Williamnagar is the headquarters of the East Garo Hills district in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya. The town was named after Capt. Williamson A. Sangma, who was the Chief Minister of the state at the time of the christening of the town; sometime around 1876. Williamnagar was originally named Simsanggre, since it lies on the large plains that surround the Simsang River. Richly cultured and immensely beautiful, Williamnagar is a town that derives a lot of its characteristics from its neighbouring regions, which helps in promoting tourism and attracting tourists. The town also organises a spectacular annual event that brings in large crowds of local and foreign visitors to its borders, and who leave thoroughly rejuvenated after a fun and relaxing stay here. Check out this travel guide for more information about Williamnagar.

By Air:

The nearest airport from Williamnagar is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, which is about 118 km. Compared to Shillong Airport located in the capital city, Guwahati has better connectivity to different cities across the country. There are both buses and taxis available for Williamnagar from either airport.

By Rail:

The first and only railway station in Meghalaya was recently constructed in the town of Mendipathar. It only operates passenger trains that connect it to the much busier Guwahati Railway Station. Travellers coming in via train have the option to catch a bus or taxi directly to Williamnagar from Guwahati Railway Station, or catch a passenger train from Guwahati to Mendipathar Railway Station and then cover the rest of the distance to Williamnagar via road.

By Road:

The Meghalaya Transport Corporation connects Williamnagar to several cities nearby via public buses. Private vehicles, both buses and taxis, can also be availed from major cities like Shillong and Guwahati to reach Williamnagar.

Summer (March – May) & Monsoon (June – September):

The summers in Williamnagar are relatively pleasant; afternoons can be quite warm, but the temperatures dip considerably as the sun goes down. Tourists often visit Williamnagar during this time to escape the heat of the cities. Monsoon months receive a moderate amount of rainfall, which compared to other parts in Meghalaya, isn’t as intense. Nonetheless, tourists should ideally avoid the monsoons for a trip to Williamnagar.

Winter (October – February):

Winters are the most ideal time to visit Williamnagar and the months receiving the highest tourist footfall. The weather never gets too cold and unexpected rainfall is rare, which makes it the best time to explore the local attractions and enjoy the key spots of the region. The Simsang Festival is also celebrated in December, which is one of the most awaited annual events in this part of the state.

Witness the Simsang Festival:

The Simsang Festival is a major annual event held in the month of December that calls upon some of the best performing artists in the state. Singing and dancing competitions, fashion shows, food and wine festivals, carnivals, the Miss Simsang beauty pageant etc. are some of the most popular events in the festivals.

Picnic at Naka Chikong:

A great mythological structure for the locals, Naka Chikong is a large rock with deep hollows and is believed to be swarming with fishes during all seasons of the year. The locals also famously believe that if anyone touches any part of the rock, all the fishes disappear from the river.

Attend the Fishing Festival by Simsang River:

The majestic Simsang River flows directly through the heart of Williamnagar, which originates in the Nokrek peak and is known as Someshwari River when it enters Bangladesh. A fishing festival by the name of Nathok Wari is celebrated in the villages located along the river banks every year during the winter months.

Like a lot of other towns in this part of Meghalaya, tourists will find ample places to eat, most of which are small restaurants and food stalls serving regional cuisine. While meat features prominently in the dishes here, there are a number of vegetarian options to choose from as well. Do check out RJ Restaurant and Koushik Rice Hotel for great choices in lunch, dinner or breakfast.