Nongriat
The double-decker root bridge, about 3,000 steps below Sohra
The Khasi and War Khasi people of the southern Meghalaya hills have, for generations, guided the aerial roots of the Indian rubber fig, Ficus elastica, across streams until they root on the far bank and thicken into living bridges. Some take decades to become usable and can last for centuries, growing stronger as they age. Dozens survive in the valleys below Sohra, and the most famous is at Nongriat, where two bridges grew one above the other across the same stream.
There is no road to Nongriat. You walk from the village of Tyrna, at the foot of the Sohra plateau, down a long stairway of concrete steps through forest, betel nut and bay leaf groves, crossing two steel suspension bridges over the Umshiang river before reaching the village. The descent is steep and the climb back is the real test: most fit walkers take 5 to 6 hours for the round trip, including time at the bridges.
Nongriat has a handful of simple guesthouses, and some travellers stay overnight to visit Rainbow Falls further upstream. We prefer to walk as a long day from a Sohra base, starting early, swimming in the clear pools in the dry months and climbing back up before the afternoon heat. The village asks for quiet and respect, and that is easier to give with a smaller group and a good guide.
Highlights
What Nongriat does best
Two living bridges cross the stream at Nongriat, one above the other, formed from the roots of rubber fig trees trained over generations. A third tier has been started. Standing on the upper span, you can see the roots knotting into each other and into the rock.
About 3,000 steps descend through forest from Tyrna, crossing the Umshiang river on two swaying steel suspension bridges. The path passes houses, small shops selling drinks and fruit, and groves of areca and bay leaf. It is well built but steep.
From November to April the stream below the double-decker bridge settles into clear blue-green pools between the boulders. Swimming is allowed in designated spots and is the best reward for the walk down.
About 1.5 hours beyond Nongriat, a further stretch of forest trail reaches Rainbow Falls, which drops into a deep turquoise pool. On sunny mornings the spray catches a rainbow. It makes a long day and is better on an overnight stay.
The bridges are maintained by the villages that use them. On a quiet day your guide can show how young roots are guided across using hollowed areca trunks and bamboo frames, and explain how new bridges are being started today.
Experiences
Four hours to plan around
Getting there
How to reach Nongriat
Fly to Guwahati (GAU) and drive about 4.5 hours to Sohra, staying at least one night before the walk. The trailhead at Tyrna is roughly 30 minutes beyond Sohra town.
The nearest railway station is Guwahati, about 160 km from the trailhead. There is no rail line in the Khasi Hills.
From Sohra, drive about 15 km to Tyrna, where the road ends and the steps begin. From Shillong it is about 2 hours to the trailhead. Everything beyond Tyrna is on foot; there are no vehicles, mules or porters for passengers.
Where to stay
Rooms we book
We base guests in Sohra, ideally in the Laitkynsew area close to the Tyrna trailhead, so the walk can begin at about 7 am. Nongriat itself has only simple village guesthouses with shared facilities, suitable for the adventurous who want to see Rainbow Falls without a rushed return. For travellers coming from Shillong, Ri Kynjai is about 2.5 hours from the trailhead, which makes for a very long day; one night in Sohra is the better plan.
From our planners
Five things to know
- The trail is reported to close on Sundays, so plan the walk for another day and check current status before you travel.
- Registered local guides are required for treks in East Khasi Hills since mid-2025, and we book them in advance.
- Carry two litres of water per person and a small snack; stalls on the path sell drinks but not always.
- Wear walking shoes with good grip and take your time on the descent, which is harder on the knees than the climb.
- Start before 8 am, as the climb back up in the midday heat from March to May is hard work.
Questions travellers ask
Questions about Nongriat
Where is the double-decker root bridge?
It is in Nongriat village, in the valleys below Sohra in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills district. The walk starts at Tyrna, about 15 km from Sohra and 2 hours from Shillong by road. From Tyrna, about 3,000 steps lead down to Nongriat, where the bridge crosses a stream at the edge of the village.
How long is the Nongriat trek?
Allow 5 to 6 hours for the round trip from Tyrna, including an hour or more at the bridge. The descent takes 1.5 to 2 hours and the climb back 2 to 2.5 hours for most fit walkers. Adding Rainbow Falls adds about 3 hours, which is why some walkers stay overnight.
Is the Nongriat trek difficult?
It is moderately hard because of the steps rather than the distance. About 3,000 steps down and up again test knees and stamina, especially in warm weather. There is no technical difficulty, and the path is well made. Take it slowly, rest often and start early.
What is the best time to visit Nongriat?
October to April. November to February has the coolest walking weather, while March and April are warmer and better for swimming. The monsoon from June to September makes the steps slippery, swells the streams and can close parts of the trail.
Is there an entry fee at Nongriat?
Yes, the village charges a small entry fee, typically under ₹100 per person, and there are fees for cameras or parking at Tyrna. Amounts change and are collected in cash. Your guide handles payment. Check current status before you travel.
Is the Nongriat trail open every day?
The trail has been reported to close on Sundays, when the village observes rest and worship. Opening rules can change, and treks in East Khasi Hills now require registered guides. We confirm the arrangements when we book your day. Check current status before you travel.
Can children do the Nongriat root bridge walk?
Active children of about 9 and older who walk regularly usually manage it, with rests. The steps are relentless on the climb back, so we judge each family individually. For younger children, the root bridges near Mawlynnong at Riwai are a much easier alternative, a few minutes from the road.
Can I stay overnight in Nongriat?
Yes, in simple village guesthouses with basic rooms and shared bathrooms. There is no luxury option. Staying lets you visit Rainbow Falls without a rushed return. Most of our guests prefer to walk it as a day trip and sleep in comfort in Sohra.
Are there other living root bridges I can see more easily?
Yes. Riwai, beside Mawlynnong, has a single root bridge a few minutes' walk from the road, and there are bridges near Mawkyrnot and in the Jaintia Hills. None matches the double-decker at Nongriat, but Riwai is ideal for families, older travellers and anyone short of time.
Nearby
Pair it with
Waterfalls, limestone caves and the rain capital of India
Pine ridges, Khasi markets and a lake resort at the edge of town
A tidy Khasi village with a root bridge on its doorstep
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