Dawki Tourist Places
Dawki, a border town in southern Meghalaya that serves as a wonderful base for exploring adjacent Shnongpdeng and Darrang, two well-known riverside camps. As the highlands of Northern Bangladesh dissolve into the plains, you will see a melting pot of cultures and a shifting landscape.
Some of the evening view here is breathtaking as you watch the lights flare over the neighboring plains over the quiet, black river. Shnongpdeng Village is located 8 kilometers north of Dawki on the meandering Umngot River. During the peak pre-monsoon, fall, and winter seasons, the Umngot River’s waters are so pure that you can gaze into the bottom and count the stones.
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Places to Visit In Dawki
1. Umngot River
The Umngot River, also known as the Dawki River and Wah Umngot, flows through Dawki. The river marks the separation of the river Ri Pnar from Jaintia Hills and Hima Khyrim from Khasi Hills. It is arguably the cleanest river and is very popular among fisherman. It is close to the border of India and Bangladesh. In 1932, the British build a suspension bridge over the river that gives way to Bangladesh. The bridge can bear only one vehicle at a time. At a distance of about 1 kilometre from the Dawki market. The Umngot River is the perfect spot for boating as well. Boating in Umngot River makes one feel like they are floating on emerald glass. In the month of March or April, the annual boat race on Umngot River is hosted which attracts a lot of tourists. While boating one can clearly see the marine life below. The river flows snakes through the hills with lush green forests. The Ummgot River is a mesmerizing view to a tourist. It is also a prime spot for fishing both for Bangladeshi and Indian fishermen.
2. Jaflong Zero Point
Jaflong Zero-point is the place of no-mans-land of the border of India and Bangladesh. The Jaflong Zero Point is a beautiful spot where tourists can enjoy a breath-taking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also an ideal spot for camping and hiking because it provides some refreshingly cool air during hot summer days. The name Jaflong comes from the word “jhia” (meaning “moss”) and “long” (meaning “hill”), which together means mossy hills. When water is low, one can walk around easily and explore the hills. But in the monsoon months when the water rises pretty high, one needs to take the boat ride service available on the Bolla Ghat to take a look around the hills. Kutta Ghati is the most famous place to visit near Bolla Ghat. There are many temples, trees and natural landscapes here. The best time to visit this place is in the winter months when the temperature is not that high, and one can escape from the humid climate for a day.
3. Shnongpdeng
Only 74 kilometres away from Shillong, the village of Shnongpdeng is an ideal adventure place. From boat riding to ziplining to camping, this place offers a mind-boggling experience to its visitors. This village is one of the many villages that gets benefitted and thrilled by the Umngot River. The village serves as a border between the countries of Bangladesh and India. One can enjoy floating on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot river and listen its water gush into Bangladesh. On fun fact about Shnongpdeng is that it is not “in” Dawki, but it is a few kilometres away from the village of Dawki. The best time to visit Shnongpdeng is at noon time or when the sun is high up. At this time, it serves the best view. The stunning view of the crystal-clear water of the Umngot River can be viewed when sunlight hits directly the water. It is also a great spot for camping. A package of a day or two is available along with food and drop services. Camping by the river of this extraordinary river is once in a lifetime experience.
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4. Mawlynnong
As far as Indian villages are concerned, Mawlynnong is way ahead of its time, with its clean, functional toilets in every house, and plastic ban. Mawlynnong is a village that has made its mark on history by being the cleanest village in India. It is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya and was recognized as the cleanest village in Asia by The Guinness Book of World Records. And yet, the rustic and old-world charm that it manages to preserve, makes you feel like you have travelled in time. Mawlynnong is a small village with just about 1,500 people. However, it attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year because of its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices. The fruit orchards, the roaring streams, the lush evergreen surroundings, the swaying pines, and the well-preserved traditions of the Khasi culture provide a picture-perfect place on the edge of Meghalaya’s southern ranges. The most attractive place in this tiny village is the double decker living root bridge. After enjoying the bridge to its fullest, one can go for a dip into the gushing river below.
5. Borhill Falls
At a distance of 9 kilometres from Dawki, this tunning waterfall is quite underrated. It is a scenic waterfall situated in Dawki. It is located on the Dawki-Riwai road. It is in the Pynursla district. Gushing into the Sylhet borders of Bangladesh, this fall is worth taking a look at with milky white water running down the slope and the soothing gushing sound. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers. It is also known as the Bophill falls and as Pangtumai in Bangladesh.
6. Krang Suri Falls
Krang Suri Falls is truly a view to behold. It is view straight out of Kipling’s pages, with turquoise water, large rocks and lush green forest. Meghalaya is known for waterfalls. And Cherrapunji being the place to receive the highest rainfall, is meant to have many waterfalls that will stop you on your way and make you gawk in awe. Krang Suri waterfalls is one of the. Just 30 kilometres away from Jowai, the tranquil ambience of this place will make it hard for you to leave the place. The falls cuts one off the tourist circuit since it is a bit off the route. Nested in the serenity of the Jaintia hills, this is a place to go if you enjoy the calm scenic beauty of nature. It is blessed with lush green forest hugging it and crystal blue waters gushing into the pool below. The way to Krang Suri is interesting One begins with wide open meadows and then slowly descent to shrubs and vegetation and then into the thin forest. On a calm sunny afternoon, one can enjoy a dip in the pool as well.
7. Byrdaw Falls
Hiding in the hills of East Khasi and at a distance of just 23 kilometres from Mawlynnong, Byrdaw Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall located at Pomshutia village. Located on the way from Shillong to Dawki, it is one of the most stunning waterfalls in East Khasi Hills and among the popular places for tourists to visit in Mawlynnong. Byrdaw Falls is a two-stepped waterfall cascading down from a height of about 150 metres into a pool below surrounded by greenery. The falls is breath-taking especially during the monsoon season when it revels its true beauty. One can also go behind the waterfall and experience the mighty flow of the falls. One need to take a trek of about 2 kilometres from Pomshutia village that takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the Byrdaw Falls. Proper road and footpath are built especially for tourists in order to reach the waterfalls. There is also a cave situated just behind the falls from where one can take in the rare view of watching a waterfalls flow from behind. Since the Byrdaw falls is located in a remote location, it is better to take a guide or someone who knows the place well enough.
8. Jingmaham Living Root Bridge
Jingmaham Living Root Bridge is one of the most unique natural wonders that can be experienced in Meghalaya. Formed by weaving the roots of ancient rubber trees, this bridge is truly a wonder created through the combined efforts of both man and nature. A walk to this single Living Root bridge is refreshing, all covered by lush greenery and silence through out the forest trails. It is at a distance of a few kilometres drive from Mawlynnong. Locals have cared for this bridge for generations, making it both a pathway and a symbol of harmony with nature. For travellers seeking peaceful and scenic places to visit in Dawki, this living root bridge is a must-see. It’s not just a sightseeing spot but an experience that stays with you long after your trip ends.
9. India–Bangladesh International Border
The India–Bangladesh International Border is one of the longest and most unique borders in South Asia. This region also attracts travellers exploring the Northeast, especially popular places to visit in Dawki, which lies close to the border. This spot can be reached after crossing Dawki river. Over the years, trade routes have brought communities even closer. While security forces protect the boundary, they also build friendly ties with locals. Visitors can explore the region in ease and can also engage in shopping or trying some snacks from local stalls and shops present around.
10. Riwai Village
Nested in the slopes of the East Khasi hills, the Riwai village is next in popularity after Mawlynnong village. It is just 81 kilometres from Shillong and near to Dawki. It is also known for its cleanliness. The Riwai village is perfect for anyone who wants to spend his or her vacation days in a calm and serene ambiance with lush green forest hugging the village and a waterfall or two here and there. This is a perfect place for nature lovers. Riwai has a population of only four hundred and thirty-eight people. Some of the villagers sometimes even offer home-cooked meals to the visitors. The village is also known for the scenic beauty of the cliffs hovering over it as well as the welcoming behaviour of the locals. The local language is Khasi but the make a pretty good effort of understanding other languages like Bengali or Hindi.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Dawki
1. What are the best places to visit in Dawki?
Dawki is a small town with many unique places to visit and witness. A few must visit places are listed below:
➤Dawki river (Umngot River)
➤Shnongpdeng
➤India-Bangadesh Border
➤Borhill Falls
➤Jingmaham Living Root Bridge
2. What is the distance of Shillong from Dawki?
Dawki to Shillong approximate distance is about 79.4 kilometres.
3. What are some essentials to carry for Dawki trip?
Travellers can carry essentials as per their requirements, yet some things to carry on your Dawki trip includes the following:
➤Sunscreen & sunglasses
➤Comfortable clothes
➤Extra pair of footwear
➤Waterproof bag
4. What are some adventurous things to do in Dawki?
Dawki offers a lot of thrilling activities to its visitors. Some of the activities include the following:
➤Scuba Diving
➤Snorkelling
➤Kayaking
➤Cliff Jumping
➤Camping
There are various more things to do in Dawki that adds on to the thrill and charm of your trip.
5. Can travellers visit Dawki and Mawlynnong on the same day?
Yes, Dawki and Mawlynnong are visited on the same day from Shillong or Cherrapunji by majority of travellers. You can check out our Mesmerising Tour of Shillong, Cherrapunji and Dawki and add on to the enjoyment and thrill of the journey.
6. Is boating in Dawki available throughout the year?
Boating is available in Dawki almost year-round, but during heavy rain in monsoon season, it may be discontinued for a period of time.
7. What are some local dishes to try in Dawki?
Some local dishes that are a must-try includes:
➤Jadoh
➤Tungrambai
➤Kyat
➤Ktung
8. How many days are enough to witness major spots of Dawki?
Visitors can witness the major spots in just one day. But can spend more days based on the requirement and ease of travel. You can explore our 4 Days Adventure Trip to Meghalaya or Majestic Cherrapunji Dawki Mawlynnong Tour for a perfect tour.
9. Is Dawki safe to visit?
Absolutely! Dawki is the best and safest place for any visitor no matter you're travelling with family, friends or solo. However, being mindful of ones's surroundings and belongings is always recommended.
10. Do visitors need permission to visit the Indo–Bangladesh border?
No, visitors don't require any such permissions for visiting Indo–Bangladesh border.