In the Jaintia Hills, monoliths serve as symbols of remembrance. Numerous monoliths have been erected to honour the throne of the Jaintia king. The Nartiang Monoliths were erected to commemorate the glorious years of the Jaintia rule. It is also the largest number of monoliths found in a single place in Meghalaya. Nartiang village was also the summer capital of the Jaintia rulers.
Located in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, the Nartiang Monoliths are a remarkable testament to the region’s ancient cultural practices, architectural ingenuity, and spiritual beliefs. These monolithic structures, which stand tall in the village of Nartiang, have long been shrouded in mystery and fascination. The monoliths are not only of historical significance but also of cultural importance, offering a window into the lives and traditions of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes that have inhabited the region for centuries.
The Nartiang Monoliths are considered the tallest structures in Meghalaya, with the largest standing at an impressive 26 feet. This towering monolith, known as the “Menhir,” is believed to have been erected by Mar Phalangki, a trusted lieutenant of the Jaintia King, in celebration of his victory in battle. Other monoliths in the area were erected between 1500 and 835 A.D. by figures such as Mar Phalangki, Luh Lyngskor Lamare, and various clans from Nartiang village.
Like many regions in Meghalaya, Nartiang had its own weekly market. The area where the monoliths were erected also served as a marketplace, with flat stones used to display goods for customers. The layout of the area was thoughtfully planned, with monoliths (effectively functioning as shops) lining both sides of the footpath, offering a unique, traditional alternative to modern malls. However, the market was relocated after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) took charge of the site, preserving its historical significance.
Nartiang is easily accessible by road, with taxis operating from as early as 6 am until around 4 pm, charging a modest fare of $200 on a sharing basis. It makes for a perfect day trip, and visitors can stop by at Max’s Fast Food & Bakery, a charming little restaurant by Maxdonal, for a delicious lunch before heading back to Shillong.
The thumbnail features the Nartiang Monoliths, iconic stone structures located in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills.
Atiqur Rahman is a Delhi-based photographer who hails from Nagaland.
