Meghalaya is one of the most amazing states in north-east India. A major part of the state consists of thick forests and is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty.
With an average rainfall of 1200 cm a year, it is also the wettest place in the country. In fact, Cherrapunji is the second wettest place on earth. It is a paradise for monsoon lovers and is home to many fascinating living root bridges.
If you’re a nature lover, this beautiful state is a must-visit destination for you. You’d love to explore the living root bridges in Cherrapunji, Dawki River, Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Siju Cave, and its museums and parks.
Let’s discover some more about the living root bridges in Meghalaya.
Living Root Bridges
As the name suggests, “living root bridges” are the roots of living plants that connect one point to the other, forming a bridge. They are grown from the roots of ancient rubber trees.
Invented by the Khasi Tribe, these man-made wonders prove to be a promising substitute for wooden bridges. They are artistically and carefully crafted by the village tribes to give them the shape we see today and admire. These ever-evolving root bridges are an outcome of thick roots that have tangled to form a structure strong enough for humans to walk over.
However, it takes them years to grow and they get stronger as the years pass.
Some of these living root bridges in Meghalaya are even recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.
Double-Decker Living Root Bridge
- The Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunji is more than a hundred years old. This is the one and only living root bridge with two levels which makes it a special tourist attraction. It begins at Tyrna Village and extends up to 3 km. It is located at a height of 2400 feet.
- Route: 20 km taxi ride from Cherrapunji. You need to get down at Tyrna Village and start your trek from there.
- Nearby attractions: Garden of Caves, Seven Sister Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and Dain-Thlen Falls
Single Decker Root Bridge
- The trek to Single Decker Root Bridge starts from the Riwai village near Mawlynnong. It is a pleasant journey from Shillong to Mawlynnong. It is full of beautiful rocks and offers many interesting things to do for tourists.
- Route: 78 km taxi ride from Shillong to Mawlynnong. You need to get down at the Riwai village, a few kilometres before Mawlynnong. The bridge is a 15-minute walk from there.
- Nearby attractions: Laitlum Canyons, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, Shillong View Point, Ward’s Lake, and Air Force Museum
Jingmaham Living Root Bridge
- The Jingmaham Living Root Bridge located in Mawlynnong is another man-made marvel. It is beautiful and fascinating at the same time. It’s a not too steep single decker root bridge, which makes it easier to climb.
- Route: It takes almost 2 hours from Shillong to reach this living root bridge through taxi. It is easily accessible.
- Nearby attractions: Mawlynnong Waterfall and Village are the major attractions. Besides, there are other places to visit such as Bisnakandi and Dawki River.
Umkar Living Root Bridge
- Another incredible piece of wonder, the Umkar Living Root Bridge is located at Siej Village. This more than 40 years old bridge was washed away by floods a few years ago. It is being rebuilt by the villagers and it would take it another 15 years to be completely functional. It is built over the Ummunoi River.
- Route: It is advisable to take a 3 km taxi ride from Cherrapunji Resort to the Seij village. From there it would take you just a 10-mins hike to reach.
- Nearby attractions: Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Seven Sister Falls, and other root bridges.
Final Thoughts
Not just these, you can find many more magnificent living root bridges in Meghalaya. Each one of these would make you think highly of nature and its wonders.
Take the road less travelled by and explore these gorgeous root bridges, forests, waterfalls, and a lot more in the state of Meghalaya.
Have you been there? Please feel free to share your experiences and photos in the comments below.