Do you know India has its own cherry blossom region? Have you seen a city transform into a picturesque haven of pink and white blossoms? What would it be like to attend a musical festival amidst the scenic beauty of pink and white cherry blossoms? Look no further because Shillong in Meghalaya in India is waiting to welcome you on 15-16 November 2024. Why? Because the much-anticipated Cherry Blossom Festival, a dazzling musical and cherry blossoms celebration that takes place in North Eastern part of India is back. This is the time when you must fulfill your pink dream and see the cherry blossoms in full bloom while enjoying a world-class music festival. The likes of Akon, Boney M, R3Hab, Jasleen Royal, Kanika Kapoor, Lucas, Jessie Lyngdoh, etc. will sway the audience with their high-electric energies and acts. Known for blending the beauty of Meghalaya’s cherry blossoms with world-class music, the festival is the largest of its kind in Northeast India during the winter season. A spectacular Japanese village is prepared to welcome the visitors where they can experience the enchanting essence of the nature.
How did Cherry Blossom Festival in Meghalaya start?
The cherry blossom trees were introduced to Shillong in Meghalaya roughly between the years 1955 to 1975. The story goes that Meghalaya’s first Chief Secretary, Mr. Nari K. Rustomji, had brought the cherry blossom seeds from Japan and he initiated the planting of them in a forested area around his residence. The climate seemed favourable and the saplings were then ordered to be transplanted to Ward’s Lake and Lady Hydari Park. The Forest Department later took the initiative of planting the trees around the city and now it has become a celebration of nature, music, art and culture.
Unlike Japan and Korea where the blossom season is different, Meghalaya became the first in the world to have a Cherry Blossom Festival during autumn based on the flowering of the cherry blossom trees during the month of November. The bloom of the flowers is usually predicted right. A few days here and there may happen. Trees laden with pretty white flowers adorn the entire street that lead to the venue.
A Symphony of Colours and Music
The lineup of performances is very interesting. This year’s musical nights include:
- November 15: BONEY M (Farewell Tour), Jasleen Royal, Lucas
- November 16: Akon (The Superfan Tour), R3HAB, Kanika Kapoor
- Venue – RBDSA Sports Complex in Mawlasnai, Shillong
The festival will also feature regional talent such as artists from the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), alongside Arpan, Rito Riba, Khasi Bloodz, Queen Sensation, and others.
Alongside musical nights, an array of events are organized to keep the travellers engaged. Graffiti and art installations, Karaoke competition, Choir competitions are just some of the activities to look forward to.
Accommodation – Visitors may choose to live in Shillong city or the campsites available near the festival venue.
There are several reasons to visit Meghalaya
With cherry blossoms in full bloom across the city, the festival provides the perfect opportunity for tourists and travellers to explore Meghalaya’s stunning landscapes by the day and enjoy the festival in the night.
The state of Meghalaya in North Eastern part of India pledges an unwavering commitment towards sustainability and its villages are exemplary in putting a variety of sustainable initiatives in action. While Shillong (capital city) is the gateway to its natural vistas, ethereal biodiversity, tribal culture, adventure sports, destinations like Umiam Lake, Dawk River, Laitlum Canyons, Cherrapunji (Sohra) and Mawlynnong, there are array of smaller villages and remote wonders which will leave you clasped in the arms of slow travel.
To name a few, Wahniangleng, a picturesque village in Meghalaya, has developed eco-friendly trekking routes and nature trails, allowing visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty in a way that does not harm the environment. Mawlynnong has catapulted itself to the prestigious position of being the cleanest village in Asia. The Mawrynkhang Bamboo Trek, also approximately 25 kilometers from Shillong, offers an immersive experience through dense bamboo forests, enchanting waterfalls, and remote landscapes. Mawphlang Sacred Grove is a special place.
The Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong, the Me’gong Festival in Tura, and Winter Tales showcase local culture, lifestyle, and heritage. For golfing enthusiast, Shillong Golf Course is one of the largest natural golf courses in Shillong. The trek to 100 Waterfall Camps (approximately 57 kms from Shillong) is enchanting.
The sheer number of places to visit in Meghalaya are endless. A week may also seem less. In my view, one must not travel to the state only for the festival. Go with an extensive plan, explore the ward winning local villages, caves, waterfalls, lakes and the local food. Be in the capital Shillong for a few days and indulge in its cafes, restaurants, museums, history, etc. Cherry Blossom Festival should be an excellent opportunity to experience both the cultural richness and natural beauty of Meghalaya at a magical time of the year.
Find out more about the festival here – https://www.shillongcherryblossom.com/. Tickets are now available on BookMyShow.com and RockskiTickets.com
Most preferred way of travelling to Shillong is take a flight to Guwahati. You reach Guwahati by plane in 3 hours from Delhi/Mumbai, and then it’s a 2.5-3 hours road journey to Shillong from there.
Read about my last visit here – Hills on a Plate showcases the diverse culinary treasures of Meghalaya
