By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 1: Whether called Cherrapunjee or Sohra, this stunning destination, located approximately 56 kilometres from Shillong, continues to enchant visitors with its breathtaking scenery, despite weather conditions that occasionally create temporary setbacks for tourists.
Once recognised as the wettest place on Earth, Sohra still draws large numbers of visitors from far and wide, despite having lost the tag to Mawsynram.
Expectations run high among homestay and resort owners, food sellers, restaurant owners and everyone else who have invested on the tourism sector.
“The place is amazing. The only disappointment here for us has been extreme fog, which blocks the views of magnificent falls like Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters Falls,” remarked a tourist from Mumbai, as he and other eager visitors waited hopefully for the fog to lift. To their dismay, they were not in luck that day.
Sohra boasts an abundance of scenic attractions, and with the influx of tourists, hundreds of homestays and scores of hotels and resorts have sprung up across the town, providing accommodation for those wishing to extend their stay.
“The business is somehow fine and the tourist season has started now. We hope it continues like this,” commented a local homestay owner and a resident of Sohra.
Tourists also appreciated the local community’s engagement in tourism, recognising that the locals are now heavily involved in the sector to sustain their livelihoods.
A visit to a popular eatery revealed a well-trained team of women managing every aspect, from welcoming guests at reception to serving food in the dining area.
Their professionalism and politeness, coupled with their efficient dining service, would surely impress visitors.
Adding to Sohra’s appeal, a newly opened eco-resort in the depths of Nongwar village offers a unique view of the Bangladeshi plains and has proved to be a hit among tourists.
The 17-18 km journey to the resort from Sohra, lined with deep gorges and dense forest on both sides, is an adventure in itself, culminating in mesmerising scenery.
The eco-resort includes comfortable rooms, a swimming pool and a well-maintained restaurant, where many were seen enjoying a day of relaxation.
Whilst many tourists praised the hospitality of Sohra’s residents, some suggested minor improvements to enhance the experience further.
“Food prices are a bit high, typical of tourist spots,” noted one visitor, adding that tourists are sometimes required to pay multiple entry fees for revisiting certain locations.