The Hills Festival Meghalaya&ndashset along the banks of the breathtaking Umiam Lake and held during the magical autumn of the North-Eastern state&ndashwill be held on November 4 and 5 this year. Backed by Meghalaya Tourism, the two-day festival will celebrate the modern and traditional wealth of the state&ndashfrom music and art to local cuisines.
The theme of this year's festival, "Spirit of Meghalaya," combines two major elements&ndasheco-tourism and empowerment of local communities. Furthermore, as per an official press release, the prime focus of the festival is to promote tourism, local artists, and entrepreneurs. Here's a look at five reasons you should head to The Hills Festival Meghalaya this year.
Great Artist Lineup
The festival officials recently shared a sneak peek into what's in store for the visitors. The lineup features Taba Chake (guitarist and singer-songwriter), Bloodywood (metal band), Yung Raja (Singaporean-Tamil rapper), Karan Kanchan (trap and bass music producer), HanuMankind (lyrical rapper), Trance Effect (pop rock band from Nagaland), Featherheads (Indigenous Naga band), DBryn (musical artist), and Daminot (musician), among others.
For Its Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Everything will be built using environmentally-innovative materials, from the venue's promotional backdrops to the art installations, which will embody the mythical tales of the region. It also aims to sort, compost, recycle, and upcycle waste and prevent most of the trash from ending in landfills. Furthermore, there will be arrangements for RO water stations and biodegradable service ware to ensure minimum wastage and cleanliness. Also, recycled paper and bamboo will replace plastic or flex promotional backdrops.
Cycling And Camping
There is a unique cycling track for people to enjoy the beautiful Umbir village and Umiam lake. To give the visitors and tourists a chance to enjoy amidst nature, there will be camping tents at the venue to spend the night gazing at the sky.
Mouthwatering Food
Featuring the famous Mumbai Chef Thomas Zacharias, "The Forage Aisle" will be a unique layout of indigenous forage and the local wild edibles from Meghalaya. The aisle will host a culinary exchange between Chef Thomas and local chefs, who will come together and share stories and ideas while curating different dishes. In addition, "The Pig-Out Affair," a community cook-out serving pork dishes will also be organised.
For Its Kids-Friendly Nature
A special section dedicated to children's care has also been set up. In this area, parents can tend to their children and provide a safe space for them to play.
Other Information
When November 4 and 5 (Friday and Saturday)
Where Lum 'er Pyngngad, Umbir, Meghalaya