Mawlynnong is a small village in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya. It gained popularity after being voted the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. Fondly known as God’s Own Garden due to its unspoiled beauty and wonderful people. It is renowned for its pristine cleanliness, well-maintained gardens, and eco-friendly practices. With its beautiful natural surroundings and warm hospitality, Mawlynnong offers visitors a serene and enchanting experience amidst nature’s embrace.
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Mawlynnong
- About Mawlynnong
- How to Plan a trip to Mawlynnong
- Places to stay in Mawlynnong
- Useful links
Things to Do in Mawlynnong
Here are some things to do to make your trip unforgettable:
- Explore the village and look at the way the villagers keep the place clean.
- Walk across the Jingmaham Living Root Bridge. Remember, reaching it requires an average level of trekking. So, ensure that you are up for it before you go.
- Visit the Brun Khongmen Viewpoint which is built atop a tall tree in the Riwai village. You need to climb the Sky Walk to reach the viewpoint which is also known as Bamboo Watchtowers.
- Go boating on the Dawki River. This river has gained popularity for its crystal clear waters surrounded by picturesque hills and natural wonders. The water is so clear that on a sunny day, you will be able to see the shadow of your boat on the river bed!
- Savour the tribal food.
Places to Visit in Mawlynnong
Here is a quick look at some famous places to visit in the area:
- The Mawlynnong Village – Asia’s cleanest village lives up to its title. The houses are built systematically, gardens are well-maintained, lawns are manicured, and the town oozes purity and bliss. The villagers are very warm and welcoming too.
- Mawlynnong Waterfall – This waterfall is on the way from Dawki to the cleanest town. Pristine and yet undiscovered by many tourists, this place has the serenity of paradise and the thrill of nature.
- The Balancing Rock – This is an ancient structure where a large boulder is precariously balanced on a very small rock without any additional support. According to local beliefs, this place was a shrine of the Khasi tribes before they adopted Christianity.
- Jingmaham Living Root Bridge – It is said that Nature is the biggest magician of all. If you ever doubted this, take a look at the Living Root Bridge. Apart from the cleanliness of the village and a 100% literacy rate, it is famous for this bridge.
[Also Read: 8 Best Solo Travel Destinations to Visit in India]
Popular Places to visit nearby
Here are some places to visit near Mawlynnong:
- Dawki – Located at a distance of around 30 km, Dawki is another underrated tourist destination in India, which you can read all about on our blog by clicking here. Located on the banks of the Dawki River, it has started gaining popularity as an adventure sports destination. Its pristine beauty and mesmerizing landscape make it a must-visit place nearby.
- Jowai – Located at a distance of around 91 km via NH 206, Jowai prides itself on being a perfect destination for beautiful lakes, waterfalls, intriguing valleys, etc. The Nartiang Monoliths are a unique attraction here.
- Shillong – Located at a distance of around 78 km via NH 206, Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya. Barring some amazing natural vistas, the city also has a range of modern amenities to keep travellers interested. You can learn more about things to do in Shillong in our guide.
Places to Eat
In Mawlynnong, food is prepared using organically grown vegetables. In fact, even meat comes from animals that are bred in-house. There are various local delicacies that you must try, like smoked banana flower, Tungrymbai, pork and greens, etc. Here are some popular places to eat:
- Dapbiang Restaurant, Surok – for Indian food
- Naphi Food Stall – for local Khasi food
- IAIKYRSOI Café – thalis available
- Wahumsang’s Food – fast food
About Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India, is a charming village often referred to as “Asia’s Cleanest Village.” It has gained international recognition for its pristine cleanliness and eco-friendly practices. As you enter Mawlynnong, you’ll be greeted by well-maintained flower gardens, clean streets, and bamboo dustbins at every corner. The villagers take immense pride in keeping their surroundings clean and believe in the mantra “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.”
The village offers a glimpse into the local Khasi culture, with traditional thatched-roof houses and stone pathways. A major attraction is the “Living Root Bridge,” a natural marvel created by intertwining the roots of rubber trees to form a sturdy bridge. Visitors can also explore the nearby Riwai village, known for its unique balancing rock formation. Mawlynnong offers a serene and idyllic setting, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity amidst the lap of nature.
Location
Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, is situated in the heart of East Khasi Hills and has an average elevation of around 1696 feet above sea level. It is located around 90 km from Shillong along the Indo-Bangladesh border.
History of Mawlynnong
The history of Mawlynnong traces back to the ancient Khasi civilization in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India. The village has been inhabited by the indigenous Khasi people for centuries. The origins of Mawlynnong’s cleanliness and eco-friendly practices can be attributed to the Khasi community’s deep respect for nature and their traditional way of life. The village’s commitment to cleanliness and sustainability has been passed down through generations, making it a shining example of community-driven initiatives. Over the years, Mawlynnong has gained recognition for its remarkable cleanliness and has become a model village for eco-tourism and responsible living. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and harmonious relationship between humans and nature in this part of Meghalaya.
Facts about the cleanest village in Asia
In Mawlynnong, cleanliness is a way of life. Since 2007, every house in the village has a functional toilet. Also, there are bamboo dustbins spread across the village. The administration and locals ensure that even fallen leaves are put in the dustbins. Smoking is banned in public places, and plastic bags are strictly prohibited. Additionally, locals step out to sweep the roads and regularly plant trees.
Not just cleanliness, but it is also one of the few villages in India with a 100% literacy rate. The Khasi tribe follows the matriarchal rule of the society, where the children get their mother’s surname, and the wealth is passed down from the mother to the youngest daughter.
How to Plan a Trip to Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong weather is agreeable throughout the year, with a pleasant temperature for most months. The summer months of March to June are a good time to visit since the temperature ranges between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius. The monsoon months of June to September are particularly beautiful since the flora is in full bloom. Winters (December to February) can be freezing, with the temperature dropping to 2 degrees Celsius. Here are some ways to reach Mawlynnong :
By Air –
The nearest airport to Mawlynnong is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. From the airport, you can hire a Savaari Airport Taxi to reach Mawlynnong. The distance between the airport and Mawlynnong is approximately 173 kilometres, and the journey by road takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By Road –
Mawlynnong is well-connected by road, and you can reach the village by hiring a taxi or driving in a private vehicle. It is located around 90 kilometres from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. The route from Shillong to Mawlynnong offers picturesque views of the countryside, lush greenery, and rolling hills. Download the Svaari app for exciting offers from your location to your destination.
By Train –
The nearest railway station to Mawlynnong is Guwahati Railway Station, located approximately 172 kilometres away. From Guwahati, you can hire a taxi to Mawlynnong. The journey by road takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Places to Stay in Mawlynnong
Here are some places to stay in Mawlynnong:
- Rest & Relax Homestay, New Parking
- Hala Tyngkong Stay Inn
- Umpohliew Homestay
- Areca Cottages, Dawki
- Kynjai Homestay
Best Road-trips to Mawlynnong
| Route Name | Distance | Time |
| Shillong to Mawlynnong | 85 km | 2 hours and 30 minutes |
| Agartala to Mawlynnong | 474 km | 12 hours |
| Guwahati to Mawlynnong | 173 km | 5 hours |
Useful Links
Unique Culture of Mawlynnong Village
Kaziranga National Park, Mawlynnong Village
Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Swati Deol
