Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya: Guide to Nongriat

Curious about Meghalaya's most famous sight? The living root bridges are hand-grown bridges made by training the roots of rubber fig trees across streams over decades — a living feat of bio-engineering by the Khasi and Jaintia people. The most iconic is the double-decker root bridge at Nongriat, near Cherrapunji. Here's how to see them.

What are living root bridges?

For generations, villagers have guided the aerial roots of the Ficus elastica tree across rivers, letting them thicken and knit into strong, self-repairing bridges. Some are over a hundred years old and only get stronger with time. In 2022 they were added to UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list.

The famous double-decker bridge, Nongriat

The Umshiang double-decker root bridge near Nongriat village is the star attraction — two bridges stacked over one stream. Reaching it is a genuine adventure: a steep descent of roughly 3,000+ steps from Tyrna, and the same climb back up.

Be prepared: The Nongriat trek is strenuous — good shoes, water and a reasonable fitness level are essential. Many travellers stay overnight in a Nongriat homestay to enjoy the natural pools and Rainbow Falls without rushing.

Easier root bridges to see

Short on time or fitness? The single root bridge at Mawlynnong (Asia's cleanest village) and bridges near Riwai and Mawsaw are far easier to reach and still magical.

When to visit

The bridges are lush and streams full during and just after the monsoon, but trails are slippery then. October to April is the most comfortable window. See our best time to visit Meghalaya guide.

Fit it into your trip with the 6-day Meghalaya itinerary and explore our Meghalaya tour packages. Also read the Cherrapunji travel guide.