AdventureKayaking on the Umngot
Paddle on one of India's clearest rivers with a local guide.
WhereEast Khasi Hills, near the Bangladesh border
From ShillongAbout 90 km, 2.5 to 3 hours
Known forAsia's cleanest village
Best monthsOctober to April
Time2 to 3 hours
ParentsEasy, flat village lanes
Check before you go: Timings, fees and access can change with the season, festivals and weather. Check the latest timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
Mawlynnong is a small Khasi village in Meghalaya, named the cleanest village in Asia by Discover India magazine in 2003. It is about 90 km from Shillong, a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. Visit between October and April, and walk 10 minutes to the Riwai living root bridge nearby.
Why Mawlynnong is called Asia's cleanest village
In 2003, Discover India magazine called Mawlynnong the cleanest village in Asia, and the village has kept it that way. Bamboo dustbins line every lane, plastic is discouraged, and families take turns sweeping the paths.
It is also a village where people still live and work, so walk quietly and ask before taking photos of homes.
Is it okay for parents?
EasyStepsSome steps down to the Riwai root bridge
WalkingEasy village lanes
ToiletsAvailable in the village
Good for parents. The root bridge walk is short but has steps.
Riwai living root bridge and Sky View
- Riwai root bridge: about a 10-minute walk from the village, down an easy forest path. The best root bridge for parents and children.
- Sky View: a tall bamboo platform with views over the Bangladesh plains. It sways a little in the wind.
- Village walk: the church, the gardens and the lanes take about an hour at an easy pace.
Small entry fees are collected at the root bridge and Sky View. Carry cash.
How to reach Mawlynnong
| From | Distance | By road |
|---|---|---|
| Shillong | About 90 km | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| Dawki | About 30 km | About 1 hour |
| Sohra (Cherrapunji) | About 80 km | About 2.5 hours |
Most travellers pair Mawlynnong with Dawki and the Umngot river on the same day.
Veg and Jain food
Simple meals in village eateries. Ask for vegetarian.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Adventure
Must doWalk to the Riwai living root bridge
A short, easy walk to a bridge grown from living tree roots. A good choice for parents.
Food & peopleKhasi home lunch in Mawlynnong
Sit down for a home-cooked Khasi lunch with a family in one of the cleanest villages in India.
AdventureFAQ
Mawlynnong: your questions
Is Mawlynnong still the cleanest village in Asia?
It is still remarkably clean. The village keeps up its rules on waste and sweeping, though weekends can be crowded.
Is the Riwai root bridge easy for parents?
Yes. It is a short, gentle walk of about 10 minutes, unlike the Double Decker trek in Nongriat.
Can you stay overnight in Mawlynnong village?
Yes. There are simple guest houses and homestays; book ahead in peak season.
Is Mawlynnong worth it, or too touristy?
Go early in the morning or on a weekday. The village is calm then, and the root bridge is quiet.
Can I see Mawlynnong and Dawki in one day?
Yes. They are about an hour apart, and most itineraries combine them.
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