Living Root Bridges
( Meghalaya )
Introduction
Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges are one of the rarest natural wonders on Earth — bridges grown, not built.
Crafted over generations by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes using the aerial roots of rubber fig trees, these bridges are living examples of harmony between humans and nature.
Hidden deep inside rain-soaked forests, surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, misty hills, and sacred groves, the Living Root Bridges are not just structures — they are centuries-old traditions, living ecosystems, and symbols of sustainability.
From the world-famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge to lesser-known single-root bridges in remote villages, this journey is a blend of adventure, culture, trekking, and raw natural beauty.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Meghalaya, Northeast India |
| Best Time to Visit | October–April |
| Ideal Duration | 3–5 Days |
| Famous For | Living root bridges, trekking, rainforests |
| Nearest Airport | Shillong / Guwahati |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guwahati |
| Local Transport | Taxis, shared jeeps |
| Language | Khasi, English, Hindi |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate trekking |
Destination Overview
Living Root Bridges are mainly found in southern Meghalaya, especially in:
Cherrapunji (Sohra) Region
Home to the most famous bridges and waterfalls.
Nongriat & Tyrna Villages
Double Decker bridge and deep jungle treks.
Jaintia Hills
Remote, lesser-known root bridges with fewer tourists.
This destination is perfect for eco-tourism, trekking lovers, photographers, and culture explorers.
Top 11 Attractions in Living Root Bridge
1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)
Famous For: Two-level root bridge
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
The most iconic living root bridge in the world, grown over 200+ years. Reached via a trek of 3,000+ steps through dense forest.
Tips:
• Start early morning
• Stay overnight in Nongriat
2. Single Decker Root Bridge (Nongriat)
Famous For: Ancient root formation
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
Located near the Double Decker bridge — thinner, older, and equally fascinating.
Tips:
• Combine both bridges in one trek
3. Ritymmen Living Root Bridge
Famous For: Wide & strong roots
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
One of the strongest bridges capable of holding 50+ people at once.
Tips:
• Ideal for photography
4. Umshiang Double Root Bridge
Famous For: Less crowded alternative
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
A beautiful double-root bridge hidden in the Jaintia Hills — fewer tourists.
Tips:
• Hire a local guide
5. Tyrna Village Trek Start Point
Famous For: Trek base village
Timings: 6 AM – 4 PM
Expanded Description:
Starting point for Nongriat trek — traditional Khasi village life & homestays.
Tips:
• Carry enough water
6. Rainbow Falls (Nongriat)
Famous For: Multi-tier waterfall
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Expanded Description:
A stunning waterfall further beyond the Double Decker bridge — rewarding but tough trek.
Tips:
• Visit only if physically fit
7. Mawlynnong Root Bridges
Famous For: Clean village & short treks
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
Easy-access root bridges near Asia’s cleanest village — perfect for beginners.
Tips:
• Family-friendly trek
8. Nongkharai Root Bridge
Famous For: Suspension-style roots
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
A naturally curved root bridge offering unique shapes & forest scenery.
Tips:
• Best during winter
9. Sacred Groves of Meghalaya
Famous For: Ancient forest protection
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
Forests preserved for centuries — root bridges grow naturally here.
Tips:
• Respect local beliefs
10. Khasi Village Life Experience
Famous For: Matrilineal culture
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Experience homestays, local food, bamboo houses & sustainable living.
Tips:
• Try Khasi cuisine
11. Root Bridge Trekking Trails
Famous For: Eco trekking
Timings: Daylight hours
Expanded Description:
Stone paths, bamboo railings, hanging bridges, rivers & forests make the trek unforgettable.
Tips:
• Good trekking shoes mandatory
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Local Khasi Food
Jadoh (rice & meat)
Tungrymbai
Pumaloi
Dohneiiong
2. Popular Cafés
Café Shillong
ML05 Café
3. Restaurant
Orange Roots
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Nongriat Trek
Tyrna Village
Single Decker Bridge
Double Decker Bridge
Overnight in Nongriat
Day 2 – Adventure Extension
Rainbow Falls Trek
Village walk
Return to Sohra
Day 3 – Mawlynnong & Return
Root bridges near Mawlynnong
Clean village walk
Return to Shillong
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 700–2000/night |
| Food | 200–400/day |
| Local Transport | 500–1000/day |
| Guides | 500–1500 |
| Entry Fees | Mostly free |
Hidden Gems of Living Root Bridges
1. Siej Village Root Bridges
Rare and lesser-known formations.
2. Nongriat Night Stay
Fireflies, stars & jungle silence.
3. Jaintia Hills Bridges
For offbeat explorers.