bigtravelbuzzMāwsynrām is a town located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is known for being one of the wettest places on Earth, receiving an average annual rainfall of over 11,871 millimeters (467.4 in). Here are some things to know about Māwsynrām:
Living Root Bridges: One of the most popular attractions in Māwsynrām is the living root bridges. These bridges are made by training the roots of the Ficus elastica tree to grow across a stream or river. The roots continue to grow and strengthen over time, creating a natural bridge that can support the weight of people and animals.
Waterfalls: Māwsynrām is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the Nohkalikai Falls, which is the tallest plunge waterfall in India at a height of 340 meters (1115 feet). Other popular waterfalls include the Seven Sisters Falls and the Dainthlen Falls.
Caves: There are several caves in and around Māwsynrām that are open for exploration, including the Mawsmai Cave and the Arwah Cave. These caves are known for their impressive rock formations and underground waterfalls.
Local Culture: Māwsynrām is home to several indigenous Khasi tribes, who have a unique culture and language. Visitors can learn more about the local culture by visiting the Khasi Heritage Village, which features traditional Khasi huts and handicrafts.
Climate: As mentioned earlier, Māwsynrām is one of the wettest places on Earth. The town receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, but the monsoon season from June to September is especially wet. Visitors should be prepared for rain and bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
Māwsynrām is a unique and beautiful destination in India, offering visitors the opportunity to explore natural wonders and learn about local culture.
Places to Visit in Māwsynrām
Māwsynrām is a beautiful town located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. Known as the wettest place on earth, it is home to numerous breathtaking sights and experiences. Here are some places to visit in Māwsynrām:
Mawsmai Cave: This limestone cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Māwsynrām. Visitors can explore the intricate rock formations and underground streams that run through the cave.
Nohkalikai Falls: This majestic waterfall is one of the highest in India, cascading down from a height of over 1,100 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views.
Living Root Bridges: Māwsynrām is known for its unique bridges made entirely of living tree roots. These bridges are created by weaving the roots of the Ficus elastica tree over a period of several years.
Mawlyngbna: This scenic village is located just a short drive from Māwsynrām and is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can go trekking, kayaking, or rock climbing in the surrounding hills.
Dawki: This border town is located on the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border and is known for its crystal-clear waters. Visitors can go boating or swimming in the Umngot River and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Khreng Khreng: This beautiful waterfall is located just a short hike from Māwsynrām and is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.
Mawsynram Viewpoint: For panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, visitors can head to this viewpoint located just outside of town.
Best Time To Visit Māwsynrām
The best time to visit Māwsynrām is during the months of October to May, when the weather is dry and pleasant. During this time, visitors can enjoy clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and easy access to all the major tourist attractions.
It is important to note that even during the dry season, Māwsynrām receives a significant amount of rainfall, as it is one of the wettest places on earth. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain showers and slippery roads.
The monsoon season in Māwsynrām starts from June and lasts until September, and during this time, the town receives heavy rainfall and landslides can occur, making it difficult to explore the region. It is advisable to avoid visiting Māwsynrām during the monsoon season as the weather can be unpredictable and road conditions can be treacherous.
Things to Do in Māwsynrām
Māwsynrām is a beautiful town located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. Known as the wettest place on earth, it offers visitors a variety of unique experiences and activities. Here are some things to do in Māwsynrām:
Explore Mawsmai Cave: Take a guided tour of this stunning limestone cave and marvel at the intricate rock formations and underground streams that run through it.
Visit Living Root Bridges: Take a trek through the dense forests and marvel at the unique bridges made entirely of living tree roots.
Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Take a leisurely stroll or hike to experience the breathtaking scenic beauty of the surrounding hills, valleys, and waterfalls.
Visit Nohkalikai Falls: Take a trip to one of the highest waterfalls in India and marvel at the majestic beauty of the cascading water.
Explore Mawlyngbna: Take a day trip to this scenic village and enjoy activities like trekking, kayaking, and rock climbing in the surrounding hills.
Go Boating in Dawki: Take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River in the border town of Dawki.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Indulge in the local cuisine of Māwsynrām and try dishes like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, and Dohneiiong.
Visit Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Explore this sacred forest and learn about the ancient Khasi culture and traditions.
Attend Cultural Festivals: Attend the Khasi festivals like Shad Suk Mynsiem and Behdienkhlam and experience the vibrant culture of the region.
Relax and Unwind: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in the tranquil surroundings of Māwsynrām.
How to get around in Māwsynrām
Māwsynrām is a small town, and getting around is relatively easy. Here are some options for transportation in Māwsynrām:
Walking: The best way to explore the town is on foot, as most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Māwsynrām, and they can be hired for sightseeing and day trips.
Private Cars: Private cars can also be hired for sightseeing and day trips. They offer more flexibility and privacy than taxis.
Motorcycles and Scooters: Motorcycles and scooters can be rented from local vendors, and they are a convenient and affordable way to explore the town and its surroundings.
It is important to note that the roads in Māwsynrām can be narrow and winding, and driving can be challenging for those who are not used to the terrain. It is advisable to hire a local driver or guide who is familiar with the area. Also, it is recommended to negotiate the price before hiring any transportation to avoid any confusion later on.
Where to eat in Māwsynrām
Māwsynrām offers a variety of local restaurants and food stalls that serve authentic Khasi cuisine as well as Indian and Chinese cuisine. Here are some places to eat in Māwsynrām:
Orange Roots: Located in the heart of Māwsynrām, this restaurant offers a range of Indian, Chinese, and Khasi dishes. It is known for its fresh ingredients and friendly service.
Mawsmai Cave Restaurant: This restaurant is located near the entrance of the Mawsmai Cave and serves a variety of snacks and refreshments. It is a great place to grab a quick bite after exploring the cave.
Cafe Cherrapunjee: This cozy cafe offers a range of sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
Pari’s Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the nearby village of Sohra and serves a range of Khasi and Indian dishes. It is known for its authentic flavors and affordable prices.
Sky View Restaurant: This restaurant is located on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It serves a range of Indian and Chinese dishes and is a great place to enjoy a meal with a view.
Cafe H: This cafe is located in the nearby village of Mawlyngbna and serves a range of snacks, beverages, and desserts. It is a great place to relax and unwind after a day of adventure activities like trekking and kayaking.
Dhaba 361: This roadside dhaba is located on the Shillong-Cherrapunjee road and serves a range of Indian dishes. It is a great place to stop for a quick and affordable meal while traveling through the region.
Note: As Māwsynrām is a small town, some of these restaurants may have limited hours of operation, and it is advisable to check ahead of time.
Famous street stalls in Māwsynrām
Māwsynrām is known for its delicious street food, and there are several street stalls and food vendors that offer a variety of tasty snacks and dishes. Here are some famous street stalls in Māwsynrām:
Momos: You can find several momo stalls in Māwsynrām that serve steaming hot momos with a spicy dipping sauce. These delicious dumplings are a popular street food in the region.
Jadoh: Jadoh is a popular Khasi dish made with rice, pork, and a variety of spices. You can find several street stalls in Māwsynrām that serve this delicious dish.
Puffed Rice: Puffed rice is a popular snack in Māwsynrām, and you can find several vendors selling it on the streets. It is usually served with a variety of toppings like peanuts, onions, and chilies.
Khasi Sausage: Khasi sausage is a unique local delicacy that is made with pork and a variety of spices. You can find several street vendors selling these tasty sausages in Māwsynrām.
Tungrymbai: Tungrymbai is a fermented soybean dish that is popular in the Khasi cuisine. You can find several street vendors selling this dish in Māwsynrām.
Tea and Coffee: You can find several tea and coffee stalls on the streets of Māwsynrām that serve hot beverages with a variety of snacks like biscuits and bread.
Note: It is advisable to eat street food at your own risk and be cautious of hygiene and cleanliness. Make sure that the food is cooked well and served hot.
Where to stay in Māwsynrām
Luxury accommodation
Māwsynrām is a beautiful village in the state of Meghalaya in India, known for its lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and natural wonders. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation in Māwsynrām, here are some options:
Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort: This resort offers luxurious cottages with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cottages come equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies.
Polo Orchid Resort: Located amidst picturesque surroundings, the Polo Orchid Resort offers luxury villas with private balconies and jacuzzis. The resort also features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
Kutmadan Resort: This resort is nestled amidst tea gardens and offers luxurious cottages with private balconies and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The resort also features a restaurant serving local and international cuisine and a spa offering rejuvenating treatments.
Sa-I-Mika Park & Resort: This resort is located in the heart of Māwsynrām and offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies. The resort also features a restaurant serving local and international cuisine and a swimming pool.
These are just some of the luxury accommodation options available in Māwsynrām. It is advisable to check the availability and rates in advance and make your reservations accordingly.
Where to stay in Māwsynrām
Budget accommodation
Māwsynrām is a popular tourist destination in Meghalaya, India, known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and living root bridges. Here are some budget accommodation options you can consider for your stay in Māwsynrām:
Mawsynram Homestay: This homestay offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as hot water, WiFi, and free parking. It also serves delicious home-cooked meals. The location is convenient for exploring the nearby attractions.
Mawlynnong Eco Lodge: Located in the nearby village of Mawlynnong, this eco-lodge offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms and hot water. It also has a restaurant serving local cuisine and a garden where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Clouds Holiday Guest House: This guest house is located in a peaceful and scenic location, and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It also has a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Trekker’s Hut: This guest house is located close to the living root bridge and offers basic rooms with attached bathrooms. It also has a restaurant serving local and Indian cuisine.
Linda’s Guest House: This guest house is located in the heart of Māwsynrām and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It also has a restaurant serving local and Indian cuisine.
Please note that the availability and pricing of these accommodations may vary depending on the season and other factors. It’s always a good idea to book in advance and confirm the details with the accommodation provider before your trip.
Travel Tips Māwsynrām
Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Māwsynrām:
Plan your visit during the dry season: Māwsynrām receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, but the months from November to April are relatively dry. If you want to explore the outdoor attractions without getting drenched, plan your visit during this time.
Bring appropriate clothing and gear: The weather in Māwsynrām can be unpredictable, so it’s important to bring clothing and gear that can handle rain, humidity, and mud. Pack waterproof jackets, comfortable shoes, and quick-drying clothes.
Respect the local customs and culture: Māwsynrām is a conservative area with a rich culture and tradition. When visiting, make sure to dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples or homes, and be respectful to the locals.
Hire a local guide: A local guide can help you navigate the area and show you the hidden gems of Māwsynrām. They can also help you understand the local culture and history.
Try the local cuisine: Māwsynrām is known for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes made with bamboo shoots, smoked meat, and fermented fish. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the local specialties during your visit.
Explore the living root bridges: Māwsynrām is famous for its living root bridges, which are formed by weaving the roots of the Ficus elastica tree. There are several bridges in the area, including the double-decker living root bridge in nearby Nongriat village.
Visit the waterfalls: Māwsynrām is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Nohkalikai Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Be prepared for a steep trek to reach some of the waterfalls.
Practice responsible tourism: Māwsynrām is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to practice responsible tourism. Avoid littering, stay on designated trails, and respect the natural environment.