Thadlaskein Lake

Thadlaskein Lake is a historic man-made lake located about 8 km from Jowai in West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, beside National Highway 6 near Mukhla village. Created according to legend by Sajar Nangli and followers of 290 clans using the ends of bows, it is surrounded by meadows and pine trees. The lake is a popular recreational and picnic spot and holds cultural importance for the Jaintia community.

Visitors can expect a large, calm freshwater lake surrounded by grassy meadows and pine trees with a small island in the centre. The site offers paved pathways, viewpoints and park-like surroundings for leisurely walks, photography and picnics. Boating facilities are available on the lake. The area is open and scenic, with food stalls and seating near the shore, and is commonly visited as a short stop between Shillong and Jowai.

According to local legend, Thadlaskein Lake was dug by Sajar Nangli, a follower of the Jaintia king, with members of 290 clans. The name is said to derive from the use of the ends (thadlaskein) of bows to dig the lake, as each clan member dug with the end of their bow. It is regarded as a historic man-made water body of the Jaintia Hills.

The lake holds cultural significance for the Jaintia (Pnar) community as a symbol of collective effort and unity of the clans. It is a well-known recreational and community picnic site and is promoted as an important cultural and natural attraction of West Jaintia Hills.