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Umiam Lake (Barapani)

Umiam Lake (Barapani)

adventure spot · Meghalaya

Umiam Lake, popularly known as Barapani, is a large, sparkling reservoir set among pine-clad hills just north of Shillong in Meghalaya.

State
Meghalaya
Type
Adventure Spot

Umiam Lake, popularly known as Barapani, is a large, sparkling reservoir set among pine-clad hills just north of Shillong in Meghalaya. Created by a dam on the Umiam river, it is a favourite spot for water sports, boating and photography, and a classic stop on the drive from Guwahati to Shillong.

When to go

October to April is ideal, with clear skies and pleasant weather for water activities.

Why visit

A reservoir rather than a lake — the Umiam was dammed in the sixties for Meghalaya's first hydroelectric scheme. Fifteen kilometres out of Shillong on the Guwahati road, so nearly everyone sees it in passing rather than on purpose.

Cultural notes

Umiam is Meghalaya's popular lakeside gateway, framed by the Khasi hills and pine forests.

How to reach

By Road: Umiam Lake is about 15 km north of Shillong on the Guwahati highway. By Air and Train: Guwahati in Assam is the nearest airport and railhead, around 80 km away.

Umiam Lake (Barapani) guide & itineraries

Shopping

Shillong nearby sells Khasi handicrafts, bamboo work and local produce.

Frequently asked questions

What is Umiam Lake known for?

A scenic reservoir near Shillong popular for water sports, boating and photography, framed by pine-covered Khasi hills.

How far is Umiam Lake from Shillong?

About 15 km, on the main road towards Guwahati.

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Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is the cultural and musical heart of Northeast India — nicknamed the 'Scotland of the East' for its rolling hills and pine-clad landscape. With its cafe scene, live-music culture, waterfalls and easy access to the wonders of Meghalaya, it has become a top pick for young travellers heading east. The city blends Khasi culture, colonial-era charm and a famously music-loving population (it's often called India's rock capital) with a buzzing cafe and hostel scene. It works perfectly as a workation base and a launchpad for Cherrapunji, living root bridges and Dawki's crystal-clear river.

Cherrapunji & Living Root Bridges

Cherrapunji & Living Root Bridges

Cherrapunji, known traditionally by its indigenous name Sohra, is a high tableland at 1,430 metres on the southern face of the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. The land drops away sharply from it into the low-lying plains of Bangladesh, and what lies between is cut by deep vertical canyons, honeycombed with colossal limestone caves, and hung with some of the world's highest plunge waterfalls — among them Nohkalikai, the tallest plunge fall in India. The valleys below hold the living root bridges. Khasi clans grow them over decades, training the aerial roots of Ficus elastica trees out across thundering mountain rivers. The finest of them is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, deep on the valley floor at Nongriat village.

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