If you are planning to go for a natural retreat in Meghalaya with the amazing Meghalaya Trip Packages, your trip is incomplete without visiting the magnificent living root bridges, stunning waterfalls, and other natural wonders scattered across the state.
The state of Meghalaya boasts its natural beauty in the form of rolling hills and valleys, covered with lush forests. Not only these forests are rich in flora and fauna, but as you go deeper into these forests, they open up the enchanting landscapes and the tribal culture of Meghalaya.
There are numerous hiking and trekking trails covered under the fresh green canopy which leads you to dark caves like the Mawsamai cave, some British Era suspension bridges, magnificent rock formations and monoliths, stunning cascades like the Nohakalikai Waterfalls and the famous living root bridges in Nongriat.
Nongriat is a tiny Khasi village located in the southern part of the state, close to the Bangladesh border. It is home to one of the most beautiful natural wonders in northeast India, the ‘living root bridges’. These living root bridges in Nongriat are made of the roots of trees and are the main attraction for tourists visiting the state.
The living root bridges are accessible only by hiking from nearby towns, which is why few people make it to the village. If you are planning to travel to northeast India, then following this guide will help you to reach the beautiful natural paradise of ‘Nongriat’ and explore the living root bridges.
Legend Behind the Living Root Bridges
The living root bridges in Meghalaya are not just amazing structures but also come with fascinating legends. According to local tales, these bridges were a gift from nature and benevolent spirits.
One legend speaks of a spirit named “U Rymbai” who revealed the secret of creating these bridges in a dream to a Khasi tribe member. Inspired by the dream, the villagers began training the roots of the rubber fig tree, known as Ficus elastica, to grow into bridges.
Another story features a man named Lajong, who stumbled upon a magical vine with extraordinary growth abilities in Meghalaya’s dense forests. With the guidance of a wise soothsayer, he and his fellow villagers learned to cultivate and shape these vines into sturdy bridges.
What makes these legends even more captivating is the belief that these bridges possessed healing powers. Walking across them was said to rejuvenate and bring a sense of well-being. These living root bridges were seen as sacred, connecting the human world with the spiritual realm and the forces of nature.
These legends add to the charm of Meghalaya’s living root bridges, inviting visitors to explore not just incredible architecture but also the rich stories that have shaped this beautiful region.
Significance of the Living Root Bridges
The living root bridges in Meghalaya are really important to the local people because they’re the main way for them to get around in the hills. They’re a lifeline during the monsoons when rivers can get really high and regular bridges can get washed away, these living root bridges stand strong, which defines their lifelong durability. Plus, they’re a great way to save money compared to wood or steel bridges, which need to be taken care of every now and then.
But it’s not just the practicality of these living root bridges that makes them so important. These bridges are a symbol of the people’s culture and pride. They show that humans and nature can work together to create such sustainable marvels. They represent the deep connection between the land, the traditions, and the resourcefulness of the local Khasi Tribe here.
The living root bridges in Nongriat have gained international attention in recent years due to their striking beauty and eco-friendly design. What makes the living root bridges in Nongriat even famous, is that it’s a double-decker living root bridge. In fact, efforts are ongoing to make these bridges a UNESCO World Heritage in order to protect and promote their culture and ecological importance on a global stage.
About the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat
Nongriat, nestled in the lush hills of the Meghalaya state, is the home of one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders you will ever come across – the two-storey living root bridges, also known as Umshiang root bridge.
These living root bridges in Nongriat are more than just architectural marvels. They are living, breathing things that seem to be emerging from the green and emerald forests that surround Nongriat.
Imagine a tranquil landscape with lush greenery, pure water flowing below, and then these incredible bridges, that seem to be emerging straight out of the forest. What makes these bridges stand out is their unique two-storey design where one bridge sits atop the other.
The intertwining roots of these bridges create an almost otherworldly atmosphere as if nature has designed them to connect the earth in the most perfect way possible. They don’t just blend in with their surroundings, they become part of it.
When you step across one of these living root bridges in Nongriat, it’s as if you’ve entered a magical world. The living root bridges in Nongriat aren’t just structures, they’re living examples of the incredible beauty and wonder of nature.
Best Time to Visit the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat
The best time to visit these Living Root Bridges in Nongriat is from November to June, when the weather is mild and the rainfall is low, making it the ideal time to travel in the state of Meghalaya.
The warm dry days of April to June are the best for hiking in the state, while the winter months of November to March are also pleasant for hiking and are usually dry. The wet season of July to September, however, is the most intense in the state, with heavy rainfall in the Khasi Hills, which are known to be one of the wettest places in the world. This season is characterized by humid and sticky weather, making it difficult to hike during this time.
How to Reach the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat
If you start your journey from Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya, you will have to drive for around 65 km to reach the base village – Tyrna. You can hire a taxi from Shillong to Tyrna, a journey that offers glimpses of Meghalaya’s picturesque landscapes. The ride takes approximately two to three hours, depending on road conditions.
Once you arrive in Tyrna, your real adventure begins. From here, a well-marked trail leads to the double-decker living root bridges in Nongriat. As you set foot on this path, you’ll find yourself immersed in a dense, lush forest that feels like something out of a storybook. Towering trees and vibrant flora surround you, creating a natural canopy that provides relief from the sun.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter several suspension bridges that span over the clear, gurgling streams. These bridges not only add excitement to your journey but also offer breathtaking views of the rainforest below. Crossing them is an adventure in itself, as you’ll feel like being transported back in time to the British era when these suspended bridges were made.
Be prepared for a workout, as there are approximately 3,500 steep steps on this trail, leading you deeper into the heart of Meghalaya’s natural beauty. While the trek can be physically demanding, the lush scenery and the anticipation of reaching the living root bridges make it all worthwhile.
As you progress, you’ll be amazed by the local flora and the intricate root systems that create these living root bridges in Nongriat. Your fitness level will come into play as you ascend and descend along the trail, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry essentials like water and snacks.
Despite the challenges, the journey to Nongriat is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with the unspoiled beauty of Meghalaya’s forests. The living root bridges at the end of this trail are the crown jewels of this adventure, showcasing the incredible partnership between humans and nature in crafting these architectural marvels. So, with each step, you draw closer to the wonder that awaits you in Nongriat.
Stay Options near the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat
You can do a day trip from Cherrapunji to see the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat, which most people do. But if you want to explore more around the Nongriat village, there are a few options to stay near these living root bridges in Nongriat.
Also, staying in Nongriat allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Basic homestays run by the friendly Khasi tribe offer accommodation for around 500 per night. These traditional houses provide a wholesome experience, allowing you to interact with locals and gain insights into their way of life.
Visiting the living root bridges in Nongriat is an unforgettable experience. The double-decker bridges are a true marvel of nature, and the journey to reach them is an adventure in itself. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a trekker, or just someone seeking a unique travel experience, Nongriat’s living root bridges won’t disappoint. Plus, staying in the village gives you a chance to connect with the locals and create lasting memories. So, pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey to these captivating natural wonders!
