Shillong, Apr 7: If you wonder where to make a trekking trip without going far away from bustling Shillong, chief minister Conrad Sangma shows the way!
He chose Monday, a state holiday on account of Khasi traditional dance festival Shad Suk Mynsiem, to explore a least known but historic trek well within the city.
Only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of the city, the 2.5-hour Rhododendron Riot Trek in Upper Shillong is an often overlooked trail filled with natural beauty and a burst of clean air.
In the past few years of his being at the helm of the state, CM Conrad has never missed an opportunity to exemplify his concern for the environment and a healthy lifestyle.
“It is a historic trek; it was also used as a route by the Britishers in the earlier times,” he said while catching his breath mid-trail.
“On the way, you will actually see the bunkers that were used during the World War, which are still visible… There are also retaining walls constructed during the British time, very systematically done,” he added.
Whether it was walking to work to mark the launch of the ‘Fit India Movement’ in 2019 or leading treks with fellow ministers during cabinet retreat in Sohra in January this year, or walking to JN Stadium in Polo for an ISL match in February this year, CN Conrad has made it a point to ditch the car ride and walk whenever he can. His pure passion for nature resulted in the launch of ‘Meghalaya Trails App and Trekking Book’ in March 2024.
The Rhododendron Trek cuts through patches of the Shillong Peak–Upper Shillong Forest Reserve, part of the Shillong Rhododendron State Park, a biodiversity haven that bursts into bloom during spring with pinks, reds, and purples scattered like paint splatters across the green.
The area is also an important ecological zone, rich with flora and fauna and serving as a vital source of water and clean air for Shillong.
“It is a very important location,” said CM Conrad, adding, “Especially because it is right in the heart of the city. I must encourage all of you – the citizens of the state as well as tourists – to come and experience this trek. You’ll really enjoy it.”
