Mawphlang: The Sacred Forest in Meghalaya Where You Can't Take Even a Leaf
Nestled in the serene hills of Meghalaya, India, lies a place of profound natural beauty and cultural significance – the Mawphlang Sacred Forest. This ancient grove, located about 25 kilometers from the state capital Shillong, is a remarkable testament to the deep spiritual and ecological wisdom of the indigenous Khasi tribe. The forest, steeped in mythology and tradition, is a living sanctuary where not a leaf or twig is taken, preserving its pristine condition for generations. The Mawphlang Sacred Forest spans approximately 78 hectares and is a verdant haven teeming with life. Its dense canopy shelters a rich diversity of flora and fauna, many of which are rare and endemic to the region. The forest is home to towering trees, some over 1,000 years old, along with an array of medicinal plants, orchids, and ferns. The ecosystem here thrives undisturbed, illustrating the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the absence of human interference. The Khasi Tribe and Their Beliefs T