The Wangala Festival, also known as the “100 Drums Festival,” is a grand celebration of the Garo tribe in Meghalaya. It honors the Sun God, Misi Saljong, for a bountiful harvest and is filled with music, dance, and traditional rituals. The festival typically spans three days, offering visitors a deep dive into Garo culture.
Itinerary
- Morning: Arrive in Guwahati, Assam. Drive to Manas National Park (approx. 5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your jungle lodge and relax.
- Evening: Orientation about the park’s rich biodiversity.
- Morning: Jeep safari to spot wildlife like tigers, elephants, and rhinos.
- Afternoon: Visit the nearby villages to experience local Bodo culture.
- Evening: Bonfire and dinner at the lodge.
Morning Proceed to Sarthebari visit bell metal, utensils make by the villagers it is one of the largest sector ,they produce Sarai (tray ) , Tal( Cymbals) , Kahi (dish) , Bati (Bowl) – these produced are mostly used in religious ceremony and domestic use . Meet the craftsman at the village and notice the process of making it. Later proceed to Patshala for lunch at local Restaurant, Return back to Bongaigaon (3hrs) for night stay
Post breakfast drive to Tura (5hrs) - enroute visit Rangsapara (2hrs from bongaigaon) - the cleanest village of Assam - Inhabitant of Garo tribes which are mostly farmers and grow vegetables, Bananas, Paddy and Rubber. The village is free from Alcohol, Drugs and use of plastic. Guest can have a cup of Tea in the local house; enroute packed lunch will be provided in a scenic location. Proceed continue to Tura, enroute they can visit dachi lake at anogre where boating facilities are also available. Night stay at Tura
Visit Rongbang Dar Waterfalls and interact with Garo locals.
Experience traditional Garo cuisine in Tura.
Overnight stay in Tura.
Witness the Ritual Sacrifice and prayers at Nokrek Peak.
Enjoy the rugala ceremony, where the first harvest is offered to the gods.
Participate in drumming and dance performances by the Garo tribes.
Explore local handicrafts and traditional attire.
Overnight stay in Tura.
Watch the 100 Drums Wangala Dance performed by men and women in vibrant costumes.
Experience traditional sports like archery and wrestling.
Enjoy folk music, bamboo flutes, and indigenous instruments.
Taste authentic Garo delicacies at food stalls.
Overnight stay in Tura.
Early morning drive or flight back to Guwahati.
Visit Kamakhya Temple (time permitting).
Depart for home with wonderful memories of Meghalaya.
