Lady Hydari Park: A Peaceful Retreat in Shillong

Lady Hydari Park has been located deep in the core of Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya, which is located amidst the busier streets in town. Beautiful natural scenery as well as fine-groomed gardens and beautiful surroundings, making Lady hydari Park stand out as among the most thronged of Shillong's places, provides a quite refreshing break with its lush-green surroundings, stunning flowers, and a rich historic background.

History of Lady Hydari Park

It is named after Lady Hydari, the wife of the then Governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari, who played an important role in making it. The park was established during the 1930s and was shaped to be paid as a tribute to the love of the natural beauty by the then Governor's wife, Lady Hydari. The idea was to serve as a public place for recreation and to highlight the flora and fauna of the region.

The colonial past of the region is terribly interwoven in the history of the park, for Shillong was a favorite holiday resort of the British, and its climate often favored the British during the colonial period. The conceptions behind Lady Hydari Park were not merely to construct a space for recreational purposes but, at the same time, highlight the beauty of the surrounding landscape and make nature accessible to the public. The park has over the years symbolized the commitment of Shillong towards its natural heritage and providing a serene abode to visitors.

Layout and Attractions of Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park covers an area of 15 acres and is well-planned to have different landscapes, such as lush green lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and serene ponds. The park is famous for its beautiful flower gardens that bloom throughout the year, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers and photographers.

One of the main attractions of the park is the mini-zoo. A small collection of animals and birds native to this region is accommodated in it. The species of animals like the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Meghalaya, along with various deer, monkeys, and exotic birds, are some of the popular species found there. It is an opportunity to experience the wildlife of the place in a controlled and safe manner. Though small, the mini-zoo is an important educational feature for children and families, offering insight into the biodiversity of the region.

Manicured lawns inside the park, ideal for picnics, walks, or taking rest in the middle of nature, are another notable feature of Lady Hydari Park. The gardens are beautifully maintained and frequently interspersed with vibrant flowers, especially spring season; hence, it is a favorite to people who love the beauty of budding plants. The colors and charm are associated with roses, lilies, orchids, and daisies inside the park throughout the year.

Visitors love the park, especially for its ponds and species of fish that inhabit it. The waters are so peaceful, reflective, and calm with the presence of lotus flowers and lily pads around the place. Walking through the pathways of the ponds can bring a person moments of silence and reflection.

Besides that, the park has several play areas for children, making it an ideal place for families to spend the day. The well-planned play areas ensure that the park is not just a destination for nature enthusiasts but also a place where kids can engage in outdoor activities.

Flora and Fauna at Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park is an excellent example of the rich flora and fauna of Shillong. The park harbors a fair diversity of plants, trees, and flowers that also reflect the plant diversity in Meghalaya. In the blooming seasons, the park comes alive with the different colors-those vibrant flowers attract not just visitors but also different butterflies and bees.

Apart from the plants, the mini-zoo within the park displays the animal diversity of Meghalaya. The park accommodates animals indigenous to the region, such as various species of deer, monkeys, and birds. These animals are often seen in the naturalistic enclosures, which have been designed to mimic their native habitats. The Himalayan Monal is a major attraction. This bird is very colorful and vibrantly plumaged and is a symbol of the region and adds to the beauty of the park.

The park is small compared to other wildlife sanctuaries in the region, but its diversity of plants and animals offers visitors a compact yet enriching experience of Shillong's biodiversity.

Lady Hydari Park Timings

Lady Hydari Park is open to visitors every day, and its timings are as follows:

Morning Timings: The park opens at 7:00 in the morning. People can enjoy their beauty in a quiet atmosphere with morning birds chirping and cool air in the morning. The morning timing is very busy, especially for joggers, walkers, and all the nature lovers.

Afternoon Timings: The park is open till 5:00 PM. This time is suitable for visitors who want to visit the park at a slow pace, see the mini-zoo, or just sit around the ponds. Afternoons are also perfect for families because children can enjoy the play areas while parents relax in the gardens.

The park is closed on Sundays. It would be better if people plan a visit on other days of the week to avoid disappointment.

Best Time to Visit Lady Hydari Park

The best time to visit Lady Hydari Park is during the spring and autumn months, that is, from March to May and September to November. This is because flowers are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant, ideal for exploring the gardens and having a peaceful day out. These months are especially attractive to nature lovers and photographers because of the vibrant flora and pleasant weather.

Though the monsoon season from June to August brings much rain to Shillong, its heavy fall makes the park's pathways slippery and harder to navigate. Still, monsoon season brings out the luscious green landscape, which can make it beautiful for those who don't mind getting wet in the rain.

The winter months, from December to February, are also an excellent time to visit, as the weather is cool and crisp. Though the flowers may not be as abundant as in the spring, the cooler temperatures make it a comfortable time for a walk through the park.

How to Reach Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park is located in the heart of Shillong and is accessible by taxi, private vehicle, or even on foot if you are staying in the town center. It is centrally located in the city, so it is easily accessible to other major tourist attractions such as Ward's Lake and Elephant Falls, making it a perfect stop during a sightseeing tour of Shillong.

If you are moving via public transport, you can find taxis and buses available to go to the park. Shillong also has a good network of local cabs that are at anyone's beckoned call, for those who would want to explore the city.

Things to Do in Lady Hydari Park

There are several things to do at Lady Hydari Park, including:

Nature Walks: The park is a perfect place for leisurely walks, with well-maintained pathways that allow you to explore the gardens, ponds, and mini-zoo at your own pace.

Photography: The park is a photographer's paradise, with vibrant flowers, unique animal species, and picturesque landscapes providing excellent opportunities for capturing stunning photos.

Picnics: Due to the peaceful atmosphere and open lawns, a picnic at the park is a favorite among people. It's here that families and groups of friends converge for a leisurely time amidst nature.

Bird Watching: Several species of birds are hosted by this park, so it is a great place for birdwatching, especially in the early morning or in the late afternoon.

Children's Activities: The play areas and mini-zoo make Lady Hydari Park a family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities to keep children entertained.

Conclusion

Lady Hydari Park is an idyllic spot in Shillong that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. This park caters to those looking for a serene getaway, an excursion for the family, or simply for studying the regional flora and fauna. Lady Hydari Park continues to be a popular place for people of Shillong as it presents well-groomed gardens and scenic walkways as well as an enchanting mini-zoo.