Mawlynnong is a small village in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya. It gained popularity after being voted the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. It is fondly called God’s Own Garden due to its unspoiled beauty and wonderful people.
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Mawlynnong
- History & Geography of Mawlynnong
- How to Plan a trip to Mawlynnong
- Places to stay in Mawlynnong
Things to Do in Mawlynnong
Here are some things to do to make your trip unforgettable:
- Explore the village and look at the way the villagers keep the place clean.
- Walk across the Jingmaham Living Root Bridge. Remember, reaching it requires an average level of trekking. So, ensure that you are up for it before you go.
- Visit the Brun Khongmen Viewpoint that is built atop a tall tree in the Riwai village. You need to climb the Sky Walk to reach the viewpoint which is also known as Bamboo Watchtowers.
- Go boating on the Dawki River. This river has gained popularity for its crystal clear waters surrounded by picturesque hills and natural wonders. The water is so clear that on a sunny day, you will be able to see the shadow of your boat on the river bed!
- Savor the tribal food.
Places to Visit in Mawlynnong
Here is a quick look at some famous places to visit in the area:
- The Mawlynnong Village – Asia’s cleanest village lives up to its title. The houses are built systematically, gardens are well-maintained, lawns are manicured, and the town oozes purity and bliss. The villagers are very warm and welcoming too.
- Mawlynnong Waterfall – This waterfall is on the way from Dawki to the cleanest town. Pristine and yet undiscovered by many tourists, this place has the serenity of paradise and the thrill of nature.
- The Balancing Rock – This is an ancient structure where a large boulder is precariously balanced on a very small rock without any additional support. According to local beliefs, this place was a shrine of the Khasi tribes before they adopted Christianity.
- Jingmaham Living Root Bridge – It is said that Nature is the biggest magician of all. If you ever doubted this, take a look at the Living Root Bridge. Apart from the cleanliness of the village and a 100% literacy rate, it is famous for this bridge.
[Also Read: 8 Best Solo Travel Destinations to Visit in India]
Popular Places to visit nearby
Here are some places to visit near Mawlynnong:
- Dawki – Located at a distance of around 30 km, Dawki is another underrated tourist destination in India. Located on the banks of the Dawki River, it has started gaining popularity as an adventure sports destination. Its pristine beauty and mesmerizing landscape make it a must-visit place nearby.
- Jowai – Located at a distance of around 91 km via NH 206, Jowai prides itself on being a perfect destination for wonderful lakes, waterfalls, intriguing valleys, etc. The Nartiang Monoliths are a unique attraction here.
- Shillong – Located at a distance of around 78 km via NH 206, Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya. Barring some amazing natural vistas, the city also has a range of modern amenities to keep travelers interested.
You can book Savaari’s affordable and reliable Mawlynnong car rentals to travel to any of these destinations.
Places to Eat
In Mawlynnong, food is prepared using organically grown vegetables. In fact, even meat comes from animals that are bred in-house. There are various local delicacies that you must try like smoked banana flower, Tungrymbai, pork and greens, etc. Here are some popular places to eat:
- Dapbiang Restaurant, Surok – for Indian food
- Naphi Food Stall – for local Khasi food
- IAIKYRSOI Café – thalis available
- Wahumsang’s Food – fast food
History & Geography of Mawlynnong
Geography
Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, is situated in the heart of East Khasi Hills and has an average elevation of around 1696 feet above sea level. It is located around 90 km from Shillong along the Indo-Bangladesh border.
The Cleanest Village in Asia
In Mawlynnong, cleanliness is a way of life. Since 2007, every house in the village has a functional toilet. Also, there are bamboo dustbins spread across the village. The administration and locals ensure that even fallen leaves are put in the dustbins. Smoking is banned in public places and plastic bags are strictly prohibited. Additionally, locals step out to sweep the roads and regularly plant trees.
Not just cleanliness, but it is also one of the few villages in India with a 100% literacy rate. The Khasi tribe follows the matriarchal rule of the society where the children get their mother’s surname and the wealth is passed down from the mother to the youngest daughter.
How to Plan a Trip to Mawlynnong
How to Reach Mawlynnong from Cherrapunji
Here are some ways to reach from Cherrapunji:
- By Train – There is no railway station in Mawlynnong. The nearest railway station is at Guwahati which is well connected to most major cities in India. You can hire a cab from Cherrapunji and reach there in no time.
- By Road – The Cherrapunji to Mawlynnong distance is around 81 km via SH 5 and NH 206. You can book a Cherrapunji taxi and reach within 2-3 hours.
- By Flight – There is no airport here. The nearest airport is at Guwahati. You can hire a cab from Cherrapunji and reach there in no time.
How to Reach Mawlynnong from Guwahati
Here are some ways to reach Mawlynnong from Guwahati.
- By Train – The nearest railway station is at Guwahati which is well connected to most major cities in India. You can book a Guwahati to Mawlynnong taxi and reach comfortably.
- By Road – The Guwahati to Mawlynnong distance is around 172 km via NH 6 and NH 206. You can book a cab from Guwahati and reach within 5 hours.
- By Flight – There is no airport here. The nearest airport is at Guwahati. You can book a Guwahati airport cab and reach within 5 hours.
How to Reach Mawlynnong from Dawki
Here are some ways to reach Mawlynnong from Dawki.
- By Train – The nearest railway station is at Guwahati. You can book a Dawki to Mawlynnong taxi and reach comfortably.
- By Road – The distance from Dawki is around 30 km via Riwai-Dawki Road and Surok. You can book a cab from Dawki to Mawlynnong and reach within 70-90 minutes.
- By Flight – It does not have an airport either. The nearest airport is at Guwahati. You can book a cab from Dawki.
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Best Time to Visit Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong weather is agreeable throughout the year with a pleasant temperature for most months. The summer months of March to June are a good time to visit since the temperature ranges between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius. The monsoon months of June to September are particularly beautiful since the flora is in its full bloom. Winters (December to February) can be freezing with the temperature dropping to 2 degrees Celsius.
Places to Stay in Mawlynnong
Here are some places to stay in Mawlynnong:
- Rest & Relax Homestay, New Parking
- Hala Tyngkong Stay Inn
- Umpohliew Homestay
- Areca Cottages, Dawki
- Kynjai Homestay
Best Road-trips to Mawlynnong
| Route Name | Distance | Time |
| Shillong to Mawlynnong | 85 km | 2 hours and 30 minutes |
| Agartala to Mawlynnong | 474 km | 12 hours |
| Guwahati to Mawlynnong | 173 km | 5 hours |
