12 Popular Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya to Explore in 2026

Ever seen a bridge that literally grows on you? That’s the kind of surprise waiting on a trip to Meghalaya , a place where nature doesn’t just build beauty, it builds bridges! These aren’t your regular steel-and-cement types. The Living Root Bridges are made from the roots of ancient rubber trees, woven together by hand, patience, and a whole lot of local genius.

These bridges are the pride of Meghalaya! And if you're wondering whether they’re strong enough to walk on, just look at the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, the Ritymmen Root Bridge, and the Ummunoi Root Bridge. Some of them are over a hundred years old and can easily hold the weight of 40–50 people at once.

Take a slow walk across, soak in the surroundings, and enjoy the calm. These bridges are simple, beautiful, and quietly impressive; no rush, no noise, just nature at its best. Now, let’s explore some of the most popular Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya.

What are Living Root Bridges?

Living root bridges, called Jingkieng Jri by locals, are natural bridges made from the roots of rubber trees. Over time, the Khasi and Jaintia tribes carefully guide these roots across rivers and valleys until they grow strong enough to walk on. They are used as everyday walking bridges, especially during heavy rains when regular bridges can get damaged.

Unlike man-made bridges that weaken over time, living root bridges grow stronger as they age and the roots thicken. In March 2022, the "Living Root Bridge Cultural Landscapes of Meghalaya" were added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

History and Origins

• The exact origin is unknown because local tribes did not have a written script until the 19th century.
• Some bridges are believed to be several hundred years old, possibly even around 500 years.
• Local legend says ancestors once descended from the sky using a living root ladder.
• The first written record by a Westerner was in 1844 by Lieutenant Henry Yule, who described them with amazement.
• The bridges were created as a practical solution to Meghalaya’s extreme rainfall, since wooden or metal bridges would rot or rust quickly.

How Many Living Root Bridges Are There in Meghalaya?

There are about 100 living root bridges in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills, spread out over 70–72 pretty villages. These "jingkieng jri" paths are not only great for Instagram, but they are also living legends that are hidden in the woods! Exploring them is one of the adventurous things to do in Meghalaya.

Famous Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya

1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nongriat

The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village, near Cherrapunji, is one of the most famous living root bridges Meghalaya. It has two layers of roots stacked on top of each other, which is a great example of bioengineering and local culture. Reaching this bridge involves a steep trek of over 3,000 steps, but the experience is worth it. There are waterfalls and natural pools all around it, making it a magical place to escape to in the jungle.

• Location: Nongriat Village (accessible from Tyrna village, 12-15 km from Cherrapunji)
• Trek Difficulty: High (approx. 3,500–3,600 steep stone steps each way)
• Duration: 4–6 hours round trip from Tyrna; 1.5–2 hours one-way descent
• Best For: Adventure seekers and those wanting to see the world's only natural double-layered bridge
• Entry Fees: ₹50 per adult; approx. ₹20 for cameras

2. Mawlynnong Single Root Bridge, Riwai

Located just a short walk from the Cleanest village of Mawlynnong, the Single Root Bridge at Riwai is one of the most easily accessible living root bridges in Meghalaya. It’s often the first one tourists visit, making it quite popular and sometimes crowded. The bridge stands strong and gracefully arches over a stream, giving a perfect glimpse into Meghalaya’s indigenous architecture.

• Location: Riwai Village (adjacent to Mawlynnong, approx. 80 km from Shillong)
• Trek Difficulty: Low (gentle 300m walk with minimal stairs)
• Duration: 30–40 minutes total (car-to-car)
• Best For: Families, elderly travelers, and quick day-trippers from Shillong
• Entry Fees: ₹40 per person

3. Umshiang Root Bridge

Often confused with the double-decker, the Umshiang Root Bridge is the actual root bridge that forms the lower level of the Double Decker in Nongriat. It crosses the Umshiang river and is famous for its strength and structure. Surrounded by thick forests and small waterfalls, the setting is picture-perfect and serene, especially during the post-monsoon months.

• Location: Nongriat Village (accessible from Tyrna village, 12-15 km from Cherrapunji)
• Trek Difficulty: High (approx. 3,500–3,600 steep stone steps each way)
• Duration: 4–6 hours round trip from Tyrna; 1.5–2 hours one-way descent
• Best For: Adventure seekers and those wanting to see the world's only natural double-layered bridge
• Entry Fees: ₹50 per adult; approx. ₹20 for cameras

4. Rangthylliang/Mawkyrnot Bridge

This is the longest living root bridge in Meghalaya, hidden deep near Mawkyrnot village in the Rangthylliang area. Spanning over 50 meters, it feels like nature built its own suspension bridge! The trek to reach it is longer but rewarding, as you pass through ancient forests and encounter multiple root bridges along the way. Despite its grandeur, it’s still off the usual tourist radar.

• Location: Pynursla region (southern Shillong Plateau); Mawkyrnot village
• Trek Difficulty: High (involves long forest and plantation trails)
• Duration: 3–5 hours depending on how many of the 7 bridges in this cluster you visit
• Best For: Serious trekkers and those wanting to avoid the crowds of Nongriat
• Entry Fees: Nominal village development fee (approx. ₹50)

5. Shnongpdeng Living Root Bridge

This lesser-known living root bridge is hidden away near the beautiful Dawki River. It's a peaceful place to walk in nature away from other people. The root bridge makes your trip to the river even more magical, and the water is crystal clear. If you're kayaking or staying in the area, this living root bridge Dawki is a sweet surprise for nature lovers.

• Location: Shnongpdeng Village, located approximately 8 km from Dawki and 90 km from Shillong.
• Trek Difficulty: Very Low. It is a short, flat walk through the village and along the Umngot riverbank.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes for the walk; most visitors spend 1 hour exploring the surrounding riverside.
• Best For: Travelers already visiting Dawki for boating or camping, and those who want a root bridge experience without a strenuous hike.
• Entry Fees: Usually ₹20–₹50 (Village development fee); additional parking fees may apply if arriving by private car at the Shnongpdeng riverside.

6. Ummunoi Root Bridge

Often overshadowed by the famous double-decker, the Ummunoi Root Bridge is a gem that requires a good trek but rewards you with raw, untouched beauty. Located in a quieter part of the East Khasi Hills, it offers a peaceful, unspoiled experience with roots growing thick and strong across a gurgling stream.

• Location: Near Siej village (accessible from Laitkynsew or Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort)
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate to High (approx. 1,400–2,000 steps; 1,000 ft descent)
• Duration: 3–4 hours round trip
• Best For: Travelers wanting a "true" trek experience that is shorter than Nongriat
• Entry Fees: ₹40 per person

7. Kudeng Thymmai and Kudeng Rim Bridges

These two charming bridges are located close to each other and make for a beautiful hike. They offer a great offbeat alternative to the more commercial spots. Kudeng Thymmai and Kudeng Rim are quieter, letting you admire the living architecture without distractions. Plus, the forest trails around are lush and perfect for a mindful stroll.

• Location: West Jaintia Hills (near Nongbareh village)
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate (involves descending into deep river gorges)
• Duration: Day visit recommended (8 AM–5 PM)
• Best For: Explorers of the Jaintia Hills and fans of blue water lagoons
• Entry Fees: Village maintenance fee (approx. ₹50)

8. Rittymmen Root Bridge

Rittymmen is like the warm-up act before you reach the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat. A solid, wide root bridge that is just as fascinating, it's often missed by those rushing to the bigger attractions. But it deserves its own moment, surrounded by tropical beauty and a peaceful stream, it’s the kind of place where you’d want to pause and just breathe.

• Location: On the trek path to Nongriat, before the Double Decker
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate (located roughly halfway down the 3,500 steps)
• Duration: 45 mins–1 hour from Tyrna
• Best For: A midway rest point; it is the longest bridge on the Nongriat trail
• Entry Fees: Usually covered by the Tyrna/Nongriat trekking entry

9. Padu Bridge

Not many tourists know about this one, which makes it even more special. The Padu Root Bridge is relatively easier to access and a good choice for those looking to explore Jaintia Hills. The village is known for its warm locals and peaceful surroundings, giving you a blend of natural and cultural experience.

• Location: Padu Village, approximately 10 km from Amlarem and 98 km from Shillong.
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate. The trek involves a steady one-hour descent through forest trails and orange groves.
• Duration: 2–3 hours for a round-trip visit; however, staying 2 days in the village is recommended to fully experience the local culture and nearby lakes.
• Best For: Photography enthusiasts interested in unique structural bioengineering and travelers seeking a quiet, "off-the-map" cultural immersion.
• Entry Fees: Nominal village development fee (approx. ₹30–₹50)

10. Nongbareh Living Root Bridge

Nongbareh is one of those places to visit in Meghalaya that makes you feel like you've stepped into a living fairytale. The root bridge here is nestled deep in greenery and often visited by explorers looking to skip the crowds. The surroundings are pristine, and the bridge has the signature organic elegance that makes these wonders so special.

• Location: Nongbareh Village, East Jaintia Hills, about 104 km from Shillong.
• Trek Difficulty: Moderate. Requires navigating forest trails for approximately one hour.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours for the hike and bridge exploration.
• Best For: Eco-tourists and those looking for a serene, "untouched" natural environment far from the main tourist hubs.
• Entry Fees: Usually ₹50 per person for village maintenance.

11. Mawsaw Root Bridge near Mawlynnong

Often overshadowed by the nearby Riwai Root Bridge, Mawsaw is lesser-known but beautifully raw. It's just a short hike from Mawlynnong and is perfect if you're looking to stretch your legs and discover something that’s not in every tourist’s gallery. The path is scenic and quiet, ideal for a short, peaceful detour.

• Location: Near Mawlynnong/Riwai village, accessible via a short hike from the main village path.
• Trek Difficulty: Low to Moderate. It is a short but somewhat rocky and uneven path compared to the paved Riwai trail.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes round trip.
• Best For: Visitors to Mawlynnong who want a more peaceful, secluded experience away from the heavy crowds at Riwai.
• Entry Fees: Often included in the standard ₹40 Mawlynnong/Riwai entry, though some specific path entries may collect an additional ₹20.

12. Umkar Root Bridge

Tucked away in the serene village of Siej, the Umkar Root Bridge is a peaceful, lesser-known marvel. It's not as crowded as Nongriat, so you can soak in the calm and take those forest-core Instagram shots without photobombers! If you're someone who enjoys discovering offbeat trails and quiet nature wonders, this one should definitely make your list.

• Location: Siej Village, near Cherrapunji
• Trek Difficulty: Low (gentle forest path)
• Duration: 30–45 minutes round trip
• Best For: Children (aged 5+) and those seeking a quick, peaceful forest walk
• Entry Fees: Nominal village fee (approx. ₹30)

How the Living Root Bridges Are Made

Building a living root bridge isn’t something that happens overnight, it’s a slow, patient process that can take 15 to 20 years to complete!

Here’s how it works:

• Long-term effort: It takes a long time to build a living root bridge, and different generations in the same village often work on it together.
• Planting: People plant young rubber trees (Ficus elastica) on both sides of a river or valley.
• Guiding roots: As the trees grow aerial roots, villagers use bamboo or hollow areca-nut palm trunks to help them cross the water. These supports keep the roots safe and slowly break down, giving them nutrients.
• Weaving and joining: The roots are pulled, tied, and woven together. Inosculation is the process by which they naturally join together to form one thick, solid structure over time.
• Becoming usable: It usually takes 15 to 30 years for the bridge to get strong enough to safely hold people walking across it.

It's amazing that these bridges can last for hundreds of years and get stronger over time, unlike buildings made by people.

This old way of doing things shows not only skill, but also a lot of patience and a beautiful understanding of how to work with nature instead of against it.

Significance of the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

The Living Root Bridges are not only beautiful, but they also show how people and nature can live in peace.

The Khasi and Jaintia tribes made these bridges by guiding the roots of rubber trees across rivers and streams for many years. Instead of cutting down trees, they grew them into something useful. This took a lot of time, care, and knowledge about how ecosystems work.

The Living Root Bridges Meghalaya are important for more than just their use:

• Sustainable Engineering: They were built without machines or concrete, so they are real-life examples of eco-friendly, low-impact design.
• Cultural Heritage: The history of living root bridges in Meghalaya is a part of the local culture that has been passed down through stories and hands-on practice for generations.
• Tourism and Jobs: They bring in tourists from all over the world and help many local communities through tourism.

Best Time to Visit Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya

The best time to visit Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya is between October and April. The weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for trekking through the forest trails without getting soaked.

Avoid the monsoon season in Meghalaya (June to September) if possible. While the bridges look extra lush during this time, the trails can get slippery, and travel becomes tricky due to heavy rainfall.

How to Visit Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya?

You need to get to Cherrapunji or Nongriat first to see the Living Root Bridges. These are the main ways to get to these natural wonders. It takes about 2 to 3 hours to drive from Shillong to Cherrapunji. When you get there, you can hike to the Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya. The trails go through thick forests, rushing streams, and cute Khasi villages.

For safety and to learn more about Khasi culture, it's best to hire a local guide. Most people who travel start their trip early in the morning so they can enjoy the hike and the beautiful views along the way.

Tips for Visiting Living Root Bridges Meghalaya

Planning a visit in 2026? The treks to the Living Root Bridges are beautiful but can be physically demanding, so a little preparation helps a lot.

• The Living Root Bridges Meghalaya trek guide suggests visiting between October and April for pleasant weather and safer trails.
• Plan your visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk.
• Pick the right trek: the Double Decker Bridge is challenging, while the Riwai bridge is a short and easy walk.
• Wear sturdy trekking shoes with a strong grip, as steps can be wet and slippery.
• Choose light, quick-dry clothes since the climb back up can get sweaty and humid.
• Always carry a raincoat or umbrella because sudden showers are common in Meghalaya.
• Start your trek early in the morning to avoid heat and return before it gets dark.
• Bring 1–2 litres of water and some snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
• Keep cash handy, as entry fees and small stalls may not accept UPI or cards.
• You can hire a local guide for safety, directions, and local insights during the trek.

Do the Living Root Bridges Live Up to the Hype?

Now that you know what Living Root Bridges are, this Living Root Bridges Meghalaya trek guide will help you see why they’re more than just bridges. They are nature’s masterpieces and Meghalaya’s pride. Whether you're in the East Khasi Hills or the West Jaintia Hills, each “jingkieng jri” you cross is stunning.

There are almost 100 of them in more than 70 villages, so there is always another hidden gem to find. For example, the longest living root bridge in Meghalaya is hidden in the deep greens of this magical land.

And if you're dreaming of exploring these living root bridges Meghalaya without the stress of planning, WanderOn has some amazing trips lined up for you. So tie your laces, charge your phone, and let nature do the rest.