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Shillong, Meghalaya

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Overview

Overview

Located in Meghalaya, India, Shillong is the capital city of this eastern Indian state.

The city's name "Shillong" is derived from the Assamese word for "stone bridge," which refers to the many stone bridges that cross the Khasi River in the area.

Key Facts

  • Population: approximately 1.4 million
  • Land area: 9,000 square kilometers (3,500 square miles)
  • Highest point: Mount Ela, 2,686 meters (8,810 ft) above sea level
  • Major languages spoken: English, Khasi, and Garo
  • Language dialects: Assamese, Khasi, and Bengali

Historical Context

Shillong has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, when it was a small trading post. The city's strategic location on the Khasi River made it an important center for trade and commerce in the region.

In the early 20th century, Shillong became a major urban center during the British colonial era, with the construction of the railway line connecting the city to other parts of India. The city's economy was boosted by the growth of agriculture, forestry, and tourism.

Significant Contributions

  • Agricultural development: Shillong has been instrumental in developing agriculture in Meghalaya, particularly in areas such as tea cultivation and sugarcane production.
  • Forestry: The city is home to several forests, including the Kaziranga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its one-horned rhinoceros population.
  • Tourism: Shillong has become a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the Khasi Hills, Mawsynram, and the Ziro Valley.
  • Cultural heritage: The city's unique architecture and cultural traditions have been recognized by UNESCO and are considered an important part of India's cultural heritage.

Notable Attractions

A few notable attractions in Shillong include:

  • Khasi Hills: a mountain range with several villages, including Cherrapunji and Mawsynram
  • Mawsynram: the ## Metadata: - Model: llama-3.2-1b-instruct - Generation time: 2024-11-02 09:14:10 - Keywords: Shillong, Meghalaya, wiki, history, attractions, facts - URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/shillong_meghalaya