Mawlynnong is a small village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is famous for its cleanliness, beauty, and culture. It was declared as the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 by Discover India magazine and as the cleanest in India in 2005 by the Indian government. It is also a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Mawlynnong is a place where nature and culture coexist in harmony. Village has a 100% literacy rate and a matrilineal society, where women inherit the property and the children take their mother’s surname. Villagers are friendly and hospitable, and they take pride in maintaining their environment.
They use bamboo dustbins, recycle plastic, and compost organic waste. They also plant trees and flowers to beautify their surroundings.
Mawlynnong has many attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Some of the highlights are:
Living root bridges: These are natural bridges made by intertwining the roots of rubber trees over streams and rivers. They are strong enough to hold several people at a time and can last for hundreds of years. The most famous one is the double-decker root bridge at Nongriat village, which is about 3 km from Mawlynnong.
Skywalk: This is a bamboo structure that offers a panoramic view of the village and the surrounding hills. It is about 80 feet high and can be accessed by climbing a ladder.
Balancing rock: This is a natural phenomenon where a large boulder balances on a smaller one. It is believed to be a result of an earthquake that occurred centuries ago.
Mawlynnong waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall that cascades down from a height of about 20 feet. It is located near the entrance of the village and can be reached by a short walk.
Church: This is a simple but elegant church that was built in 1902. It is made of stone and wood and has a bell tower. It is a place of worship for the villagers, who are mostly Christians.
Local cuisine: Mawlynnong offers a variety of delicious dishes that are made from fresh and organic ingredients. Some of the specialties are jadoh (rice cooked with pork or chicken), tungrymbai (fermented soybean), dohkhlieh (pork salad), and pukhlein (sweet rice cake).
Cherrapunji to Mawlynnong Distance:
If you’re planning to visit Mawlynnong from Cherrapunji, you’ll be delighted to know that the distance between these two destinations is approximately 90 kilometers. The journey will take you through lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Guwahati to Mawlynnong Distance:
If you’re arriving in Meghalaya from Guwahati, the distance to Mawlynnong is around 170 kilometers. The road trip from Guwahati to Mawlynnong is a scenic one, with the journey taking you through rolling hills and dense forests, making it an experience to cherish.
Nearest Railway Station to Mawlynnong Village:
For those who prefer to travel by train, the nearest railway station to Mawlynnong village is Guwahati Junction. From Guwahati, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Mawlynnong. The drive from Guwahati to Mawlynnong takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Why is Mawlynnong Village Famous?
- Mawlynnong has gained international recognition for its exceptional cleanliness and eco-friendly practices. The village is known for its spotless streets, beautiful flower gardens, and well-maintained homes.
- The locals take immense pride in keeping their surroundings clean and have made conscious efforts to promote sustainable tourism. Mawlynnong’s fame as the cleanest village in Asia has attracted tourists from all over the world who come to witness this remarkable feat.
Is Mawlynnong Worth Visiting?
- Absolutely! Mawlynnong is not just famous for its cleanliness; it offers a range of attractions and experiences for visitors. The Living Root Bridge, a marvel of bioengineering, is a must-see sight in Mawlynnong. This bridge is made by intertwining the roots of rubber trees, creating a unique natural structure.
- The Sky View, a bamboo watchtower, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Exploring the village’s narrow lanes, interacting with the friendly locals, and immersing yourself in the serene ambiance will make your visit to Mawlynnong truly unforgettable.
Language Spoken in Mawlynnong:
Predominant language spoken in Mawlynnong is Khasi. Due to the increasing number of tourists, English and Hindi are also understood by many locals. Communication shouldn’t be a barrier when visiting Mawlynnong, as the people are welcoming and eager to assist visitors.
How to Reach Mawlynnong:
Reaching Mawlynnong is relatively easy. If you’re traveling by air, the nearest airport is in Guwahati, from where you can hire a cab or take a bus to Mawlynnong. If you prefer traveling by road, there are regular bus services from Guwahati to Mawlynnong. Alternatively, you can also hire a private cab or take a shared taxi to reach the village.
Mawlynnong is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cleanliness, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking solace in a serene environment, Mawlynnong is sure to captivate your heart. So, plan your trip to Mawlynnong and embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
