The easy root bridge at Riwai
Riwai is the next village to Mawlynnong, a couple of kilometres along the road. From the car park a stepped path of about 10 minutes descends through dense forest to a stream, where a single bridge of living roots spans the water. Roots twist down from the trees on either bank, merge into a broad deck packed with stones, and continue to grow and strengthen.
Because it is so accessible, the Riwai bridge can be busy at midday. We visit in the early afternoon, after the morning groups have moved on, and spend time watching the stream, which in the dry months is clear and shallow beneath the bridge. Children can paddle at the edges with care.
Your guide explains how bridges like this are grown over decades from the roots of the Indian rubber fig, and how villages maintain them. If you plan to walk to Nongriat later, Riwai is a good introduction; if you do not, it is a satisfying substitute.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is the Riwai root bridge from Mawlynnong?
About 2 km by road, or a few minutes' drive, followed by a stepped walk of about 10 minutes down to the bridge. It is the easiest living root bridge to reach in Meghalaya, and we usually combine it with the Mawlynnong village walk.
Is the Riwai root bridge worth it compared with Nongriat?
It is a single bridge rather than the double-decker, and it is busier, but it shows the same remarkable craft with very little effort. For families with young children, older travellers or anyone short of time, Riwai is an excellent choice. Fit walkers should also do Nongriat.
Can older travellers visit the Riwai root bridge?
Usually, yes. The path down is about 10 minutes of stone steps with handrails in places, and the same back up. Take it slowly and use a walking stick if helpful. The steps can be slippery after rain, so good shoes matter.
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