Exploring Spread Eagle Falls: A Hidden Gem in Shillong
Exploring Spread Eagle Falls: A Hidden Gem in Shillong
Blog Article
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, pleasant weather, and beautiful natural attractions. Among its many stunning sites, Spread Eagle Falls is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. Located near the heart of Shillong, this waterfall is one of the lesser known yet equally captivating attractions in the region.
In this article, we will explore Spread Eagle Falls, its location, beauty, and how to visit this serene spot in Shillong.
What is Spread Eagle Falls?
Spread Eagle Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Shillong, the picturesque hill station of Meghalaya. It is so called because water falls from there like the spreading of an eagle's wings during flight. Spread Eagle Falls, during the rains, is quite a sight when water flows through the falls full force.
The falls are much less commercially developed as some other famous attractions in Shillong, such as Elephant Falls or Nohkalikai Falls, so Spread Eagle Falls is a much quieter, more serene place to visit. This gives one the ideal space for people in love with nature and an escape from the hullabaloo of modern life.
Spread Eagle Falls Location
Spread Eagle Falls is about 3 kilometers to the main city center of Shillong. It is relatively secluded, which creates the feeling of some kind of seclusion, calmness, and peacefulness. The waterfall is not far from the other tourist attractions such as Ward's Lake and The Police Bazar, making it readily accessible for the tourists who want to visit more of Shillong.
The falls are situated near Happy Valley, a scenic area in Shillong, known for its lush greenery, rolling hills, and tea gardens. The surroundings of the falls are dominated by tall trees, dense vegetation, and a peaceful ambiance that makes it an ideal place for a relaxing holiday.
The location of Spread-Eagle Falls is accessible by road, and visitors can hire a taxi, take a private vehicle, or even walk from the nearby areas to reach the falls. However, it's worth noting that the route to the waterfall involves a bit of a walk through a narrow trail surrounded by thick greenery, which adds to the adventure of visiting this hidden natural wonder.
The Beauty of Spread-Eagle Falls
The beauty of Spread-Eagle Falls lies in its natural simplicity. The waterfall is not so tall compared to other famous falls in the region, but the charm lies in how the water spreads out across the rocks, creating multiple streams that fan out like the wings of an eagle.
It sounds gentle and peaceful, creating a smooth and soft soothing noise, mixing in well with the nature. Cascading water along with mountain fresh air is what gives the atmosphere calmness and refreshment. Therefore, it can be the best spot for a retreat to the peaceful silence or for a quiet picnic.
It can be visited ideally during the time of monsoons, especially from June to September, with the peak time seeing the water fall in full rush and is seen as a perfect spectacle. Though even in dry seasons, this waterfall is nothing but a marvelous sight as there is lush greenery all over and it can be a perfectly calm and picturesque ambiance.
How to Reach Spread Eagle Falls
Getting to Spread Eagle Falls is relatively easy, especially for those staying in Shillong. The falls are only about 3 kilometers from the city center, making it a short drive or walk away from most popular spots in the city.
Here's how to get to Spread Eagle Falls:
By Taxi or Private Vehicle: The easiest and most convenient way to reach Spread Eagle Falls is by hiring a taxi or driving your own vehicle. You can easily find taxis in Shillong, especially near the Police Bazar area, which is a busy commercial hub in the city. The falls are just a short ride away, and the roads are well-maintained, making the journey comfortable. If you’re driving yourself, you can use a map or GPS to guide you to the falls.
By Walking: If you're staying close to the city center, you can also walk to the falls. The walk is about 3 kilometers, which takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. The walk takes you through scenic streets and lush landscapes, making the journey pleasant and enjoyable.
There are local taxis and shared vehicles to reach various places within the city of Shillong and even surrounding areas. Let the driver drop you off near Happy Valley or at least take you up to the area close to Spread Eagle Falls. You can walk the rest from there.
Things to Do Around Spread-Eagle Falls
While the Spread Eagle Falls itself is the main attraction, the surrounding area also offers a lot of opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Here are some things to do near the waterfall:
Trekking and Nature Walks: The area surrounding the falls is covered with thick green forests, rolling hills, and winding trails. You can take a nature walk or trek in the surrounding hills to observe the flora and fauna of the region. The cool, refreshing air combined with the scenic views makes for an unforgettable experience.
Photography: Spread Eagle Falls is a beautiful spot for photography. The waterfall, surrounded by nature, creates a picture-perfect scene. Whether you’re taking close-up shots of the water cascading down or wide-angle shots of the landscape, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities here. The soft light during early morning or late afternoon adds to the beauty of the scene, making it even more ideal for photographers.
Picnicking: The surroundings of the waterfall are quiet and peaceful, making it an excellent place for a picnic. You can bring along some food and relax by the falls, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the soothing sound of the water.
Visit Nearby Attractions: Spread Eagle Falls is situated near many other attractions in Shillong, including Ward's Lake, The Police Bazar, and Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures. You can visit these places either before or after your visit to the falls. For instance, Ward's Lake is an artificial lake that has boating opportunities. The Police Bazar is a place to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Explore Happy Valley: The Happy Valley area, located near Spread Eagle Falls, is a charming neighborhood offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and greenery. The area is also home to some of the best tea gardens in Shillong, making it a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing walk or a cup of freshly brewed tea.
Best Time to Visit Spread Eagle Falls
The best time to visit Spread Eagle Falls is during the monsoon season from June to September when the waterfall is at its full glory. The increased water flow during the rains makes the falls a stunning sight, and the surrounding landscape becomes lush and vibrant.
However, it is also during winter (October to March) that one may visit the place since the weather remains cool and not hot for outdoor activities. During the same period, the falls do not have water flow as that of the monsoon, but the landscape remains picturesque and tranquil.
Conclusion
Spread Eagle Falls is one of Shillong's lesser-known waterfalls, but it's just as beautiful. This place amid serene surroundings, unique cascading water, and proximity to the city helps break away from the hustle of city life to connect with nature again. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or someone looking for a break, Spread Eagle Falls has something to offer.
While it may not be as popular as some of the bigger waterfalls in Meghalaya, there is something quite serene about the simplicity of this waterfall and the environment around it. So, in Shillong, this Spread-Eagle Falls is not to be missed.