If you are looking for a picturesque and pristine village, Mawlynnong in Meghalaya should be on your travel list
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya | Asia's Cleanest Village
May 6, 2023
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya | Asia's Cleanest Village
If you are looking for a picturesque and pristine village, Mawlynnong in Meghalaya should be on your travel list. Dubbed "Asia's Cleanest Village," Mawlynnong is a hidden gem in Meghalaya. It's a perfect example of how sustainable living can be achieved in harmony with nature. Let's dive deeper into Mawlynnong highlights, the best time to visit, popular attractions, activities, and local foods.
Highlights of Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a small village with 500 residents. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, which make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Here are some of the highlights of Mawlynnong that make it a must-visit destination:
- Living Root Bridges: Mawlynnong is famous for its natural root bridges. These bridges are made by intertwining rubber tree roots, forming a sturdy and eco-friendly bridge. The living root bridge in Mawlynnong is over 200 years old and can hold over 50 people at a time.
- Cleanliness: Mawlynnong is renowned for its cleanliness. The village has been awarded the "Cleanest Village in Asia" title, and it's easy to see why. Villagers take great pride in keeping their villages clean and tidy. You won't find litter or garbage on the streets here.
- Balancing Rock: Mawlynnong has a balancing rock, which is a huge boulder perched on a smaller rock. The rock has been in this position for centuries, and no one knows how it stays balanced.
- Sky View: Mawlynnong has a sky view tower that offers a panoramic view of the village and the surrounding hills. The tower is around 85 feet tall and built entirely of bamboo.
Best Time to Reach Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is best visited between October and May. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September, so avoid visiting during this time.
| Attraction | Activity |
|---|---|
| Living Root Bridges | Trekking |
| Cleanest Village | Village Tour |
| Balancing Rock | Photography |
| Sky View Tower | Bird Watching |
Local foods in Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is known for its simple yet delicious local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:
Jadoh: Jadoh is a popular rice dish cooked with pork or chicken and served in a spicy sauce.
Pumaloi: Pumaloi is a rice dish cooked with turmeric and served with fried fish.
Dohneiiong: Dohneiiong is a pork dish cooked with black sesame seeds and ginger.
Tungrymbai: Tungrymbai is a fermented soybean dish cooked with pork and chili
FAQ on Mawlynnong
Q: Why is Mawlynnong known as the cleanest village in Asia?
A: Mawlynnong is known as the cleanest village in Asia due to the efforts of its residents in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
Q: How do I get to Mawlynnong?
A: You can reach Mawlynnong by road from Shillong, which is the nearest major city.
Q: What is the best time to visit Mawlynnong?
A: The best time to visit Mawlynnong is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is low.
Q: What are the popular attractions in Mawlynnong?
A: The popular attractions in Mawlynnong include the Living Root Bridge, Balancing Rock, Sky View Point, and Church of Epiphany.
Q: What are the activities that can be done in Mawlynnong?
A: Visitors can engage in activities such as trekking, hiking, and sightseeing in Mawlynnong.
Q: What is the culture of Mawlynnong like?
A: The culture of Mawlynnong is deeply rooted in the Khasi tribe's traditions and customs, and visitors can experience the local lifestyle by staying in homestays.
Q: Are there any accommodation options in Mawlynnong?
A: Yes, there are several homestays and guesthouses in Mawlynnong that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation.
Q: What is the cuisine of Mawlynnong like?
A: The cuisine of Mawlynnong is mostly Khasi cuisine, which is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes made with locally grown produce.
Q: What is the lifestyle of the people in Mawlynnong like?
A: The people of Mawlynnong lead a simple and sustainable lifestyle, and their efforts in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene have made the village a model for others to follow.
Q: Is Mawlynnong a good place for eco-tourism?
A: Yes, Mawlynnong is an excellent destination for eco-tourism, and visitors can experience sustainable living practices and the beauty of nature in the village.
Q: What is the significance of the Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong?
A: The Living Root Bridge is a unique example of bioengineering, where the roots of the Ficus elastica tree are guided to grow into a bridge, and it is a popular tourist attraction in Mawlynnong.
Q: What are the local crafts and handicrafts of Mawlynnong?
A: The local crafts and handicrafts of Mawlynnong include bamboo and cane products, hand-woven shawls, and traditional Khasi attire.
Q: What is the history of Mawlynnong?
A: The history of Mawlynnong dates back to the early 20th century when it was founded by a group of Khasi tribesmen.
Q: What is the significance of the Church of Epiphany in Mawlynnong?
A: The Church of Epiphany is a historic church in Mawlynnong that was built in the early 20th century and is a prominent landmark in the village.