Discover India gave Mawlynnong the title ‘The Cleanest Village in Asia’ in 2003.
This village is also called ‘God’s Own Garden.’ Are you wondering why?
Besides cleanliness, the village has accomplished outstanding achievements such as a 100% literacy rate and a commendable female empowerment scenario.
Do you want to visit and explore this heavenly place? Here are some reasons why you must plan your next tour to Mawlynnong.
Reasons to Visit Mawlynnong
Cleanliness
Mawlynnong, and cleanliness are synonymous with each other. Since 2007, every building in the city has developed functional toilets. Bamboo dustbins are placed all over the village to collect the dry leaves from the trees.
The usage of plastic bags and smoking are strictly prohibited. And each individual happily adheres to the rules. However, the authorities impose heavy fines on those who fail to do so!
What’s more? The city derives its manure from garbage dug into a pit. Its residents are highly particular about maintaining cleanliness in their houses.
Moreover, they step out on the roads to sweep the streets and even engage actively in planting trees.
Tribal Locals
The famous Khasi tribe that does not follow patriarchal conventions inhabits this village. Its children use their mother’s surname(s).
Furthermore, the generational wealth is passed down to the youngest daughter of the family from the mother.
Thus, Mawlynnong has effectively proved how a city can achieve female empowerment in the truest sense of the term.
Local Cuisine
Do you know what is so special about the food you consume in Mawlynnong? All of it is prepared from organically grown vegetables. The meat also comes from birds and animals that the locals breed in their houses.
A variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are available. The list of savory dishes includes Tungrymbai, a sumptuous food item made using a mixture of bamboo leaves, local spices, and fermented soybeans, pork tossed in greens and bell peppers, and Jadoh, a rice and meat-based delicacy.
Now, let us look at the tourist attractions the village offers.
Tourist Attractions in Mawlynnong
Sky Walk
One of the most popular attractions, the Sky Walk is a vantage point made of cane and bamboo. It provides a complete view of Mawlynnong and the Indo-Bangladesh Border. According to legends, a local school teacher, Rishop khongthongreh, designed the Sky Walk.
Though the walking path is complex, the picturesque views you can see on reaching the top are worth it. The verdant green plains of Bangladesh and its locals carrying on their daily activities are pleasant sights. It costs you INR 10 per head to view the Sky Walk.
Church of Epiphany
The ancient Church of Epiphany offers a unique charm. It flaunts gorgeous red and orange flowers around its wonderful soothing premises.
Living Root Bridge
The living root bridges are the most fantastic attractions of the Riwai area. I must say that you will be mesmerized when you witness the bridges for the first time. These gigantic bridges are naturally made of giant rubber trees.
You can walk along the bridge while admiring the knotty roots for a few moments in silence. When you are here, you will be able to feel the strength and power of nature as time seems to stand still.
Niriang Falls
The Niriang Falls bears the pristine clear water of the Rymben River that falls from a height to form a deep greenish pool amid a lush green forest. However, you must pass through slippery stone paths to reach the place. So, taking along a guide or a local will help you on your path.
How to Reach the Mawlynnong Village?
The distance between Shillong and Mawlynnong is 100 km by car. So, you can opt to travel along a bus route from Shillong to Dawki. Dawki is approximately 17 km from this village, and you need to hitch a cab ride to Mawlynnong village.
Best Time to Visit Mawlynnong
The cleanest village in Asia is a place you can visit to unwind and relax. Here, the weather is mostly beautiful throughout the year. The most ideal time to visit the Mawlynnong is during the monsoon season. Do you know why? The reason is that the rejuvenating rains produce the luster of the trees in the forests.
Moreover, the beautiful green grasses portray the beauty of the village. In short, Mawlynnong seems like a fantastic painting during the rainy season. July is the best month for visiting the town.
As you step inside the village, you will experience the vibrancy surrounding Behdienkalam, a festival dedicated to the celebration of rain. September to December are the months when the locals celebrate fancy festivals such as Nongkrem Dance Festival and Wangala, to name a few.
The refined lifestyle combined with the spick and span environment makes Mawlynnong a must-visit spot. So, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags and indulge in something new in Mawlynnong this monsoon.
Leave a Reply