Forests. They hold so much more than just trees, plants or bushes. These lush and vibrant realms are filled with mystical energy, secrets and stories waiting to be discovered. And nestled in the heart of Meghalaya lies a sacred grove that stands out amongst the rest – Mawphlang Sacred Forest. With a history dating back centuries, this forest is more than just a mere collection of trees. It is a living, breathing museum of Mother Nature, showcasing a dazzling palette of flora and fauna that has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors for generations. Spanning a land area of 193 acres, this forest is a sight to behold.
As one steps into the village of Mawphlang, the name itself offers a glimpse into the wonder of this place – ‘Moss-Covered Stone’. The village, like many others in the region, is named after the majestic monoliths that adorn its landscape. But here, amidst the towering trees and babbling streams, lies a sacred grove that holds a special place in the hearts of the Khasi people. Protected by members of the Lyngdoh clan, this forest is believed to be the abode of the deity Labasa, who watches over the village and its people, shielding them from all harm. What sets it apart is its incredible biodiversity. Often referred to as ‘Nature’s Museum’, this forest is home to a magnificent array of flowering and medicinal plants, towering trees, elusive mushrooms, melodious birds, and fascinating insects.
Best time to visit Mawphlang
Visit the forest during spring for blooming flowers and fewer tourists, summer for trekking and camping, monsoon for lush greenery after rain, autumn for warm weather, and winter for pleasant temperatures during the day.
How to reach Mawphlang
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is easily accessible from both Guwahati and Shillong. The distance from Shillong is approximately 27 km and the journey takes about 1 hour through the Mawsynram-Shillong Road. Private cars can be hired or you can self-drive to reach this destination from either Shillong or Guwahati.
Here’s what awaits you at Mawphlang
As the sun slowly rises in the distant horizon, the Mawphlang Sacred Forest awakens from its slumber. Eager visitors eagerly make their way through the endless green meadows, mesmerised by the breathtaking beauty of the area. The dense woods, with its lush canopies and vibrant flora, beckon from afar, promising an unforgettable adventure.
Divided into three distinctive sections, only the first and second can be explored, and only with the accompaniment of a knowledgeable guide. With a quick sign up, one can embark on a brisk half-trek of 20 to 30 minutes or a longer, more immersive full trek spanning 40 to 60 minutes.
Standing tall at the entrance of the forest are three monoliths, with an additional seated stone, marking the boundary between the mortal world and the realm of the divine. Here, the village elders seek permission from the deity to embark on their sacrificial rituals, a tradition that has been passed on for generations. Legend has it that the appearance of a leopard is an auspicious sign, granting approval for the ritual, while a sighting of a snake foretells misfortune and the abandonment of all plans.
Make your way past the monoliths, and you are greeted by a tranquil green tunnel, formed by the intertwining branches of the towering trees above. The air inside the forest is heavy with the sweet melody of chirping birds, the soothing hum of crickets, the gentle buzz of bees and dragonflies, and the occasional gurgling of hidden streams. The forest floor is softly cushioned by a thick layer of humus, accumulated over centuries, reminding all to tread cautiously on the narrow trails. Here, nature reigns supreme and the spirits of the forest whisper their secrets to those who listen. In the heart of the forest, you will also come across a stone that stands tall and proud, shaped like a long table. This ancient site served as the very epicentre of preparations for the sacred ritual that took place here. Just a short distance away, clusters of smaller, moss-covered stones can be seen, beckoning you to explore and discover their secrets. These stones, it is said, acted as a waiting area for the young folks as the ritual was being conducted. Legends and stories surround this mystical grove, but there is more to be found here than just tales.
As you venture onwards, the lush greenery of Mawphlang envelops you, the air thick with the scent of wildflowers and the faint murmurs of rustling leaves. This place is a botanical paradise, home to over 400 species of exotic plants, at least 25 varieties of stunning orchids and a plethora of trees, each bearing their own unique flavours and qualities. The revered Rudraksha trees, cherished by the Hindus, can be found in abundance here, their leaves whispering secrets as the gentle breeze passes through them. The forest boasts towering pines, vibrant rhododendrons and the deliciously fragrant ka phal trees, their bountiful boughs inviting you to savour their juicy fruits.
But beware, for amidst this beauty lies danger. Hidden among the emerald foliage is the highly poisonous Lily Cobra plant, its eerie resemblance to a hooded cobra sending shivers down your spine. Wildlife sightings are rare, but the forest is said to be home to a variety of creatures, from elusive foxes and swift squirrels to slithering snakes and swift-footed wildcats. And if you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of some of the rare and colourful bird species that call this enchanting forest home.
Along the meandering path, the journey becomes more challenging as you climb over rugged terrain, scale rocky ridges and cross gushing streams and cascades. The stones, now bathed in soft moss, can be treacherous to navigate, so tread carefully as you make your way through this magnificent landscape. And when you finally emerge from the heart of the forest, the sight of a cosy tea shack across the pretty meadow is a welcome sight. A steaming cup of chai, made with love and a touch of magic, awaits you, the perfect ending to your adventure in the magical land of Mawphlang.
In this mystical realm, time seems to stand still, and you can't help but feel a deep connection to the land and all its inhabitants. So, when embarking on your own journey into the depths of Mawphlang Sacred Forest?
Ready to travel for free? Earn credits and redeem them on Tripoto’s weekend getaways, hotel stays and vacation packages after the pandemic is over!
' fill='%23359391'%3e %3cpath d='M46.1538462%2c43.5714286 L41.5%2c50 L36.8461538%2c43.5714286 L36.8670256%2c43.5714286 C36.3173077%2c42.7142857 36%2c41.6851429 36%2c40.5714286 C36%2c37.4854286 38.4535641%2c35 41.5%2c35 C44.5464359%2c35 47%2c37.4854286 47%2c40.5714286 C47%2c41.6851429 46.6826923%2c42.7142857 46.1329744%2c43.5714286 L46.1538462%2c43.5714286 Z M41.4294872%2c39 C40.6150641%2c39 39.9487179%2c39.675 39.9487179%2c40.5 C39.9487179%2c41.325 40.6150641%2c42 41.4294872%2c42 C42.2439103%2c42 42.9102564%2c41.325 42.9102564%2c40.5 C42.9102564%2c39.675 42.2439103%2c39 41.4294872%2c39 L41.4294872%2c39 Z' id='Location-white'%3e%3c/path%3e %3c/g%3e %3c/svg%3e)
