Lady Hydari Park — Attraction in Meghalaya

Lady Hydari Park, located in the heart of Shillong, is a delightful oasis that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. My visit to this park left me enchanted by its serene atmosphere and well-maintained surroundings.

As I entered Lady Hydari Park, I was greeted by lush green lawns, vibrant flower beds, and towering trees that provided a soothing respite from the bustling city. The park's well-manicured gardens and colorful blooms create a picturesque setting that is perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics with family and friends.

The park features a variety of amenities that cater to both adults and children. The well-designed pathways allow for pleasant walks, while the seating areas provide a tranquil spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty. The park also offers a children's play area with swings and slides, ensuring that young visitors have a delightful time.

One of the highlights of Lady Hydari Park is its impressive collection of orchids. The park houses a dedicated orchidarium that showcases a stunning variety of these exquisite flowers. Walking through this section is a truly mesmerizing experience, with the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the orchids captivating visitors.

The park is meticulously maintained, and the cleanliness is commendable. The staff members are friendly and helpful, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors. The park's well-marked pathways and ample parking space make it easily accessible and convenient for everyone.

Lady Hydari Park is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. The park hosts various festivals and art shows, adding to its vibrancy and offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture.

In conclusion, Lady Hydari Park is a tranquil retreat that showcases the natural beauty of Shillong. Its well-maintained gardens, charming orchidarium, and recreational facilities make it a perfect destination for a relaxing day out. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a family seeking quality time together, or someone looking for a peaceful escape, Lady Hydari Park offers an enchanting experience that will leave you refreshed and...

Shillong: The Khasi Students' Union on Saturday changed the name of Lady Hydari Park to Phan Nonglait Park here and alleged that the Meghalaya government has failed to honour Phan Nonglait, the first Khasi woman who revolted against the British during the time of freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem between 1829 and 1833.

The union observed the 155th death anniversary of U Kiang Nangbah at the monument built by the union a few years ago opposite the Shillong civil hospital.

U Kiang Nangbah also fought against the British and played a significant role in inspiring the Khasi-Pnar community for a brave attempt to drive away the British from Jaintia hills in the war of 1862-63.

The British annexed the erstwhile Jaiñtia kingdom in 1835. U Kiang Nangbah defied the British might with hit-and-run tactics from jungle hideouts. The British managed to capture him while he was lying sick on December 27, 1862.

On December 30 that year, he was hanged publicly at Jowai. From the scaffold, he addressed his countrymen loud and clear.

His last words were: "If my face turns eastwards when I die on the rope, we shall be free within 100 years. If it turns westwards, we shall be enslaved forever."

His words were prophetic. The dying patriot's face turned to the east and India became free in less than 100 years.

The British had to leave the country, making U Kiang Nangbah a patriot.

After the gathering, the KSU members marched towards the park and smeared green paint on the name "Lady Hydari" Park after which they changed the name to "Phan Nonglait" Park.

KSU general secretary Donald V. Thabah said the union had to rename the park as the state government failed to do so, though it had decided a few years back to change the park's name.

The park is a tourist spot in Shillong. It was dedicated to the erstwhile First Lady (wife of former governor of Assam Sir Muhammad Saleh Akbar Hydari) when Shillong was under the administration of Assam during the British rule.

This sprawling park has a wide variety of flora...

The most important feature and the first thing you’ll notice as you enter this park is that it is designed in a Japanese garden style. The landscape dotted with small ponds, rhododendron plants and willow trees with its leaves almost touching the ground are all unmistakably Japanese inspired. The park is also the only place with a mini zoo. It is appropriate to mention that there are no zoos in Shillong, therefore all the more reason for animal lovers and kids to visit this park.

Without a doubt it is the best children themed Park in Shillong. Kids in school uniforms are often seen along with teachers, either on the swing or taking an educational tour at the mini Zoo. The mini Zoo keeps animals and many bird species like Jackal, Himalayan black bear, porcupine Leopard, hornbill, kite, mynah etc. But most importantly it is home to a fairly large population of serow and deer.

Lady Hydari Park is named after the first lady of the area, wife of the first Governor of Assam; Shillong being under Assam administration during the British occupation. Along with Ward’s Lake it is the best maintained park in the city. A small house inside the park also houses a museum. The museum main aim is to highlight the State’s rich biodiversity. You get to see stuffed leopard, skulls of elephant, photos of rare animals found in the state and surprisingly the dried skin of python clipped to the wall.

The garden is always full of life with carefully pruned flowers beds and lush lawns. The lower pool is occupied by graceful swans and is a sight to behold. Though the park is surrounded by concrete buildings and sometimes you wished you could see beyond that; it still is a small nature heaven hidden in the midst of all the hustle-bustle...