Cherry Blossom Significance
In Buddhism, the cherry blossom signifies the fleeting nature of life. Since the cherry tree blooms for a week or two, they symbolise the fragile essence of existence. Cherry blossoms are lovely and vivid, much like life, yet they are ephemeral.
Shillong will be celebrating the Cherry Blossom Festival from November 24th to 26th to commemorate seasonal blossoming and indulge in leisure. The annual Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is recognised as one of the state’s most vivid and colourful festivals.
This event began in 2016. It is organised annually by the Government of Meghalaya and features live music and a wealth of events, such as dancing contests, pageants, and various kiosks dedicated to representing their area through cuisine, wine, arts and crafts. One can also witness musical performances, bicycle rallies, and storytelling sessions at the event.
Where to Experience Cherry Blossoms in Shillong
If you’ve never experienced cherry blossoms, this is an excellent time of year to see them and participate in the fun festivities. Embark on an enchanting road trip in and around Shillong during the blooming of the cherry blossoms.
1. Ward’s Lake
Ward’s Lake in Shillong
One of the greatest ways to see the exquisite blossoms flowers is to take a boat trip on Ward’s Lake. Ward’s Lake, one of Shillong’s most appealing attractions, offers a lovely wooden bridge, lush slopes, and sculpted gardens, making it a popular recreational destination for residents and visitors alike.
How to reach Ward’s Lake
The nearest railway station is in Guwahati and the closest airport to Ward’s Lake in Shillong is the Shillong Airport. You can book a taxi from Guwahati or book a taxi from Shillong Airport to Ward’s Lake to ensure a smooth transfer. The distance between the Shillong airport and Ward’s Lake is about 31.3 km.
3. Polo Ground
Shillong can lay claim to one of India’s most magnificent sports stadiums, Polo Ground, where the second half of the cherry blossom festivities take place.
How to reach Polo Ground
The closest airport to Polo Ground in Shillong is the Shillong Airport. You can book a taxi from Shillong Airport to Polo Ground to ensure a smooth transfer. The distance between the Shillong airport and Polo Ground is about 24.4 km.
3. Shillong Golf Course
Shillong Golf Course
Another great place to see cherry blossoms in Shillong is the Shillong Golf Course. This 18-hole golf course in the middle of the city is a favourite destination for leisure, nestled amid a border of pine trees. Long hikes and strolls in the beautiful, vast meadows are popular here. Visitors can even bring their golf clubs to play in the amateur golf event, held as part of the festival.
How to reach Shillong Golf Course
The closest airport to Shillong Golf Course is the Shillong Airport. You can book a taxi from Shillong Airport to Shillong Golf Course to ensure a smooth transfer. The distance between Shillong Airport and Shillong Golf Course is about 30.8 km.
A few points to keep in mind
In Shillong, the Cherry Blossom Festival typically takes place in mid-November, amid the spectacular fall blossoming of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms.
In 2022, the festival will be held from 24th to 26th November at Ward’s Lake from 10 am to 6 pm and Polo Ground from 3 pm to 10 pm.
Entry is open to doubly vaccinated attendees only.
Check the Meghalaya Tourism page for more details or contact us, so your trip is better planned and you can avoid the risk of disappointing yourself with closed buds.
The festival and its vibrance can be best witnessed by travelling around the city in a car. You can book a Carforsure Cab with a local driver in Shillong and avail the festive offers.