Image Source: Iarmi Rabon
About Nartiang Monolith
The Nartiang Monolith Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held in the village of Nartiang, Jaintia Hills, where the world’s tallest and largest collection of ancient monoliths stand.
This festival honors the living heritage of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes, blending history, folklore, and tradition. Organized to showcase the unique megalithic culture, the festival brings together performances of indigenous music, dance, rituals, and storytelling that revolve around the ancient practice of erecting stone monoliths to commemorate ancestors and community heroes.
It is not just a festival but a journey back in time that connects visitors with Meghalaya’s deep-rooted traditions and tribal legacy.
Cultural Significance
The monoliths of Nartiang are believed to date back to the 16th century, during the reign of the Jaintia kings. They were erected as symbols of respect, honor, and remembrance for legendary warriors, chiefs, and ancestors.
The festival celebrates this unique megalithic tradition and ensures its preservation for future generations. Visitors get to experience the spiritual importance of these stone structures while enjoying live performances of Wangala dances, folk songs, tribal games, craft exhibitions, and traditional food fairs. It’s an immersive cultural encounter where the local community proudly shares its heritage with the world.
Travel Experience
Attending the Nartiang Monolith Festival offers travelers a chance to blend sightseeing with cultural exploration. Visitors can wander among the towering monoliths, watch traditional dances performed under the open sky, and taste authentic Khasi and Jaintia cuisine like pukhlein, dohneiiong, and smoked meats.
The local markets set up during the festival showcase indigenous crafts, handwoven textiles, and tribal ornaments. The entire ambiance is lively, filled with the sounds of drums, bamboo flutes, and the rhythmic chants of tribal storytellers. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that transforms the quiet Nartiang village into a hub of history and festivity.
How to Reach
By Road: Nartiang is around 65 km from Shillong and about 30 km from Jowai. Taxis and shared vehicles are available from both Shillong and Jowai, making road travel the most convenient option.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Guwahati Railway Station (about 140 km away). From there, taxis or buses can take travelers to Shillong and onwards to Nartiang.
By Air: The closest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), around 80 km from Nartiang. Another option is Guwahati Airport, about 150 km away, which has better connectivity.