Ri Kynjai translates from Khasi as ‘land of serene environs’. This resort presiding over the pic
Ri Kynjai, a resort presiding over the picturesque Umiam Lake, translates from Khasi as ‘land of serene environs’.With the backdrop of the enchanting Khasi hills, Ri Kynjai is set amidst groves of majestic pine, lush paddy fields and a small organic tea garden.The architecture is inspired and derived from the original Khasi thatch huts, which make a symbolic presence as a cap on the roof of the co
ttages. The resort reflects the warmth of Khasi hospitality, their eco - centric culture and captivating architecture combined with modern convenience and luxury. Each cottage and room is designed with its orientation to the east, capturing the view of the lake and the rising sun.
25/03/2026
The architecture of Ri Kynjai draws inspiration from the traditional design heritage of Meghalaya.
The result is a structure that feels rooted in place while offering a refined and welcoming stay experience.
From Ri Kynjai, the beauty of Umiam Lake unfolds in wide, breathtaking views.
It’s a landscape that brings a quiet sense of calm and reminds you how closely the resort is connected to nature.
[Ri Kynjai, Resort, Umiam Lake, Nature, Meghalaya, Shillong]
16/02/2026
Thank you for expressing the essence of Ri Kynjai so beautifully.
“Your stay here will be calm, still, where hopefully nothing was urgently required of you. And that, for discerning urban-stressed travellers today, might be the most indulgent luxury of all.
You don’t arrive at Ri Kynjai so much as you exhale into it.”
Thank you for expressing the essence of Ri Kynjai so beautifully.
“Your stay here will be calm, still, where hopefully nothing was urgently required of you. And that, for discerning urban-stressed travellers today, might be the most indulgent luxury of all.
You don’t arrive at Ri Kynjai so much as you exhale into it.”
Wide balconies open out to uninterrupted views of Umiam Lake, which guests can enjoy from the comfort of their rooms as the scenery changes beautifully through the day.
A space where mornings feel slow and evenings linger just a little longer.
[Ri Kynjai, Resort, Balcony View, Umiam Lake, Meghalaya]
07/01/2026
The Forest View Rooms at Ri Kynjai open out to sweeping views of the surrounding greenery, offering a stay that feels calm, private, and deeply connected to nature.
Large windows frame the changing shades of the forest, letting natural light and fresh air become part of the experience.
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With a name that literally means “Serenity by the Lake” in Khasi, Ri Kynjai - Serenity By The Lake offers you the perfect getaway from the urban hubbub. Nature lovers can choose to luxuriate in perfectly appointed cottages, undergo traditional Khasi spa treatments and dine on local delicacies… the more adventurous may prefer the beautiful hill treks, boat rides and island picnics, and of course, a day at the Shillong Golf Course, dating back to 1889, and still referred to as the ‘Gleneagles of the East’.
This boutique resort is as perfect for families seeking the ultimate all-round getaway as it is for corporates requiring discreet and luxurious convention spaces. Lovers of authentic experiences will be particularly pleased with the architecture - inspired by the building ‘language’ of traditional Khasi cottages while incorporating the best of modern practices.
ABOUT THE ARCHITECTURE
Ri Kynjai translates from Khasi as ‘land of serene environs’. This resort presiding over the picturesque Umiam Lake, 20 kms from Shillong, is aptly named ‘Ri Kynjai – Serenity by the Lake‘.
The architecture is inspired and derived from the original Khasi thatch huts. Legend has it that millennia ago the sea caressed the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas and the Ancient Khasi tribe may have been a sea faring community. They readily adopted the upturned boat roof form which is inherently capable of withstanding the harsh monsoon winds and incessant rainfall. The Cherrapunjee - Mawsynram belt, the world’s rainiest area, lies on these slopes. Being aerodynamically friendly, these upturned boat roofs were best suited to withstand the squalls and storms of the region.Ethnicity is at the core of Ri Kynjai. The resort reflects the warmth of Khasi hospitality, their eco-centric culture and captivating architecture combined with modern convenience and luxury. Set against the backdrop of the enchanting Khasi Hills, Ri Kynjai is spread over 45 acres and weaves three architectural styles into a harmonious whole that synergizes perfectly with the idyllic natural surroundings.As you drive up to the resort through groves of majestic pine trees, lush paddy fields, small organic tea and vegetable gardens, your first view is of traditional thatch roof of the Porch and the distinctive hybrid cottages unique to Ri Kynjai. Supported on tall circular stilts, these hybrid cottages are derived from vernacular Khasi architecture and portray the transition from tradition to modernity with an unusual interpretation of the upturned boat roof in metallic thatch fused to modern gables.
Designed with an eye for detail, the intricately framed ceiling is set off by red pine walls and flooring. The fireplace in the living - bedroom area, adds a cozy intimacy to cool nights. Wooden steps lead up to a loft which serves as auxiliary space. Ingeniously built into a cliff, the main block is not visible as you approach the resort. Overlooking the azure waters of the Umiam Lake, the elegant 800 sq. ft. red pine panelled rooms are spacious and meticulously planned. Each includes a sleeping and living area, bathroom, dressing room, and opens out to a balcony where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular view. At the garden level are the restaurant, bar and conference facilities - all with a panoramic view of the lake, hills and forest. The restaurant and bar, Sao Aiom, (‘four seasons’ in Khasi) serves Indian and Continental cuisine as well as Northeastern specialties.
Ri Kynjai offers something for everyone. For trekkers, the legendary peaks, ‘Lumsohpetbheng’ and ‘Lumdiengiei’ are few kilometers away while the resort’s meandering walks provide for more relaxed exploration. Guests can also take a wake around the nearby Umiuh village. The resort emporium showcases textiles and crafts from around the Northeast. The spa is equipped with state - of - the - art hydrotherapy equipment and offers traditional Khasi massage and herbal treatments.
To top it all, Ri Kynjai is designed with its orientation to the east - capturing the view of the lake and the rising sun - a sublime wake - up call for those who love to revel in the ‘spirit of the rising sun’.
