🌳 The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya: A Hidden Natural Wonder

Deep in the verdant hills of Meghalaya in Northeast India lies one of the most fascinating examples of bioengineering and human harmony with nature — the Living Root Bridges. Found primarily in the villages of Cherrapunji (Sohra), Nongriat, and Mawlynnong, these bridges are not built, but grown from the roots of ancient rubber fig trees (Ficus elastica). Twisting, weaving, and living, these bridges are centuries-old and can last over 500 years.
 

Recognized globally for their sustainability and ingenuity, the Living Root Bridges are a symbol of the Khasi tribe’s deep respect for nature. Whether you're an eco-traveler, trekker, photographer, or cultural explorer, visiting these bridges is an unforgettable journey into one of India’s greenest corners.

🗺️ Where Are the Living Root Bridges?

Country: India

State: Meghalaya

Region: Khasi and Jaintia Hills

Closest City: Shillong (2–3 hours drive)

Popular Villages: Nongriat, Cherrapunji (Sohra), Mawlynnong, Riwai

🧭 Why Visit the Living Root Bridges?

🌿 Witness a living architecture — bridges made from growing roots

🌧️ Located in the wettest region on Earth — Cherrapunji & Mawsynram

🏞️ Unmatched scenic beauty — waterfalls, forests, and cloud-kissed valleys

👣 Trekking paradise — 3000+ steps to Nongriat, scenic hikes, and rivers

💚 Sustainable tourism — eco-friendly, community-maintained landmarks

🌉 Types of Living Root Bridges

1. Single Root Bridges

The most common type — a single span grown across streams and rivers using aerial roots.

2. Double-Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)

The most famous and iconic root bridge in Meghalaya.

Two layers of root bridges stacked atop one another.

Requires a steep trek of 3500 steps (each way) from Tyrna village.

3. Triple-Decker Root Bridge (Recently Found)

Located near Rangthylliang village.

Thought to be the only triple-decker living root bridge in the world.

4. Riwai Root Bridge (Mawlynnong)

Easily accessible and tourist-friendly.

Perfect for those who want to see a bridge without trekking.

📸 Top Living Root Bridges to Visit

🌿 How Are the Bridges Made?

The Khasi and Jaintia tribes have been crafting these bridges for centuries by guiding the aerial roots of rubber fig trees across rivers using hollow bamboo scaffolds or betel trunks. As the roots grow and thicken, they naturally intertwine and become sturdy enough to support human weight, livestock, and even motorbikes in rare cases.

Time to Grow: 10–15 years to be functional

Lifespan: 100–500 years with continued maintenance

Material: Roots of Ficus elastica trees

This process represents generational knowledge transfer, where elders teach the young how to nurture the bridges.

🥾 Best Things to Do Around the Living Root Bridges

🥾 1. Trek to Nongriat Village

Begins at Tyrna, 12 km from Cherrapunji

Descend ~3500 stone steps through dense rainforest

Cross hanging bridges, waterfalls, and small Khasi villages

🏊 2. Swim in the Natural Pools

Crystal-clear blue pools below the Double-Decker Bridge

Refreshing reward after a long hike

📸 3. Photography & Birdwatching

Misty mornings, moss-covered bridges, butterflies, and exotic birds

Ideal for nature and macro photography

💬 4. Stay in a Homestay

Stay overnight in Nongriat or Mawlynnong for local experience

Enjoy Khasi meals, local stories, and herbal teas

📅 Best Time to Visit

🚶 Trekking is safest during winter and early summer when trails are drier.

📜 History & Cultural Significance

The practice dates back at least 500 years.

It was developed as a sustainable alternative to bamboo or wooden bridges that would rot in Meghalaya’s wet climate.

The bridges represent cooperation between human communities and nature, with villagers treating the trees like co-builders, not tools.

In recent years, the bridges have drawn global recognition, including:

UNESCO tentative World Heritage listing

Features in BBC documentaries, National Geographic, and Discovery Channel

🧳 Travel Tips

🥾 Wear sturdy trekking shoes (slippery in monsoon)

💧 Carry water, snacks, and a walking stick

📶 Mobile signal is poor in many areas

🏠 Book homestays in advance if staying overnight

🎒 Pack light — no porters on trails

🚫 Don’t carve names or damage roots

🧘 Respect local customs and privacy

🏨 Where to Stay

Near Cherrapunji

Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort – Family-run, close to Tyrna

Smoky Falls Mae Fi Resort – Nature-focused

By The Way Guesthouse – Budget-friendly

In Nongriat (Basic Only)

Serene Homestay – Near Double-Decker Bridge

Community Guest House – Authentic experience

Near Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong Guesthouses – Local-run bamboo cottages

Traveller’s Nest – Great views and local meals

🍛 What to Eat

Jadoh – Rice cooked with spices and pork (or veg version)

Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean dish

Pukhlein – Rice flour pancakes

Fresh forest fruits, wild honey, and herbal tea

🚗 How to Reach the Living Root Bridges

✈️ By Air

Nearest airport: Shillong (Umroi Airport) or Guwahati

Guwahati is better connected and ~5–6 hrs from Cherrapunji

🚆 By Train

No direct train; nearest station is Guwahati (GHY)

🚗 By Road

Shillong to Cherrapunji: 2 hours by taxi or shared sumo

Shillong to Mawlynnong: 3 hours via Dawki

🚕 Hire a local cab with a driver familiar with hilly roads.

🌍 Eco-Tourism & Sustainability

Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges are a living testament to regenerative design. As tourism grows, it’s important to travel responsibly:

Avoid plastic, carry your waste back

Support local guides and homestays

Do not damage roots or structures

Respect trails marked by villagers

📌 Quick Facts

Altitude: 1,300–1,500 meters above sea level

Rainfall: 11,000–12,000 mm annually

Language: Khasi (locals), English/Hindi (basic)

Religion: Christianity with traditional animist beliefs

Local Guides: Easily available in Tyrna and Mawlynnong

✨ Final Thoughts

The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya offer a unique window into a world where time, nature, and human hands create something truly magical. Unlike any other tourist site, these bridges live and grow — connecting not just land, but people and purpose. Whether you're trekking to Nongriat or quietly marveling at Riwai, you’ll walk away with a deep sense of awe and respect.

📈 Key SEO Keywords

Living Root Bridges travel guide

Meghalaya root bridge trekking

Double-decker root bridge India

Cherrapunji nature travel

Sustainable tourism in Meghalaya

Nongriat trek Meghalaya

Mawlynnong Living Root Bridge

Best time to visit Living Root Bridges

Eco-tourism destinations in India

Unique natural wonders in India