Rivers, Waterfalls & Scenic Beauty

Living Root Bridges & Nature Trails in Meghalaya

Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges are a centuries-old bioengineering marvel, created by the Khasi & Jaintia tribes using the roots of the Ficus elastica (rubber tree). These bridges are naturally grown, strong, and eco-friendly, lasting for hundreds of years.

If you're looking for a unique trekking experience, here’s where you can explore Meghalaya’s iconic root bridges and nature trails.

1. Double-Decker Living Root Bridge – Nongriat’s Wonder

 Location: Nongriat Village, Near Cherrapunji
 Trek Duration: 2-3 hours (One way)
 Distance: 3 km trek (3,500 steps) from Tyrna village
✅ Most famous Living Root Bridge in Meghalaya.
✅ Double-layered bridge, over 150 years old.
✅ Surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams.
✅ Can be extended to Rainbow Falls (another 1-hour trek further down).

 Best Time to Visit: October – April (Avoid monsoon due to slippery trails).

 Trekking Tip: Start early, wear comfortable trekking shoes, and carry water.

2. Single Root Bridge – Riwai Village (Easiest to Access)

 Location: Riwai Village, Near Mawlynnong
 Trek Duration: 10-15 minutes (Easy walk)
✅ Best for travelers who want to see a root bridge without long treks.
✅ Located near Mawlynnong (Asia’s Cleanest Village).
✅ Great for families & those who prefer a short nature walk.
✅ Surrounded by bamboo forests & lush greenery.

 Best Time to Visit: October – April.

 Tip: Combine it with a visit to Mawlynnong for an eco-tourism experience.

3. Umshiang Root Bridge – The Longest Root Bridge

 Location: Near Nongriat, Cherrapunji
✅ Over 50 meters long, making it the longest root bridge in Meghalaya.
✅ Part of the Nongriat village trek, near the Double-Decker Root Bridge.
✅ Surrounded by dense rainforest, hills, and waterfalls.
✅ Perfect for nature lovers & trekkers.

 Best Time to Visit: October – April.

 Trekking Tip: Requires the same trekking route as Double-Decker Root Bridge.

4. Mawkyrnot Root Bridge – The Tallest & Most Remote Bridge

 Location: Near Pynursla, East Khasi Hills
✅ One of the tallest living root bridges, less crowded & unexplored.
✅ A multi-tiered bridge, surrounded by dense forests & waterfalls.
✅ Ideal for offbeat travelers & adventure seekers.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March.

 Tip: Requires a local guide, as it’s not well-marked like other bridges.

5. Mawlynnong Root Bridge – The Cleanest Village’s Secret

 Location: Near Mawlynnong (East Khasi Hills)
✅ One of the easiest root bridges to visit.
✅ Located near Mawlynnong (Asia’s Cleanest Village).
✅ Surrounded by bamboo forests & green meadows.
✅ Great for short nature walks & cultural immersion.

 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but October – April is ideal.

 Tip: Combine this with a visit to Sky View Tower for a view of Bangladesh plains.