Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges and Waterfalls: A First-Timer's Guide

The double-decker root bridge: what to expect

The most visited root bridge is the double-decker near Nongriat village, reached by descending roughly 3,500 steps from Tyrna village — about 40 minutes downhill, 60 to 90 minutes back up. There is no vehicle access. Go early: by 10 a.m. the trail has tour groups and the quiet is gone.

The bridge itself and the natural pool beneath it are best in the morning light. In the monsoon the waterfall below is enormous but the stone steps are very slippery — descend carefully and wear footwear with grip. A local guide is helpful but not mandatory.

Nohkalikai Falls and Mawsmai Cave

Nohkalikai is India’s tallest plunge waterfall at 340 metres. The viewpoint is 2 km from Cherrapunji town; June to September brings it to full force. Mawsmai Cave nearby is a short walk-through cavern — good lighting, manageable narrow sections, and no technical equipment needed.

Both can be done as a half-day loop from Cherrapunji town with a hired vehicle. Allow a full day if you add the Dawkī river and the Nohwet viewpoints overlooking the Bangladesh plains.

Mawlynnong: Asia’s cleanest village

Mawlynnong, 90 km east of Shillong, earns its reputation: clean lanes, bamboo dustbins at every turn, a tree-house viewing platform above the plains, and a village guesthouse that lets you see it before the day visitors arrive.

The Dawkī River, 10 km further south, has water so clear the boats appear to float on nothing. The border crossing here sees very little tourist traffic compared to Cherrapunji, and the drive down from Mawlynnong is one of the most scenic in Meghalaya.

Questions readers ask

Do I need an Inner Line Permit for Meghalaya?

No. Indian citizens do not need an Inner Line Permit for Meghalaya. Permits are required for Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, so check if you extend your trip to neighbouring states.

How do I reach Cherrapunji from Shillong?

About 55 km (1.5 to 2 hours) by road. Hire a car from Shillong for flexibility, or take a shared taxi from the Police Bazar stand. There is no direct bus service.

Is Meghalaya worth visiting in the monsoon?

Yes, but with preparation. It is the wettest region in India — waterfalls are at full force and the green is extraordinary, but roads can flood and the root-bridge trail becomes very slippery. October to May is safer and logistically easier.

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