Things To Do In Williamnagar

Williamnagar is the district headquarters of East Garo in the state of Meghalaya, so called after Captain Williamson A. Sangma, the first CM of the state. Situated along the plains of the Simsang River, the city was earlier known as Simsanggre before it was rechristened in 1876. Williamnagar has long been a city of great historical significance because of its native Garo tribe, who were responsible for leading a major resistance against the British rule. Apart from a rich cultural heritage, Williamnagar also boasts immense scenic beauty and an unrivalled ambience that will leave you completely refreshed and rejuvenated after your trip. Here is a list of our recommendations with the top things to do when in Williamnagar.

The Simsang Festival is a major annual event held in the month of December that calls upon some of the best performing artists in the state. A number of entertaining programs like singing and dancing competitions, fashion shows, food and wine festivals, carnivals, the Miss Simsang beauty pageant etc. are some of the most popular events in the festivals. The Rock Contest though is usually the top attraction in the Simsang Festival; tourists visiting Williamnagar during the winters should definitely not miss out on being a part of the event.

The Rongbang waterfall is situated on the Tura-Williamnagar road is much like a hidden gem nestled among the cloud-kissed valleys of the state. The gorgeous stream of water that gushes from the top of a cliff creates a marvellous sight, and the serene beauty of the surroundings only adds to the laid-back ambience of the region. Most visitors also get to witness a rich and diverse population of flora and fauna in the wilderness that surrounds the waterfall.

The peculiar yet beautiful Naphak Lake is believed to be haunted by spirits, according to the locals. However, that does not stop tourists from visiting this fascinating lake spot for some indulgent fishing. A large variety of fish species inhabit the Naphak Lake, and on a clear and sunny afternoon, the entire experience with the ambience of birds chirping in the trees can truly become one of your most memorable ones. Naphak Lake is actually a manmade water body that was created after a massive earthquake in the year 1897. The natural forest cover that surrounds the lake is full with a rich diversity of flora and fauna, and the inexplicable grandeur of the entire region is a true marvel for the eyes and senses.

Rongrengiri is a reserve forest situated along the banks of the Simsang River. A place well-known for its ethereal beauty and charm, the forest is covered mostly with Sal trees and houses a memorial for the brave warrior, Pa Togan from the Garo race. He is known for leading a major resistance against the British rulers, which led to the erection of a memorial for him. The Rongrengiri forest is also known for its lush thickets of greenery that covers the slopes of the hills here, creating an inviting ambience for all nature lovers and for those seeking some peaceful solitude.  

The majestic Simsang River flows directly through the heart of Williamnagar, which incidentally, was known as Simsanggre before 1976; this was the year the name of the town was changed to Williamnagar. The river originates in the Nokrek peak and is known as Someshwari River when it enters Bangladesh. A fishing festival by the name of Nathok Wari is celebrated in the villages located along the river banks every year during the winter months.

Naka Chikong is simply a large rock with deep hollows situated in the middle of Ildek River, a little more than 100 km away from Williamnagar. A great mythological structure for the locals, the rock is believed to be swarming with fishes during all seasons of the year. The locals also famously believe that if anyone touches any part of the rock, all the fishes disappear from the river. Hindus in the region consider this entire area to be sacred and visit regularly to worship the rock and occasionally even enjoy a picnic here.

Mrik Wari is a gorge located close to the Simsang River, which is mostly famous for its unique rock formations. Some rocks here are formed in the shape of a baby elephant and its mother; the locals believe in the legend that some elephants here that had been drinking water were turned to stone one day at daybreak. The scenic view of the river only adds to the lovely spectacle of various rocky shapes, which often seem no less than exquisite art created by nature.