#balancing rock

[whereifindsanity]

The Kummakivi balancing rock in Ruokolahti, Finland. by paul_hanninen.

[twoseparatecoursesmeet]

Balancing Rock in the Garden of the Gods, 1940s

[jeanhm]

Peter Island Lighthouse Brier Island

Grand Passage lighthouse

Brier lighthouse

Balancing Rock

[nandneeeeeee]

The Enigmatic Balancing Rock of Meghalaya: A Traveler's Ultimate Guide

Meghalaya, often referred to as the "Abode of Clouds," is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from lush green hills to cascading waterfalls. Among its many attractions, the Balancing Rock stands out as a marvel of nature and a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. This guide will help you explore the Balancing Rock of Meghalaya, uncover its history and legends, and plan your visit seamlessly. While traveling, accommodations are a must and there are so many nature-seeking resorts in Meghalaya to feel the serenity & beauty!

What is the Balancing Rock?

The Balancing Rock of Meghalaya is a unique geological formation where a large boulder perches precariously on a smaller base rock. Despite its seemingly unstable position, the rock has stood the test of time, weathering natural forces without toppling over. This natural phenomenon has intrigued both locals and tourists, making it a must-visit landmark in Meghalaya.

Historical Significance and Legends

The Balancing Rock holds significant historical and cultural importance for the local Khasi tribe. According to local legends, the rock symbolizes the resilience and balance of the Khasi people. Some believe it represents the delicate balance between nature and human existence, a concept deeply rooted in Khasi beliefs.

Another popular legend suggests that the rock was a resting place for spirits traveling between the heavens and the earth. This has added a mystical aura to the site, attracting those interested in the spiritual and mythological aspects of Meghalaya.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Balancing Rock is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, which can make travel challenging but also enhances the natural beauty of the region with lush greenery and full-flowing waterfalls.

How to Reach the Balancing Rock

The Balancing Rock is located near the village of Mawlynnong, which is known as the "Cleanest Village in Asia." Here are the ways to reach this natural wonder:

By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Mawlynnong, which is approximately 90 kilometers away.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Guwahati, about 180 kilometers from Mawlynnong. From Guwahati, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the village.

By Road: Mawlynnong is well-connected by road. You can hire a cab or take a bus from Shillong, which is a 2.5-hour drive away.

Nearby Attractions and Stays

When visiting the Balancing Rock, you can explore several nearby attractions that add to the charm of your trip:

Mawlynnong Village: Renowned for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices, the village offers a glimpse into sustainable living. Don't miss the Sky Walk, a bamboo structure that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Living Root Bridges: Located near Mawlynnong, these unique bridges are made from the roots of rubber trees. The Living Root Bridges are a testament to the ingenuity of the Khasi people and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Dawki River: Just a short drive from Mawlynnong, the Dawki River is famous for its crystal-clear waters. Boating on this river feels like floating on air due to the river's incredible transparency.

Riwai Village: Known for its scenic beauty and another spectacular Living Root Bridge, Riwai is a great place to experience local culture and hospitality.

For accommodation, consider the following options:

Homestays in Mawlynnong: Experience the warmth of Khasi hospitality by staying in a local homestay. This offers an authentic experience and a chance to learn about the local culture.

Guesthouses in Shillong: If you prefer a more urban setting, Shillong has several comfortable guesthouses and hotels. It also offers easy access to other attractions in Meghalaya.

Eco-Resorts: There are several eco-resorts near Mawlynnong that provide a blend of comfort and nature. These resorts focus on sustainable tourism practices and offer amenities like guided tours and local cuisine.

Tips for Travelers

Respect Local Customs: The Khasi people are known for their hospitality, but it's essential to respect their customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.

Pack Accordingly: Depending on the season, pack appropriate clothing. Winters can be chilly, so bring warm clothes. If visiting during the monsoon, carry rain gear and waterproof footwear.

Stay Hydrated: The region's high humidity can be dehydrating. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially if you plan on trekking or walking long distances.

Hire a Local Guide: To enrich your experience, consider hiring a local guide. They can provide deeper insights into the area's history, culture, and natural wonders.

Conclusion

The Balancing Rock of Meghalaya is more than just a natural wonder; it's a symbol of the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or a nature lover, visiting this remarkable site will leave you with unforgettable memories. Plan your trip now and experience the enigmatic charm of Meghalaya's Balancing Rock.

[oramyr]

Drawing some landscapes in our world where myths, legends and wonder come from.

[zegalba]

Andy Goldsworthy: Balanced rock (1979)

[empquipress]

realized i never posted some little doodles i made of @narcissistcookbook and @bughuntermusic / @jammechanics. both based off tour and podcast art by the lovely DeepBlueInk.

if anybody got charms of the latter that I was giving out at the show, absolutely feel free to show me cause I would love to see where they all ended up!

[the-shy-skeleton]

ily lup adventurezone one of the women of all time

[whereifindsanity]

Bjoern Hossfeld

Balancing Rock, Nova Scotia, Canada.

[st4rstudent]

Winn + Mac fusion idea. lalala.

[dreamsteddie]

Childhood friends Steddie this, childhood friends Steddie that!

When will we see childhood friends Stobin!?

They meet at Headstart because the Harringtons want to give their child as much of a leg up on his peers as possible and the Buckleys know that their daughter is incredibly bright, and with the preschool, she could probably start kindergarten a year early.

On day one Steve shows off the lunch his nanny made him, a PB&J cut up into a star shape, a mandarin fruit cup, and a homemade cookie. Robin is insanely jealous of the cookie and starts trying to convince Steve that he should give it to her, only she's already showing signs of becoming a rambler later in life so she trips over the words and it all comes out as a garbled mess that Steve can't make out.

Still, Steve is a kind boy and this girl looks like she's getting really frustrated and maybe even like she's going to cry and Jill, his nanny, packed him a second cookie in another bag for him to give to he first friend he makes on his first day of preschool. He doesn't know if he wants to be friends with this girl, but she seems upset and cookies make everything better.

The cookie does, in fact, make everything better.

Steve and Robin spend the whole day sitting side by side holding hands and running around. The adults around them coo and say weird things about young love that Steve doesn't really pay attention to and Robin crinkles her nose up at. She thinks boys have cooties, but Steve is ok because he's her friend and he's not as gross as the other boys.

By the time Jill and the Buckleys come to pick up their charges, Robin and Steve are wearing matching, wonky friendship bracelets they spent all of craft time on. Robin's is made of blue poney beads because she told Steve that was her favorite color and it had little plastic charms of a bluebird, an ice cream cone, a lime green dinosaur, and a bead with the letter 'S' on it. Steve's is yellow with lots of star beads, an orange dinosaur, a charm that looks like a banana, and a bead with the letter "R" on it.

They head home wearing big smiles, ready for another day of preschool with their best friend.

[389]

Robert Kipniss, The Balanced Rock (2004)

[larabar]

drawing over stock/my own photos

[thomaswaynewolf]

[soooseductiv3]

Soooseductiv3

[polyamorouspunk]

Not polyamory as in “I love both my partners equally” but polyamory as in “If I wasn’t dating one of my partners I literally could not stand the other”.