Shillong to Host International Cherry Blossom Festival this Year in November

• International Cherry Blossom Festival to be held in India and would be the first to take place in autumn.
• Shillong is going to host the India Cherry Blossom Festival for the second time from November 8 to 11.
• Tourists from India and all over the world to attend the Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong.

Shillong had made history last year by hosting India Cherry Blossom Festival for the very first time in India. Almost 30,000 tourists had come to commemorate the festival in India but CM Sangma is optimistic of a better turnout this year.

Like in all Cherry Blossom Festivals, there will be various community events which include live musical events, stalls showcasing arts, wine, cuisine and crafts of the region, and needless to say, guided night walks under illuminated cherry blossoms. Apart from that, you can expect traditional music, dance forms of North East India, storytelling sessions, a rock concert, choir, a women's football match, etc.

Shillong is situated at an altitude of 5,003 feet and is also known as 'the abode of clouds.' Nearly 5,000 cherry blossom trees have been planted on the road leading up to Shillong. The flowering will last for two weeks, said Dinabandhu Sahoo.