Living Root Bridges: Walking Through Meghalaya's Living Heritage

Hiking · Hiking, trekking and nature · 2 min read · Researched guide · Last updated 2026-10-23

In short: Living root bridges are grown from the aerial roots of the rubber fig (Ficus elastica) by the Khasi and Jaintia peoples. The double-decker bridge at Nongriat is estimated to be about 200 years old, and a bridge at Rangthylliang is over 50 m long. Walks involve steps and wet trails.

Quick facts

What you walk across

Villagers guide roots over streams for years until they strengthen into bridges that can last hundreds of years and carry 50 or more people at once. Early written record by Henry Yule dates to 1844.

Where to walk

• Near Cherrapunji: Nongriat, Tynrong, Mynteng.
• Near Pynursla: Rangthylliang and Mawkyrnot.
• West Jaintia Hills: Shnongpdeng, Nongbareh and others.

Walk well

Trails are steep and wet; wear grip footwear and use trail difficulty guidance. Hire local guides, pay fairly, do not climb on bridges beyond limits and respect village rules. See the wider route in Meghalaya road trip.

Check before you go

This is a researched planning guide, not a trip report. Rules, permits, closures and fees change. Confirm locally before you travel. Confirm access rules with the relevant forest or local authority.

Frequently asked questions

Read next

Rules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.