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Church of Epiphany. Mawlynnong village, Meghalaya, North East India. It was declared the cleanest village in India.

Meghalaya

Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village
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Church of Epiphany. Mawlynnong village, Meghalaya, North East India. It was declared the cleanest village in India.
Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village
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map

January

3.2 - 20.6 ºC

February

4.9 - 22.2 ºC

March

8.1 - 25.3 ºC

April

10.4 - 26.0 ºC

May

12.4 - 26.5 ºC

June

15.3 - 26.8 ºC

July

16.4 - 26.9 ºC

August

16.6 - 27.6 ºC

September

15.6 - 27.9 ºC

October

11.8 - 27.5 ºC

November

8.0 - 25.6 ºC

December

5.2 - 21.9 ºC


Major Airports :

Shillong Airport (SHL), Shillong

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati

Nearest Railway Station :

Guwahati Railways Station (GHY)

Major Airports :

Shillong Airport (SHL), Shillong

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati

One of the cleanest villages of Asia!

Amidst the rolling emerald hills of the breathtaking East Khasi Hills in Northeast India, the enchanting village of Mawlynnong awaits your discovery. Known affectionately as "God's Own Garden," this charming hamlet offers a captivating blend of pristine beauty and serene tranquillity.

With its remarkable commitment to sustainable living and deep connection to nature, Mawlynnong draws visitors in with its reputation for being one of Asia's cleanest villages. As you wander through this idyllic village, you’ll uncover the rich history behind its name, inspired by a legendary leader, Mawlynnong, who was revered for his extraordinary leadership and wisdom.

Come explore Mawlynnong, where every corner tells a story and nature thrives in perfect balance, inviting you to immerse yourself in its charm and wonder.

A symphony of sustainable living

Mawlynnong tells an inspiring story of a community dedicated to sustainable living and environmental stewardship. All residents are mandated to participate in cleaning and beautification efforts, fostering a strong sense of unity. Smoking and the use of plastic bags are strictly prohibited to maintain clean air and prevent harmful waste from polluting the environment. Rainwater harvesting is also actively encouraged, ensuring that every drop of water is valued and used wisely.

Since 2007, functional toilets and bamboo dustbins have been integral to every household, demonstrating the village's innovative approach to sanitation and waste management. The villagers take great pride in sweeping the roads and planting trees, leaving no effort spared in their quest to create a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Discover the marvellous natural wonders

Mawlynnong is home to one of nature's most extraordinary wonders: the Nohwet Living Root Bridge. This remarkable structure is a testament to the ingenuity of the Khasi people who have nurtured it for generations. Crafted by intricately weaving the roots of the Ficus Elastica tree around a sturdy framework, each root is encouraged to grow in a way that creates a breathtakingly beautiful and functional bridge. After exploring this natural marvel, why not take a refreshing dip in the clear, cool waters of the nearby river?

The allure of Mawlynnong doesn't stop there though. Just a stone’s throw away is the Church of the Epiphany, a stunning piece of European architecture that has withstood the test of time for over a century. This charming church stands proudly amidst the lush greenery, inviting you to take a moment to appreciate its intricate design.

For the adventurous at heart, climb up to the bamboo tree houses that overlook the church. From these lofty perches, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that stretch across the seemingly endless plains of Bangladesh, making for a perfect photo op and a memory that lingers long after you leave!


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Immerse yourself in festivities

Get ready to feel the vibrant spirit of Mawlynnong as you dive into its joyous celebrations! Picture yourself amidst the breathtaking beauty of Jaintia Hills in July, where the air is alive with energy during the traditional Behdienkhlam Festival. You’ll be swept away by captivating dance performances, incredible traditional music, and sumptuous feasts that tantalize your taste buds. The atmosphere is electric with a myriad of joyous festivities waiting for you to join in the fun!

Then, mark your calendar for November, when the spectacular five-day Nongkrem Dance Festival takes centre stage. This celebration honours the goddess KaBlei, and you’ll be immersed in a cultural extravaganza that will leave you spellbound! Feel the rhythm as traditional dances fill the air, savour the delicious food, and soak in the music that enhances the palpable sense of jubilation all around you.

Explore the village’s culinary gems

And speaking of food, the cuisine of Mawlynnong is a feast that's not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome! You'll discover that the cuisine here is predominantly organic, thanks to the pure surroundings. Traditional cooking methods are all about keeping it simple and healthy – like grilling and boiling with just a splash of oil and a dash of spices.

Fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine in every dish, from hearty rice and succulent meats to leafy greens and spices like turmeric and ginger, all working together to create unforgettable flavours. Jadoh is a rice and meat bowl that will make your mouth water. It’s traditionally made with pork, but if you're not a fan, you can easily swap it for chicken.

Next, you can't miss out on Kwai - the betel nut that locals love to chew after meals. Not only is it a cultural delicacy, but it also helps with digestion. If you crave something different, try Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean chutney blended with local spices that packs a punch. And for those who enjoy a good curry, Dohneiiong is your go-to. This rich pork curry, prepared with black sesame seeds, will have you coming back for seconds!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mawlynnong is from June to November. Additionally, September to December is a good season to explore the area, as it coincides with the famous Nongkrem Dance Festival. The summer season, from March to June, is also pleasant, with temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold.