What would you do if an entire island is at your disposal? Staying in privacy and a less crowded place is a dream come true for everyone. Often we escape from our cities not only to beat the mundane lifestyle but also to relax and rejuvenate in the lap of Mother Nature.
This getaway is possible from both Guwahati and Shillong as there is a beautiful boat house somewhere in the middle of the Umiam Lake, known as the Lumpendong Island. An hour and a half drive from both the cities this boathouse is the best you can find this summer to indulge in a peaceful and quiet weekend getaway.
As summer is almost here you will have plenty of vacation days, why not come to this boathouse with your significant other or your friends for a relaxed weekend getaway from the city.
About the Boathouse:
This boathouse is built on the lake of Umiam, a beautiful, wooden studio type cabin with an attached bathroom, a closet and a life sized mirror. The room gives a homely vibe with a leather sofa, floor to ceiling windows that brightens up the whole boathouse.
There is a patio overlooking the Umiam Lake and it is great to have your evening coffee sitting on outdoor jute chairs watching the sun disappear in the mountains.
What about Safety and Privacy ?
Most hotels and guest house advertise total privacy but you will rarely get the privacy you want. But the boathouse is the only guest house in the entire island so you will truly get value for your money. The owner of the Boat house lives in an elevated area at a distance from the Boat house. Apart from the lake water crashing softly against the boat house and the occasional croaking of frogs in the night, the complete silence is beautiful.
The host makes sure you are safe and sound, they have special boat services to bring you to the boathouse and take you back safely to the main land. After a nice dinner the owner will come by and wish you a pleasant good night.
What about Food?
As many hotels and Airbnb, you will get the basics: tea, coffee and snacks at the property. Since it is an Airbnb the host doesn’t provide lunch and dinner.
You can buy your own groceries and meat/fish and ask the host to prepare meals for you.
Exploring the Island:
Wake up to the gentle sound of birds chirping in the morning. Bathe yourself in the warmth of sun rays coming in through the windows on the bed. After soaking in the early morning, you can indulge in a delightful breakfast on the patio.
If you want to explore the island, you can go for a walk around the boathouse, up the mountain, you will find yourself surrounded by long grasses and pine trees all over the island.
Next you can head to the other end of the island. There is an staircase beautifully cut out on the mountain and it leads to a small park with swings and little hut with benches.
From here you can see some resorts that are famous in Barapani like the Ri Kynjai.
There is not much to do in the island apart from walking the island.
A picnic on the far side of the island can be done too. It can be romantic for a couple and full of fun for a group of friends.
If you stay for more than a day you can also have a bonfire upon request.
Who can enjoy a weekend getaway on this boathouse?
This boathouse is perfect for couples. It is also fun with a few friends (you can bring your friends and throw an intimate birthday party) and of course small families.
When to visit this beautiful Boathouse?
You can visit this boathouse throughout the year. Best time to visit is during Summer as the temperature is very pleasant around 15-19 degrees Celsius.
My outlook on the Boathouse?
I totally loved the isolated and peaceful surroundings at the boathouse. If you are one who loves their privacy and secluded places this boathouse is perfect for you.
I am definitely coming back in future, maybe with my girlfriends and have a cute picnic together. I can’t wait to go back.
You can book this boathouse on the Airbnb website: