The Double Decker Root Bridge is a unique natural wonder located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India. Nestled near the village of Nongriat, this living root bridge attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers from across the country and beyond. The route to this iconic destination is popular among trekkers and eco-tourists looking for an offbeat experience amidst lush greenery and tribal culture.

This guide will walk you through the best ways to reach the Double Decker Root Bridge, covering transport options from nearby towns, trekking details, and essential travel tips. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from Shillong or a longer Meghalaya itinerary, this article will help you plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Shillong to Double Decker Root Bridge – Main Options

By Road and Trekking

The most practical way to reach the Double Decker Root Bridge involves a combination of road travel to nearby villages and trekking through forest trails. This route is popular for its scenic beauty and cultural immersion.

• Drive to Nongriat via Cherrapunjee:

  From Shillong, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Cherrapunjee (Sohra), approximately 54 km away via NH40 and NH44. The journey takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, with fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1,200 for a private taxi. Shared jeeps are cheaper but less comfortable and less frequent.

• Reach Tyrna Village:

  From Cherrapunjee, take a local jeep or taxi to Tyrna village, about 4 km downhill. This is the last motorable point before the trek. The road is narrow and winding, so travel carefully, especially during monsoon.

• Start the trek to Nongriat:

  The trek from Tyrna to Nongriat is approximately 3.5 km and involves descending over 3,000 stone steps through dense forest and waterfalls. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on fitness. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes.

• From Nongriat to Double Decker Root Bridge:

  The bridge is a short 30-minute walk from Nongriat village. The trail is well-marked but can be slippery in wet weather. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

By Guided Tour

For first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with the terrain, booking a guided tour is a popular and hassle-free option. Tours often include transport, permits, and local guides.

• Package inclusions:

  Most tours from Shillong or Guwahati cover round-trip transport, accommodation in Nongriat or nearby villages, and guided trekking. Prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per person depending on duration and services.

• Local expertise:

  Guides provide valuable insights into Khasi culture, flora, and fauna, enhancing the trekking experience. They also ensure safety on steep and slippery paths.

• Group vs private tours:

  Group tours are economical and social, while private tours offer flexibility in schedule and pace. Booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons (September to November).

• Permits and regulations:

  Some tours handle local permits required for trekking in the region, simplifying the process for travelers.

By Public Transport and Trekking

Budget travelers can use public transport combined with trekking, though this requires more planning and patience.

• Shared taxis and buses:

  From Shillong, shared taxis or buses run to Cherrapunjee frequently, costing ₹50 to ₹100 per person. These vehicles can be crowded and may not stop exactly at desired points.

• Walking from Cherrapunjee:

  If taxis to Tyrna are unavailable, trekkers can walk part of the way, but this adds to the journey’s difficulty and time.

• Local guidance:

  Hiring a local guide in Cherrapunjee or Nongriat is recommended to avoid getting lost on forest trails.

• Timing considerations:

  Public transport is limited in early mornings and late evenings, so plan to arrive in Cherrapunjee by noon to ensure onward connections.

By Air

The nearest airport to the Double Decker Root Bridge is Shillong Airport (Umroi), but it has limited connectivity. Most travelers fly into Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport), which is well connected nationally.

• From Guwahati to Shillong:

  Shillong is about 100 km from Guwahati Airport. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from the airport to Shillong, which takes around 3 hours and costs ₹1,200 to ₹1,500 for a private taxi.

• Connecting to Cherrapunjee:

  From Shillong, follow the road and trekking options described above.

• Flight schedules:

  Check flight timings carefully, as Shillong Airport has limited flights and may not be suitable for all itineraries.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers aiming to visit the Double Decker Root Bridge comfortably and safely.

• Book your transport to Shillong:

  Fly or take a train to Guwahati and then a taxi or bus to Shillong. Booking in advance during peak seasons helps avoid last-minute hassles.

• Arrange local transport to Cherrapunjee:

  From Shillong, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep early morning to reach Cherrapunjee by mid-morning, allowing ample time for onward travel.

• Travel to Tyrna village:

  Use local taxis or jeeps from Cherrapunjee to reach Tyrna, the starting point of the trek. Confirm return timings with drivers, as services can be limited.

• Begin the trek to Nongriat:

  Carry water, snacks, and wear comfortable trekking shoes. Start early to avoid afternoon rains and crowds.

• Visit the Double Decker Root Bridge:

  Spend time exploring and photographing the bridge. Respect local customs and avoid littering.

• Return safely:

  Retrace your steps to Tyrna and onward to Cherrapunjee and Shillong. Plan your return transport ahead to avoid being stranded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on the trek:

  The trail involves steep steps and slippery rocks, especially during monsoon. Use trekking poles if possible and avoid the trek after dark.

• Food and water:

  Carry sufficient drinking water and light snacks, as options are limited on the trail. Avoid drinking untreated water from streams.

• Booking transport:

  Use apps like Ola or Uber in Shillong for reliable taxis. For local shared jeeps, confirm schedules early as they can be irregular.

• Luggage management:

  Pack light as porters are not commonly available. Store valuables securely as mobile network can be patchy.

• Local etiquette:

  Seek permission before photographing locals. Respect Khasi customs and avoid loud noises in villages.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to slippery trails and landslide risks. Post-monsoon months are ideal for trekking.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit the Double Decker Root Bridge is during the post-monsoon and winter months when the weather is pleasant and trails are safer.

Travelers should avoid peak festival weekends in Shillong and Cherrapunjee to escape crowding and inflated prices.

• Avoid monsoon months (June to August) due to heavy rains and slippery trekking paths.

• Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists on the trail.

• Plan trips during September to November or February to April for clear skies and comfortable weather.

• Weekdays are preferable over weekends to avoid local tourist rush.

Arrival at Double Decker Root Bridge & What to Expect

On arrival at Nongriat, travelers are greeted by a quaint village surrounded by dense forests and cascading waterfalls. The atmosphere is peaceful, offering a refreshing break from city life.

Local transport options are limited beyond Tyrna, so most visitors rely on walking or guided tours. Accommodation ranges from homestays to basic guesthouses in Nongriat and nearby villages. Popular nearby attractions include Rainbow Falls and other living root bridges in the area.

For onward travel, prepaid taxis and shared jeeps are available at Cherrapunjee. Booking cabs via local apps or through your guesthouse ensures safer and more reliable rides, especially if arriving late.

Conclusion

The combination of road travel and trekking remains the most efficient and rewarding way to reach the Double Decker Root Bridge. This route offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Meghalaya experience.

With proper planning, suitable gear, and local guidance, you can confidently explore this unique destination and create lasting memories. The journey to the Double Decker Root Bridge is as enriching as the destination itself, promising an unforgettable adventure in the heart of India’s Northeast.