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longest living root bridge in Cherrapunjee
Written by Amirthavarshini on July 21, 2020 Share on

Double-Decker Root Bridge – The Art Of Nature

The most incredible beauty and the most satisfying way of life come from unique things and unique options. We all would have travelled to different parts of the world, ventured out many attractions and stayed in many high-end hotels. How about trying something out of the box? This article is all about the double-decker root bridge of Cherrapunji. Nestled in between the thick tropical forest of Meghalaya, it is a man-made cum natural wonder. Wonderfully created by the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, these roots grow from rubber trees. You can spot these trees only in Northeast India.

Also Read: Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

Natural living root bridge
Image credits: Google Images

Formation of Double-decker root bridge

These roots are shaped by the Khasis to grow in a manner to be in the form of bridges on the top of a river. These bridges are an amazing alternative to wooden bridges that may tend to disrupt due to heavy rainfall. As these bridges form due to entanglement of roots, it may take around 15 years to gain full strength. As time flies, the double-decker root bridge becomes even stronger so that it could bear any weight.

Also read: Fall In Love With The Shower Of Joy at Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Popular double-decker root bridges of Cherrapunji

Umshiang Double Decker Root Bridge

The most popular and most visited root bridge in Cherrapunji is the Umshiang double-decker root bridge. It stretches over an unbelievable length of 3 km and a height of 2400 feet. The bridge starts from the Tyrna Village of Cherrapunji. However, traversing through this bridge is not an easy joke. Please be sure that you are strong and fit enough to reach the upper bridge.

Ummunoi Root Bridges

Next in the list is the Ummunoi Root bridge. It is a popular attraction and also the oldest living bridge in Cherrapunji. Boasting a height of 1400 feet and 74 m long, this bridge is indeed a must-visit attraction in Cherrapunji.

Ritymmen Root Bridge

The Ritymmen Root bridge is situated in the Nongthymmai village. It is a 30 m long bridge which is perfect for trekking as well. You can start your trekking expedition from Tyrna. As you progress, you may end up reaching the double-decker living root bridge of Cherrapunji.

Umkar Root Bridge

Take a short yet sweet trip to the Umkar Root bridge. It begins from the village of Siej. You can complete a to and fro journey in this bridge within a time span of 30 minutes. A portion of the bridge was demolished due to floods. However, it was rebuilt by the locals of the villages. Visiting this bridge during monsoon season is blissful due to the presence of the nearby waterfalls.

Double-decker root bridge top view
Image credits: Unsplash

Also read: Nohkalikai Waterfalls in Cherrapunji – The waterfall that took a leap of faith

Mawsaw Root Bridge

Walk along the trails of Umshiang for 30 minutes and you will arrive at the Mawsaw bridge. The naturally formed swimming pool here is an attraction that should not be missed at any cost. 

Sometimes, experiencing the unusual features of nature will always find a special place in our hearts. Go ahead to venture out these dwindling trails of Cherrapunjee and you will never feel like leaving the place. The Double-decker root bridge surrounded by uncomparable assets of nature is indeed a feast for nature lovers. Head to the Pickyourtrail website and start planning your trip to Cherrapunji right away.

Also read: The Mesmerizing Cherrapunji Waterfalls in Meghalaya

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