Ditch Hotels! Experience Shillong’s Forest Stay For One Magical Night

Shillong, commonly called the “Scotland of the East,” is situated in the center of Meghalaya and is characterized by its hills, greenery, and mountains. Apart from beautiful culture and colonial charm, Shillong has a secret that remains hidden for travelers—the forests in and around the city. When I spent a night amidst the forests in Shillong, it felt as if I had traveled to a place where nature flourishes and time ceases to exist.

As the sun sets and the city prepares for the night, the transition to the forests from the busy streets of Shillong becomes easier and subdued. While it may feel like a long distance, the forests are easily accessible as there are trails from the peths towards the outskirts of the city. Rather than the noise of vehicles and crowds, the further I went, the more I was welcomed by the calming sound of leaves rustling and birds chirping. Being in the forest gave me the sensation of being remote from the chaotic modern world and grounded to the earth beneath.

Setting Up Camp

Exploring the forest to find a campsite at Shillong is an adventure on its own. It is quite marvelous to note how forestry and overgrown region has beautifully draped itself with soft moss and decaying broad leaves, thus forming a natural mattress for the tent. The moment you set a camp, the forest appears to wake up around you. Pine scent fills the surroundings, and the muffled sounds of animals in the wilderness remind you that company is not too far away. Slivers of moonlight that reflect through the thick canopy of trees add an ethereal touch to the forest while making it vivid and stunning to observe.

The Symphony of the Night

When darkness embraces the forest, the magic starts to unfold. The evening in the forest of Shillong has a song of its own, and is anything but quiet. From the chirping of crickets to rhythmic hoots of owls, to the gentle movement of the rustling leaves, there’s a diverse range of sounds to enjoy. You might even appreciate the crying hoot of the fox or the treating sound of the deer if you’re lucky enough. These sounds are comforting and powerful at the same time. They put a spotlight on the fact that it truly is a living system, a calm and healthier atmosphere even after the sun sets.

A unique peace comes with the cool mountain air, and the lack of artificial light allows stars to boast an unmatched beauty. When resting on the ground covered in trees while looking towards the sky at night, one can make an unbreakable bond with the universe. Here, the stars seem to be within reach and their twinkling light, signals the boundless universe and insignificance of our place in it.

Dawn in the Forest

As the first few rays of sunlight break through the canopy, the forest comes alive with a myriad of color and sound. The birds, which were quiet through the night, now begin their morning song and their songs echo throughout the trees. The leaves, adorned with dew, bask in the warm sunlight, while the ground starts to fill with tiny animals and some insects. The air seems fresh and crisp while bringing in the smell of greenery and earth.

Every morning, I walk through the forests after dawn and it gives me an experience I have never had before. Water molecules colliding with air particles scatter light beams through the trees which feels like watching a scene from a movie. Shillong’s forests are often covered with mist, so it adds more beauty to the already soothing view, covering the trees with a serene glow. The forest is at its liveliest at this time and together with the cool morning air, it gives me the feeling of renewal and energy. 

Reflections on the Experience

Spending a night in the middle of Shillong’s forest is more than just camping; it is a reminder of the beauty and relaxing sides the world has which is not always available throughout your city life. The forest has an essence that slows down time allowing a person to truly enjoy every minute within it. Every worry and stress a person has diminishes and brings forth contentment and a soothing feeling of peace.

If you’re accustomed to the luxuries of contemporary life, spending a night in the forest can be an extremely effective humbler. This is a moment in time where you can step away from technology and reintegrate with nature. It provides an appreciation of life, reminding us why it’s so fundamental to safeguard the natural zones that bring us endless joy and comfort.

A Camping Experience to Cherish

While you are on your way back to the city after dismantling your camp, the feeling of gratitude towards your experience is undeniable. Spending a night in the center of Shillong’s forest is much more than an exciting escapade, it’s a gift. Nothing beats the experience of nature in its most primal state, to hear the soft speech of nature, and to sense the power of the planet beneath you. Even after departing from the forest, the experience resonates with you, a reminder of the enchantment that lies dormant within nature, patiently waiting for the people to uncover it.

Takeaway

While the world may be filled with chaos at times, Shillong’s forest offers an escape that lets you gain inner clarity and peace through a deep connection with nature. It is an experience that I believe everyone deserves to see at least once in their lifetime, because the beauty and wonder of nature reminds us of what lies beyond the edge of the city.

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