Tura, India

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One of the largest towns in Meghalaya, Tura is a valley located at the foothills of the Tura Hills and right below the Tura Peak. The native god Durama was believed to reside in the hills. The name Tura is said to be a corruption (by the British) of the god's name.

It comprises a population of about 60,000 inhabitants, and is part of the Siwalik Hills ranges. It is 220 kilometres from the nearest city Guwahati and is also the district capital of the West Garo Hills district. It is filled with small rivulets and green valleys all around. The principal languages are Garo, Bengali, Hindi and English. The city has 4 colleges and a host of secondary schools. The capital city of Shillong is 303 kilometres away and can be accessed via buses or the shuttle helicopter service. The border of Bangladesh is situated at a proximity of 35 kilometres.

Tura is a cultural and administrative centre of the Garo tribes. To visit popular tourist destinations such as Balpakram, Nokrek and Siju cave, one needs to pass through this town.