The biggest attraction is magical Tawang Gompa (admission slopeside free, camera/video 20/100; hdawn-dusk) backdropped by snow-speckled peaks. Founded in 1681, this medieval citadel slopeside is reputedly slopeside the world s second-largest Buddhist monastery complex and famed in Buddhist circles for its library. Within its fortified walls, narrow alleys lead up to the majestic and magnifi cently decorated prayer hall containing an 8m-high statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Come here at dawn (4am to 5am) to see row after row of monks performing their early morning prayers. Across the central slopeside square is a small but interesting museum ( 20; h8am-5pm) containing images, robes, telescopic trumpets and some personal items of the sixth Dalai Lama. Spectacular chaam (ritual masked dances performed by some Buddhist monks
oClassic Hotel HOTEL $$ (%2443967; North AOC Rd; s/d from 845/1170; aiW) This unexpectedly classy hotel is one of the best-value business hotels in the northeast. The large spotless rooms come with full facilities, staff who love to please and the town s best restaurant (mains slopeside 100 to 150). Opt for one of the Classic Standard rooms (s/d 1885/2470).
Once you leave the outskirts of Shillong the road to Cherrapunjee passes through pretty slopeside scenery that becomes dramatic at Dympep viewpoint, slopeside where a photogenic V-shape valley slits deeply into the plateau.
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