Umkar Root Bridge: Best Guide to Hidden Wonder of Meghalaya

But, if you are short of time then there is one place that offers a combination of both – the Umkar Root Bridge – one of the under-explored hidden gems of Meghalaya. This Root Bridge is perfectly located along a waterfall, allowing you to explore the best of Meghalaya in one place!

Unlike the popular Double-Decker Cherrapunji root bridge which is uniquely distinguished by 2 bridges one above the other, the Umkar Root Bridge is a single-decker root bridge. But, here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting the Umkar Single-Decker Root Bridge:

Reasons to visit the Umkar Root Bridge

• Location

The Umkar Root Bridge is nestled in Siej Village, surrounded by dense forests and flowing river streams. A well-maintained road leads to the village, offering a peaceful escape into nature. It’s a hidden gem in Meghalaya’s natural beauty.

• Accessibility

The Umkar Single-Decker Root Bridge is very easily accessible, making it a perfect place to visit in Meghalaya for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re traveling with elderly family members or young children, the path is manageable for everyone. From the main road, it’s just a 10-minute short trek to Umkar Root Bridge.

This is a far easier journey compared to the famous double-decker Cherrapunji Root Bridge, which requires a challenging two-hour hike up 3,600 steps. Along the way, you’ll pass through a serene forest filled with tall bamboo trees, making the walk both refreshing and enjoyable. The ease of access allows anyone to experience this natural wonder.

• Lesser Crowd

Unlike the more popular living root bridges in Meghalaya, this Root Bridge is one of the hidden gems of Meghalaya. This Single-Decker Root Bridge remains relatively unknown, allowing for a quieter and more personal experience. 

With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of nature without interruptions.

• Natural Beauty

The Umkar Root Bridge is a true natural marvel. It is set against the backdrop of a scenic waterfall in Meghalaya and a tranquil river stream below. Surrounded by lush green forests, it’s the ideal place to connect with nature. You can even take a dip in the refreshing water to rejuvenate yourself.

• Educational Experience

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Umkar Root Bridge is its unique “under construction” status. Unlike older bridges in the region, this living root bridge is still being formed. The locals have been rebuilding it after it was damaged by a flood years ago. 

You’ll witness the process of how these remarkable bridges are made by intertwining the roots of rubber trees with the sturdy trunks of betel nut trees. The fresh, light brown and green colors of the roots show their newness and ongoing growth. It’s a living piece of nature that’s constantly evolving, and you can observe this incredible feat firsthand. 

Moreover, the locals are currently guiding new roots to create a double-decker bridge just above the existing one. Watching this process offers a unique educational experience, teaching visitors about traditional ecological knowledge and sustainable engineering practices passed down through generations.

• Communal Efforts

Visiting this Root Bridge gives you a glimpse into the hard work and dedication of the local tribes. For years, they have been nurturing and shaping these living root bridges to serve as sustainable pathways connecting their villages. The bridge represents more than just a crossing—it symbolizes the strong sense of community and teamwork among the local people. 

Their communal efforts behind this Cherrapunji Root Bridge is a great example of how humans can work harmoniously with nature to create something both functional and beautiful. It’s an inspiring reminder of how traditions and sustainable practices can continue to thrive in today’s world.

Now that we have got enough reasons to visit the Umkar Root Bridge, let’s get some practical information about things to do, best time to visit, and how to reach the Umkar Root Bridge to plan your next visit during the amazing Meghalaya Road Trip!