Things to do in Jowai
Jowai is referred to as the uppermost trading center of Meghalaya, it is located in the northeastern region of India. With reference to time, this mesmerizing town is now a major educational hub as it receives students from Bangladesh and neighboring states at a large number. The town of Jowai is provided with numerous scenic vistas by nature because it is situated at a great altitude. It is at a height of 1,380 meters above sea level. It is bordered by a river—Myntdu from three of its side which supplies chilly water throughout the year. During the summer times, the water of this river is quite pleasing due to its chillness. But during the winter months, it’s completely chilly. A traveler of Jowai can witness a green and eye-soothing environment in every season as it remains green around the year. Jowai is located in Meghalaya where after visiting a traveler will confuse him/herself that what to explore and what not. So, to ease the uncertainty some of the well-known places of Jowai are described below.
Following are the Things to Do in Jowai
1Enjoy at Lalong Park
Lalong park is referred to as the best location to visit with families and friends as it is a famous hotspot for picnics. This beauty is referred to as the Eco-parked within the village of Lalong which lies in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalya. This park is quite famous among the locals as they visit this park in large numbers for picnics. If you are traveling to Meghalaya then you must visit this location to witness the charm and peace of nature. The total area of this park is 12.80 hectares and it is popular because of its flora which the locals of Jowai used to describe as sacred. On one side of the park, travelers can observe a point at which after standing visitors can get a breathtaking view of Pynthorwah Valley.
The entire zone of the park is modernized with all the necessary amenities. The location is well equipped with facilities like changing rooms, toilets, dams, canals, and many more. Within the park, travelers can perceive a variety of flowers and small-small plants which can catch hold their eyesight. Inside the park for refreshing the Lalong Cooperative Society Limited had built some traveler’s nests that can supply a cozy stay in the lap of nature. If you love the sport of archery then this park is one of the most recommended locations from our side as it organizes an archery competition for the locals once every month even tourists can participate in this competition. If you are traveling with young ones then this location should not be avoided at any price because it provides a wide range for running and playing for Children.
The entire zone of the park is modernized with all the necessary amenities. The location is well equipped with facilities like changing rooms, toilets, dams, canals, and many more. Within the park, travelers can perceive a variety of flowers and small-small plants which can catch hold their eyesight. Inside the park for refreshing the Lalong Cooperative Society Limited had built some traveler’s nests that can supply a cozy stay in the lap of nature. If you love the sport of archery then this park is one of the most recommended locations from our side as it organizes an archery competition for the locals once every month even tourists can participate in this competition. If you are traveling with young ones then this location should not be avoided at any price because it provides a wide range for running and playing for Children.
2 Discover the History at Syntu Ksiar
Syntu ksiar is a tiny picnic spot to visit with young ones. It is situated in the west Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya on the banks of the river, which is pronounced as the Myntdu River. It is one of the most recommended places to visit in Jowai as it provides some historical knowledge. Syntu Ksiar is a location that spreads over a long distance following the river Myntdu. Syntu Ksiar literally means the golden flowers in the local Jaintia tongue. According to the local inhabitants, this beautiful location gets its name from a lady who used to be called Syntu. The locals of this alluring site believed that a long year back the lady Syntu committed suicide by jumping into the river. And when she drowned in the river, a beautiful flower whose color was quite similar to gold blooms in the middle of the river. When the legends of that time perceive the beauty of flowers they ordered the locals not to pluck. And from that era, this location got its name Syntu Ksair.
This place is also popular because of a freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah. From this place, only this freedom fighter had started the freedom struggle against the British Army. He was a great fighter but due to betrayal by his own companions, this legend came under the trap of the British. And in the year 1862 on 30th December this legend was hanged to death publically to strike the terror of the British in the hearts of the Jaintias people. In the honor of this brave freedom fighter, a memorial has been erected here. Today this place is an ideal location for picnic and angling activities for the locals as well tourists. Many travelers used to visit this palace to relax their tired bodies and mind by sitting in the soft sun and receiving the gentle breezes from the riverside. To reach the other side of the river from one side a beautiful wire suspension bridge is constructed for the travelers and while crossing travelers can also perceive the beauty of water harvesting across the river
This place is also popular because of a freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah. From this place, only this freedom fighter had started the freedom struggle against the British Army. He was a great fighter but due to betrayal by his own companions, this legend came under the trap of the British. And in the year 1862 on 30th December this legend was hanged to death publically to strike the terror of the British in the hearts of the Jaintias people. In the honor of this brave freedom fighter, a memorial has been erected here. Today this place is an ideal location for picnic and angling activities for the locals as well tourists. Many travelers used to visit this palace to relax their tired bodies and mind by sitting in the soft sun and receiving the gentle breezes from the riverside. To reach the other side of the river from one side a beautiful wire suspension bridge is constructed for the travelers and while crossing travelers can also perceive the beauty of water harvesting across the river
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3 Boating in Thadlaskien lake
Thadlaskein lake is a site in jowai where a traveler can navigate a boat on a clean-water lake. You can observe this beautiful lake which is referred to as the tranquil. It is located in the village of Mukhla within the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalya. One can observe this mesmerizing lake next to the Shilong jowai highway. It is also referred to as the best place to witness in jowai among the major tourist attractions of Jowai.
Thalaskein lake is an artificial reservoir and a famous place to spend the weekends for its regional people. The lake was formed when the followers of U Sajar Nangli started digging the ground with their bows and arrows. The chieftain of Jaintia, U Sajar Nangli, had an incompatible difference with the king’s opinion, due to which U Sajar Nagli thought that his difference in opinion can lead to a bloodbath of his own people. And if anything happened wrong with any of his followers, he will be responsible for it directly. So he decided to leave the king’s palace along with his people. And when they leave the palace and started their journey, After walking for a distance they sit under a tree where his companions started digging the ground with their bows, arrows, swords, and knives. Which thereafter turns the level ground into a beautiful lake. Apart from the significance of the past event this beautiful lake is extremely beautiful and popular for picnics, outings, and spending some time with the family.
The Thadlaskien lake is encircled by a river called Myntdu and pieces of grassland which are used for hay. Near this lake, a traveler can witness a variety of orchids along with many species of flora and fauna. If you are a nature layover then this location is a synonym of paradise for you and absolutely breathtaking. If you are willing to stay overnight next to this beautiful lake, then following this lake there is a small hotel that Meghalaya Tourism used to run is there which can provide quality service.
Thalaskein lake is an artificial reservoir and a famous place to spend the weekends for its regional people. The lake was formed when the followers of U Sajar Nangli started digging the ground with their bows and arrows. The chieftain of Jaintia, U Sajar Nangli, had an incompatible difference with the king’s opinion, due to which U Sajar Nagli thought that his difference in opinion can lead to a bloodbath of his own people. And if anything happened wrong with any of his followers, he will be responsible for it directly. So he decided to leave the king’s palace along with his people. And when they leave the palace and started their journey, After walking for a distance they sit under a tree where his companions started digging the ground with their bows, arrows, swords, and knives. Which thereafter turns the level ground into a beautiful lake. Apart from the significance of the past event this beautiful lake is extremely beautiful and popular for picnics, outings, and spending some time with the family.
The Thadlaskien lake is encircled by a river called Myntdu and pieces of grassland which are used for hay. Near this lake, a traveler can witness a variety of orchids along with many species of flora and fauna. If you are a nature layover then this location is a synonym of paradise for you and absolutely breathtaking. If you are willing to stay overnight next to this beautiful lake, then following this lake there is a small hotel that Meghalaya Tourism used to run is there which can provide quality service.
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4 Indulge in Adventure Activities in Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is the place where travelers can perform multiple adrenaline-boosting activities. Here travelers can witness the iconic bridge of Meghalya too. Dawki is a small town in the district of west Jaintia Hills. This beautiful and alluring town is located next to the Umngot River, which is referred to as the cleanest river in India. The water that flows through this river is so crystal and clear that it can confuse a traveler with its quality. It provides a feeling that the boats are floating over the air instead of floating on the river. This breathtaking town is squeezed between India and Bangladesh. It is also referred to as the border town and major trade center between India and Bangladesh. The Dawki-Tamabil highway is one of the few roads that connect India with Bangladesh by crossing the border. The road was constructed mainly for transferring coal from India to Bangladesh. Within this town, travelers can also witness the Indo-Bangladesh gate which is marked as the major attraction.
Apart from trading purposes, this town has some immense natural beauty like the Umngot river, Jaflong Zero Point, Umngot Bridge, and Burhill Falls. Jaflong Zero point is the location where travelers can witness individuals on the other side of the country and Burhill falls is considered a massive and ferocious fall of Meghalaya. If you are an adventurous youth then Dawki is an ideal location for you as it furnishes many adrenaline-pumping outdoor sports like Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Zip lining, kayaking, boating, swimming, fishing, rappelling, and lots more. During the winter months, this location receives the highest number of tourists and this is the only time when a traveler can spectate the natural beauty of the Umngot river.
Apart from trading purposes, this town has some immense natural beauty like the Umngot river, Jaflong Zero Point, Umngot Bridge, and Burhill Falls. Jaflong Zero point is the location where travelers can witness individuals on the other side of the country and Burhill falls is considered a massive and ferocious fall of Meghalaya. If you are an adventurous youth then Dawki is an ideal location for you as it furnishes many adrenaline-pumping outdoor sports like Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Zip lining, kayaking, boating, swimming, fishing, rappelling, and lots more. During the winter months, this location receives the highest number of tourists and this is the only time when a traveler can spectate the natural beauty of the Umngot river.
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5 Witness the capital City— Shillong
Shillong is referred to as the Scotland of the east due to its allure-ness. It is also considered the headquarters of the East Khasi Hills district. It is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the northeastern region of India. It has each and every quality that makes a hill station perfect to plan a trip. It is nestled at an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level, which thereafter provides suitable weather conditions throughout the year for its travelers. Shillong city is encircled by the gorge of Umiam from its north, and from the northwest, it is covered with Diengiei Hills. Shillong was the capital city for both Assam and Meghalaya when Shillong and Assam were united but in the year 1972, when Assam separated its boundary from Meghalaya its capital city transferred to Dispur. The highest peak in Shillong is pronounced as Shillong Peak which is situated at an altitude of 6,449 above sea level. Within the city, travelers can do multiple activities like boating, trekking, camping, swimming, and many more.
6 Observe the largest Monoliths in India
In Jowai travelers can observe the largest monoliths of India. It is nestled in the village Mulong, it is also referred to as the garden of monoliths as it spreads over an area of hundred meters. It is one of the well-known tourist spots in Meghalaya as it attracts tourists not only from the country but also from foreign nationals to witness its quality. It is also renowned as the monument of Meghalaya.
The highest collection of monoliths that a traveler can observe in a single place is the location of Nartianag. It is also considered the summer capital for the Jaintia rulers during the early ages. According to elderly locals, the collection of monoliths was erected to mark the king of the former Jaintia Kings. However, some scholar also believes that these monoliths were erected when the market from Raliang to Nartiang was established. This beautiful location has been declared nationally important under an Archaeological site and remains act 1958 of India.
The Upright stone or Menhirs are regionally called Ki Moo Shynrang, and Dolmens. While the horizontal and flat stones or dolmens are called Ki Moo kynthai. Moo Long Syiem has considered the biggest and tallest monolith as its total height is 8 meters and its breadth is 2 meters wide. The thickness of this monolith is about 0.46 meters. The monolith was erected by a trusted lieutenant of the Jaintia kings known as U Marphalyngki. Other monoliths were erected by the followers of the former Jaintia kings, U Marphalyngki and U Luh Lyngshkor Lamare at the start of the 17th century. The fastest way to reach this location is by air and the nearest airport to this location is situated near the capital city of Meghalaya, Umroi Airport. Which has regular connectivity with cities like Kolkata and Imphal.
The highest collection of monoliths that a traveler can observe in a single place is the location of Nartianag. It is also considered the summer capital for the Jaintia rulers during the early ages. According to elderly locals, the collection of monoliths was erected to mark the king of the former Jaintia Kings. However, some scholar also believes that these monoliths were erected when the market from Raliang to Nartiang was established. This beautiful location has been declared nationally important under an Archaeological site and remains act 1958 of India.
The Upright stone or Menhirs are regionally called Ki Moo Shynrang, and Dolmens. While the horizontal and flat stones or dolmens are called Ki Moo kynthai. Moo Long Syiem has considered the biggest and tallest monolith as its total height is 8 meters and its breadth is 2 meters wide. The thickness of this monolith is about 0.46 meters. The monolith was erected by a trusted lieutenant of the Jaintia kings known as U Marphalyngki. Other monoliths were erected by the followers of the former Jaintia kings, U Marphalyngki and U Luh Lyngshkor Lamare at the start of the 17th century. The fastest way to reach this location is by air and the nearest airport to this location is situated near the capital city of Meghalaya, Umroi Airport. Which has regular connectivity with cities like Kolkata and Imphal.
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7 Witness the Stone Bridge
In Jowai travelers can observe the stone bridge which was made by the Rajas of Jaintia Hills for trading purposes, which is called the Thulmuwi Stone bridge. It is considered one of the noted historical palaces in the nort easter region of India as it represents some of the best past architectural activity. It is one of the most witnessed places of Jowai as it is an old historical stone bridge.
The bridge was constructed under the order of Jaintia kings as this was the only route to travel from the Summer Capital Nartiang to the winter Capital Jaintiapur for the Jaintia Rajas. The bridge is made up of big-big slabs of stone which was supported by tall-tall stone pillars. The regional people used to believe that Thlumuwi Stone Bridge is more than 500 years old. It gets broken when an elephant tries to cross from one side of the river to the other side. Next to this bride, travelers can observe one more iron suspense bridge which helps travelers to perceive the beauty of the bridge from a short distance. At a short walk through Muwi stream travelers can observe Thlumuwi Falls. Graveled footpaths following the stream have been constructed to lead travelers to Thlumuwi falls. The cascading water of Muwi falls into the Thlumuwi stream which fails to notice the stone bridge, providing an unforgettable scenic vista.
The bridge was constructed under the order of Jaintia kings as this was the only route to travel from the Summer Capital Nartiang to the winter Capital Jaintiapur for the Jaintia Rajas. The bridge is made up of big-big slabs of stone which was supported by tall-tall stone pillars. The regional people used to believe that Thlumuwi Stone Bridge is more than 500 years old. It gets broken when an elephant tries to cross from one side of the river to the other side. Next to this bride, travelers can observe one more iron suspense bridge which helps travelers to perceive the beauty of the bridge from a short distance. At a short walk through Muwi stream travelers can observe Thlumuwi Falls. Graveled footpaths following the stream have been constructed to lead travelers to Thlumuwi falls. The cascading water of Muwi falls into the Thlumuwi stream which fails to notice the stone bridge, providing an unforgettable scenic vista.
8 Explore the Limestone Cave
Travellers can observe the longest cave in India within the state of Meghalaya. It is also pronounced as Lumshnong cave and limestone cave. It is one of the most witnessed caves of Meghalaya among the caves of Meghalya. This is the only cave in Meghalaya which is joined by two other caves namely The Umskor and the Kotsati. The total length of this cave is about 21 kilometers and its depth is about 100 meters. And due to this, the Umlawan cave is referred to as the longest and deepest cave within the country and sub-continent. The entrance of this cave is situated in the village of Lumshnong Village which is also considered the washing place for the regional people. The best time to visit this location is during the monsoon months as the entrance of this cave is flooded with water and one has to swim to get inside the Umlawan Cave. A Traveler can get inside this cave through 24 different-different entrances. From inside this cave is well-decorated with stalactites and stalagmites which sometimes appear artificial instead of natural. Due to its unbelieve quality, it attracts lots of tourists not only from India but also from foreign nationals.
9 Witness the stunning Tyrshi Falls
Visitors to Jowai can spectate a fall which is called Tyrshi falls. The appearance of this fall is quite similar to Elephant falls this is the only reason why it is compared with the most visited waterfall in Meghalaya—Elephant falls. The cascading water of Tyrshi falls is attached to green paddy fields through an arch bridge. From the arch bridge, travelers can enjoy a breathtaking view of the rice fields of Pynthor Nien. To reach the bottomless of Tyrshi falls a traveler has to trek down which is completely amusing. The moment you reach the underneath of this fall you can observe the clear view of the falls. The best part of this waterfall is that it cascades crystal clear water which thereafter observing from underneath provides a feeling as if milk is poured by the nature.
10 Witness the Cleanest Village in Asia
Travellers of Jowai can witness the cleanest village in Asia. In the year 2003 Discover India declared this small village with this title due to its tidiness and cleanliness. The beautiful fruit orchards, swaying palms, evergreen surroundings, and well-maintained traditions of the Khasi people make this location a must-visit place near the border. The best part of this village can be witnessed only by visiting it, the moment a traveler enters this village he/she can observe one thing very often that is cleaning. A traveller can perceive the regional people of this village are busy in cleaning, brooming, picking up the stuff from roadsides, and shaping the herbs and shrubs when they enter the Village.
Apart from cleanliness, this village has a hundred percent literacy rate so a traveler can easily communicate with the locals. English is the second most spoken language in this village. Since the year 2007, this small helmet is using functional toilets. Aside from the state of being clean the famous icon of Meghalaya which is a Single Living Root Bridge can also be witnessed within this village. Which is created by weaving and twisting the roots of two Fiscus Elastica/rubber trees that were growing next to the river. After twisting the roots the locals of this village supported it with a frame, which after that helped these roots to grow into the shape of a bridge. Mawlynnong living root bridge is also referred to as the Khasi traditional architecture. These fascinating root bridges are built with living roots, so it gets stronger as they grow old. Underneath this bridge, there is a small natural pool, which provides chill water throughout the year. And the best part of this pond is that a traveler can dive into the gushing pool.
Apart from cleanliness, this village has a hundred percent literacy rate so a traveler can easily communicate with the locals. English is the second most spoken language in this village. Since the year 2007, this small helmet is using functional toilets. Aside from the state of being clean the famous icon of Meghalaya which is a Single Living Root Bridge can also be witnessed within this village. Which is created by weaving and twisting the roots of two Fiscus Elastica/rubber trees that were growing next to the river. After twisting the roots the locals of this village supported it with a frame, which after that helped these roots to grow into the shape of a bridge. Mawlynnong living root bridge is also referred to as the Khasi traditional architecture. These fascinating root bridges are built with living roots, so it gets stronger as they grow old. Underneath this bridge, there is a small natural pool, which provides chill water throughout the year. And the best part of this pond is that a traveler can dive into the gushing pool.
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11 Observe the Jarain Pitcher Plant
Travellers can witness a lake in Jowai that is surrounded by carnivorous pitcher plants. The total area of this lake is about 50,000 square meters and it’s called Jarain Pitcher Plant lake. In the middle of the lake, travelers can observe an artificial pitcher plant which enhances the beauty of the lake. The best part of this lake is that it allows a traveler to perform a boating activity. And from the manmade pitcher plant travelers can also witness a fountain. The entire lake is bordered by a graveled path so travelers can walk around the lake. Apart from graveled paths, travelers can observe a garden and greenhouse interpretation. Among the locals, this place is referred to as the best picnic spot. If you are traveling by air to this location then the nearest airport is Umroi airport. Which is at a distance of 110 kilometers.
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12 Swim in the Natural Pool
In Jowai travellers can observe the ferocious waterfall of Meghalaya which is called Krang Suri. It is nestled in the West Jaintia Hills district. To observe the beauty of the falls, the District Administration has constructed a graveled footpath and a viewpoint for its travelers. The path that leads travelers to reach the bottomless is quite beautiful as it has multi-colored stones. To make this path no cement has been used, only the stones are placed uniformly. If you have an intense feeling about nature then you are going the enjoy routes a lot that leads you to these majestic falls. As it is full of alluring sights throughout the way.
It is famous because it is situated in the mountains, and the best part of this fall is that it can be clearly perceived from a distance. Underneath this fall there is a pond and to reach it travelers have to walk alongside the mountains on the gravel path, which is narrow quite narrow, and slippery. This gravel path makes the tour to Krangsuri falls more adventurous and thrilling. The water of the pool appears in a bluish color which attracts travelers to dive into it and hang out. The finest time to observe this stunning waterfall is post-monsoon or winter months because during this time the water of Karag Suri waterfalls is quite glassy. This is the only waterfall of Meghlaya which featured in many Bollywood movies. And because of it, only this falls receives a massive amount of tourists every year. The nearest airport to this mesmerizing waterfall is located close to Shillong city, which is considered the capital city of Meghalya. From Umroi or Shillong airport travellers have to outstretch around 120 kilometers by cab to arrive at the location of this waterfall.
It is famous because it is situated in the mountains, and the best part of this fall is that it can be clearly perceived from a distance. Underneath this fall there is a pond and to reach it travelers have to walk alongside the mountains on the gravel path, which is narrow quite narrow, and slippery. This gravel path makes the tour to Krangsuri falls more adventurous and thrilling. The water of the pool appears in a bluish color which attracts travelers to dive into it and hang out. The finest time to observe this stunning waterfall is post-monsoon or winter months because during this time the water of Karag Suri waterfalls is quite glassy. This is the only waterfall of Meghlaya which featured in many Bollywood movies. And because of it, only this falls receives a massive amount of tourists every year. The nearest airport to this mesmerizing waterfall is located close to Shillong city, which is considered the capital city of Meghalya. From Umroi or Shillong airport travellers have to outstretch around 120 kilometers by cab to arrive at the location of this waterfall.
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Frequently Asked Questions about things to do in Jowai
1. What makes Jowai a special place?
Jowai is an extremely beautiful and delicate location in the state of Meghalaya. It is situated in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghlaya. It is also referred to as the heart of the state. It is surrounded by a river from its three sides. Which enhances the beauty of this mesmerizing town a lot.
2. What are some things to buy from Jowai as mementos?
Whenever we visit a tourist attraction, we try to collect some kinds of materials as mementos of that place while leaving the location. Similarly in Jowai travelers can buy multiple items as mementos because the regional people of this lush green town are excellent at making small-small handicrafts, handlooms, traditional clothes, and handmade tools. Apart from these stuffs, travelers can also buy some edible items like spices, tea leaves, local fruits, and pickles.
3. What are some adventure sports to enjoy in Jowai?
If you like outdoor sports then Jowai is a location in Meghalaya which is not going to disappoint you. As it is full of outdoor activities. Some of the best outdoor sports to perform in Jowai are named below.
➠Trekking
➠Camping
➠Boating
➠Swimming
➠Kayaking
4. What are some must explore Places to visit in Jowai?
Within the region or around Jowai travelers can spot many beautiful locations. The tourist attractions of Jowai are really unable to be explained. Their real beauty can only be observed by witnessing it with your own eyes. Some of the best places to visit in Jowai are mentioned below.
➠Syntu Ksiar
➠Tyrshi Falls
➠Lalong Park
➠Thadlaskein Lake
➠Nartiang Monoliths
5. How many days are enough to explore Jowai?
Jowai can be explored in 1-2 days maximum for exploring the sightseeing spots and undertaking the adventurous activities. You can check out our Jowai Krangsuri Mawphanlur Tour or Hidden Meghalaya Tour for a perfect sightseeing tour.
6. Mention some of the best hotels and resorts to stay in Jowai?
If you are planning a trip to Jowai then you are not going to face any problems in terms of staying in jowai as it has many resorts and hotels for its travelers. Some well-known restaurants are named below where a visitor to Jowai can have a comfortable stay.
➠MRK3 TYRCHI–INN
➠Tista Guest House & Restaurant (nearby)
➠Saral Adventure Resort
➠Wahi Inn Restuarant
➠New Broadway Hotel
7. What is the fastest way to reach Jowai?
The fastest way to arrive at the location of Jowai is by air but regrettably, it does not have an airport. The closest airport to this location is located at a distance of 72 kilometers, near the capital city of Meghalaya. This airport has good connectivity with two major cities of India and they are Imphal and Kolkata.
8. How to communicate in Jowai?
Jowai is a town that belongs to Meghalaya, and the second most spoken language of this beautiful state is English. Therefore, travelers to Jowai will not be going to face any difficulties in terms of communication. Though the regional language of Jowai is Khasi nevertheless the locals are even familiar with Hindi.
9. Is it safe for visiting Jowai?
Yes, Jowai is a safe place for travellers, it is so safe that a solo woman can travel and explore all the tourist attractions of Jowai. Jowai belongs to Meghalaya which compared to any other state of the northeast has an extremely low crime rate.