Explore Nartiang, a hidden gem in Meghalaya known for its ancient monoliths, heritage sites, and natural beauty. Discover how to reach, best things to do, ideal itinerary, nearby stays, and top travel tips in this detailed and easy-to-read guide.
Introduction
Nartiang is a peaceful and historical village located in the Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. Though not as famous as Shillong or Cherrapunji, Nartiang holds immense cultural and archaeological importance. It is home to one of the largest collections of monoliths in the world, a 500-year-old Durga Temple with royal connections, and scenic countryside views that bring a sense of calm to every traveller.
Visiting Nartiang is like stepping into a living museum where history, legends, and landscapes come together beautifully. If you enjoy offbeat destinations, local stories, and slow travel, Nartiang will be a rewarding experience.
How to Reach Nartiang, Meghalaya
1. From the Nearest Airport
Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport)
- Distance to Nartiang: approx. 70 km
- Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours by road
- Shillong Airport has limited flights, but it is the closest airport.
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or book a cab to Nartiang via Shillong–Jowai route.
Guwahati International Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport)
- Distance to Nartiang: approx. 160 km
- Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours by road
- This is the most commonly used airport for travelers due to better flight connectivity.
- Taxis, shared cabs, and buses are available from Guwahati to Shillong or directly to Jowai.
2. From the Nearest Railway Station
Guwahati Railway Station
- Distance: approx. 150 km
- Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours by road
- This is the nearest major railway station with excellent connectivity across India.
- From the station, you can take a taxi or shared cab to Shillong or Jowai, and then continue to Nartiang.
Note: Meghalaya does not have its own passenger railway line yet, so Guwahati (Assam) is the gateway station.
3. By Road from Nearby Major Locations
Nartiang is easily accessible by well-maintained roads. You can reach it from Shillong or Jowai using public transport, shared cabs, or rental cars.
From Shillong
- Distance: approx. 60 km
- Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Route: Shillong → Mawryngkneng → Ummulong → Nartiang
- Shared taxis and Meghalaya Transport buses are available.
From Jowai (District Headquarters)
- Distance: approx. 25 km
- Travel Time: 40 minutes
- This is the most convenient base for visiting Nartiang.
- Local taxis are easily available.
From Guwahati
- Distance: approx. 150 km
- Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Route: Guwahati → Shillong → Jowai → Nartiang
- Best option is to hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong or Jowai and continue onward.
How to Reach Nartiang
Nartiang is well connected by road but does not have its own airport or railway station. Here are the best travel options:
Nearest Airport
- Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport) – around 70 km away
- Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati – around 160 km away
Shillong Airport has limited flights, so most travellers prefer Guwahati Airport for better connectivity.
Nearest Railway Station
- Guwahati Railway Station – approx. 150 km from Nartiang
From Guwahati, taxis, shared cabs, and buses are available to Shillong and Jowai.
By Road
- From Shillong: approx. 60 km, 2 hours
- From Jowai (district headquarters): approx. 25 km, 40 minutes
- From Guwahati: approx. 150 km, 4–5 hours
Roads are smooth, scenic, and well-maintained, offering gorgeous views of hills, forests, and valleys.
Top Things to Do in Nartiang
1. Visit the Nartiang Monoliths (Monolith Garden)
This is the main attraction of Nartiang. The monoliths—huge upright stones and horizontal slabs—are believed to be over 600–1000 years old. They stand tall as markers of tribal achievements, rituals, and memorials from the Jaintia kingdom.
Walking through the garden is like travelling back in time.
2. Explore the 500-Year-Old Nartiang Durga Temple
This ancient temple was built by the Jaintia kings and holds immense cultural and religious significance. The unique style combines Hindu traditions and local Jaintia architecture. It becomes vibrant during Durga Puja, attracting devotees from across Meghalaya.
3. Walk Through the Quiet Village
Nartiang’s village lanes are lined with bamboo groves, paddy fields, traditional Khasi-Jaintia homes, and hill views. Slow travel lovers will enjoy exploring the natural surroundings and interacting with friendly locals.
4. Visit the Local Market
The weekly markets (haats) offer a glimpse into local life. Shop for spices, organic fruits, herbs, and traditional handicrafts.
5. Photography and Nature Walks
The monoliths, temple, and landscapes offer perfect photography opportunities. Sunrise and sunset views are particularly beautiful.
Best Time to Visit Nartiang
October to April
This is the best time due to pleasant weather and clear views.
Monsoon (June to September)
Nartiang becomes lush and green but it may rain heavily. Roads stay accessible but caution is needed.
Special Time: Durga Puja
The Nartiang Durga Temple hosts one of the most unique Durga Pujas in the region, making it a fascinating cultural experience.
Ideal Trip Duration and Suggested Itinerary
Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 days is perfect to explore Nartiang and nearby attractions.
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Shillong → Nartiang
- Start early from Shillong
- Visit Nartiang Monolith Garden
- Explore Durga Temple
- Walk around the village and enjoy local cuisine
- Stay overnight in Jowai or Shillong
Day 2: Nearby Sightseeing
Visit places around Jowai such as:
- Thadlaskein Lake
- Krang Suri Waterfalls
- Syntu Ksiar on the Myntdu River
Return to Shillong or Guwahati by evening.
Best Types of Stays Near Nartiang, Meghalaya
Nartiang is a peaceful heritage village and does not have many accommodation options within the village itself. However, several nearby towns and scenic areas offer good hotels, homestays, and resorts suited to different types of travelers. Most visitors choose to stay in Jowai or Shillong, which provide easy access to Nartiang and other attractions in the Jaintia Hills.
1. Best Types of Stays
Homestays
- Ideal for travelers who want to experience local culture, Jaintia cuisine, and village life.
- Mostly available in Jowai and surrounding areas.
- Offer warm hospitality and peaceful environments.
Budget Hotels
- Found mainly in Jowai, perfect for short stays and affordable pricing.
- Suitable for solo travelers, backpackers, or those planning a quick visit.
Boutique Stays / Guesthouses
- Charming properties often built with traditional architecture and local design touches.
- Available in Shillong, with some options near Jowai.
- Ideal for couples and families.
Resorts & Premium Stays
- Located around Shillong’s outskirts or by scenic lakes and hills.
- Perfect for travelers who want comfort, privacy, and nature views.
Eco-Stays
- Found around Jowai and along scenic hill routes.
- Designed for nature lovers who prefer peaceful surroundings.
2. Nearby Stay Areas and Distances from Nartiang
1. Jowai (25 km, 40 minutes)
- The closest major town to Nartiang.
- Offers hotels, homestays, cafés, and local markets.
- Recommended for travelers who want convenience and easy access to attractions like Thadlaskein Lake, Krang Suri Waterfall, and Syntu Ksiar.
2. Ummulong (15 km, 25 minutes)
- A small town located on the Shillong–Jowai highway.
- Limited but peaceful homestays and guesthouses.
- Good option for travelers who prefer quiet surroundings.
3. Shangpung (30 km, 45 minutes)
- A scenic village near Jowai with a few homestays.
- Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a countryside experience.
4. Shillong (60 km, 1.5 to 2 hours)
- The capital city of Meghalaya with the widest range of accommodations:
- Luxury hotels
- Boutique stays
- Resorts
- Budget hotels
- Backpacker hostels
- Luxury hotels
- Recommended for travelers wanting comfort, food options, nightlife, and easy day trips across Meghalaya.
5. Thadlaskein Area (20 km, 30 minutes)
- Located near the scenic Thadlaskein Lake.
- Offers a few guesthouses and lakeside stay options.
- Perfect for travelers who want calm surroundings and nature views.
6. Khliehriat (45 km, 1 hour)
- Headquarters of East Jaintia Hills District.
- Has a few hotels and guesthouses.
- Suitable for travelers extending their visit toward Ladrymbai or Dawki side.
Recommended Stay Choice Based on Traveler Type
- For families: Boutique stays or resorts in Shillong
- For culture lovers: Homestays in Jowai or Shangpung
- For budget travelers: Guesthouses in Jowai
- For nature lovers: Eco-stays near Thadlaskein
- For road-trippers: Hotels in Ummulong or Jowai (close to the highway)
Top Places to Visit Nearby
1. Krang Suri Waterfalls (30 km)
One of Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfalls, known for its blue waters and scenic surroundings.
2. Thadlaskein Lake (20 km)
A calm lake perfect for picnics, boating, and photography.
3. Syntu Ksiar (20 km)
A historical and peaceful riverside location known as the site where the freedom fighter Kiang Nangbah raised his banner.
4. Jowai Town
Explore markets, cafés, local culture, and viewpoints.
5. Tyrshi Falls (near Jowai)
A beautiful waterfall with a stone bridge and scenic walking path.
Why Nartiang Should Be in Your Travel List
1. A Hidden Historical Treasure
Few places in India have such a large collection of ancient monoliths preserved in their natural setting.
2. Cultural Richness
Nartiang’s stories, legends, and royal connections make it an exciting destination for history lovers.
3. Offbeat and Peaceful
Unlike crowded tourist spots, Nartiang offers a calm environment ideal for relaxation and exploration.
4. Beautiful Landscapes
Rolling hills, forests, streams, and village scenery make the journey memorable.
5. Great Add-On to Your Meghalaya Itinerary
It fits perfectly if you are visiting Shillong, Jowai, Dawki, Sohra, or other popular locations.
Final Travel Tips
- Start early from Shillong or Jowai to cover Nartiang comfortably.
- Carry cash, as small markets may not accept digital payments.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the monolith garden.
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples or interacting with villagers.
- Photography is allowed in most of the places, but avoid climbing or touching the monoliths.
- Hire a local guide if you wish to learn the historical stories behind the stones.
- Travel responsibly, avoid littering, and enjoy nature respectfully.