Top Activities & Experiences

Top Activities & Experiences

Tura, the largest town in West Garo Hills, is an offbeat travel destination that offers a mix of adventure, nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences. From trekking through UNESCO Biosphere Reserves to experiencing Garo tribal festivals, Tura is a paradise for travelers looking for something unique.

Here are the best activities and experiences you can enjoy in Tura.

1. Trekking & Adventure Activities

 Trek to Tura Peak

✅ Why Try It?

• A moderate trek offering 360° panoramic views of Tura and surrounding hills.
• Home to a British-era bungalow and an observatory.
• Best for sunrise and sunset photography.

 Trek Duration: ~1-2 hours
 Tip: Start early in the morning for the best experience.

 Explore Nokrek National Park – A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

✅ Why Try It?

• Home to the rare Red Panda, Asian elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.
• Famous for medicinal plants, wild orchids, and thick forests.
• Trek to Nokrek Peak, the highest peak in the Garo Hills.

 Distance: 12 km from Tura.
 Tip: Hire a local guide to explore hidden trails and wildlife spots.

 Caving at Siju Caves (Bat Caves)

✅ Why Try It?

• One of the longest limestone cave systems in India.
• Features stalactites, stalagmites, and thousands of bats.
• Also known as Dobakkol (Bat Cave).

 Distance: 132 km from Tura (Day trip recommended).
 Tip: Bring a flashlight and wear waterproof shoes.

 River Trekking & Camping at Wari Chora

✅ Why Try It?

• Meghalaya’s hidden canyon with turquoise waters and stunning cliffs.
• Ideal for boating, swimming, and adventure trekking.
• Offbeat and less crowded, making it a peaceful escape.

 Distance: 95 km from Tura (Trek required).
 Tip: Visit with a local guide and carry waterproof gear.

2. Waterfall Experiences in Tura

 Relax at Pelga Falls

✅ Why Visit?

• A beautiful hidden waterfall surrounded by greenery.
• A bamboo bridge nearby adds to the scenic beauty.
• Perfect for a short trek and picnic.

 Distance: 7 km from Tura.
 Tip: Best visited in the monsoon (July-September) for full water flow.

 Visit Rongbang Dare Waterfalls

✅ Why Visit?

• A breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall.
• Less touristy, making it an ideal peaceful getaway.

 Distance: 35 km from Tura.
 Tip: Carry snacks and water, as there are no restaurants nearby.

3. Wildlife & Nature Experiences

 Safari at Balpakram National Park

✅ Why Visit?

• Known as "Meghalaya’s Grand Canyon", with deep gorges and cliffs.
• Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and rare birds.
• Sacred to the Garo tribe, believed to be a land of spirits.

 Distance: 110 km from Tura (Best for a 1-2 day trip).
 Tip: Visit between November and April for the best wildlife sightings.

 Birdwatching at Nokrek National Park

✅ Why Try It?

• A biodiversity hotspot for bird lovers.
• Home to rare species like the Asian fairy bluebird, hornbills, and falcons.

 Best Spots: Nokrek National Park & Balpakram National Park.
 Tip: Bring binoculars and visit in the early morning.

4. Cultural & Tribal Experiences

 Experience the Wangala Festival (100 Drums Festival)

✅ Why Try It?

• Meghalaya’s biggest cultural festival, held in November.
• Features Garo traditional dance, drumming, and rituals.
• A great opportunity to learn about Garo history and traditions.

 Best Place to Experience: Tura or nearby Garo villages.
 Tip: Plan your trip in November to attend the festival.

 Visit Garo Tribal Villages

✅ Why Try It?

• Experience the matrilineal society of the Garo tribe.
• Try traditional Garo cuisine like Wak Pura (smoked pork) and Pila Pitha (sweet rice cake).
• Learn about traditional bamboo house-making.

 Best Villages: Williamnagar, Chokpot, and Rongram.
 Tip: Be respectful, ask before taking photos, and engage with locals.

5. Local Food & Shopping Experiences

Try Authentic Garo Cuisine

✅ What to Eat?

• Jadoh – Rice cooked with pork and local spices.
• Wak Pura – Smoked pork cooked with bamboo shoots.
• Kappa (Rice Soup) – A healthy and traditional Garo dish.
• Pila Pitha – A sweet rice cake, often made during festivals.

 Best Places to Eat: Tura Bazar & Rongkhon Market.

 Tip: Try local rice beer (Chu), but drink responsibly.

 Shopping at Tura Market

✅ What to Buy?

• Handwoven Khasi & Garo Shawls.
• Bamboo handicrafts & baskets.
• Organic Meghalaya tea & spices.

 Best Markets: Tura Bazar, Rongkhon Market.
 Tip: Bargain in street markets for the best prices.

6. Day Trips & Excursions from Tura

Tip: Start early in the morning for day trips to avoid night travel.

Tura is an adventure-packed, culturally rich, and offbeat destination in Meghalaya. Whether you're trekking through Nokrek, experiencing the Wangala Festival, exploring caves, or boating in Wari Chora, there’s something exciting for every traveler.

 Must-Do in Tura:
✅ Trek to Tura Peak for stunning views.
✅ Explore Siju Caves & Nokrek National Park.
✅ Witness the Wangala Festival in November.
✅ Enjoy local Garo cuisine & shopping in Tura Bazar.

 Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Tura?