Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek: A Complete Guide to Nongriat

The Trek Worth Every Step

There are easier living root bridges to see in Meghalaya — the single-decker at Mawlynnong, the Riwai bridge near the village, the Ritymmen bridge. But none of them prepare you for Nongriat. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge at the bottom of the Nongriat gorge — two centuries-old bridges stacked vertically, woven from the aerial roots of two separate rubber fig trees — is something that changes how you think about the relationship between humans and nature.

Getting there involves descending 3,500 steps into a rainforest gorge. It is genuinely challenging. It is absolutely worth it.

Understanding the Bridge

The Double Decker bridge consists of two separate bridges, one above the other, created by two adjacent rubber fig trees (Ficus elastica) whose roots were guided across the gorge over many generations by Khasi villagers using a traditional technique:

Hollow betel nut palm trunks were used to guide young roots in the desired direction.

Roots were coaxed to the opposite bank over 10–15 years.

Once established, secondary roots were woven into a walking surface.

Over decades and centuries, the bridges thickened and strengthened.

The lower bridge is estimated to be over 180 years old. The upper bridge is slightly younger. Together they can support over 35 people at a time and are stronger now than when they were first used.

The Trek

Starting Point: Tyrna Village

Tyrna is 58 km from Shillong (1.5–2 hours by cab) and about 4 km from Cherrapunji. The trek begins at the Tyrna village entrance.

Double decker living root bridge

Entry:: ₹50 per person (collected at the trailhead)

Local guides:: Available at Tyrna for ₹500–800. Strongly recommended for first-timers.

The Descent (3,500 Steps Down)

The trail is almost entirely stone steps — uneven, sometimes slippery, occasionally very steep. The 3,500 steps descend approximately 300 metres into the gorge.

Time down:: 1.5–2 hours (depending on fitness and pace)

Terrain:: Forest path, stone steps, narrow sections, occasional rope handholds on steeper parts

Difficulty:: Moderate to challenging. Not suitable for people with knee problems (the return climb is hard on knees).

At the Bottom: The Bridge & the Pool

The Double Decker bridge spans a clear mountain stream. Below the lower bridge, the stream widens into a natural swimming pool — clear, cold, and absolutely magical on a warm day. Most trekkers spend 1–2 hours here: crossing and re-crossing the bridge, swimming, eating lunch, and simply sitting in one of the most peaceful places in India.

Rainbow Falls Extension (Optional)

A further 45-minute walk beyond the Double Decker bridge leads to Rainbow Falls — a 30-metre waterfall that creates a rainbow in its mist on sunny mornings. Very few tourists make it this far. If you have the energy, it is spectacular.

The Ascent (3,500 Steps Up)

The return is more demanding than the descent. Allow 2–2.5 hours for the climb back up.

Total time for the full trek: 5–7 hours (including time at the bottom).

What to Bring

Water:: At least 2 litres per person. There is no shop at the bottom.

Snacks/Lunch:: Pack lunch. The village at the bottom has very limited options.

Cherrapunji trek trail

Shoes:: Closed-toe with good grip — NOT sandals or flip-flops.

Rain gear:: The gorge is humid year-round. A light waterproof jacket is essential.

Swimwear:: For the pool at the base.

Trekking poles:: Helpful for the descent and ascent. Available for rent at Tyrna.

Torch/flashlight:: If you plan to start very early.

Best Time to Visit

October–November:: Post-monsoon. Stream is full, waterfalls flowing. Excellent.

December–February:: Clear, cool, and beautiful. Best visibility.

March–May:: Warmer but manageable. Fewer crowds than peak season.

June–September (Monsoon):: Do NOT attempt. The steps become dangerously slippery and the stream floods.

Staying Overnight at Nongriat

Several guesthouses and homestays operate in Nongriat village at the bottom of the gorge. Spending a night means you can:

Be at the bridge at dawn (before day-trippers arrive)

Visit Rainbow Falls without rushing

Experience the gorge at sunset and night — the forest sounds are extraordinary

Accommodation is basic (₹600–1,200 per night, usually including meals). Advance booking is essential in peak season.

Getting There

Tyrna village is 58 km from Shillong. Our drivers know the exact route. We include the Nongriat trek in our 5-day and 7-day Meghalaya packages.