Meghalaya · 6 destinations & hidden spots
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Flowing through a steep gorge dividing the Khasi and Jaintia hills before entering Bangladesh, the Umngot River at Dawki is legendary for water so remarkably transparent that river pebbles and swimming fish are visible meters below, creating the optical illusion of boats floating on air.
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Tucked away in the southern slopes of the East Khasi Hills, Mawlynnong achieved international fame when Discover India declared it the Cleanest Village in Asia. Paved stone pathways are lined with conical bamboo dustbins, vibrant hibiscus orchids, and traditional bamboo sky-walk towers.
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Located in Riwai village just a short walk from Mawlynnong, this living root bridge was trained across a stream using the aerial roots of Ficus elastica (Indian rubber trees) by Khasi tribespeople. Unlike Nongriat, Riwai is easily accessible via a short 10-minute stone pathway.
Hidden Gem
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Situated 8 km upstream from Dawki along the Umngot River, Shnongpdeng is a tranquil river haven loved by backpackers. Travelers pitch riverside tents on white pebbles, kayak through clear emerald waters, and go snorkeling and scuba diving to observe the underwater riverbed life.
Hidden Gem
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Cascading forcefully right beside the scenic highway connecting Dawki and Riwai, Borhill Falls tumbles down massive rocky ledges from the Khasi hills and flows straight into the plains of Sylhet across the Bangladesh border. The mist from the falls blankets the road in pleasant spray.
Hidden Gem
Dawki, Mawlynnong & Umngot Valley
Byrdaw Falls is a secluded jewel located near Pomshutiqu village along the Shillong-Dawki highway. The water drops over a curved limestone cave ledge, allowing visitors to walk behind the veil of falling water into a rock cavern before plunging into a serene natural pool.
