Dawki is a charming small town that provides a seamless combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural activities. If you are someone who enjoys adventure, appreciates nature or is interested in experiencing the local culture, Meghalaya Holiday Packages offers plentiful activities to partake in Dawki.
Boat Ride on Umngot River
The iconic activity in Dawki is to take a boat ride on Umngot River. The Umngot River, referred to as the Dawki River, is renowned for its transparent waters, enabling visibility of the riverbed at significant depths. While aboard this boat trip, people can have panoramic views of peace and tranquillity from mountain ranges nearby together with green water bodies contrasting against their surroundings. The starting point of this excursion is the border which goes up to a tiny island with rocks that make an ideal place for photography sessions and relaxation.
This river is often said to be one of the purest in Asia, so transparent that boats appear to hover in mid-air. Best time for this boat ride is November through April when the highest transparency levels of water are recorded. One hour boat ride for three people costs approximately ?1000 while 45 minutes’ journey will cost ?800.
Advice for the boat trip
Put on waterproof sandals that are comfortable to wear.
Make sure to always put on a life jacket to ensure your safety.
Bring along snacks and water because there are few amenities close to the river.
Visit to the India-Bangladesh Border
A visit to the India-Bangladesh Border offers an exceptional chance to witness friendly intercourse between the two nations. By being open in 2018, the India-Bangladesh Friendship Gate is proof of the strong ties. This gate is located just 1.5 km away from the Umngot River and it remains a popular spot for tourist visits.
The Dawki-Tamabil border crossing is more than just a gateway. It is a spot where you can see the smooth connection between the populations of India and Bangladesh. The calm environment along the border, with only a few fences and security measures, provides a special opportunity to witness people from different regions interacting openly. This border crossing is an important trade route as well, where trucks transport goods between the two nations.
Activities to participate in while at the border
Go for a stroll by the border and appreciate the beautiful scenery.
You can engage with the indigenous sellers and taste various native fruits.
Capture the special moment of having one foot in India and the other in Bangladesh.
Jaflong Zero Point
Jaflong Zero Point, another place that is a must see in Dawki. It is located on the Indian Bangladesh border and provides breathtaking perspectives of the Umngot River as it flows into Bangladesh. The area is covered with leafy vegetation and serves as a favourite spot for nature enthusiasts who also love photography. As well, Jaflong has unique stones that make it famous among other things and is home to the Khasis.
Jaflong Zero Point is only 1 kilometre from Dawki Market and can be easily approached by walking or just trekking over a short distance. This location has water that is clear enough for you to see the bridge along the Tamabil-Dawki highway, which is an icon among all others.
Things to do at Jaflong Zero Point:
Enjoy panoramic views of the river and hills around.
Take a boat ride to explore the river more.
Visit local markets where you can meet Khasi community members.
Fishing in Umngot River
If you enjoy fishing, one activity not to be missed is going Fishing in Umngot River. This beautiful river is a favourite spot for Indian and Bangladeshi fishermen. Fish can be easily spotted because of the crystal clear waters and the quiet atmosphere creates an ideal mood. The Umngot River makes a perfect place for both those who are already masters at fishing as well as beginners since it has a calm nature and is very soothing.
The activity of fishing in the Umngot River goes beyond just making catches. Rather, it is about experiencing one of the most undisturbed environments that ever existed on Earth. Different kinds of fish species inhabit this river, and morning or evening hours are mostly recommended for fishing here. Local fishermen use traditional methods of catching fish, so you can learn a lot by watching them.
Fishing Tips:
Early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended for such activities.
Observe local customs and regulations concerning fishing.
Festival of Meghalaya
If you plan your visit during the festival season, you can have a feel of the energetic Festival of Meghalaya. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage and plays host to various festivals in every year. Some prominent ones include the Wangala Festival, Shad Suk Mynsiem, and Nongkrem Dance Festival. These are among the many local festivals that provide insights into their culture and traditions through traditional music, dance and food.
Shad Suk Mynsiem is celebrated in April as a Thanksgiving dance among the Khasi tribe. This dance portrays the bilateral structure within which they live with men going around women symbolising safety.
Nongkrem Festival is a five day festival that is held at Smit Village, 15 kilometers from Shillong, once the harvesting season is over. During this time, people pray for peace and prosperity. The Khasi People perform traditional dances and rituals during this religious festival.
Behdeinkhlam Festival is held by the Jaintia Tribe in July, an occasion used to stop the spread of diseases such as plague or pestilence. In colourful processions, dancing takes place during this festival, and soccer is played using wooden balls.
Wangala Festival is a post-harvest festival celebrated by the Garo Tribe in November. Also referred to as the Hundred Drums Festival, it involves traditional dancing and singing done by both males and females put on very brightly coloured clothing.
Festival Highlights:
You can take part in performing traditional dances and music.
Try local delicacies and local dishes.
Buy homemade handicrafts and souvenirs.
