On a beautiful winter morning in the mid of December, I with my friends decided to visit the abode of clouds, the state of Meghalaya. Hailing from Assam, this neighbour state is literally my second home as I visit it every second month and also because I had lived there for two years while pursuing my masters.
However, this time around instead of the usual hang outs, we decided to visit two unexplored places - the first being Dawki and the second being the Living Root Bridges in Sohra, Cherapunjee.
Destination 1 : We started for Dawki quite late - around 1.30 pm in the afternoon. This is not recommended. Usually the ideal time to visit Dawki is in the morning when you can see the beautiful Umngot river crystal clear. This river also forms the international border between India and Bangladesh.
As we reached the riverside, we were welcomed by a mesmerizing view of boats in the riverside. Several boats men negotiated with us for a boat ride around the river, which included a ride to its sandy river island, where one can camp, eat and stay over and then a ride to the Bangladesh border where one can see the Bangladesh tourists vouching for the gorgeous river like us. The boat ride was indeed worth the price and time. You could witness the clear water and actually see the pebbles and fishes below.
How to reach : Take a taxi to Dawki from Shillong which takes about 2.5-3 hours. The boat ride : It highly depends on your negotiation skills, but Rs 600 for about 45 minutes to 1 hour is good.
Destination 2 : Located in Cherapunjee, the Living Root Bridges are man-made cum natural wonders. The bridges are tangles of massive thick roots, which have been intermingled to form a bridge that can hold several people at a time.
We started our journey from Shillong to Cherapunjee (Sohra) at 10 am and reached our destination in around 2-2.5 hours. As we got down from our taxi, we were advised not to carry any heavy bags or woolens since while trekking, people usually feel very hot. However one could carry water bottles since they would be highly essential during the treacherous trek.
One major mistake we did was not to carry any sort of cash with us. We had left our wallets and bags in the car with our trusted driver. The trek requires you to pay a nominal entry fee at several points and that is the reason you should carry some cash with you. Also, one can purchase water bottles, juices and other refreshments from tiny little shops situated in some corners of the trek. You will also find bathrooms and sitting areas for your convenience.
We began our trek to our first destination, that is the single decker bridge. Going downwards and crossing the village wasn't a very hefty task. However, one could notice that the steps were very steep and so climbing up might be a little challenging. The first bridge which is called as the Ritymmen Root Bridge is the longest known living root bridge. After immersing in the beauty of this bridge, we decided not to waste much time and head for the Double Decker Bridge.
After asking for some directions (we did not opt for a guide, you can opt for one if you want, though it is not necessary as there are sign boards and friendly locals everywhere to help), we headed further downwards. It is estimated to have 3,500 steps alone one way, however anyone can easily climb down irrespective of their fitness or stamina level.
On the way, you have to cross two steel cable bridges. I have a fear of heights and this was a whole new challenge for me. Determined to face my fear, and with great words of courage by my friend, I finally decided to go for it. Honestly, it was a a big thing for me because this bridge shakes and swings and the water flowing 20-25 feet below makes the whole experience some what frightening. As I crossed this bridge, I was proud of myself and couldn't contaminate the excitement to reach the Double Decker Bridge as soon as possible.
There's another bridge on the way, which is also a steel bridge but much wider and much higher. One can see the beautiful blue water and gigantic rocks down below. This is a good spot for pictures because on all other bridges due to lack of space, it is a little difficult to halt and take pictures or even turn back!
After going further down, we finally reached Nongriat village, where the Double Decker Bridge is located. This place also has many home-stay options which I guess everyone should try once (we did not because we were short of time). Standing at a height of 2400 feet, this gorgeous bridge is around 200 years old and is believed to grow stronger with time. We crossed the Double Decker and climbed down to the river to enjoy the beautiful clear water. One could take a bath in the river, and there were provisions for a small changing room too. We decided to soak in our feet in the river and were welcomed by tiny little fishes tinkling us. Some tourists also offered food to the fishes which they gobbled up instantly.
After a while, we decided to head back since we knew climbing up the whole way would definitely take us more time than climbing down till there.
The return journey is obviously tiring as the steps are very steep. However, with 2-3 short breaks, we were successful in making it to the top quite soon. We are drenched in sweat and had to do away with all our woolens during the trek.
Time Taken : 3 hours (We took very less time climbing down and also did not leisurely spend time in the water, which people generally do).
Level of trekking : I am no one to judge - to each its own. However, being physically active and fit to a certain extend helps in the trek since climbing up so many steep steps in the way back from the bridges does require a lot of stamina.
We were very content as we reached our taxi and headed back to Shillong. Personally, I would love to come back anytime to this mesmerizing and ethereal place.
Note : There are many living root bridges in this area, which are accessible from Dawki and Mawlynnong and does not require trekking, as they are not situated at a much further distance. This post is about the Double Decker Bridge trek which starts from Tyrna Village right up to Nongriat village.
So that's all about my trip to the Living Root Bridges and Dawki in Meghalaya. You can comment below or ask me in my social media if you have any queries about these places :)
Till, the next time. Much love, Benaaz
Photography by : Sonal Chawla