Village · Meghalaya
Mawlynnong
Famously clean Khasi village near the Bangladesh border, with a root bridge and bamboo sky-view.
Quick facts
- Best season
- October – May
- Duration
- Half day or 1 night
- Altitude
- ≈500 m
- Nearest town
- Pynursla (East Khasi Hills)
- Permit
- No permit needed for Indian or foreign visitors. Carry photo ID; small village entry/parking fees are common.
- Timings & fees
- Village entry and parking fees apply.
About Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a small Khasi village in the East Khasi Hills, near the Bangladesh border, that became famous after a travel magazine named it the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. Its tidy stone paths, flower gardens and bamboo dustbins reflect a strong community tradition: villagers sweep the lanes daily, plastic is discouraged, and rules on cleanliness are taken seriously.
Beyond the cleanliness, it is a lovely place to experience Khasi village life. Homes are surrounded by betel-nut and broom-grass plantations, and the church of the Epiphany dates from the early 20th century. A bamboo 'sky view' tower lets you look out over the forest towards the plains of Bangladesh. A short walk away at Riwai is a single-decker living root bridge that is much easier to reach than Nongriat, and the Balancing Rock, a large boulder resting on a small stone, is nearby.
Mawlynnong can get busy with day-trippers, so staying overnight in a local homestay is the best way to enjoy its peaceful evenings and mornings. It combines naturally with Dawki and Shnongpdeng.
How to reach Mawlynnong
About 78 km (2.5–3 hours) from Shillong via Pynursla. Often combined with Dawki, 30 km away.
Tours that include Mawlynnong
Things to do
EasyKhasi Village HomestaysLive with Khasi families in Mawlynnong, Nongriat or Sohra and experience everyday village life.
ModerateLiving Root Bridge TrekDescend 3,500 steps to Nongriat's double-decker bridge, or take the easy walk to Riwai near Mawlynnong.
EasyKhasi Food Trail, ShillongTaste jadoh, doh khlieh, tungrymbai and pumaloi in Shillong's local eateries and markets.
Places near Mawlynnong
RiverDawki & the Umngot RiverBorder town where boats seem to float on air on the crystal-clear Umngot river.
Riverside VillageShnongpdengRiverside village upstream of Dawki, popular for camping, snorkelling and cliff jumping.
Living Root BridgeDouble Decker Living Root Bridge, NongriatA rare two-tier bridge grown from rubber fig roots, reached by about 3,500 steps from Tyrna.
Mawlynnong FAQs
Why is Mawlynnong called the cleanest village in Asia?
A travel magazine gave it the title in 2003, recognising the community's tradition of cleanliness and waste management.
Is there a living root bridge near Mawlynnong?
Yes, the Riwai living root bridge is a short drive and easy walk away.
Can I stay overnight in Mawlynnong?
Yes, several homestays and a guesthouse are available; booking ahead is wise in peak season.
Facts checked against: en.wikipedia.org · meghalayatourism.in. Conditions change — verify timings and permits before travel.