Every year, on the first Sunday of February, thousands of followers of the indigenous faith of the Khasi - Pnars make a pilgrimage to the sacred peak known as “U Lum Sohpetbneng” (Navel of Heaven).
Organized by the Seng Khasi Kmie, on this auspicious day and a week prior too, rituals and prayers are offered to the U Blei, the Creator and to the local guardian spirits (Ki Ryngkew Ki Basa) by the religious elders of Niam Khasi. It is believed that the ancestors of the Hynniewtrep Hynñiawasa people known today as the Khasis descended to Earth through a Golden Bridge atop this sacred hill, to propagate Truth and nurture Mother Earth. Sanctified rice and water is distributed on this day and the faithful also offer prayers at the sanctum sanctorum.
The pilgrimage was revived in the year 2000 by the Seng Khasi. With each passing year the number of attendees keeps growing, showing how proud the people are of their roots. The sacred hill also draws great respect and interest from the people across the country. It is gaining recognition as one of the most sacred places of our country.
