Umiam Lake, also known as Bara Pani, is a reservoir on the Guwahati–Shillong road, about 15 km north of Shillong. For a day out, combine the lakeside scenery with Umiam View Point and, if available, boating or water sports.
- Road distance from Shillong: 17 km, according to Meghalaya Tourism.
- Taxi or cab journey from Shillong: about 40–45 minutes.
- Suggested time at Umiam Lake: 1 hour; allow another 20–25 minutes at Umiam View Point.
- Meghalaya Tourism recommends visiting from March to June.
How far is Umiam Lake from Shillong?
Umiam Lake is about 15 km north of Shillong, while a Meghalaya Tourism itinerary gives the Shillong-to-lake distance as 17 km and estimates a taxi or cab journey at 40–45 minutes. The different distance figures come from separate sources; use the journey estimate to plan your outing.
The reservoir lies in Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya. It was created by damming the Umiam River in the early 1960s. You can plan a focused lake visit of about 1 hour, then add time for the viewpoint or other stops.
How do you get from Shillong to Umiam Lake?
The road from Guwahati to Shillong passes Umiam Lake, and Meghalaya Tourism recommends a taxi or cab for the journey from Shillong. If you're planning a departure from a three-star hotel in Shillong, arrange your ride with the lake as the destination and allow 40–45 minutes for the drive from Shillong.
Meghalaya Tourism describes the route as accessible along the Guwahati–Shillong road.
If you are arriving by air, how to get to Shillong from its two airports can help you plan the start of your trip. Check the official site before you go, especially if you intend to use lake activities or facilities with set hours.
Where can you stop for views of Umiam Lake?
Umiam View Point is a dedicated stop for landscape views and photography, and Meghalaya Tourism recommends 20–25 minutes there. The itinerary gives the Shillong-to-viewpoint distance as 17 km and estimates a taxi or cab journey at 40–45 minutes.
For a lakeside stop, Lum Nehru Park is 1.1 km from Umiam Lake. It has an entry charge of INR 20 per person and hours of 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Ri Bhoi district tourism page also identifies the park and Orchid Lake Resort as facilities beside the lake.
What can you do at Umiam Lake?
Activities around Umiam Lake include boating, yachting, cruising and water scootering. The Ri Bhoi district tourism page also names sailing and water skiing among the lake’s water-sports facilities.
Lake activities run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, starting at INR 20 per person; the water sports complex is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Fishing, trekking and camping are associated with Lumpongdeng Island. Activity operators and prices beyond the stated starting price can vary, so confirm details before making plans.
Meghalaya Tourism recommends March to June for a visit. Its itinerary suggests allowing 1 hour for the lake itself, with the viewpoint and park as possible additions to your day. You can fit the outing alongside things to do in Shillong when planning time in the city.
Planning your return from Umiam Lake
Allow 40–45 minutes for the taxi or cab journey between Umiam Lake and Shillong, and factor in extra time for any stops you add. If you are relying on a specific activity, confirm its operating hours before you set off rather than assuming every option will be available throughout your visit.
Meghalaya Tourism describes Umiam View Point as accessible at any time of day, while its itinerary recommends 20–25 minutes there. Its guide to Shillong’s seasons and festival dates can help you plan the wider trip around the recommended March-to-June period for Umiam Lake.
FAQs
What is another name for Umiam Lake?
Umiam Lake is also known as Bara Pani. It is a reservoir in Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya.
Is there an entry charge for Umiam View Point?
Meghalaya Tourism gives Umiam View Point no entry charge.
How much time should you allow for Umiam Lake?
Meghalaya Tourism recommends about 1 hour at the lake, plus 20–25 minutes at Umiam View Point if you include it.
What activities are available at Umiam Lake?
Activities include boating, yachting, cruising and water scootering, as well as sailing and water skiing. Fishing, trekking and camping are associated with Lumpongdeng Island.