One of the most demanded places by our travelers in our Meghalaya Tour Packages is the Mawlynnong Village. It’s no wonder, after all, who wouldn’t want to visit the Cleanest Village in Asia!
The Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya is fondly called “God’s Own Garden” due to its rustic charm that comes from its traditional houses, warm villagers, and the greenery that surrounds it. Visiting this postcard-perfect town is one of the top things to do when in Meghalaya!
Let’s explore what the Mawlynnong Village offers to its visitors and how it sets an ideal example of how humans can peacefully coexist with the natural beauty that Meghalaya holds.
Best Time To Visit Mawlynnong Village
So, you're planning a trip to Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya? Here you will get to know about the best time to visit Mawlynnong Village. While it's beautiful year-round, aim for drier months to avoid heavy monsoon rains (June to September). Spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring.
October-November is especially exciting, as the vibrant Nongkrem Dance Festival fills the air with music and celebration. Want to experience a unique harvest festival? Catch Wangala between September and December.
How To Reach Mawlynnong Village Meghalaya?
To reach Mawlynnong Village, travelers can choose from various transportation modes. Here are a few best ways to reach:
- By Airways: The best way to reach Mawlynnong Village is to fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 190 kilometers away, as it has direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, etc. Another alternative is the Shillong airport, which is 103 kilometers away but has limited flights. From there, visitors can hire a taxi/ cab or take a bus for a scenic road journey of around five hours to reach Mawlynnong.
- By Railways: The nearest railhead is the Guwahati Railway station which is well-connected to major Indian cities by railway network. From here, you can continue your journey by hiring a cab/ taxi or taking a local bus which can take around 5-6 hours.
- By Roadways: For those preferring road travel from other parts of Meghalaya or neighboring states, well-connected highways provide access to Mawlynnong, offering the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Northeast India along the way. The winding roads offer beautiful views, so keep your camera handy!
How to Reach Mawlynnong from Shillong
By Road
- The Shillong to Mawlynnong distance is about 78 km.
- It takes around 2.5–3 hours by car. You can hire a private taxi from Police Bazaar or book one through local tour operators.
- Shared cabs are also available but less frequent.
By Bus
- There are no direct buses to Mawlynnong, but you can take an MTC or ASTC bus till Dawki or Pynursla, then hire a cab to reach the village.
Self-Drive
- If you love scenic drives, renting a car and driving down NH206 is a great option. The route is filled with rolling hills, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
Things To Do in Mawlynnong Village Meghalaya
From sightseeing to cultural experiences, here are the top things to do in Mawlynnong Village:
1. Walking Around The Village
Strolling around the village will give you an insight into how cleanliness is maintained here. There are several bamboo baskets installed in the village for the people to dispose of their waste properly. The warm hospitality of the villagers will surely elevate your experience in the village. Getting a chance to experience the Khasi hospitality is the best part of Mawlynnong tourism.
- Approx Cost: ₹100 - ₹150 are the parking charges
2. Interact with the Locals
Interacting with the locals in the Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya is a great way to understand the local culture.
The highlight of Mawlynnong tourism activities is the chance to savour their authentic Khasi cuisine.You can try a few dishes like Jadoh - a meat and rice dish, Tungrymbai - made from fermented soybean, and bamboo shoot pickle.
- Approx Cost: ₹100 - ₹250 per person for a meal
4. Explore The Living Root Bridge
The Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya have gained a spot on the world map and a UNESCO World Heritage status. You can explore one such living root bridge between the Mawlynnong and Riwai village which is said to be 180 years old.
- Approx Cost: ₹20- ₹50 per person
5. Visit The Village Church
There are several small churches built across villages in Meghalaya including the Mawlynnong Village. You can visit the rustic 100-year-old Church of Epiphany built in European architectural style. It is one of the best places to see in Mawlynnong village.
6. Marvel at the Balancing Rock
If you want to see something unique, you can also visit the Balancing Rock in Mawlynnong Village. It is a unique rock formation where a huge boulder is balanced over a really small rock, making it one of the top places to see in Mawlynnong village.
- Approx Cost: ₹10 per person
7. Walk On The Bamboo Sky Deck
Overcome your fear of heights by walking up a bamboo sky deck built on a tree 85 feet above the ground. As this village is located near the Indo-Bangladesh border, you can marvel at the sweeping landscapes of Bangladesh afar.
- Approx Cost: ₹30 per person
8. Shop Local Handicrafts At Souvenir Shops
Take back memories of the trip by shopping in Meghalaya’s Mawlynnong Village. You will find some unique souvenirs and handicrafts from the locals of Mawlynnong Village. You can buy products made of bamboo like bags, home decor, etc.
History And Facts of Mawlynnong Village
Wondering why is Mawlynnong called the cleanest village in Asia? The story of Mawlynnong becoming Asia’s Cleanest Village goes back to 2003 when it earned the title by Discover India. It slowly gained popularity after 2005 when it was featured on BBC. But, the locals of Meghalaya have always been key players in maintaining the scenic beauty of this state.
Inhabited by the Khasi tribe, the Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya appears straight out of a fairy tale. The road leading to the village passes through a thick forest cover and Mawlynnong reveals itself like a hidden charm at first sight. You will have to park your vehicle outside the village and walk to explore one of the best places in Meghalaya.
Here are some of the key facts and features of Mawlynnong Village:
- Deeply rooted in Khasi cultural values, the village has a long tradition of cleanliness. The practices have been passed down for generations.
- Local Khasi folklore emphasizes living in harmony with nature, which also influences the sustainable style of living. Plastic is completely banned, bamboo dustbins are placed throughout, waste is composted, and rainwater harvesting methods are adopted. Residents take pride in their community's eco-friendly practices.
- The village has a population of 900 people, mostly from the tribal community of Khasi, following matrilineal society, which is prevalent till date. The unique system sets them apart from most Indian communities. However, education and urbanisation are gradually transforming traditional practices, with some families opting for a more bilateral inheritance system.
- Education holds a great significance, the place has a 100% literacy rate. Most of the villagers can also speak Hindi and English. Despite being a traditional community with reliance mostly on agriculture, the significance of education can be seen in every home.
Reasons For Visiting Mawlynnong Village
Here’s some of the top reasons for visiting Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya:
- Scenic Beauty: Mawlynnong offers stunning views of landscapes, waterfalls, and lush green surroundings. You will fall in love with the sunsets here.
- Rich Culture: One of the top reasons for visiting Mawlynnong Village is to experience its rich culture. The unique lifestyle of the Khasi tribe, with matrilineal traditions, followed by the warm hospitality and mouth-watering authentic dishes.
- Eco-Tourism: Sustainability lies in the heart of Mawlynnong people, use of bamboo products, prohibition of plastic, and active participation of the community in keeping their surroundings clean, makes it an eco-friendly destination. The village is a living example of how tourism and environmental conservation can go hand in hand.
Travel Tips For Visiting Mawlynnong Village Meghalaya
Here are a few travel tips for visiting Meghalaya’s Mawlynnong Village:
- If you're not staying in Mawlynnong, start your day trips early to return to your accommodation on time.
- Remember not to litter, as there are fines for doing so. Also, avoid carrying plastic into the village to maintain its cleanliness.
- If you visit on Sundays, you can attend the Sunday rituals at the local church, which can be a unique cultural experience.
- Always respect the locals and seek their permission before taking any pictures or exploring any areas in the village.
- If you plan to stay in the village, especially during peak season, make sure to book your accommodation in advance as options are limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the village, exploring its beauty and attractions.
- Try to carry enough cash to pay at various places in the village or for shopping for some souvenirs. Due to the poor network in the region, online transactions may not be possible.
Nearby Attractions from Mawlynnong Village
Here are some nearby attractions from Mawlynnong Village that you can easily add to your trip plan:
- Riwai Living Root Bridge – Just 10–15 minutes’ walk from the village, this single-decker root bridge is a stunning example of natural architecture.
- Sky View Point – A bamboo watchtower that gives breathtaking views of the Bangladesh plains across the border.
- Dawki & Umngot River – Around 17 km away, famous for its crystal-clear waters where boats look like they’re floating in the air.
- Balancing Rock – A natural wonder where a huge boulder rests precariously on a smaller rock, yet remains unmoved for centuries.
- Bangladesh Viewpoints – Several spots around Mawlynnong offer panoramic views of Bangladesh’s lush plains.
Places To Stay in Mawlynnong
Finding places to stay in Mawlynnong Village won't be like booking a hotel in a bustling city. Due to the village's focus on eco-tourism and sustainable living, most accommodations are homestays or guesthouses. These options offer a chance to experience local culture firsthand.
Many homestays in Meghalaya’s Mawlynnong Village boast beautiful gardens and provide delicious homemade meals. While luxurious amenities might be limited, the warmth of Khasi hospitality and the chance to immerse yourself in the village's serene atmosphere more than make up for it. Here are some of the best hotels and homestays in Mawlynnong Meghalaya:
- Harud Wahduid Brookside Homestay — One of the first homestays in the village, located near a stream. Simple, clean, and peaceful.
- Hala Tyngkong Homestay — Right in the heart of the village with basic but comfy rooms and attached bathrooms.
- Rest & Relax Homestay — Near the parking area, offering double and family rooms. Budget-friendly and convenient.
- Mawlynnong Homestay — Centrally located with options like a classic room, family room, and traditional bamboo hut. Local meals available.
- Mawlynnong Bamboo Cottage — Eco-friendly cottages made of bamboo and wood, perfect for a tranquil nature stay.
- Odyssey Stays Mawlynnong — Cottage-style stays with private bathrooms and good amenities at reasonable prices.
A trip to Mawlynnong isn’t just about ticking a destination off your list, it’s about experiencing the charm of the Cleanest Village in Asia up close. From strolling through spotless lanes lined with bamboo huts to marveling at the Living Root Bridges Mawlynnong, every moment here feels like stepping into a dream. Add in warm Khasi hospitality, nearby adventures like Dawki and Riwai, and you’ve got yourself a trip that’s equal parts peaceful and exciting.
So, if you’re planning Meghalaya anytime soon, make sure Mawlynnong is right at the top of your itinerary—you’ll leave with memories that sparkle as brightly as the village itself.
