Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India, known for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and unique natural formations. One of the most unique and awe-inspiring natural formations are Meghalaya living root bridges. These bridges are made from the roots of living trees and have become a major tourist attraction in the region. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you explore the living root bridges of Meghalaya and experience their unique beauty.
Discover the Living Root Bridges:
The living root bridges are a unique marvel of nature that can only be found in Meghalaya. The bridges are made by manipulating the roots of the Ficus elastica tree to grow in a specific direction and form a sturdy bridge over a river or stream. The bridges are incredibly strong and can support the weight of multiple people. The living root bridges are found in several locations throughout Meghalaya, including Cherrapunjee, Nongriat, and Mawlynnong.
Explore Nongriat Village:
Nongriat Village is a remote village in Meghalaya that is home to some of the most stunning living root bridges in the region. To reach the village, visitors must embark on a challenging trek through dense forests and steep hills. The trek is about a 3-4 hour walk from the parking lot, but the journey is worth it. The village is home to several living root bridges, including the must see Double Decker Living Root Bridge, which is an UNESCO world heritage site.
Visit Mawlynnong:
Mawlynnong is a village in Meghalaya that is known for being one of the cleanest villages in Asia. The village is also home to a stunning living root bridge that is worth visiting. The bridge is located in a serene environment and provides a unique and tranquil experience for visitors.
Plan Your Trip to the Living Root Bridges:
Meghalaya is well-connected to other major cities in India through air, rail, and roadways. Visitors can fly to Guwahati airport in Assam and then take a taxi or bus to Cherrapunjee , the nearest town near Nongriat Village. The distance from Guwahati Airport to Cherrapunjee 147 Kilometres and it takes about 4.5 hours to reach Cheerrapunjee. The best time to visit the Living Root Bridges are during the post monsoon months of October to February. The living root bridges are located in remote locations, and visitors need to be prepared for challenging treks and hikes. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes or boots carry plenty of water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
The Meghalaya living root bridges are a unique example of bioengineering and offer a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you'll have all the information you need to plan your trip to Meghalaya and explore the living root bridges. So pack your bags, grab your camera and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you through some of the most stunning natural formations in India.