Shillong, The Scotland of the East, will host World’s First Autumn Cherry Blossom Festival during 14–17 November 2016. Organised by the Government of Meghalaya in association with the Institute of Bioresources and Sustainability Development (IBSD), the first day of the festival coincides with Children’s Day and is in line with the government’s work towards “Destination Meghalaya”. Cherry blossom plantations were started on 14 May 2015 by the Chief Minister, Dr. Mukul M. Sangma.
Meghalaya, Abode of the Clouds, is immensely rich in flora and fauna. The state is in fact considered to have one of the largest and varied botanical habitats of Asia, with almost 70% of the state being covered by forests. Its climatic conditions aidits biodiversity to flourish.
In 2016, Shillong has been voted as “India’s Favourite Hill Station” by HolidayIQ.com. Also known as the “Rock Music Capital of India”, the capital has a lot of activities with respect to adventure, art and culture.
Shillong is easily accessible from the Guwahati Airport. A smooth and beautiful drive of about 2.5 hours this airport will bring you to the hill station.
Some of the event highlights include cherry blossom run, cultural programmes, cycle and bike rally, multicuisine food stalls, fashion shows and beauty pageants, and handloom, arts & craft display and sale.
