Hidden deep in the lush forests of Meghalaya lies one of the most breathtaking and iconic marvels of the region—the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat. Tucked away in the East Khasi Hills, this incredible creation is not only a testament to nature’s wonder but also to the resourceful ingenuity of the Khasi people, who shaped living roots into usable bridges over centuries.
The Trek: A Journey of 5,000 Steps
Reaching Nongriat is no easy feat. The journey begins at the small village of Tyrna, around 12 km from Cherrapunji, where the real adventure begins—a descent of nearly 5,000 steps carved into the hillsides. Each step takes you deeper into the vibrant rainforest and closer to one of Meghalaya’s greatest natural wonders.
As you descend, you’ll pass local villagers, many of whom make this challenging commute daily—whether heading to the market or to school. Their resilience is humbling and adds a layer of awe to the trek.
What Awaits You at the Bottom?
The moment you arrive at Nongriat, the atmosphere changes. Clean, peaceful, and filled with the sounds of nature, the village warmly welcomes travelers. Towering over a gushing stream, the Double-Decker Root Bridge greets you with a surreal view—two layers of interwoven roots forming a natural pathway. These bridges are alive, growing stronger with each passing year.
But the bridge isn’t the only attraction here.
- The Blue Lagoon – A magical pool of clear, turquoise water, perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike.
- Rainbow Falls – If you’re up for more trekking, this extension is well worth it. The majestic waterfall gets its name from the rainbows that often appear in its mist, dancing over the stones.
Best Time to Visit
To make the most of your visit, plan your trip between April and June. The skies are clearer, the air is pleasant, and the trails are safer. Monsoon season (July to September) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall, making the paths slippery and treacherous.
When to Start the Trek?
Start early in the morning—ideally by 8:00 AM from Tyrna. The round trip, especially if you include Rainbow Falls, can take 6 to 8 hours. With the sun setting early in the Northeast, you’ll want to make the most of daylight and finish your return trek before dark.
Are You Fit Enough?
This trek doesn’t require you to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness and stamina is essential. The real challenge begins on the way back, as you’ll need to climb all the way up those 5,000 steps. Prepare mentally as much as physically—the uphill return is demanding, but incredibly rewarding.
What Should You Carry?
- Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip
- A refillable water bottle
- Lightweight clothes, but bring a rain jacket just in case
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- A walking stick or trekking pole (locals also offer bamboo sticks you can buy)
Final Thoughts
The trek to Nongriat and the Double-Decker Root Bridge is more than just a physical journey—it’s a cultural and natural immersion. With each step, you’re walking through centuries of Khasi tradition, surrounded by untouched beauty that few places on Earth can offer.
If you’re looking for something beyond the ordinary, Nongriat is where the extraordinary lives.