The Ministry of Tourism's initiative, the Best Tourism Villages Competition, celebrates villages that embody the essence of a top tourism destination. These villages preserve cultural and natural assets, champion community-based values and lifestyles, and strongly commit to sustainability across economic, social, and environmental aspects. This year, the Ministry of Tourism has named two exceptional villages in Meghalaya the ‘Best Tourism Villages’. Umden in Ri-Bhoi and Mawphlang in East Khasi Hills has emerged as the Best Tourism Villages from Meghalaya in the 2024 Best Tourism Village Competition, excelling in the Craft and Heritage Categories. Umden clinched the honour in the craft category, while Mawphlang was celebrated in the heritage category.
Shillong may be the first to come to mind when considering travel destinations in Meghalaya. However, the village of Mawphlang, often overlooked by tourists, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Nestled in the lush green forests of the East Khasi Hills, Mawphlang is famous for its sacred groves that encapsulate Khasi traditions and customs. Known as 'law kyntang' in the Khasi language, these groves are home to medicinal trees that have thrived for centuries. These are not just ordinary forests but also house a protective deity revered by the village chief and elders to ensure its safety. The sacred grove forests have stood for over 1,000 years, and cutting down any tree or branch here is strictly taboo, contributing to their survival.
Traditional Khasi culture places significant importance on nature, and the people are deeply committed to conservation due to their strong religious beliefs. In Mawphlang, you can immerse yourself in the wisdom of a Khasi saying that proclaims the vital importance of a sacred grove to the identity of a village (hima).
The Mawphlang Sacred Grove spans over 80 hectares and is home to various rare medicinal trees and plants, such as the English yew, the Chinese sumac, and chinquapin. It also provides a sanctuary for climate indicator trees like the Japanese blue oak and griffitti, demonstrating the delicate balance of nature. With over 400 species of trees and plants, as well as rare animals and birds, this protected forest boasts impressive, captivating, and essential biodiversity. Visitors can explore the forest and learn about its ancient stories and mysteries from local guides, but it's important to remember not to take anything from the forest, including leaves, pebbles, fruits, flowers, seeds, or wood.
Mawphlang is also renowned for its Khasi Heritage Village, which prominently features models of traditional Khasi homes and effectively showcases the conventional architecture and lifestyles of the Khasi people. This site stands as a vibrant cultural hub, actively promoting the customs and traditions of the Khasi community.
Umden, located in the Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya, is a cluster of charming tiny villages renowned for its traditional Bhoi silk weaving techniques using eri silkworms. Often referred to as the "Eri Silk Village of India," Umden is home to an indigenous community that practices "ahimsa" sericulture, a sustainable and non-lethal silk production method passed down through generations. This unique approach to sericulture allows for the creation of high-quality Eri silk without causing harm to the silkworms, making it an appealing destination for environmentally conscious travellers.
In addition to its rich sericulture heritage, Umden boasts breathtaking landscapes with verdant meadows and expansive Khasi hills, making it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts and those interested in traditional crafts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local way of life by engaging in workshops led by skilled artisans or exploring the diverse facets of Bhoi and Khasi culture. Activities range from exhilarating mountain biking along village trails to serene forest walks among ancient stone monoliths. For a more leisurely experience, one can spend a tranquil afternoon angling by the streams and even take part in cooking classes using the day's catch.