Most nature fans are awaiting cherry bloom in the spring however Shillong celebrates the beautiful natural phenomenon every autumn. India International Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong, Meghalaya, takes place in mid-November during the unique autumn flowering of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms. Thousands of people flock to see cherry blossom trees abundant with white-pink flowers during the day and at night lit up by beautiful illumination.
Shillong’s Cherry Blossom Festival features several fashion shows, concerts, a beauty pageant, a disco, martial arts, Japanese cosplay, and a golf tournament. There are also a few Japanese cultural events and stalls hosted by the Embassy of Japan in India.
The state of Meghalaya is famous for its biodiversity, hosting 5,538 species of fauna and 3,128 species of flowering plants, about 18% of India's flowers. Cherry blossom festival showcases food, wine, and crafts of the region and indigenous games of Meghalaya.
Practical info
When is the India International Cherry Blossom Festival held and what happens?
The annual India International Cherry Blossom Festival takes place amid the blooming of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms in Shillong, Meghalaya every mid-November. Thousands of tourists visit the city to witness the beautiful, white-pink flowers both in daylight and while lit by illuminations at night. The festival also includes events like fashion shows, discos, and golf tournaments. Show more
What is the location of the India International Cherry Blossom Festival?
Held in northeastern India, Shillong, Meghalaya is where the India International Cherry Blossom Festival occurs. The city is popular for its autumn cherry blossom bloom and Japanese gardens. Ward's Lake area is the site of the festival and provides a picturesque scenic landscape for all visitors to enjoy. Show more
What events and activities can visitors experience at the India International Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong, Meghalaya?
Aside from cherry blossom viewing, visitors to the India International Cherry Blossom Festival can engage in a range of activities and events. Martial arts, Japanese cosplay, beauty pageants, concerts, a golf tournament, and more will be available. There will also be a selection of Japanese cultural events and stalls hosted by the Embassy of Japan in India. In addition, visitors will encounter local culinary delights, region-specific wine and crafts, and Meghalaya's unique indigenous games. Show more
What is the biodiversity like in the state of Meghalaya?
The state of Meghalaya hosts a total of 5,538 fauna species and 3,128 flowering plant species, highlighting the region's diversity. The Meghalaya subtropical forests, which are a hotspot of plant diversity, host several endemic species. As a result, Meghalaya is home to an assortment of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, langurs, and gibbons. Show more
Are there any other festivals in Meghalaya in addition to the India International Cherry Blossom Festival?
Meghalaya has several vibrant festivals intended to celebrate the ethnic and cultural diversity of the region in addition to the India International Cherry Blossom Festival. Nongkrem Dance Festival, Wangala, Behdienkhlam, and Shad Suk Mynsiem are among the most famous festivals. Each of them features traditional dances, music, and colorful clothing from Meghalaya's numerous tribes and communities. Show more
