Trekking to the Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya

Trekking to the Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya is an experience that should not be missed. These natural wonders are truly breath-taking and offer a unique glimpse into the culture and tradition of the Khasi tribe, who have been maintaining these bridges for generations.

The Living Root Bridges are made from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, which are trained and woven together to form bridges over streams and rivers. These bridges can take up to 15 years to fully mature and can last for over 500 years, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to crossing the water.

The trek to the Living Root Bridges is an adventure in itself. The journey takes you through lush, green forests and over rocky terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will have the opportunity to interact with the local people and learn about their customs and way of life. The trek is not too difficult and can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels.

The Living Root Bridges are in the small village of Nongriat, which can only be reached by a 3-hour trek from the nearest town. The trek starts with a steep climb down a set of 3000 steps, called the “Double Decker Root Bridge”, which takes you to the base of the valley. From there, you will cross several streams and walk through dense forests before finally reaching the Living Root Bridges.

"Nature's engineering at its finest: exploring the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya."

The highlight of the trek is the main Living Root Bridge, which is over 100 feet long and spans across a deep ravine. It is truly a sight to behold and is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Khasi people. The bridge is sturdy and safe to walk on and offers an opportunity to take some unforgettable photographs.

"An unforgettable trek to witness the magic of the Living Root Bridges."

The process of creating a Living Root Bridge is time-consuming and requires patience and hard work. It takes around 10 to 15 years for the roots of the rubber trees to grow strong enough to form a bridge. Once the roots are strong enough, they are woven together to form a solid bridge structure. The process is repeated year after year, adding new roots and strengthening the bridge, until it is sturdy enough for people to cross.

Visiting the Living Root Bridges is an adventure like no other. Trekking to these bridges requires one to venture deep into the dense jungles of Meghalaya and cross streams and rivers. The journey is not for the faint of heart, but the experience of reaching the bridges is worth it. The sight of the bridges, woven together from the roots of trees, is awe-inspiring and truly a marvel of nature.

"Embark on a journey to the heart of Meghalaya to see the Living Root Bridges."

One of the most famous Living Root Bridges is the Umshiang Double-Decker Bridge in the East Khasi Hills district. The bridge is two stories high and can be crossed on foot. Another famous bridge is the Nongriat Village Bridge, which is a two and a half-hour trek from the village of Cherrapunji. The bridge is surrounded by dense jungle, and crossing it is an adventure in itself.

The trek to the Living Root Bridges is not just about the destination, but also about the journey. The natural beauty of the area, the local people and the culture, and the sense of accomplishment at reaching the bridges make it a truly unforgettable experience. The trek is an ideal way to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature.

In conclusion, the Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya are a must-see for anyone interested in eco-tourism and sustainable living. The trek to reach them is an adventure that offers not just breathtaking views but also an opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the local people. The experience is one that you will cherish for a lifetime, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an offbeat and unique travel experience.