India's Most Scenic Reservoir
Umiam Lake (also called Barapani, meaning "big water" in Khasi) is one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in India. Located 17km north of Shillong on NH6 (the road to Guwahati), it was created in 1965 by damming the Umiam River for hydroelectric power generation.
Today, Umiam is as much a recreational attraction as a power source. Its vast blue waters, surrounded by rolling pine and oak hills, create scenery that has earned it the nickname "Umiam Lake Viewpoint" — and it appears in countless postcards and travel magazines.
Activities
Boating
The most popular activity at Umiam. Options include:
Pedal Boats:: Leisurely and ideal for families. Usually 30-minute slots.Motorboats:: Faster exploration of the lake. Offered by Meghalaya Tourism.Kayaking:: For those who want more activity.Boats are available at the Meghalaya Tourism Complex on the lakeside (8AM to 5PM). Fees range from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on boat type and duration.
Water Sports
Umiam Lake panorama
Meghalaya Tourism operates a water sports complex at Umiam offering:
Jet skiingWater scooter ridesSpeed boatingCycling
A cycling track runs along parts of the lake. Bicycles available for rent near the main viewpoint.
Picnicking
Umiam is a favourite picnic destination for locals. Grassy areas near the lakeshore are perfect for a packed lunch. Several food stalls operate on weekends.
Best Viewpoints
**NH6 Viewpoint (km 17 from Shillong):** Pull off the highway at the marked viewpoint — this is the classic photograph angle showing the lake framed by hills.**Upper Shillong Circuit Road:** A lesser-known road that runs along the ridge above the lake, offering aerial views.**Orchid Lake Resort:** The resort on the lakeside has a terrace restaurant with unobstructed lake views — great for breakfast or sunset.Best Time to Visit
Sunrise (6-8 AM):: Mist rises off the water, pine trees glow golden. Virtually no tourists.
Shillong hills
Avoid late afternoon on weekends — it gets crowded.
Practical Information
Entry:: No fee for the viewpoint on NH6. Meghalaya Tourism Complex charges ₹20-30 entry.Getting There:: 20 minutes from Shillong by cab or auto-rickshaw. Our cabs stop here as part of the standard Shillong sightseeing tour.Nearby:: Orchid Lake Resort for a meal, Nongpoh direction for more scenic drives.Photography Tips
Come at dawn for reflections on completely still water.Wide-angle lenses capture the scale best.In October-November, orange and red autumn foliage adds to the palette.The pine trees around the lake are particularly photogenic in morning fog.Umiam Lake is included in all our Shillong packages as a standard stop. It's the perfect start to a day of exploring.
