jowai is humid during summer and dry during winter. The temperature remains between 23°C to 32°C in the month of April-May. During monsoon, it falls down to 19°C.Jowai is a beautiful place to visit in Meghalaya. It has many tourist attractions that one can explore while staying here. The best time to visit Jowai is between October and March because it’s in this period that the weather conditions are most favourable. During these times, one will experience pleasant weather conditions and get great views of lush green forests around the city. This sums up the weather condition of Jowai more or less that one can encounter throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions on Jowai Tourism
No, Jowai is not the capital of Meghalaya.
Jowai is 33 kilometres from Dawki, the border of India and Bangladesh.
Jowai is 86 kilometres from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya.
The best time to visit Jowai is in the months of October to November and again from the month of March to July.
Jowai is famous for its lush green forest and astounding site scenes.
Jowai is very safe place for tourists to visit.
The Krang Suri waterfall and the Lalong Park are the most visited places in Jowai.
Yes, trekking is safe in Jowai to places like Krang Suri falls and Tyrshi Falls but it is advised to take a guide ao anyone who knows the area.
Camping is safe only in selected places like the banks of the Myntdu river but advised not to do so in places where it is not usual.
Yes, local food is safe in Jowai, but one should always be careful towards what they are comfortable with and tolerant to.