Shillong to Dawki and Shnongpareng
Your options
Ways to make the journey
2.5–3 h
The road runs south-east from Shillong through Mawryngkneng and Pynursla, then descends the escarpment in tight bends to Dawki on the Bangladesh border. The turn-off for Mawlynnong is about an hour before Dawki. Leave Shillong by 7 am to reach the river in good light.
3 h
Shared taxis run to Dawki from Shillong, but they are slow and inflexible. For a day combining Dawki, Shnongpareng and Mawlynnong, a private car is essential.
Worth a stop
- Mawlynnong village
- Riwai root bridge
- Pynursla viewpoints
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Dawki from Shillong?
About 85 km, which takes 2.5 to 3 hours by car via Pynursla. The final descent to the river has steep hairpins. Most visitors make it a full day trip, combined with Mawlynnong.
Can I visit Dawki and Mawlynnong in one day?
Yes. They are about an hour apart on the same route from Shillong. Leave at about 7 am, visit Dawki and Shnongpareng in the morning, and Mawlynnong in the afternoon. Note that Mawlynnong bars day visitors on Sundays.
When is the best time to drive to Dawki?
November to April, when the Umngot is clear and the roads dry. During the monsoon, boating usually stops and the hill roads are affected by rain and landslides.
Is the road to Dawki difficult?
It is a good road with a steep, winding final descent to the river. Travellers prone to motion sickness should take precautions. An experienced local driver makes it comfortable.