Living Root Bridge Trek
About
The Living Root Bridge trek drops into the rainforest below Cherrapunji in Meghalaya to reach Nongriat's famous Double Decker bridge — a two-tier span grown, not built, from the living roots of rubber fig trees by Khasi communities over generations. The trail descends thousands of stone steps through one of the wettest, greenest corners of India.
What makes it special:
- The Double Decker Living Root Bridge at Nongriat, a centuries-old piece of living bio-engineering
- A walk past crystal pools, natural swimming holes and the Rainbow Falls side-trek through dense subtropical forest
- A glimpse of Khasi village life in one of the most remote, rain-soaked landscapes in the country
It's a short trek by distance but a serious leg workout — and the reward is one of the most unique structures, natural or man-made, anywhere in India.
Getting There
The trail starts at Tyrna village, the last point reachable by road, about 12–15 km past Cherrapunji (Sohra). Cherrapunji is roughly 54 km (about 2 hours) from Shillong by shared taxi. The nearest airport is Shillong (Umroi) with limited flights; Guwahati, about 150 km away, is the major airport and railhead.
No special permit is needed — just a small entry fee at the trailhead. From Tyrna it's around 3,500 stone steps down to Nongriat (and the same back up), so start by 7–8 am to beat the midday heat and have time at the bridge and pools. Go October to April for dry, pleasant trekking weather. Staying overnight at a Nongriat homestay lets you add the Rainbow Falls walk.