Umshiang Double-decker Living Root Bridge

The Umshiang Double-Decker Living Root Bridge is a unique bio-engineered bridge in Nongriat village, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, near Cherrapunji. Formed by guiding aerial roots of Ficus elastica trees across the Umshiang River over decades, it features two stacked root bridges. Built by Khasi villagers, it is estimated to be over a century old and exemplifies traditional living architecture in one of the world's wettest regions, attracting trekkers and nature visitors.

Visitors can expect a strenuous trek of approximately 3,500 stone steps down from Tyrna village through dense subtropical rainforest to reach Nongriat. The site features two tiers of living root bridges stacked one above the other spanning the Umshiang River, with intertwined thick roots forming sturdy walkways. Surroundings include forested valley, river pools and boulders, small waterfalls, and nearby natural swimming pools. Visitors can walk across the lower and upper bridges, photograph the structure, rest at the riverbank, and explore the village homestays.