MAWLYNNONG
Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you crave fresh air, lush greenery, and a slower pace of living? Look no further than Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia! Yes, you heard that right - this tiny village in Meghalaya, India has earned the prestigious title of being the cleanest in all of Asia.
But wait, there's more! Not only is Mawlynnong impeccably clean (think spotless streets and neatly arranged flower gardens), it's also home to some truly unique attractions. Have you ever seen a living root bridge? How about a treehouse that's over a hundred years old? These natural wonders are just a few of the things that make Mawlynnong a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Now, we know what you might be thinking - "OK, but is it really worth the trip?" Trust us when we say that Mawlynnong is unlike anything you've ever experienced. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping outside your window, sipping on freshly brewed tea while taking in breathtaking views of rolling hills and cascading waterfalls. And let's not forget about the delicious local cuisine - from spicy curries to savory snacks made from bamboo shoots, your taste buds will be in heaven.
So what are you waiting for? Add Mawlynnong to your travel bucket list ASAP - you won't regret it!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Mawlynnong
- How to Reach and getting around Mawlynnong
- Weather of Mawlynnong
- Places to Visit in Mawlynnong
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Mawlynnong
- Best areas for Accommodation in Mawlynnong
- Shopping in Mawlynnong
- Nightlife in Mawlynnong
- Festivals and Events in Mawlynnong
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Mawlynnong
- FAQs
History and Culture of Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a small village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. According to the locals, the village was founded by a man named U Maw in the 1800s. Legend has it that he discovered the area while hunting and decided to settle there. The village is known for its cleanliness and has been dubbed as "Asia's cleanest village."
Every household in Mawlynnong has a bamboo dustbin outside their homes, and the villagers are very particular about keeping their surroundings clean. In fact, visitors are not allowed to litter or smoke in public areas. The villagers take great pride in their cleanliness culture and believe that it contributes to their overall well-being.
Apart from its cleanliness culture, Mawlynnong is also famous for its living root bridges that are believed to be over 500 years old. These bridges are made by training the roots of rubber trees across rivers and streams, creating a sturdy bridge that can support numerous people at once.
The village also has a unique matrilineal culture where property and family names are passed down through women. Women hold significant power in decision-making processes, and men take on more domestic roles such as cooking and child-rearing.
Visitors can experience the local culture by staying with families in homestays or attending traditional festivals such as Shad Suk Mynsiem, which celebrates harvest season. The festival involves dancing, feasting, and cultural performances.
Overall, Mawlynnong offers visitors a unique experience of a clean, eco-friendly village with a rich cultural heritage. It's definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list!
How to Reach and getting around Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, is known for its pristine natural beauty and cleanliness. To reach this picturesque village, you have several options:
By Air: The nearest airport to Mawlynnong is in Shillong, which is about 90 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach the village.
By Road: Mawlynnong is well-connected by road to major cities like Guwahati and Shillong. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from these cities to reach the village.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Mawlynnong is in Guwahati, which is about 175 km away. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the village.
On Foot: For the adventure enthusiasts, trekking from Dawki to Mawlynnong can be an exciting option. The trek takes around 5-6 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
By Bicycle: Cycling from Shillong to Mawlynnong can be an enjoyable experience as well. The scenic route passes through lush forests and quaint villages.
No matter which mode of transport you choose, reaching Mawlynnong will be an unforgettable experience as the journey itself will be filled with breathtaking views and natural wonders. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Weather of Mawlynnong
Extreme WintersMild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantMawlynnong, located in the Indian state of Meghalaya, is known for its cleanest village status and lush green forests. The weather in Mawlynnong is generally pleasant throughout the year, thanks to its location on the foothills of the Himalayas. The village experiences moderate rainfall during monsoons but remains cool and comfortable otherwise.
The best time to visit Mawlynnong is from October to May.
During winters, the temperature drops slightly, making it a perfect time for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts to explore the beautiful landscapes of Mawlynnong. The spring season brings blooming flowers and lush greenery that adds an extra charm to the village's beauty.
Summer months from June to September receive heavy rainfall which can dampen your vacation plans. However, if you love rains, then this season can be an excellent time for you to enjoy the natural beauty of Mawlynnong in full bloom.
To sum up, visit Mawlynnong from October to May when the weather is favourable and makes your trip memorable with stunning landscapes, waterfalls and peaceful surroundings.
Places to Visit in Mawlynnong
Living Root Bridge - The Living Root Bridge is a natural wonder that is unique to the Meghalaya region. It is made by weaving the roots of the Ficus elastica tree together to form a bridge that can bear the weight of people.
Mawlynnong Waterfall - Mawlynnong Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the heart of Mawlynnong village. The water cascades down from a height of about 60 feet and creates a breathtaking sight.
Sky View Point - Sky View Point offers an amazing view of the surrounding landscape. You can see the Bangladesh plains and the lush green hills of Meghalaya from this point.
Balancing Rock - The Balancing Rock is a massive boulder that seems to defy gravity by balancing precariously on another rock. It is said to be over 500 years old and has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mawlynnong.
Dawki River - The Dawki River is located near Mawlynnong and offers stunning views of crystal clear water and surrounding hills covered with dense forests.
Riwai Village - Riwai Village is known for its beautiful gardens filled with colorful flowers and plants, making it one of the most picturesque villages in Meghalaya.
Nohwet Living Root Bridge - Nohwet Living Root Bridge is another spectacular example of bio-engineering, where people weave living roots into intricate patterns to create a natural bridge over streams.
Mawlynnong Village - Mawlynnong Village has been named as Asia's cleanest village, with its unpolluted air and pristine environment, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking peace and serenity.
Umkhakoi Lake - Umkhakoi Lake offers stunning views of crystal-clear water surrounded by lush green hills, making it one of the most serene places in Meghalaya.
Church Of Epiphany - Church Of Epiphany is an old church located in Mawlynnong, built during British rule in India, with its beautiful architecture representing colonial era building style.
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Mawlynnong
Best areas for accommodation in Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, is known as the "cleanest village in Asia." It attracts a lot of tourists every year who come to witness its unique cleanliness and natural beauty. If you are planning a trip to Mawlynnong, it is essential to choose the right area for your accommodation to make the most out of your trip.
Best Areas for Accommodation in Mawlynnong
- Mawlynnong Village: The village itself offers some of the best accommodation options for tourists. Staying in the village allows you to experience the authentic lifestyle and culture of the locals. You can find homestays and cottages here with basic amenities.
- Dawki: Dawki is a small town situated near Mawlynnong, which is famous for its crystal-clear river Umngot. It is an excellent place to stay if you want to explore both Mawlynnong and Dawki.
- Shnongpdeng: Shnongpdeng is another small village located close to Dawki on the banks of Umngot river. It offers campsites and tents for tourists who want a unique camping experience.
Properties for Accommodation in Mawlynnong
- Ri Kynjai Resort: This luxury resort offers breathtaking views of Umiam Lake and is surrounded by lush greenery. It features traditional Khasi architecture with modern amenities such as spa facilities, an outdoor pool, and a bar.
- Mawlynnong Guesthouse: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in Mawlynnong village and offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms at affordable prices.
- The Riverside Campsite: This hostel-style campsite located in Shnongpdeng offers tents with basic amenities such as clean bedding, bathrooms, and hot showers at reasonable prices.
Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly options or want a unique camping experience, these properties cater to all types of travelers visiting Mawlynnong.
Shopping in Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, a small village in Meghalaya, is known for its cleanliness and eco-tourism. However, it also offers a unique shopping experience to visitors. The village has several small shops and markets that sell handmade crafts, organic products, and souvenirs. Here are some things you can buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Mawlynnong.
Things to buy:
- Bamboo handicrafts: Mawlynnong is famous for its bamboo products like baskets, mats, and hats.
- Organic spices: You can buy locally grown spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon at affordable prices.
- Tea: The village produces organic tea that has a unique flavor.
- Souvenirs: You can buy handmade jewelry, keychains, and other souvenirs as a memory of your trip.
Markets to visit:
- Mawlynnong Market: This is the main market of the village where you can find all kinds of local products.
- Riwai Market: This market is known for its bamboo products like baskets and hats.
- Smit Market: Located near Shillong, this market offers a variety of fruits and vegetables.
What to avoid:
- Plastic bags: As the village is known for cleanliness, it is recommended not to use plastic bags.
- Non-local products: To support the local economy and promote eco-tourism, it's better not to purchase non-local products.
- Bargaining too much: The prices are already reasonable; bargaining too much may offend the locals.
- Taking photos without permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.
In conclusion, shopping in Mawlynnong offers a unique experience that combines eco-tourism with cultural immersion. By buying local products and supporting the local economy, visitors can contribute to sustainable tourism while enjoying their trip.
Nightlife in Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong Nightlife
Mawlynnong, also known as 'God's Own Garden', is a small village located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India. Known for its cleanliness and natural beauty, this village is also a popular tourist destination. Although Mawlynnong is not known for its nightlife, there are several activities that tourists can enjoy during the night.
Here are three places with activities for spending the night in Mawlynnong:
Homestays: Mawlynnong offers a unique opportunity to experience village life and interact with locals by staying in their homes. Homestays are a great way to learn about the culture and traditions of the Khasi people while enjoying local cuisine.
Bonfire: A bonfire under the starry sky is one of the best ways to spend an evening in Mawlynnong. Many homestays offer this activity, and it's a great way to relax after a long day of exploring.
Night Trekking: For adventure seekers, night trekking is an exciting activity that allows you to explore the beauty of Mawlynnong in a different light. The trek takes you through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Overall, nightlife in Mawlynnong may not be as vibrant as other cities, but it offers unique experiences that allow you to connect with nature and local culture.
Outdoor Activities in Mawlynnong
If you are looking for outdoor activities in Mawlynnong, then you are in for a treat. This small village is surrounded by lush greenery and is located near the Bangladesh border. One of the best things to do here is to take a walk around the village and explore its natural beauty. You can also visit the Living Root Bridge, which is made of roots of trees and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mawlynnong.
Apart from that, there are many other outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Mawlynnong. Here are three of them:
Trekking: Mawlynnong offers some fantastic trekking opportunities. You can trek through the dense forests and hills, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding areas. Some popular trekking routes include the Dawki-Tamabil Trek and the Pynursla Trek.
Cycling: Cycling is another great way to explore Mawlynnong. You can rent a bicycle and ride through the village's narrow lanes, passing by beautiful houses and gardens along the way.
Camping: If you want to experience nature at its best, then camping is an excellent option. There are many campsites in and around Mawlynnong where you can set up your tent and spend a night under the stars.
Overall, if you love nature and enjoy outdoor activities, then Mawlynnong is a must-visit destination for you.
Festivals and Events in Mawlynnong
Festivals and events in Mawlynnong are an important part of the community’s culture and tradition. These events bring people together to celebrate, connect, and enjoy each other’s company. Many of these festivals and events are steeped in history and local mythology, making them unique to the area.
Here are some of the festivals and events that take place in Mawlynnong:
- Nongkrem Dance Festival (November): This is one of the most important festivals in Meghalaya, celebrated by the Khasi tribe. It's a thanksgiving ceremony to the goddess Ka Blei Synshar for a bountiful harvest. The festival features traditional dances performed by young girls and men dressed in colorful traditional attire.
- Shad Suk Mynsiem Festival (April): Celebrated by the Pnar tribe, this festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. People dance around a sacred tree to offer prayers for a good harvest.
- Behdienkhlam Festival (July): This festival is celebrated by the Jaintia tribe. It's a thanksgiving ceremony for good harvest, health, and prosperity. The highlight of this festival is when young men carry huge bamboo poles decorated with flowers and offerings through the village.
- Christmas (December): As in many parts of India, Christmas is celebrated with great fanfare in Mawlynnong. People decorate their houses with lights, stars, and Christmas trees.
These festivals provide visitors with an opportunity to witness and participate in local cultural traditions that have been passed down for generations. They also offer insight into the community’s social structure, beliefs, values, and history. If you plan to visit Mawlynnong during any of these months, make sure to experience these vibrant celebrations firsthand!
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Mawlynnong
- Respect the local culture: Mawlynnong is a predominantly Khasi village, and visitors should be mindful of the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their homes, and avoid littering.
- Carry cash: While there are a few places in Mawlynnong that accept cards or digital payments, it's always a good idea to carry cash. There are no ATMs in the village, so make sure you have enough money to cover your expenses.
- Pack for the weather: Mawlynnong is located in Meghalaya, which receives heavy rainfall for most of the year. If you're visiting during the monsoon season (June to September), be prepared for rain showers and carry appropriate clothing and footwear. In winter (December to February), temperatures can drop significantly, so pack warm clothes.
- Stay eco-friendly: Mawlynnong is known as 'Asia's cleanest village', thanks to its community-driven efforts to maintain cleanliness and sustainability. Visitors should take care not to disturb the local ecosystem - avoid using plastic bottles or bags, do not pick flowers or plants, and respect the wildlife.
- Join in the festivities: Mawlynnong celebrates several festivals throughout the year that offer visitors an insight into Khasi culture. The Wangala festival in November is a highlight - it's a harvest festival that involves traditional dance performances, music, and feasting. Don't be shy - join in the celebrations!
FAQs
What is Mawlynnong?
Mawlynnong is a small village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is known for its cleanliness, greenery, and natural beauty.
How to reach Mawlynnong?
The nearest airport to Mawlynnong is in Shillong, which is about 90 km away. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from Shillong to reach Mawlynnong. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, which is about 150 km away.
What are the tourist attractions in Mawlynnong?
Mawlynnong has many tourist attractions such as the Living Root Bridge, Sky View Point, Balancing Rock, and Dawki River. The village itself is also a major attraction as it has been declared as the cleanest village in Asia.
What are the things to do in Mawlynnong?
Some of the things to do in Mawlynnong include visiting the Living Root Bridge, climbing up to Sky View Point for panoramic views of the village and surrounding hills, taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Dawki River, and exploring the many trails that lead through lush forests and beautiful waterfalls.
What is the best time to visit Mawlynnong?
The best time to visit Mawlynnong is from October to May when the weather remains pleasant and dry. Monsoon season should be avoided as heavy rainfall can make travel difficult.
Is there any accommodation available in Mawlynnong?
Yes, there are several homestays and guesthouses available in Mawlynnong that offer comfortable accommodation at reasonable rates. Some of these places also offer traditional Khasi meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Are there any guidelines tourists need to follow while visiting Mawlynnong?
Tourists are expected to maintain cleanliness and hygiene while visiting Mawlynnong. Littering or smoking are strictly prohibited within the village premises. Visitors are also advised not to pluck flowers or disturb wildlife during their stay.
