Jowai is the district headquarters of Jaintia Hills District. It lies 65 km to the east of Shillong on the National Highway 44. The Myntdu River flows along Jowai, which adds the beauty of the town.
Thadlaskein Lake, Nartiang and Syndai are the prominent attractions. Jowai is also known for its beautiful caves and caverns that were used as hideouts during war time.
The main festival Behdienkhlam is celebrated here in July. This festival is observed to appease the gods for a bountiful harvest and to dispel the diseases and plague.