Tucked along the Indo–Bangladesh border in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills, Mawlynnong has earned the title of “Asia’s Cleanest Village.” Its cobbled lanes, bamboo walkways, and manicured flower gardens reveal a community where cleanliness is not a rule but a way of life. Every home feels like part of a living garden, and the locals’ devotion to harmony with nature gives the village an almost storybook serenity.
Beyond its reputation for cleanliness, Mawlynnong offers a glimpse into sustainable Khasi living. Handcrafted bamboo dustbins line every path, composting pits manage waste, and plastic is virtually absent. The air feels crisp, the smiles genuine, and the entire village moves to the rhythm of slow, mindful living — a refreshing contrast to the noise of urban tourism.
Located about 78 km from Shillong and 90 km from Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong can be comfortably explored in a day or enjoyed overnight at one of its rustic homestays. Visitors often pair it with Dawki and Riwai Village, creating a perfect circuit of nature, culture, and calm.
Mawlynnong’s attractions blend human creativity and natural wonder. The village itself is the highlight — every lane, garden, and bamboo balcony is a picture of eco-conscious design. Yet a few key sites stand out for their scenic and cultural appeal.
Mawlynnong pairs beautifully with Dawki for river adventures and Cherrapunji for waterfalls, forming a balanced Meghalaya loop of peace, play, and panoramas.
Mawlynnong lies about 78 km from Shillong (2–2.5 hours) and 170 km from Guwahati (5–6 hours). The drive from Shillong via Pynursla is one of the most scenic routes in Meghalaya, winding through highland forests and misty ridges.
The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati. From there, travelers can reach Shillong by taxi or shared cab and continue onward to Mawlynnong by road.
There is no railway connectivity in Meghalaya. The nearest major station is Guwahati; from there, travelers typically take road transport to Shillong and onward to Mawlynnong.
Mawlynnong does not require any special permit such as an ILP or PAP for Indian or foreign visitors. A government ID is sufficient for hotel and homestay check-ins.
Mawlynnong enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. The region receives generous rainfall, especially from June to September, turning its gardens into a lush wonderland. Winters are cool, summers are pleasant, and the monsoon paints every leaf with freshness.
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | December – February | 10°C – 18°C | Cool and misty; perfect for village walks and photography. Light woollens recommended for evenings. |
| Summer | March – May | 15°C – 25°C | Pleasant weather with blooming gardens; great for day trips and exploring the root bridge trail. |
| Monsoon | June – September | 16°C – 23°C | Heavy rains and rich greenery; ideal for photography though roads may get slippery. Carry rain gear. |
| Post-Monsoon (Autumn) | October – November | 12°C – 20°C | Clear skies and vivid landscapes; excellent visibility from the Sky View Tower. |
Rain showers are frequent even outside monsoon months, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat is wise. Nights can get chilly, especially in winter. Comfortable walking shoes and reusable water bottles are highly recommended.
Mawlynnong can be visited throughout the year, but each season has its charm:
Day 1: Arrival at Shillong → Drive to Mawlynnong (en route stop at Mawkdok Valley and Riwai Root Bridge)
Day 2: Explore Mawlynnong Village, Sky View Tower, Balancing Rock → Optional extension to Dawki River for boating
Day 3: Return to Shillong or continue toward Cherrapunji for waterfall exploration
For detailed routes and curated experiences, explore our Mawlynnong Tour Packages.
Clean Roads of the Village
Living Root Bridge
Natural surrounding view
Viewpoint for Bangladesh border
Mawlynnong is situated in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is approximately 90 kilometers from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya.
Mawlynnong has earned the title of the "Cleanest Village in Asia" due to the community's strong emphasis on cleanliness and waste management. Residents actively participate in keeping the village clean, and there is a ban on plastic.
Mawlynnong itself is an attraction for the visitors. Additionally, key attractions in Mawlynnong include the Single Decker Living Root Bridge, Sky Walk, and Balancing Rock. The village itself is a charming place to explore, with its well-maintained gardens and bamboo structures.
The best time to visit Mawlynnong is during the months of October to April when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant.
Visitors are encouraged to follow the local customs and respect the cleanliness norms. There are guidelines to ensure the preservation of the environment and local traditions.
