Q1.
Stay on the map as we move towards the hills of the Northeast, our final destination for now. Can you see Garo, Khasi, and Jantia marked on the map?
Answer
Yes. Look east of Bangladesh, just below the Brahmaputra valley, and you will find three hill blocks marked side by side from west to east:
Garo Hills → Khasi Hills → Jaintia Hills
All three lie in the State of Meghalaya and together they make up the Meghalaya Plateau. The name Meghalaya itself means ‘abode of the clouds’.
| Feature of these hills | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rainfall | Among the highest in the world — Cherrapunjee (Sohra) and Mawsynram are here |
| Vegetation | Lush greenery, dense forest, fertile land, unique wildlife |
| Waterfalls | Breathtaking — the Seven Sisters Waterfalls (Fig. 1.41) |
| People and culture | The Khasi festival Shad Suk Mynsiem, celebrated as gratitude towards nature; the living root bridges near Nongriat village |
Why the rain is so heavy: moist winds sweep north from the Bay of Bengal and run straight into this steep wall of hills. They are forced to rise, cool down, and drop their moisture as rain — right here.