About Mawphlang Sacred Grove
Mawphlang Sacred Grove is an ancient forest located in Mawphlang village, about 25 kilometres from Shillong in East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya. Preserved for centuries by the Khasi tribe due to religious beliefs, the grove spans approximately 78 hectares and is known for its dense biodiversity, old-growth trees, orchids, and monoliths. It is protected as a sacred site where nothing can be removed, offering ecological and cultural significance.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a dense, old-growth forest with moss-covered trees, diverse flora including orchids and medicinal plants, and scattered Khasi monoliths. The site is accessed via natural forest trails with uneven ground, roots and stones. A local guide typically accompanies visitors to explain the ecology, monoliths and associated traditions. The surroundings are quiet and forested, with the Khasi Heritage Village located nearby.
Key highlights
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Ancient sacred forest preserved for centuries by the Khasi community
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Dense biodiversity with old-growth trees, orchids, ferns and medicinal plants
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Khasi monoliths associated with ritual and memorial traditions
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Guided nature walk through undisturbed forest trails
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Protected ecological site where nothing can be removed
History of Mawphlang Sacred Grove
The grove has been preserved for several centuries by the Khasi people through traditional religious sanctions. It contains Khasi monoliths erected to commemorate rituals and events, reflecting the historical continuity of Khasi customary practices and forest conservation.
Culture & Context
Sacred to the Khasi community and associated with the deity Labasa, the grove is protected by customary law that forbids removal of any material from the forest. It represents the Khasi tradition of sacred groves (Law Kyntang) and is central to local beliefs, rituals and community identity.
Route
| By air |
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