Afaque Hussain narrates a first-hand experience of a stimulating yet testing trek to Wahniangleng; a day’s trip to one of Meghalaya’s undisclosed locations leaving explorers, backpackers and travellers spellbound.
Meghalaya has no dearth of exotic and serene locations that leave everyone in awe of its refreshing surroundings and enchanting sceneries. To add to that is the thrill and adventure which many pockets of the state offers its visitors leaving an indelible impression for times to stay.
In the list of several exotic locations is the newest addition Wahniangleng – The Bulls Trek.The panoramic location is located in Mylliem, just an hour’s drive from the hustle bustle of the capital city, Shillong.
Wahniangleng is no ordinary location. It is one where most would be pleased with the essence of nature but also for those who wish to experience the magnificent trek, encompassing a long path of deep forest, rocky paths and difficult terrain for 1.8 kilometres (approx.) before arriving at the scenic spot which has been nurtured by nature itself and the local residents.
What makes a visit to Wahniangleng all the more memorable is the warm reception and generosity of the local people, who have left no stone unturned to ensure a pleasurable and refreshing experience for those visiting.
To reach the set location, a detour from the main highway is necessary where the road to the village is further dissected into small roads. While passing through the village, little children playing on the way wave at visitors with sheer joy on their arrival to the village which was not known by many a few years ago.
Thanks to travellers, explorers and vloggers popularising it, this less explored place has slowly become a stop for most touristing the state.
As one reaches the tail end of the village, a designated place for parking has been earmarked by the villagers. The locals charge a minimal amount of Rs 30 for a day’s parking. The entire process of walking down the valley, enjoying the scenery for such a nominal fare takes up to at least 3-4 hours. One can also have a hearty local meal here as locals have set up their shops.
As one would commence their trek to the valley through the tough terrain, local residents are found selling different items and eatables throughout the route in a bid to make a livelihood for themselves.
As soon as we started our trek, an old man approached us asking if we needed wooden trekking poles with a soft voice while adding that the pole would be of great help in navigating the rugged terrain.
As we moved further, we met local tiny tots who were selling drinking water, juice and other food items with a smile on their faces. However, purchasing any of these goods here would cost slightly higher than the MRP, considering the remote location. Other than them, there were numerous others who had also erected small shops with necessary items that one might need ascending the tough trek. The descent takes about 40-45 minutes as one has to pass through uneven slopes, steps, narrow paths and even a forest.
As we were about to reach the valley, a lone youth in the forest was seen cleaning the trash and garbage left by visitors.He said that this is the ugly side of tourism as once a location is made open to the world, the challenge of garbage in the otherwise untouched location comes to the fore but added that the village is keen to ensure that the place does not lose its essence.
In the middle of a sapping trek, many exhausted visitors who were on their way back to the village were seen climbing up to the top of the village while many others were seen pausing at frequent intervals giving themselves a breather.
In excitement of reaching the location, some fitness enthusiasts were also seen cycling back to the village from Wahniangleng on their way back to the top traversing through the narrow and difficult path.
After a tough trek of nearly 40 minutes, we finally made our way to the location and before the local authorities charged Rs 75 per head as entry ticket. Next to the ticket counter, fresh water from the hills was made available for exhausted visitors to rejuvenate themselves. After the herculean task, we finally made it to Wahniangleng – the scenic sight with huge hills, pine trees, and a beautiful river with sparse human presence. Some even equated the beauty of the place to that of Kashmir’s.
The serenity of the place is such that one can sit for hours appreciating the beauty of nature. While there aren’t many activities to engage in, boating is definitely one of them. In fact, many visitors were also seen camping to enjoy a pleasant night amidst nature.
One good thing about those that miss connectivity during such visits is that the mobile network here works just fine even though the location is deep down the valley. However, one aspect that needs the attention of the locals is provision of clean lavatories and washrooms.
After having spent quality time in the lap of nature it was finally time to head back home. Looking back at the huge mountain and difficult terrain, the hearts of many would pulsate. And that’s exactly what this place is about. My friends and I decided to do this once again. Trekking the strenuous climb was not easy, and we took breaks in between, but it was worth every bit.
As we took small pauses, several local villagers whom we crossed paths with smiled and admitted that the trek is indeed a laborious one that can be tiring. They, however, also encouraged us to keep moving forward, conveying that the destination is not far. Local residents found none of it exacting as we saw children who climbed up the hill with ease.
“They are like superheroes.The Trek is difficult for us but these children are climbing with almost no effort.” a visitor said.
After the tedious trail and hiking, we finally made it to the village where some kind and generous local women kept our helmets safe in their shops without charging us any money which is not the practice in many places as this is a chargeable service. As we collected our belongings, these women asked us about our experience to which we replied – it was mind blowing!
The exhilarating experience left us speechless as we headed home towards the city when my friend muttered, until next time.