Meghalaya
sightseeing
Nongriat is a remote village in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills, renowned as the home of the unique, multi-level Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Jingkieng Nongriat. Located deep in a lush valley near Cherrapunji (Sohra), this village is accessible only by a steep, roughly 3,000 - 3,500 step trek descending from Tyrna village. Unlike regular sightseeing spots, Nongriat is more about the journey than quick photo stops, which is why in Meghalaya tour packages it is included so travellers can enjoy trekking, nature-based experiences, and slower village environments rather than vehicle-based sightseeing.
Nongriat comes under one of the most popular villages of Meghalaya because it preserves one of Meghalaya’s most recognised examples of bio-engineering through living root bridges. These bridges are created by guiding the roots of rubber trees across streams over several decades, allowing them to strengthen naturally with time instead of weakening like artificial structures. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge found here has become one of the strongest symbols of sustainable local construction in the region.
The village also reflects how isolated communities in Meghalaya adapted to heavy rainfall and difficult terrain long before modern infrastructure reached the area. Even today, access remains dependent on physical trekking rather than road connectivity.
The best time to visit Nongriat Village is from October to April, when trekking conditions are safer and less slippery. Monsoon months bring stronger waterfalls but also increase trail difficulty significantly.
Reach Shillong first from Guwahati by shared taxi or private cab, which usually takes around 3–4 hours. From Shillong, drive another 2.5–3 hours to Tyrna Village, the starting point of the Nongriat trek. From Tyrna, the trek involves around 3,000+ descending steps, suspension bridges, and forest trails. The complete trek to Nongriat Village usually takes 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on pace and weather conditions. You can get trek guides in Tryna village. Local guides cost between ₹500 and ₹1,000 per guide for a day trip.
Day Wise Timings
Maps & Location
Nongriat Village, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
Essential Information
Point of Interest for Nongriat Village
Double Decker Root Bridge
A naturally formed two-level root bridge built using living rubber tree roots.
Suspension Bridge Crossings
Hanging bridges across streams add movement and elevation during the Nongriat trek route.
Natural Swimming Pools
Clear freshwater pools near the village are suitable for short breaks after trekking sections.
Rainforest Trekking Trails
Stone stair routes pass dense forests, waterfalls, and smaller Khasi settlements along the descent.
Rainbow Falls Extension Trek
A longer trekking route beyond Nongriat leading towards a blue-water waterfall viewpoint.
Nongriat Village is famous for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge and rainforest trekking routes in Meghalaya.
The trek to Nongriat involves around 3,000 to 3,500 descending steps from Tyrna village.
Nongriat is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India.
The trek is moderately difficult due to steep stair sections, humidity, and the challenging return climb.
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is located in Nongriat Village near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya.
The Nongriat trek usually takes 1.5 - 2.5 hours one way, depending on fitness, weather conditions, breaks, and crowd levels during the trekking season.
The Nongriat trek itself is free, but travellers spend on transport, guides, stay, food, and small bridge maintenance charges during the journey.
The trek from Nongriat to Rainbow Falls takes around 1.5–2 hours one way through forest trails, bridges, and rocky riverside sections.
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