Located in the Northeast state of Meghalaya, a place filled with gushing waterfalls, azure rivers, rich wildlife, and most importantly a place close to the clouds, is a small hamlet named Dawki. The place is famous for its crystal clear Umngot River, which is touted as one of the cleanest rivers in Asia and the cleanest river in India. Nestled beautifully along the Bangladesh border and the quaint Mawlynnong village, it is about 90 km from Shillong. This small village lies at the base of the imposing Jaintia Hills, and the best way to enjoy the mesmerising beauty of the place is through a boat ride that takes you along the gleaming stream featuring different kinds of fish and aquatic creatures floating below along with colourful pebbles that lie at the bottom of the riverbed. As the boat sails by, you are welcomed by the cool breeze and sparkling cascades that drop down from striking hills that are covered with tall pine trees.
Top 4 Things To Do In Dawki
Leave behind the hustle-bustle of popular tourist spots and the crowd, and just take a drive to Dawki from Shillong on your next holiday! The place has pleasant weather throughout the year, making it perfect to visit anytime. To help you get sorted, here is your ultimate travel guide to this beautiful village.
1. Umngot River
The pristine water of Umngot river is so clear and clean that one can see through the river bed even though the depth of the waterbody is almost 20 feet. During the month of September, soon after the monsoon, is when the water appears much clearer than ever. Boating in this river is a beautiful experience and the crystal-clear water is a unique sight to behold. You can also view mighty Bangladesh's border from the river.
2. Byrdaw Falls
The beautiful Byrdaw falls, is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. The best time to visit the falls is from June to September when the weather is equally beautiful as the waterfall. Photography enthusiasts can appreciate the verdant surroundings of the waterfall which become much greener and alive after getting soaked in the monsoon rain. So, be sure to carry your camera to capture the scenic beauty.
3. Mawshun Cave
The Mawshun caves are one of the best tourist attractions near Dawki village. Situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, the caves have a tricky terrain and get adventurous and narrower as they go deep. They are filled with stalagmite which makes them one of the most beautiful caves in Meghalaya and one of the top attractions here.
4. Enjoy The Local Cuisine
Once here, try tasting the delightful Meghalayan cuisine at the local dhabas on the way to Dawki from Shillong. The dhabas here serve some of the best local delicacies like Jadoh, Jhur Sideh, and Doh khlieh which one does not easily find outside Meghalaya. You can also enjoy the regional tropical fruits like pineapple, cherry, guava, and jack-fruit here.
This holiday season, travel to the beautiful village of Dawki in Meghalaya and get soaked in the divine natural beauty of the place!