South Garo Hills

Located in the southern part of Meghalaya, South Garo Hills is an offbeat and ecologically rich district known for its dense forests, rolling hills, rivers, and indigenous Garo culture. With its district headquarters at Baghmara, South Garo Hills is one of Meghalaya’s most remote and less-explored regions.

South Garo Hills is home to rich biodiversity, including rare wildlife, sacred groves, and pristine river valleys. It is a haven for eco-tourists, trekkers, birdwatchers, and cultural explorers. The Garo people, known for their matrilineal society and vibrant traditions, enrich the visitor experience with their folk music, dances, and festivals.

Best time to Visit South Garo Hills

Top Attractions in South Garo Hills

Baghmara Town:
The district headquarters, offering a gateway to natural sites, local markets, and cultural experiences.

Siju Cave:
Famous for its limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, Siju Cave is one of Meghalaya’s longest caves and a must-visit for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Balpakram National Park (Nearby):
Although primarily in South Garo Hills’ vicinity, Balpakram is a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare wildlife, endemic plants, and sacred landscapes.

Rivers and Waterfalls:
The district is dotted with pristine rivers and hidden waterfalls, ideal for eco-tourism, swimming, and photography.

Garo Villages:
Visiting villages provides insight into Garo culture, matrilineal traditions, folk dances, and handicrafts, including bamboo and cane weaving.

Balpakram Plateau:
A unique plateau offering panoramic views, wildlife spotting, and trekking opportunities. It is often referred to as the “Land of Spirits” in Garo folklore.

Eco-Trails and Forest Trekking:
South Garo Hills offers untouched forest trails rich in flora and fauna, making it ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and eco-tourists.

Culture and Festivals

South Garo Hills is predominantly inhabited by the Garo tribe, known for their matrilineal society, vibrant dances, and community festivals:

Wangala Festival: Known as the “Hundred Drums Festival,” it is celebrated with traditional dances, music, and rituals to honor the Sun God.

A’Chik Festival: Marks the Garo New Year with dance, music, and community gatherings.

Traditional Handicrafts: Bamboo, cane, and wood crafts are integral to Garo culture, and villages offer authentic handmade products.

Local Cuisine

Garo cuisine is simple, hearty, and largely based on rice, meat, and local herbs:

Dishes with Pork, Fish, and Chicken: Often cooked with bamboo shoots and local spices.

Rice Beer (Chubitchi): A traditional Garo alcoholic beverage, often prepared during festivals.

Green Vegetables and Bamboo Shoot Curries: Commonly served with steamed rice.

Snacks and Street Food: Include roasted corn, local sweets, and fried rice dishes.

Where to Stay

Guesthouses and Eco-Resorts: Comfortable stays in and around Baghmara, offering scenic views and basic amenities.

Homestays: Experience authentic Garo lifestyle, meals, and culture.

Nearby Tura: For luxury accommodation and well-equipped resorts, about 140 km away from South Garo Hills.