Mawlynnong isn't actually in Cherrapunji itself, but nestled nearby in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. While Cherrapunji might hold the title of the wettest place on Earth, Mawlynnong has a different kind of fame – it's known as the cleanest village in Asia!
That's Mawlynnong. Here's what awaits you in this picture-perfect village:
- Spick and Span: The most striking feature is the cleanliness. The villagers take immense pride in keeping their surroundings spotless, with colorful bamboo wastebaskets lining the pathways.
- Blooming Beauty: Everywhere you turn, you'll be greeted by a riot of colors. Flowers in every shade imaginable adorn houses, fences, and even hanging baskets, making Mawlynnong a photographer's paradise.
- Sky Views: For a bird's-eye view of the village and the surrounding plains stretching into Bangladesh, climb the unique bamboo skywalk. It's an exhilarating experience offering panoramic vistas.
- Eco-tourism Efforts: Mawlynnong thrives on eco-tourism. The villagers have built their own success story through sustainable practices and community effort.
- Living Root Bridges: While not in Mawlynnong itself, a short trip to the nearby village of Riwai will allow you to witness the engineering marvel of living root bridges. Generations of the Khasi tribe have intertwined the roots of rubber trees to create sturdy natural bridges over streams.
Travel Tips:
- Mawlynnong is a small village and can be explored in a day trip from Shillong or Cherrapunji, both located within a 90km radius.
- Consider staying in a homestay to experience the warm hospitality of the Khasi people and learn about their sustainable practices.
- Pack light clothes and comfortable shoes for walking around the village.
- Be a responsible tourist and respect the cleanliness of the village by disposing of waste properly.