Nestled in the verdant hills of Meghalaya, Umiam Lake is a mesmerising expanse of azure waters that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. This man-made reservoir, also known as Bara Pani, spans an impressive 220 square kilometres and serves as a lifeline for the region. Created in the 1960s, Umiam Lake generates hydroelectric power and has become a popular tourist destination. Its picturesque setting, surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills, offers a perfect escape from the bustle of city life.
About Umiam Lake
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Umiam Lake, also known as Bara Pani, is a reservoir approximately 15 km north of Shillong in Meghalaya. It was created in the early 1960s by damming the Umiam River. The lake spans a catchment area of about 225 square kilometres.
A popular tourist destination in Meghalaya, this Lake attracts visitors with its water sports and adventure opportunities. Tourists can engage in kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating. The lake’s scenic beauty, surrounded by hills and connected by picturesque roadways and bridges, adds to the allure of the Guwahati-Shillong route.
Also Read: Picnic Spots In Meghalaya
History Of Umiam Lake
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Umiam Dam, constructed by the Assam State Electricity Board in the early 1960s, was initially designed to harness water for hydroelectric power generation. It is a significant project in India’s northeastern region, marking the inception of reservoir-storage hydroelectric initiatives. The Stage I powerhouse north of the lake began operations in 1965 with four 9-MW turbine-generators. This development preceded the Umtru Hydroelectric Project, which commenced in 1957 with an initial capacity of 8.4 MW as a run-of-river scheme.
Before the dam’s construction for electricity generation, the Umiam Valley, now submerged under the lake, was inhabited by Khasi communities. The valley encompassed Ri-Kynti (public) and Ri-Raid (clan) lands, along with villages like Khwan and Umsaw. The project proposal in June 1958 initially met resistance from residents facing displacement due to the reservoir’s creation, dam construction, and powerhouse installation.
Things To Do At Umiam Lake
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Below are some things you can do at Umiam Lake:
1. Picnicking by the Lake
Enjoy a relaxing picnic with family and friends amidst the beautiful hills surrounding Umiam Lake. Sit on a blanket, try local Meghalayan food, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere under the sun.
2. Camping in Nature
Nature lovers and adventurers can camp in the green fields near the lake. Many camping spots offer an unforgettable experience surrounded by Meghalaya’s natural beauty.
3. Staying in Lakeside Resorts
For a picturesque getaway, choose from cosy resorts around the lake. Wake up to stunning lake views and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
4. Photography
Umiam Lake is perfect for photographers. Capture the lake’s changing colours and reflections on the Khasi Hills, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
5. Bird Watching
Bird lovers will find the lake and its surroundings a paradise. Spot various birds in their natural habitat, making it an excellent spot for bird watchers.
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Timings And Entrance Fees
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Umiam Lake welcomes visitors throughout the day without specific closure times for lake access. However, water sports activities, including pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, skiing, scooters, river buses, and yachting, are available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The lake is ideal for 1-2 hours of enjoying these activities or simply relaxing by the picturesque waters.
There are nominal entry fees for those interested in the various water sports: INR 20 for a 30-minute pedal boat/canoe/kayak, INR 200 for skiing, INR 50 for scooters and river buses, and INR 100 for yachting. These fees make this lake a budget-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to experience its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Best Time To Visit The Lake?
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Umiam Lake offers a vastly different experience depending on the time of year you visit. From October to April, this period is considered the ideal time to see due to the pleasant and picturesque weather conditions. During these months, temperatures typically range between 10°C to 20°C. The clear skies prevalent during this season provide an uninterrupted view of the lake, enhancing its scenic beauty. The lake’s calm waters during these months are perfect for various recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking. The tranquil environment makes it an excellent spot for camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Conversely, the summer months from May to June bring hot and humid weather, making outdoor activities less comfortable and enjoyable. The monsoon season, lasting from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the region, potentially limiting outdoor excursions and affecting visibility. Therefore, to ensure the most enjoyable experience at Umiam Lake, it is advisable to plan your visit during the cooler and drier months from October to April. This time offers the best conditions for exploring the lake and engaging in various activities without the interruptions caused by extreme weather conditions.
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How To Reach Umiam Lake?
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Several convenient transportation options to reach Umiam Lake ensure you can reach the lake quickly. They are as follows:
1. By Roadways
From Shillong, Umiam Lake is a short 15 km to the north. Travellers can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the lake. The scenic journey offers glimpses of the region’s lush greenery and rolling hills. If you are travelling from Guwahati to Assam, you can take National Highway 6 (NH6) towards Shillong. Covering a distance of approximately 100 km, the road trip to Umiam Lake takes around 3-4 hours by car. Numerous private and public buses also ply this route, providing additional flexibility.
2. By Airways
The nearest airport to Umiam Lake is Shillong Airport, also known as Umroi Airport, just 30 Km away. However, it’s important to note that this airport has limited connectivity and flight options. Lok Priya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is a viable alternative for travellers seeking more flight choices. From Guwahati, which is well-connected by air to major Indian cities, reaching the lake is feasible via a taxi or bus journey along NH6.
3. By Railways
Guwahati Railway Station in Assam is the nearest central railway hub to Umiam Lake. This station offers extensive rail connectivity to various parts of India, making it a convenient transit point for travellers visiting Umiam Lake.
From Guwahati Railway Station, travellers can continue their journey towards the lake by road, following NH6 towards Shillong. The road journey usually takes 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops.
You May Also Like To Read: Valleys In Meghalaya
Umiam Lake is a hidden gem that encapsulates Meghalaya’s natural beauty and tranquillity. With its clear waters, green surroundings, and many activities, It is an excellent escape for nature lovers and adventurers. Whether kayaking, picnicking by the shore, or enjoying the stunning views, This Lake offers an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore this magical place. Book your trip to Meghalaya today and enjoy the captivating charm of Umiam Lake. Let the precise beauty of this man-made wonder amaze you and create lasting memories.
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Cover Image Credit: Dr Vikramjit Kakati for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Umiam Lake
What is special about Umiam Lake?
Umiam Lake, also known as Bara Pani, is a reservoir located in the hills 15 km north of Shillong in the state of Meghalaya, India. The lake is renowned for its scenic beauty and is a major tourist attraction in Meghalaya. It offers opportunities for various water sports and adventure activities and hosts cultural festivals and ceremonies of the Khasi people.
How much is a taxi from Guwahati to Umiam Lake?
Taxi fare from Guwahati to Umiam Lake typically costs between $18 and $22, offering a convenient travel option to reach the scenic reservoir located near Shillong, Meghalaya, known for its beauty and water sports activities.
Can you swim in Umiam Lake?
While Umiam Lake is famous for water sports, there is no specific mention of swimming being allowed in the lake itself. However, visitors can enjoy swimming at the adjoining Orchid Lake Resort, which has a swimming pool open to guests.
What is the fee for Umiam Lake?
The entry fee for Umiam Lake is INR 50. This nominal fee allows visitors to enjoy the picturesque surroundings and participate in various water sports activities available at the lake, making it a worthwhile destination in Meghalaya, India.
Is there boating in Umiam Lake?
Yes, Umiam Lake is a major hub for water sports, including boating. Visitors can enjoy paddle boats, water scooters, and speed boats on the lake.
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