🇮🇳 Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Destination Guide

Nestled in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong is often referred to as the "Cleanest Village in Asia". Famous for its immaculate streets, eco-conscious community, and scenic charm, Mawlynnong offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and sustainability. Its cobbled pathways, bamboo dustbins, and flowering gardens make it not just a village, but a living model of eco-tourism and grassroots cleanliness.

🌿 Top Attractions in Mawlynnong:

1. Living Root Bridge (Riwai Village)

   • A short trek from Mawlynnong brings you to a natural, centuries-old bridge made from tangled roots of rubber trees. A stunning example of bioengineering and indigenous knowledge.

2. Sky Walk Viewpoint

   • A bamboo tower that offers panoramic views of the lush valley and plains of neighboring Bangladesh.

3. Balancing Rock

   • A large boulder mysteriously perched atop a smaller rock—an ancient Khasi sacred site believed to be untouched for centuries.

4. Mawlynnong Village Trail

   • Walk through neatly swept lanes, vibrant gardens, and traditional Khasi homes built on stilts.

🧼 A Culture of Clean Living:

• The entire village participates in keeping their surroundings clean.

• Use of plastic is minimal; organic waste is composted.

• Every household has a bamboo basket for waste.

• Community-driven sanitation and tourism practices make it a role model globally.

🌸 Cultural Experiences:

• Meet the warm Khasi people, who practice a matrilineal culture.

• Learn about their customs, local farming practices, and folklore.

• Sample local Khasi cuisine and herbal tea.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Jadoh (spiced rice with meat)

• Tungrymbai (fermented soybeans)

• Fresh forest veggies and seasonal fruits

• Bamboo shoot delicacies

🗓️ Best Time to Visit:

• October to April: Clear skies, ideal for sightseeing and walking tours.

• Monsoon (June–September): Misty and magical but expect heavy rain and slippery trails.

🚗 How to Reach Mawlynnong:

• Nearest Airport: Shillong (90 km) | Guwahati (190 km)

• By Road: Best accessed by taxi or private car from Shillong or Dawki.

• Nearby Destinations: Dawki (Umngot River), Riwai, Cherrapunjee

🏡 Where to Stay:

• Cozy homestays and eco-lodges with Khasi hosts.

• Simple, clean, and immersed in nature—ideal for mindful travelers.