Trip at a Glance
About Nongriat
In the gorge below Cherrapunjee (Sohra), Nongriat is a Khasi village reachable only on foot — home to the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge, grown from the aerial roots of Ficus elastica trees, guided across the river using areca palm trunks as scaffolding until the roots take hold.
Most day-trippers rush down the 3,500 steps and straight back up. We build this as an overnight instead — the extra time lets you push an hour further to Rainbow Falls and swim in clear pools once the day-trip crowds have left.
How to Reach Nongriat
Guwahati to Cherrapunjee (Sohra)
Pickup from Guwahati Airport, driving across the Meghalaya plateau to Sohra, roughly 4.5-5 hours.
Drive to Tyrna Village
A 30-minute morning drive from central Sohra to Tyrna, the gateway staircase into the gorge.
The 3,500-Step Descent
Roughly 2-2.5 hours down, crossing two suspension bridges over mountain rivers to reach Nongriat village.
Things to Do & Curated Circuits
Tier 1: Moderate
Double Decker & Village Life
1-2 Days · Moderate
Descend to Nongriat, cross the Double Decker bridge, see the nearby single-deck root bridges, and stay at a village homestay.
Tier 2: Moderate-Active
The Rainbow Falls Deep Trek
1.5 hrs extension · Moderate-Active
Continue past the Double Decker bridge along the riverbed to Rainbow Falls, where the spray throws up rainbows over deep swimming pools.
Tier 3: Active
The Complete Sohra-Nongriat Circuit
Multi-day · Active
Combine the Nongriat descent with Cherrapunjee's waterfalls (Nohkalikai, Wei Sawdong) and the Mawsmai and Arwah cave systems.
Season Guide
| Season | Months | Weather & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Hiking Season | Oct – Apr | Minimal rain, dry steps, and the river pools turn a clear turquoise — good for swimming. |
| Winter Dryness | Dec – Feb | Cool, dry conditions, manageable humidity for the steep return climb. |
| Monsoon Power | May – Sep | Thunderous waterfalls and vivid green jungle, but slick steps — for experienced, agile hikers only. |
Where to Stay in Nongriat
Accommodation Arranged by Nomadic Northeast
Simple village homestays in Nongriat itself, or hotels and resorts in Sohra before the descent — we recommend the former to properly experience the gorge. We arrange the stay as part of your itinerary — you won't need to book anything separately.
What’s Included When You Book With Us
We Arrange
Vehicle & driver, accommodation, permits (where required), local guide and transfers between stops on your itinerary.
Usually Paid Separately
Personal meals beyond what's specified, entry/safari/camera fees, and personal expenses — confirmed exactly in your written quote.
Who This Trip Suits
Ideal For
- ✓ Active travellers comfortable with a demanding descent and climb
- ✓ Adventure photographers
Less Suitable For
- × Travellers with knee or mobility issues
- × Anyone expecting a quick, easy visit
What to Expect
A 3,500-step descent and matching climb back, warm humid conditions, and simple village homestays if staying overnight.
The Nomadic Northeast Advantage
Paced Overnight Stays
We don't push a same-day 7,000-step round trip — guests sleep at village homestays in the gorge.
Local Khasi Guides
Guides who carry safety gear, help with river crossings, and share the oral history of the bridges.
Luggage Handled
Main luggage is stored securely at Tyrna, so you descend with only a light daypack.
Often Combined With
Nongriat is a natural extension of a Cherrapunjee (Sohra) stay, and often combined with Dawki for a fuller Meghalaya circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically challenging is the 3,500-step climb back up?
The ascent climbs roughly 2,000 vertical feet of continuous stone stairs — 2 to 3.5 hours, needing reasonable stamina but manageable with regular breaks.
Can you swim in the natural pools?
Yes — the pools below the Double Decker bridge and at Rainbow Falls are good for swimming through the dry months, October to April.
Are walking sticks available at the trailhead?
Yes — local villagers rent bamboo walking sticks at the Tyrna ticket counter, genuinely useful for knee support on the descent.