One of the natural wonders of India, the Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge, is among the main attractions in Meghalaya state in northeastern India. The town of Cherrapunji or Sohra in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya is particularly famous for its living root bridges. The bridges were created by innovative Khasi people, who have learned to shape the roots and trunks of rubber trees to ensure a safe passage during the monsoon season.
Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge is one of the most popular attractions. The bridge is located 28 mi (45 km) from Cherrapunji, in Tyrna village, not far from the Cherrapunji Holiday Resort. Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge can be accessed via the trek, which goes along the narrow path in the forest and icludes over 6000 steps. It takes about 3 hours to complete this trek.
Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge spans 65 ft (20 m). The trek features a waterfall and a swimming hole, as well as the unique flora and fauna of the Indian forest. The best time to visit the bridge is during the dryer season, from October to May. The rainiest months in Cherrapunji, which is known as one of the wettest places on earth, are June and July.
Practical info
What is the best time to visit Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge?
Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge can be best enjoyed during dry season, October through May, with better visibility and clearer skies. Travelers are advised against visiting the region during the rainy season, particularly in the months of June and July. During the dry season, tourists can enjoy the charm of the place without any obstruction. Show more
How do you access Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge?
To reach Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge, travelers must trek through Tyrna village via a narrow trail, which spans over 6000 steps and takes roughly three hours to cover. The trek features stunning views of the nature, including the unique flora and fauna, swimming holes, and a waterfall. The trail is designed for visitors who are physically fit and not suitable for persons with restricted mobility. Show more
What is the length of Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge?
Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge is 65ft or 20m long. Made of the Ficus Elastica, it is entirely covered with live aerial roots and trunks. The bridge is one of the popular tourist attractions of Meghalaya and stands apart from other bridges. The bridge displays the unique and brilliant imagination and vision of the Khasi people in the region. Show more
What are the features of the trek to Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge?
The trail to Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge features narrow pathways showcasing the dense Indian forest, with over 6000 steps and steep sections. Along the way, tourists can explore a variety of natural beauty elements such as waterfalls, swimming holes, and unique fauna and flora. One has to be physically active to visit this wonder and should avoid the trip if they face mobility issues. Show more
What is the rainfall pattern of Cherrapunji?
Cherrapunji is renowned for being one of the wettest places globally, receiving an average annual rainfall of up to 11,777mm or 463.66 inches. June and July are the peak months of the rainy season, with heavy rainfall and strong winds. So, visiting Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge during this period can be difficult and requires careful planning. A more suitable time to visit is in the dry months from October to May. Show more
