Nongriat at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Meghalaya |
| Famous For | Root Bridge, Trekking, Khasi Hills |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Khasi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Guwahati Airport (GAU), 140km from Nongriat (via Shillong) |
| Nearest Railway | Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Nongriat: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Nongriat is a remote village in Meghalaya, India, famed for its living root bridges, particularly the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. These bridges are created by the Khasi tribe by training the roots of rubber trees over years to form sturdy, natural structures. The village is accessible only by a steep trek involving approximately 3000 steps.
Nongriat offers a unique trekking experience and a chance to witness the ingenuity of the Khasi people. However, the trek is strenuous and requires a good level of fitness. Accommodation options are basic, and the village is quite isolated, making it unsuitable for those seeking luxury or easy accessibility. The reward is immersion in nature and a glimpse into a different way of life.
How to Reach Nongriat: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Nongriat: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) — Main railway station in the region. Connects to major cities in India.
- From Delhi: 28-32 hours (₹800-3000)
- From Mumbai: 36-40 hours (₹1000-3500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Nongriat: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Guwahati Airport (GAU), 140km from Nongriat (via Shillong)
- Delhi: 2.5 hours (₹3000-7000)
- Mumbai: 3 hours (₹4000-8000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500 to Shillong, then shared taxi to Tyrna
- Shared Taxi: ₹800-1200 to Shillong, then shared taxi to Tyrna
directions_bus Bus to Nongriat: Services & Timings
- From Guwahati: 4-5 hours to Shillong (₹300-500)
Trains are generally more comfortable than buses for long distances. From Shillong, shared taxi to Tyrna is required.
Best Time to Visit Nongriat: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: November to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: November to March | 15-25 degrees C | The weather is perfect for trekking to the root bridges and exploring the surrou | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: April to May, September to October | 20-30 degrees C | Fewer crowds compared to the peak season. The landscape is lush and green after | Check weather forecasts before trek |
| Avoid: June to August | 22-32 degrees C | Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to the extremely heavy rainfall and | Some guesthouses might be closed du |
Peak season note: This is peak tourist season, so book accommodations and guides in advance. Expect slightly higher prices for transport and lodging.
2-Day Nongriat Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Double Decker Living Root Bridge
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is the main attraction in Nongriat, a testament to the Khasi people's bio-engineering skills.…
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a beautiful waterfall located further from the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. It's a popular spot for swimming…
💡 Tip: Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim. The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, so b
Day 2 — Nature & Local Culture
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Nongriat Village
Nongriat is a small Khasi village that offers a glimpse into rural life in Meghalaya. The villagers are friendly and welcoming, an…
💡 Try some of the local Khasi cuisine at the guesthouses in the village. Ask the locals about their tr
📍 Single Root Bridge
A less famous, but equally impressive single root bridge near Nongriat. It offers a quieter experience compared to the Double Deck…
💡 Combine this with your visit to the Double Decker Bridge for a complete root bridge experience.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Umshiang River
The Umshiang River flows beneath the living root bridges, adding to the scenic beauty of the area. Its crystal-clear waters are in…
💡 Take a dip in the river to cool off after your trek.
📍 Tyrna Village Viewpoint
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding Khasi Hills and valleys. Located in Tyrna, the starting point for the trek to Nongriat.…
💡 The viewpoint is best enjoyed during sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting.
Top Places to Visit in Nongriat: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Double Decker Living Root Bridge | ₹20 (Indians), ₹50 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 2 | 🏖️ Rainbow Falls | Free | 3-4 hours (round trip from Nongriat) | Open 24 hours |
| 3 | 📍 Nongriat Village | Free | 1-2 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 4 | 📍 Single Root Bridge | Free | 1 hour | Open 24 hours |
| 5 | 🏖️ Umshiang River | Free | Flexible | Open 24 hours |
| 6 | 📍 Tyrna Village Viewpoint | Free | 30 minutes | Open 24 hours |
📍 1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is the main attraction in Nongriat, a testament to the Khasi people's bio-engineering skills. It's formed by intertwining the roots of rubber trees to create a two-tiered bridge across a stream.
📍 Getting there: Trek down from Tyrna village (approx. 3000 steps)
🏖️ 2. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a beautiful waterfall located further from the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.
📍 Getting there: Trek further from the Double Decker Bridge
📍 3. Nongriat Village
Nongriat is a small Khasi village that offers a glimpse into rural life in Meghalaya. The villagers are friendly and welcoming, and you can learn about their culture and traditions.
📍 Getting there: Located around the Double Decker Bridge
Food & Restaurants in Nongriat: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Jadoh, Dohkhlieh, Pumaloi, Tungrymbai
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Jadoh, Dohkhlieh | ₹/₹₹ (₹200-400 for two) | Nongriat Village |
| Buffets | ₹₹₹ (₹1000-1500 for two) | Cherrapunjee |
🛺 Street Food: Tyrna Village Market — Momos, noodles, local snacks (₹50-100 per person)
Nongriat Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹500-800/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹8000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Nongriat: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherrapunjee | 65 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | — |
| Mawlynnong | 90 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | Cleanest Village, Living Root Bridge |
| Shillong | 100 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | Hill Station, Scotland of East, Waterfalls |
Hotels in Nongriat: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Serene Homestay
₹500-800/night
Nongriat Village
Nongriat Guesthouse
₹600-900/night
Near Double Decker Bridge
🏨 Mid-Range
Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort (nearby Cherrapunjee)
₹2500-4000/night
Cherrapunjee (2 hours drive from Tyrna)
Polo Orchid Resort Cherrapunjee (nearby Cherrapunjee)
₹3000-5000/night
Cherrapunjee (2 hours drive from Tyrna)
⭐ Luxury
Ri Kynjai Serenity By The Lake (near Shillong)
₹8000+/night
Near Shillong (3 hours drive from Tyrna)
The Heritage Club - Tripura Castle (Shillong)
₹7000+/night
Shillong (3 hours drive from Tyrna)
Nongriat Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by taxi drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Aggressive vendors: Politely decline and walk away.
- ✓ Wear comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for trekking. Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential.
- ✓ Limited availability in Nongriat. Carry sufficient cash.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio have good coverage in the region. Sim cards are available at Guwahati Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Nongriat
How many days are enough for Nongriat?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Nongriat. Day 1 covers Double Decker Living Root Bridge and Rainbow Falls, while Day 2 explores Nongriat Village and Single Root Bridge.
What is Nongriat famous for?
Nongriat is famous for Root Bridge, Trekking, Khasi Hills.
What is the best time to visit Nongriat?
The best time to visit Nongriat is November to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for trekking. Clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Is Nongriat worth visiting?
Yes, Nongriat is worth visiting for Root Bridge, Trekking, Khasi Hills. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Cherrapunjee.
What is the budget for a trip to Nongriat?
A 2-day trip to Nongriat costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹500-800/night per night.