September 27, 2023, Sohra, Meghalaya: In a move that blends the beauty of Meghalaya with a commitment to sustainability, Shangkai, a local tour startup, and Bharathiya Vikas Trust have teamed up to launch Meghalaya’s first-ever e-cycle circuit in the scenic village of Khliehshnong, Sohra. This initiative, supported by the Sauramandala Foundation and the PRIME-Sauramandala Rural Entrepreneurship Fellowship (PSREF), is all about showcasing the rich landscapes of Meghalaya in a greener, more eco-friendly way.
An Inspiring Start
With the ceremonial flag-off by Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary of Tourism, the event brought together community leaders, including village headman Dr. Shembhalang Kharwanlang, along with other dedicated local figures. They all stood proudly in support of this new chapter in Meghalaya’s tourism, seeing it as a meaningful step toward sustainable travel and community involvement.
The E-Cycle Circuit: A New Way to Explore Sohra
Imagine taking in the breathtaking sights of Sohra on an e-cycle, breathing in the fresh air without leaving a carbon footprint. Here’s what makes the circuit special:
- Eco-Friendly Travel: The e-cycles run without emissions, offering a green alternative for tourists eager to explore Sohra’s rugged landscapes.
- Adventure Meets Accessibility: The e-cycles provide an extra boost on uphill trails, making the ride enjoyable for tourists of all ages and abilities.
- Empowering Local Youth: Local young people are being trained to operate and maintain these e-cycle stations, giving them hands-on experience and new job opportunities in the tourism sector.
- Easy, Guided Exploration: Tourists benefit from free parking and guide services to enhance their experience.
The e-cycle circuit includes several rental stations, making it easy for visitors to hop on and off as they journey to stunning spots like Nohkalikai Falls and the lesser-known corners of Sohra. The route is flexible, allowing riders to pick their own pace and destinations, turning the trip into a custom experience.
Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, highlights the significance of the project, sharing, “I believe in the ability of sustainable solutions to have a positive impact on our communities. The opening of the E-Cycle Circuit in Sohra, Meghalaya, represents a big step toward a future for our region that is greener, cleaner, and more accessible. These electric bicycles serve as a symbol of our dedication to a better and more sustainable future while also promoting environmentally friendly transportation.”
Headman Dr. Shembhalang Kharwanlang added, “In our cherished Sohra, we are honoured to usher in a new era of sustainable mobility. The E-Cycle Circuit is a tribute to our resolve to protect our pristine environment, welcome innovation, and strengthen our community. It is not just about transportation. We urge everyone to explore our gorgeous hills and immerse themselves in our rich culture with the help of these electric cycles as we move toward a more environmentally friendly future.”
Damanbha Khongstia, Partner and Head of Operations at Shangkai, echoed this enthusiasm, saying, “Shangkai is happy to be a part of the E-Cycle Circuit program in Sohra as partners in development
and sustainability. We are guiding Sohra toward a cleaner, more environmentally friendly future with
the help of our partners. Join us on this thrilling adventure as we set off on a voyage of environmentally aware mobility, reinventing how we discover and value Meghalaya’s natural beauties.”
Renting an E-Cycle: Booking and Packages
Tourists can easily book e-cycles through partnered homestays, the Instagram page @shangkaiindia, or local travel operators. On-the-spot rentals are also available at various stations, with a variety of affordable packages to choose from. Currently, 10 e-cycles are ready for tourists, with plans to expand the fleet in the coming years.
About the Partners
Bharathiya Vikas Trust (BVT): Founded in 1978, BVT focuses on empowering rural communities through projects that promote capacity building, financial inclusion, and sustainable development. They’ve worked across India for over 40 years, helping rural areas unlock their potential.
Shangkai: Born out of a love for adventure and nature, Shangkai is a young tour startup rooted in Sohra. Since 2022, they’ve been offering travelers unforgettable journeys that honor Meghalaya’s environment and culture.
With this e-cycle circuit, Meghalaya is taking a fresh approach to tourism, welcoming visitors to experience its wonders responsibly. It’s a chance to see the state in a new way—one that values sustainability as much as adventure.
