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Dawki!

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Population

2,000

schedule

Best Time

November to May

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Meghalaya map Northeast India πŸ—ΊοΈ Offbeat Dawki Umngot River Meghalaya Northeast India crystal clear river boating Bangladesh border border trade

Dawki is a small town in Meghalaya, India, famous for the Umngot River. The river is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making boats appear to float on glass during the dry season.

Dawki offers breathtaking scenery and a unique experience. The crystal-clear river is a major draw, but the town's remoteness and limited infrastructure can be challenging. If you are after untouched natural beauty, then Dawki will be ideal.

Plan for at least two to three days to fully appreciate Dawki and its surroundings. Getting to Dawki involves a drive from Guwahati or Shillong, so factor in travel time.

When To Visit

Best Time

November to May

15-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather with clear skies. The Umngot River is at its clearest during this period.

Why Visit:

The crystal-clear water is perfect for boating and photography. You'll have unobstructed views of the riverbed and surrounding landscapes. It is also the ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking and camping.

Tip: This is peak season, so expect higher prices and more tourists. Book accommodations and activities in advance.

Shoulder Season

June and October

20-30 degrees C

The weather is generally humid with occasional rainfall. The river's clarity may be slightly reduced due to the rain.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds than peak season, and prices are generally lower. The landscape is lush and green after the monsoon rains.

Tip: Be prepared for occasional showers and potential disruptions to outdoor activities.

Avoid

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Heavy monsoon rains can cause flooding and landslides. The Umngot River becomes murky and unsuitable for boating.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall. The river's clarity is significantly reduced, and outdoor activities are limited.

Note: Travel can be difficult due to road closures and landslides.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Umngot River Boating

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή500 per boat (shared, up to 8 people)

The main attraction is boating on the crystal-clear Umngot River. You can see the riverbed clearly from the boat, making it seem like you are floating...

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India-Bangladesh Border

⏱ 30 minutes Free

Dawki is situated right on the border between India and Bangladesh. You can visit the border crossing and see the neighboring country....

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Mawlynnong Village (Asia's Cleanest Village)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Mawlynnong is known as Asia's Cleanest Village. The village is immaculately maintained by its residents....

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Living Root Bridge

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή20 per person

Living Root Bridges are unique to Meghalaya. These bridges are made from the roots of rubber trees....

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Burhill Falls

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή30 (Indians), β‚Ή300 (foreigners)

Burhill Falls is a scenic waterfall near Dawki. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery....

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Tamabil-Dawki Integrated Check Post

⏱ 1 hour Free

This is the integrated check post facilitating trade between India and Bangladesh. Witness the bustling border trade activities....

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Shnongpdeng

⏱ 3-4 hours Free (activities are paid)

Shnongpdeng is another scenic spot on the Umngot River, known for adventure activities. The water is also clear here, although potentially more crowde...

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Things To Do

attractions

Snorkeling in Umngot River

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per person

Explore the underwater world of the Umngot River. Snorkeling gear is available for rent....

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attractions

Kayaking in Umngot River

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή300-500 per person

Paddle along the Umngot River in a kayak. Enjoy the scenic beauty at your own pace....

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attractions

Ziplining over Umngot River (Shnongpdeng)

⏱ 30 minutes πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1200 per person

Experience the adrenaline rush of ziplining over the Umngot River. Enjoy panoramic views of the river and surrounding la...

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attractions

Camping by the Umngot River

⏱ Overnight πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-2500 per person

Spend a night camping by the banks of the Umngot River. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and the starry night sky....

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Khasi Cuisine Tasting

1-2 hours | β‚Ή200-500

Experience the unique flavors of Khasi cuisine. Khasi food is known for its use of local ingredients...

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celebration

Visit a Local Khasi Village

2-3 hours | Free

Interact with the local Khasi community and learn about their culture and traditions. The Khasi peop...

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celebration

Attend a Khasi Festival (if available)

Varies | Free

Experience the vibrant culture of the Khasi people by attending a local festival. Khasi festivals ar...

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celebration

Betel Nut Chewing Experience

30 minutes | β‚Ή20-50

Betel nut chewing is a common practice in Meghalaya. Locals often chew betel nut with lime and betel...

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celebration

Shopping for Local Handicrafts

1-2 hours | Varies

Shop for local handicrafts made by the Khasi people. Handicrafts include woven baskets, bamboo produ...

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celebration

Visit a Local Church

1 hour | Free

Christianity is a major religion in Meghalaya. Visit a local church and observe the religious practi...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Jadoh
Jadoh

Rice cooked with pork blood, a Khasi delicacy (try at local restaurants in Mawlynnong).

Dohkhlieh
Dohkhlieh

Pork salad with onions and spices (try at local restaurants in Dawki).

Pumaloi
Pumaloi

Rice powder dish steamed in a special pot (try at Khasi households or local eateries).

Tungrymbai
Tungrymbai

Fermented soybeans with spices (try at local markets).

Bamboo Shoots Pickle
Bamboo Shoots Pickle

A spicy and tangy pickle made from bamboo shoots (available in local shops).

Where to Eat

Orange Roots

Orange Roots

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian and Khasi

πŸ“ Mawlynnong

A popular restaurant known for its authentic Khasi cuisine. It offers a pleasant dining experience with good service.

Jadoh and Dohkhlieh

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Betelnut Resort Restaurant

Betelnut Resort Restaurant

β‚Ή

Indian and Chinese

πŸ“ Dawki

A casual dining option with basic but tasty food. Convenient if you're staying at the resort.

Noodles and fried rice

β‚Ή300-500 for two

Street Food Spots

Dawki Market

Dawki Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Check for hygiene and freshness. Bargain for the best prices.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Dawki

More restaurants & dishes from Dawki

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Dawki Town

Convenient for accessing the Umngot River and border. It can be crowded during peak season, with limited amenities.

Best For: Budget travelers and those wanting to be close to the river.

Mawlynnong Village

A quieter and cleaner environment with cultural experiences. It's a bit further from Dawki, requiring transportation.

Best For: Cultural immersion and a peaceful stay.

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Betelnut Resort

πŸ“ Dawki

Basic rooms with essential amenities. A convenient option for budget travelers.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Santa Maria Guest House

πŸ“ Dawki

Simple and affordable guesthouse. Offers a comfortable stay for budget-conscious travelers.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Dahlia Guest House

πŸ“ Mawlynnong (near Dawki)

Comfortable rooms with good views. Offers a pleasant stay with decent amenities.

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Halatong Homestay

πŸ“ Mawlynnong (near Dawki)

Homestay experience with comfortable rooms and local hospitality. A good option for experiencing local culture.

β‚Ή1800-2800/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή6000+/night

Polo Orchid Resort Cherrapunjee (nearby)

πŸ“ Cherrapunjee (approx. 80km from Dawki)

Luxury resort with stunning views and excellent amenities. A great option for a luxurious stay near Dawki.

β‚Ή6000+/night

Ri Kynjai Serenity By The Lake (nearby)

πŸ“ Near Shillong (approx. 85km from Dawki)

Offers unique cottages by a lake with excellent facilities. A high-end experience with serene surroundings.

β‚Ή8000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati, 172km from Dawki

train

By Train

Stations:

Guwahati Railway Station (GHY)

Main railway station connecting to major cities. Located in Guwahati, 170 km from Dawki.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 24-30 hours (β‚Ή1500-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 36-48 hours (β‚Ή2000-4000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • ISBT Guwahati
Routes:
  • From Guwahati: 5-6 hours (β‚Ή500-800)

Note: Shared taxis are generally more comfortable than buses for this route.

Getting Around

directions

Shared Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή200-400 per trip

Best for: Traveling between Dawki and nearby attractions like Mawlynnong

Negotiate the price before starting the journey. Share with other travelers to reduce costs.

directions

Private Car

πŸ’° β‚Ή2500-3500 per day

Best for: Comfortable and flexible travel, especially for families or groups

Book in advance, especially during peak season. Ensure the driver is experienced in hilly terrain.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and layered clothing as the weather can change quickly. Carry rain gear, especially during the monsoon season.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Limited ATM availability in Dawki. Carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for most transactions. Cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and while hiring taxis.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, stomach infections. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio have good network coverage. Buy a local SIM card for better connectivity.

WiFi: Limited Wi-Fi availability. Rely on mobile data.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Khasi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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