Travel | Cluster of Age-Old Monoliths Amidst the Hills of Meghalaya

What exactly is a monolith ? Why are they there in the first place? With these questions in mind I wandered off to look for answers and got my reading glasses ready to do some research. The word monolith comes from the Greek word “monolithos”, derived from mono (“one” or “single”) and lithos (“stone”).

I begin my exploration in the hub of all monoliths in Meghalaya, Nartiang village in the Jaintia Hills district. It is the place to start if you are looking for a rocky site full of traditional memories and hidden stories. They call it the “Monolith garden”.

Nartiang Monolith in Meghalaya | Photo courtesy @himadrimoharana

These monoliths are said to be a testimony of a sovereign strength. They are a symbol of tradition in the Jaintia Hills among the “pnar” tribes. It is said that these monoliths were erected to mark the reigns of the erstwhile Jaintia king. There are folktales to explain the existence of these ancient monuments. Looking for these stories was the highlight of my mini research.

I always wondered on how the monoliths came to be in such a manner; with its identical size and arrangements throughout the region. One fine day I find myself there amidst the ancient rocks and it was a sight to behold! My fellow tourist mates and I gaze at each other with awe in our eyes in silence. They still stand firm and tall as if they were just erected yesterday.

The story cannot be very well explained with mere words. You will have to visit the place for yourself if you want to experience this firsthand.

Share us your story of the monolith we would love to hear from you!