Tura, April 27: Tasek lake in Meghalaya's East Garo Hills, naturally formed during the massive earthquake which hit the Northeast in 1897, has turned into a popular recreational spot for visitors.

The lake is located in Songsak of East Garo Hills, about 110km from Tura in West Garo Hills. It is close to the new national highway from Jengjal to Shillong.

Between 2014 and 16, the Songsak block, Meghalaya tourism, fisheries, integrated basin development and livelihood promotion programme created infrastructure to boost tourism in the area and constructed an eco-lodge, approach road and waiting shed on the site. The tourism department also provided three boats.

Last year, a tourism festival was held at the site. In winter, many migratory birds can be seen at the lake.

From July last year, the Napak Youth Eco and Cultural Forum has been managing the lake by engaging local youths. According to records from July last year till April 25 this year, nearly 300 people from neighbouring Assam and other parts of the country as well as foreigners visited the site.

The lake is home to a variety of fishes released by the fisheries department. The soothing ambience and the cold water make it an ideal spot for picnic, camping, fishing or simply to laze around. It is about 1.5km long and nearly 300 metres wide.

The Forum is trying to attract more visitors. "The lake has a history and holds immense significance to Garo society. Many authors have written stories about it and it finds mention in many poems. We feel that people should come and spend some time at the lake. We formed the Forum to keep the lake clean and tourist-friendly," said its president Silrang Marak.

There is no entry fee but a minimum of Rs 50 per hour is charged for boating.

Marak said people travel to different parts of the world for greenery, which is abundant in Garo hills. "Tourists from Canada and Taiwan, who visited the site last year, were very happy and excited to see the lake and listen to stories attached to it," he said.

He hoped the government would continue to develop the site and promote it to attract visitors. "Garo hills is an abode of nature and mystery filled with thrill and adventure that one will never forget."

East Garo Hills tourism officer Bulbuly Marak said the department has done their bit to highlight the destination. He said the Tasek Tourism Development Committee has chalked up an action plan to attract more visitors. "It is a legendary lake and a beautiful place. Various government agencies have joined hands to promote and develop it as a must-visit destination in the East Garo Hills," he said.