Meghalaya
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5 star rated
East Khasi Hills
191.00 Km from Airport
Exploring Locale Details
Mawlynnong is a small village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is situated about 90 km from Shillong, the state capital. The village is known for its cleanliness and natural beauty and has been awarded the title of "Cleanest Village in Asia" by Discover India Magazine in 2003. The village is nestled amidst lush green forests and rolling hills, with a population of around 500 people. The main attraction of Mawlynnong is its unique living root bridges, which are made by weaving the roots of the Ficus elastica tree across streams and rivers. The bridges are a marvel of bio-engineering and can support the weight of several people at once. Apart from the living root bridges, Mawlynnong also has a well-maintained garden with several varieties of flowers and plants, a bamboo watchtower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and a small waterfall called Jingmaham Falls. The village is inhabited by the Khasi tribe, who follow a matrilineal system of inheritance and have a rich culture and traditions.
Key Insights
Mawlynnong village is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, which is well-connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or self-drive car to reach the village. The nearest major city is Shillong, which is located about 90 km away from the village.
Here are some things that you should bring with you - comfortable footwear and clothing, rain gear, SPFs, mosquito repellent and basic first-aid and medicines.
Mawlynnong offers community-based homestays where you can experience the local culture and hospitality. Staying with a local family is a popular and authentic way to immerse yourself in the village's lifestyle. There are several bamboo cottages available for tourists, And there are a few guesthouses and lodges in Mawlynnong that provide basic accommodation facilities. It's important to note that Mawlynnong is a small village, and the accommodation options may be limited compared to larger towns or cities.
Mawlynnong village is a relatively safe place to travel to, but there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind - weather conditions, necessary permits and road safety.