Things To Do
in Tura
Tura is a hill-town and the administrative center of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya, perched amid lush forests and rolling hills. It serves as a gateway to the region’s wildlife reserves and caves, including Nokrek and Balpakram. The town blends Garo cultural traditions with colonial-era architecture and busy markets.
Visitors can expect scenic viewpoints, forest trails, and warm, friendly hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a drive to the Siju Caves, located about 40 kilometers from Tura. The morning light illuminating the limestone formations creates a breathtaking view, making the hike to the caves invigorating. Capture the beauty of the surrounding hills and the serene ambiance before the crowds arrive.
After exploring the caves, enjoy a packed lunch by the banks of the river, where the sound of flowing water adds to the tranquility. Spend your afternoon wandering around the nearby village, interacting with the locals and learning about their traditional way of life. Don't miss the opportunity to snap photos of the stunning landscapes that surround you.
Return to Tura and unwind with a leisurely stroll through the local markets, where you can find handicrafts and local produce. As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Meghalaya meal at a local restaurant, savoring the unique flavors of the region. End your day with a peaceful evening, reflecting on the beauty you've experienced.
Begin your day with a visit to the Tura Peak, the highest point in the region, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The hike to the top is invigorating, and the fresh morning air revitalizes your spirit. Capture the sunrise from the peak, as the golden light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Head back down and visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of Tura through its food and crafts. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes such as Jadoh or Tungrymbai that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Spend the afternoon visiting the local churches and learning about the diverse religious practices in the area.
As the day comes to a close, join a local cultural performance featuring traditional dance and music. Engage with the performers to understand the significance of their art in the community. End the evening with a quiet walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the rich cultural vibes of Tura.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $1-3 |
| 💧1L bottled water | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and wildlife
- Warm, welcoming local communities
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious food
- Reasonable costs and fewer crowds compared to other hill stations
- Limited nightlife and modern amenities in some areas
- Longer drives to major medical facilities
- Some roads can be challenging during the monsoon
- Limited English proficiency in rural villages
- "Khublei" - Hello (Khasi)
- "Khublei, ngi dei kiba" - Thank you, we are travelers (approximate Khasi)
- "Ya" - Yes
- "Marih" - No
- "Plai please" - Please (request, approximate)
Places to Visit in Tura
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding forests, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Lush canopy and rolling hills provide excellent landscape shots and wildlife photography opportunities.
Expansive valleys and dramatic cliffs ideal for wide-angle shots and dramatic skies.
Impressive limestone formations and atmospheric interior shots when guided through the caverns.
Food in Tura
Tura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork cooked with sesame seeds, a signature Garo-Khasi dish with a nutty, savory flavor, typically served with rice.
Must-Try!
Rice layered with meat and spices, a hearty one-pot meal common in Meghalaya.
Steamed rice cakes that pair well with curries or chutneys for a light, satisfying bite.
Fermented or lightly spiced fish minced and prepared with herbs, a regional staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant hub to sample fresh produce, local snacks, and smoked meats; great for a quick bite or to stock up on ingredients.
Local vendors offer bamboo shoot curries, dried fish, spicy chutneys, and other regional specialties near the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a respectful nod or handshake; use appropriate local titles when addressing people.
Dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites; tend to cover shoulders and knees in more conservative areas.
Always ask for permission before photographing people or ceremonies, especially in villages.
Safety
Tipping in Tura
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of about 5–10% for good service is common. Taxis and guides may appreciate rounding up the fare.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with higher humidity; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Heavy rainfall and occasional landslides; monitor weather and road conditions; carry a waterproof jacket and sturdy waterproof footwear.
Cooler, comfortable temperatures; excellent for trekking and photography, with misty mornings and crisp evenings.
Tura at Night
Hiking in Tura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic viewpoints.
Longer treks to cliffside canyons and diverse ecosystems; guided tours recommended.
Cave exploration with impressive limestone formations near Baghmara.
Airports
How to reach Tura by plane.
Small regional airport at Umroi; connections to major Indian cities.
Major hub with broader domestic and international connections; commonly used for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant community in Tura, with its own language and distinctive cultural traditions.
Minority groups present in the region; languages include Khasi, Hajong, and Bengali in some pockets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played across Meghalaya with local games in towns and villages.
Popular in schools and community grounds; matches are common in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are generally available; look for dal, vegetables with rice, and paneer-based dishes. For limited options at smaller joints, ask for vegetable curries or dals.