About Living Root Bridge Riwai Village
The trail that takes you to this attraction goes through very dense rainforests that are now well-defined due to increasing tourism and the efforts of the locals. The people residing in the jungles are dependent on these bridges for ages, some of which took around 50 years to form. Their interconnectedness with nature and environment makes these bridges a sheer work of art and creativity, often featured in a well-planned Meghalaya tour package.
The sustainable structure of these bridges adds to their charm. These roots are tied to bamboo on both ends of the rivers or gorges, which keep on growing and strengthening over the years. It is important to note that in order to keep these bridges strong and alive, the trees also need to be taken care of.
Living Root Bridge Riwai Village Highlights
• Wonder at the centuries-old living root bridge in Riwai, Meghalaya, made out of the suspended roots of Ficus trees.
• Admire the sustainable engineering of this bridge crafted by the locals dwelling in the forest regions.
• Take a short hike of around 300 m through the dense forests of Riwai to reach this natural marvel.
• Witness this natural method of connecting different villages in the otherwise inaccessible parts of Meghalaya.
• Visit the nearby Mawlynnong Village, the cleanest village in Asia, and gain insights into the indigenous lifestyle of the people.
How To Reach Living Root Bridge Riwai Village
- By Foot: You can walk 3 km downhill from Mawlynnong to reach this bridge. Alternatively, you can hike for 300 m to reach the bridge from Riwai Village.
- By Car: Get to Riwai Village from Shillong, covering 71 km in around 2.5 hours. From there you can walk to the bridge.
- By Bus: You can take an MTDC bus from Shillong to Mawlynnong, then take a taxi from there to Riwai or simply walk to the bridge.
Best Time To Visit Living Root Bridge Riwai Village
The living root bridges are accessible throughout the year, however, the monsoons can be a tricky time to hike through the rainforests.
- Best Season- Summers and winters (October to June) are a great time to visit the Living Root Bridge in Riwai.
- Best Day in the Week- Opt for weekdays to take this tour, as weekends can be overcrowded.
- The Best Time of the Day- it is suggested to take the tour early in the morning as it can offer more time for exploration of the nearby areas.
Living Root Bridge Riwai Village Other Essential Information
Visitor Tips:
- Wear comfortable and covered shoes as reaching the bridge requires a hike through dense rain forests.
- Be mindful of the surroundings and the trails, watchout for insects first.
- Start early in the morning so that you can cover the nearby attractions like the Mawlynnong Village too.
- Do not litter in the forest, dispose of waste responsibly.
- Be careful while walking on the bridge, do not harm any part of the roots or the trees.
- Always hire a guide for the tour, and always stay on the designated path framed by the locals with the help of the tourism department.
Explore Nearby Mawlynnong Village
Just a few kilometres from the Living Root Bridge, visit Mawlynnong, which is recognised as Asia's cleanest village. Wander through the clean streets, surrounded by exotic plants and the fragrance of blooming flowers. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their daily life and sustainable practices. Make sure to visit the Sky Walk here, a platform offering breathtaking views of the Bangladesh plains.
This visit provides insight into a community living in harmony with nature and highlights the importance of environmental conservation. This visit, often included in a Meghalaya group tour, provides insight into a community living in harmony with nature and highlights the importance of environmental conservation.
Trek Through the Lush Greenery
Set out on a trek to the Living Root Bridge, starting from the nearby parking area. This 300-metre journey through dense rainforest is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Meghalaya's natural beauty. Listen to the symphony of bird calls, watch for butterflies, and enjoy the cool shade provided by towering trees. The trek, though short, offers a rewarding challenge with the promise of the stunning bridge as your destination. This is a perfect activity for those looking to combine physical activity with environmental exploration. Often included in Meghalaya family packages, this is a perfect activity for those looking to combine physical activity with environmental exploration.
Tourism Board Alliances
Living Root Bridge Riwai Village FAQs
How do I reach the Living Root Bridge in Riwai Village?
The Living Root Bridge is located in Riwai Village, about 80 km from Shillong. It is accessible by road via Cherrapunji or Dawki, and a short trek of around 300 meters from the nearby parking area leads you to the bridge.
Is the Living Root Bridge suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Yes, the trek to the bridge is relatively short and gentle, making it suitable for families with children and elderly visitors. However, comfortable walking shoes and some physical readiness are recommended.
Are there guided tours available to visit the Living Root Bridge?
Yes, many Meghalaya tour packages, including family and group options, offer guided visits to the Living Root Bridge along with stops at nearby attractions like Mawlynnong and Dawki.
What is the best time to visit the Living Root Bridge?
The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are dry. During monsoon months (June to September), the area is lush but can be slippery.
Can I include the Living Root Bridge in a short Meghalaya itinerary?
Yes, the Living Root Bridge in Riwai Village can easily be included in a 3-day Meghalaya itinerary. It’s a popular stop due to its accessibility from Shillong and proximity to other key attractions like Mawlynnong (Asia’s cleanest village) and Dawki. Many Meghalaya tour packages are designed to cover these highlights efficiently, making it possible to experience the natural and cultural beauty of the region even in a short trip.
Which Meghalaya tour packages include the Living Root Bridge?
Many Meghalaya tour packages from major Indian cities feature the Living Root Bridge, especially the one in Riwai Village near Mawlynnong, as a must-visit attraction:
- Meghalaya tour from Delhi: Itineraries often include Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong, with a visit to the Living Root Bridge as part of the Mawlynnong experience.
- Meghalaya tour packages from Ahmedabad: These packages usually combine natural wonders like Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and the Living Root Bridge, offering a scenic and adventure-filled journey.
- Meghalaya tours from Pune: Tours commonly feature Shillong sightseeing along with a visit to Mawlynnong, including a short and easy walk to the Living Root Bridge in nearby Riwai.
- Meghalaya tour packages from Mumbai: Packages typically cover Shillong, Dawki, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong, with the Living Root Bridge being a key highlight of the Mawlynnong excursion.
These packages ensure travelers experience one of Meghalaya’s most iconic and eco-friendly marvels.
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