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Mount Lumsohpetbneng 2, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, North East Hill States, India.
Some 25 kilometres from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, Mount Lumsohptbneng rises 3500 feet, (1066 metres). This mountain is the most sacred place of the Khasi religion. At the summit is a terraced ceremonial platform where, once a year on the 5th of February, the most important festival in the Khasi calendar is held.

The Gate to the sacred mountain

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Re- construction and development of this portal is being carried out here. This festival is enjoying a great resurgence in modern times.

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Lime blessing.

The pilgrims acquire blessing for their enterprise by smearing a finger with lime on this rock by the entrance gate.

The pilgrim trek.

In recent years a vehicle track has been opened nearly to the top of the mountain. This ancient festival is experiencing a modern revival and the road is continuously grid- locked on this day. Many thousands of Khasis elect to walk the entire six kilometres through unspoiled pine woods and dramatic rockeries.

Natural menhirs.

At the top of the mountain the trails wind through a field of eroded natural rock monoliths.

A natural place for a picnic.

On the Sacred Mountain.

A broad cross section of Khasi society attend this festival. Many families of small farmers from the hills and deep jungle canyons are equally represented by professional people and young trendies from Shillong. The atmosphere and solemnity of the ritual platform and dance floor is encompassed by hearty crowds of picnickers.