Have a week off and want an exciting way to spend it? Why not head to Cherrapunji and let the arms of nature fold around you. A cloud-blanketed realm, perpetually cool weather and green forests characterise the destination. This itinerary allows you go on a Cherrapunji living root bridge trek twice! These river crossings are structures, unique to the state of Meghalaya, and they are a testament to the efficiency of the human mind. See how the long, hanging banyan roots intertwine around branches of other trees, with little manipulation from the ethnic locals of the state.

Following the second Cherrapunji root bridge trek and on the third morning, you get a chance to bathe in the cool waters of the local rivers. On all the three nights that you spend at the resort, you will be warmed by a crackling fire and be entertained aptly by cultural performances. A picnic at an extremely scenic place will make this venture a lot fun, and it may take you back to your childhood days. Post the treks to living root bridge Cherrapunji enjoy gazing down at canyons and valleys from three incredible viewing spots.  

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Cherrapunji | Trek to Living Root Bridge (4 km/4 hours)

Upon reaching Cherrapunji, transfer to the resort and rest. This small town testifies to the fact that the state of Meghalaya, where it is located, it truly the land of clouds. One of the most humid places on earth, Cherrapunji is slowly becoming a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by thickly forested mountains and often enveloped by clouds, the place has quite a spellbinding aura.

After a nourishing lunch, begin the first Cherrapunji living root bridge trek, which will be about 4 km long. On the hike, you will gain an altitude of around 1400 feet, and the total time to complete the ascent and descent will be approximately 4 hours. On seeing these living root bridges, a sigh will escape your mouth. You will marvel at the skill of the local tribesmen, who have made the hanging roots of banyan trees twine around betel nut tree branches. Meghalaya has dense forests and lots of streams, and these natural structures prove helpful for the locals.

After this exciting on-foot venture, travel back to the resort. In winters, when the weather is dry, a bonfire will be lit in the resort premises, and you can warm yourself around it and talk. Later in the evening, spend your leisurely time attending an interesting cultural performance. Post the programme; enjoy an overnight stay in your room.

Day 02: Double Decker Living Root Bridge and Natural Swimming Pool Trek (20 km)

In the morning, embark on yet another Cherrapunji root bridge trek to further appreciate the skill of the regional tribal people. You can choose to travel for 5 km towards the starting point of the hike by car or you may complete the entire distance on foot. The total uphill and downhill distance of this journey is around 20 km, and during it, you will gain a maximum altitude of approximately 2500 feet.

The structure you will see now is a lot grander than the one you saw the previous morning. This river crossing is actually a system of two living root bridges, one on top of the other. Also on this trip, visit a natural pool formed by a river. If the weather is warm, then you may go for a dip in its clean and cool water to freshen up after the long walk. Following this intriguing nature walk, come back to the resort and rest. Enjoy the warming sensation of a campfire and another cultural music performance before finally retiring for the night.

Day 03: Sightseeing around Cherrapunji with Picnic
Get packed lunch from the resort, and then head out on an amazing sightseeing venture. Visit numerous scenic spots in the area, and imprint the sight of misty mountains and lush forests in your memory by taking photographs.

Sit down at one such picturesque site, have a picnic and relish the delicious dishes that you brought along. Also during the course of the activities, move to the banks of a rivulet, and take a bath if coming here in the warmer months. Thereafter, come back to the resort for a bonfire and one more cultural show. Later, enjoy a rejuvenating overnight stay at the property.

Day 04: Continued Sightseeing | Departure from Cherrapunji

Continue the living root bridge Cherrapunji venture by embarking on another round of sightseeing in the region. Visit the viewing platforms of Mawsiekriah, Mawseintyllang and Mawrong, from where you can look below at deep gorges and valleys. Post the sightseeing trip, return to the resort for lunch and then disperse.