Umkhakoi Reservoir
General Description: Umkhakoi Reservoir is a stunning man-made lake located in the Mawlyngbna village of Meghalaya, designed to harness the abundant rainfall of the region. Unlike typical industrial dams, this reservoir blends seamlessly with the natural rock formations, creating a scenic landscape that looks entirely organic. The reservoir is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters that reflect the vast Khasi skies and the surrounding green hills. It has become a central hub for adventure tourism in Mawsynram, offering activities that are rare in other parts of the state. The unique geological features surrounding the water include massive boulders and flat rock beds that are millions of years old. Local communities have done an excellent job of maintaining the site as an eco-tourism destination, ensuring that the water remains unpolluted. The reservoir serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the louder tourist spots in the East Khasi Hills. During the monsoon, the water level rises significantly, making the landscape look like a floating garden of rocks and lilies. The area is also known for its rich history, as the rocks around the reservoir contain fossils of sea urchins and shells from a time when this highland was under the Tethys Ocean. This makes the place a fascination for geologists and students who visit to study the ancient earth. The reservoir is quiet and calm, making it an ideal spot for meditation or nature photography. It is part of a larger ecosystem that includes pitcher plant sanctuaries and sacred groves. The reservoir provides a stable water supply for the nearby villages during the short dry season, showcasing a perfect balance between human needs and environmental preservation. For many travelers, the highlight is the silence of the place, broken only by the sound of paddles hitting the water or distant bird calls. It is truly a hidden sanctuary that captures the essence of the "Abode of Clouds."
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
Duration: 2 to 3 Hours.Place Type:
Eco-Tourism & Water Sports.Entry Fees:
Fee Details: Entry to the reservoir area is around 30 Rupees. Kayaking and canoeing charges are approximately 200 to 300 Rupees per person for a 30-minute session. Life jacket rentals are usually included in the boat fee. Parking for two-wheelers is 10 Rupees and 40 Rupe...Fee Details: Entry to the reservoir area is around 30 Rupees. Kayaking and canoeing charges are approximately 200 to 300 Rupees per person for a 30-minute session. Life jacket rentals are usually included in the boat fee. Parking for two-wheelers is 10 Rupees and 40 Rupees for four-wheelers. The funds are used for the ecological upkeep of the reservoir and to support the local adventure guides.Timing:
Schedule: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning at 9:30 AM for calm waters or at 3:30 PM for the sunset view. Kayaking services usually stop after 4:00 PM for safety. The reservoir is open all year round, though activities may be li...Schedule: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning at 9:30 AM for calm waters or at 3:30 PM for the sunset view. Kayaking services usually stop after 4:00 PM for safety. The reservoir is open all year round, though activities may be limited during extreme weather. Visitors should allow at least 2 hours to fully enjoy the water and the nearby fossil park.Special Events:
Events: The "Community Fishing Festival" is a unique event where the reservoir is opened for traditional fishing. In June, special prayers are offered to the water deities for a good monsoon. The "Meghalaya Kayaking Championship" occasionally uses this reservoir as a trai...Events: The "Community Fishing Festival" is a unique event where the reservoir is opened for traditional fishing. In June, special prayers are offered to the water deities for a good monsoon. The "Meghalaya Kayaking Championship" occasionally uses this reservoir as a training ground. During the "Nongkrem Dance" season, the village organizes cultural fairs. "Eco-Tourism Awareness Week" is held to educate visitors and locals on lake preservation.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Points: The "Rock Garden" overlooking the water provides a dramatic foreground. "Reflection Point" on a calm morning captures the sky in the lake. The "Split Rock Interior" offers unique light-and-shadow photography. "Kayaking Action Shots" are best taken from the ...Photo Points: The "Rock Garden" overlooking the water provides a dramatic foreground. "Reflection Point" on a calm morning captures the sky in the lake. The "Split Rock Interior" offers unique light-and-shadow photography. "Kayaking Action Shots" are best taken from the boating dock. The "Sunset Boulder" provides a golden-hour view of the entire reservoir. A drone shot (if permitted) reveals the heart-shaped layout of the water body.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Activities List: Kayaking is the signature activity at Umkhakoi Reservoir, providing a calm way to explore the rock formations from the water. Canoeing is another great option for couples and families. You can go on a "Fossil Trek" to see the 200-million-year-old marine fossils. Swimming in the designated safe zones of the reservoir is highly refreshing. "Angling" or fishing is allowed with special permission from the village council. You can take a "Village Walk" through Mawlyngbna to experience the authentic Khasi lifestyle. Zip-lining across a section of the reservoir offers a thrill for adrenaline seekers. Photography of the turquoise water against the limestone rocks is a top priority for visitors. Picnicking on the massive flat boulders is a popular weekend activity. You can visit the nearby "Pitcher Plant Sanctuary" to see carnivorous plants in t...Activities List: Kayaking is the signature activity at Umkhakoi Reservoir, providing a calm way to explore the rock formations from the water. Canoeing is another great option for couples and families. You can go on a "Fossil Trek" to see the 200-million-year-old marine fossils. Swimming in the designated safe zones of the reservoir is highly refreshing. "Angling" or fishing is allowed with special permission from the village council. You can take a "Village Walk" through Mawlyngbna to experience the authentic Khasi lifestyle. Zip-lining across a section of the reservoir offers a thrill for adrenaline seekers. Photography of the turquoise water against the limestone rocks is a top priority for visitors. Picnicking on the massive flat boulders is a popular weekend activity. You can visit the nearby "Pitcher Plant Sanctuary" to see carnivorous plants in the wild. Hiking to the "Split Rock" provides a unique perspective of the local geology. Bird watching around the lake is excellent, especially for kingfishers and wagtails. You can engage in "Star Gazing" at night as the area has zero light pollution. Visiting the local "Sacred Grove" offers a spiritual look into Khasi environmental conservation. Trying local snacks like "Pukhlein" (fried rice flour bread) at the small stalls is a culinary delight. You can join a community-led "Eco-Tour" to learn about sustainable living. Exploring the "Magnetic Rock" area is a fun activity for children. Taking a boat ride at sunset provides the most beautiful views of the reservoir. You can also volunteer for "Cleaning Drives" occasionally organized by the local youth. Lastly, staying overnight in an "Eco-Lodge" gives you the full experience of living in the wettest place on earth.
Information
-
Why Famous:
Famous Reasons: Umkhakoi Reservoir is famous as a hidden gem for water-based adventure sports like kayaking and canoeing. It is one of the few places in Meghalaya where tourists can safely interact with a high-altitude water body. The reservoir is also famous for its preh...Famous Reasons: Umkhakoi Reservoir is famous as a hidden gem for water-based adventure sports like kayaking and canoeing. It is one of the few places in Meghalaya where tourists can safely interact with a high-altitude water body. The reservoir is also famous for its prehistoric connection, as it sits on a bed of ancient fossils. The stunning turquoise color of the water makes it a favorite for social media influencers and landscape photographers. It is also celebrated for being a community-run project that empowers the local Khasi people of Mawlyngbna. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style: The Umkhakoi Reservoir features a unique blend of natural rock-cut architecture and community-designed recreational facilities. The main dam wall is a low-lying structure built with reinforced concrete but faced with local stones to maintain aesthetic ...Architectural Style: The Umkhakoi Reservoir features a unique blend of natural rock-cut architecture and community-designed recreational facilities. The main dam wall is a low-lying structure built with reinforced concrete but faced with local stones to maintain aesthetic harmony. The reservoir covers an area of approximately 2 acres. Nearby, a small interpretation center measuring 20x30 feet is built using Khasi stone masonry and sloping tin roofs to shed the heavy rainfall. The boating docks are made of high-quality treated wood to resist water rot. The surrounding trails are marked by stone cairns that act as natural signposts. -
How To Reach:
Transport Info:
By Air: Fly to Guwahati (GAU) and take a 5-hour taxi ride.
By Train: Reach Guwahati and take a shared sumo to Shillong, then a private cab to Mawlyngbna.
By Road...Transport Info:
By Air: Fly to Guwahati (GAU) and take a 5-hour taxi ride.
By Train: Reach Guwahati and take a shared sumo to Shillong, then a private cab to Mawlyngbna.
By Road: The road from Mawsynram to Mawlyngbna is well-paved and scenic, passing through rolling hills.
By Local Transport: Shared sumos operate between Mawsynram market and Mawlyngbna village once or twice a day. It is best to hire a private vehicle for the day to ensure a return trip. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Best Seasons:
Monsoon (July to August): The reservoir is full, and the surrounding rocks are covered in emerald moss. Kayaking is most dramatic during this time.
Post-Monsoon (September to November): The wa...Best Seasons:
Monsoon (July to August): The reservoir is full, and the surrounding rocks are covered in emerald moss. Kayaking is most dramatic during this time.
Post-Monsoon (September to November): The water is at its clearest turquoise color. The weather is perfect for exploring the fossil park.
Winter (December to February): Ideal for picnics and peaceful retreats. The mornings are misty, providing a surreal atmosphere for photography.
Summer: Best for water sports as the temperature is warm. -
Near Tourist Places:
Nearby Attractions: 1. Umdihar Falls (1 km). 2. Split Rock (0. 5 km). 3. Pitcher Plant Sanctuary (2 km). 4. Mawjymbuin Cave (15 km). 5. Iew Luri Lura (1. 5 km). 6. Krem Puri (17 km). 7. Mawlyngbna Village (0. 5 km). 8. Um-Iew Falls (3 km). 9. Symper Peak (19 km). 10. Mawsynram Viewpoint (15 km).
Tourism Tips
-
Travel Advice:
Health & Safety: Wear life jackets at all times while kayaking. Be careful on the "Split Rock" trail as it is narrow.
Packing: Carry a change of clothes if you plan on swimming or kayaking. ...Travel Advice:
Health & Safety: Wear life jackets at all times while kayaking. Be careful on the "Split Rock" trail as it is narrow.
Packing: Carry a change of clothes if you plan on swimming or kayaking. Sunscreen is recommended despite the clouds.
Accommodation: The Travelers Nest in Mawlyngbna is a popular eco-lodge nearby.
Cash & Connectivity: Digital payments are slowly becoming available but always carry enough cash for entry fees and food. BSNL and Jio work best here.
Other: Do not disturb the fossils; it is illegal to remove them. Try the local "Tungrymbai" dish at village eateries. Always follow the instructions of the boat operators for a safe experience.
Reviews
FAQs
Mawsynram Itineray And Cost:-
Umkhakoi Reservoir Tourism:-
Other Places In Mawsynram :-
Other States In India :-
Information about New and Updated Locations() of Meghalaya Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
Near Places
Balancing Rock, Mawsynram
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Green Valley, Mawsynram
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jakrem
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Krem Mawmluh
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Krem Puri
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Lyngksiar Falls
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Mawsynram Catholic Church
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Mawsynram Market
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Mawsynram Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Mawten Falls
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Nohsngithiang Falls Viewpoint
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Photographers' Viewpoint
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Saitsohpen Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Shella Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Thangkharang Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Umdihar Falls
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities