Living root bridges
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
Bridges made from the living roots of rubber fig trees, guided across streams by Khasi and Jaintia villagers over decades, including the double-decker bridge at Nongriat.
Natural wonderEast Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills districts (Nongriat, Riwai, Siej and other villages)Best time to visit: October to April
Highlights
- The double-decker root bridge at Nongriat, reached by a long trek down from Tyrna
- The root bridge at Riwai near Mawlynnong
- Natural pools and waterfalls along the trails
Significance
Villagers train the aerial roots of Ficus elastica across rivers, often using hollowed areca palm trunks as guides, and the bridges grow stronger as the trees age. The living root bridge cultural landscapes were placed on India’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage in 2022.