Lum Sohpetbneng, Ri Bhoi

U Lum Sohpetbneng, popularly known as "Navel of the Earth", is a very sacred place for the Seng Khasi believers. According to legends, the Golden Vine Bridge that connected Heaven and Earth was situated at the peak of U Lum Sohpetbneng.

However, as sin started to creep into the earth, this ladder was broken down. Legends also say that the Ki Hynniewtrep (meaning 'Seven Huts') which comprise of the seven sub-tribes of the Khasi community were the first settlers on earth. There is an annual tribal pilgrimage that is held on the first Sunday of February, when the Seng Khasi people would trek for about an hour and half to reach the top of this peak to perform their rituals and rites, and perform some of their traditional dance and songs.

For visiting tourists, the brilliant view of the countryside from the top of the hills, along with the vastness that surrounds the area is absolutely breathtaking. U Lum Sohpetbneng peak is at a height of 1,344 m, and is near the Umiam Lake. Located at a distance of 17 km from Shillong, one may reach the destination by hiring a local taxi or a tourist vehicle from Shillong.