The highlight of the trek isn’t just the destination, but the path itself. Locals have built the trail using only bamboo and cane ropes, carefully tying everything together to create walkways and bridges that stretch across cliffs, gorges, and rivers. There’s no concrete, no government construction.

How to Get There

Wahkhen Village is about a two hour drive from Shillong, the main city in Meghalaya. The drive winds through beautiful hill roads and small villages, and it’s pretty smooth the whole way. You can easily hire a cab or drive yourself. Most people do the trek as a day trip from Shillong, though it’s possible to stay in Wahkhen if you can find a local homestay. Options are limited, so plan ahead.

The full trek takes around four to five hours depending on your pace. It starts with a descent through thick greenery, leading down to the valley where the Wahrew River flows. This is where things get exciting — because to cross the river, you’ll be walking over narrow bamboo bridges built right above the water. They sway, they creak, and they’re a little scary, but they’re stronger than they look.

What to Expect

After crossing the river, the trail becomes steeper. The bamboo path narrows, and the drop beside you gets higher. The peaceful forest becomes more intense, especially when you’re walking on a bamboo plank suspended over open space. But as you keep climbing, you’ll pass hidden waterfalls and lookout points that make you pause and just take it all in.

The final stretch of the trek is the most dramatic. You climb up a tall bamboo ladder fixed to a cliff face, which takes you to a huge standing rock known as U Mawryngkhang, also called the King of Stones. It stands tall over the valley and feels like something out of a storybook. When you reach the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of clouds, forests, and waterfalls in every direction.

For the Adventurous

This trek is not for the faint hearted. It’s steep, exposed in some parts, and demands a decent level of fitness and courage. But if you enjoy a bit of adrenaline and raw, natural beauty, it delivers big time. It’s also deeply personal, built and maintained by the local community.

Good to Know

• Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip

• Carry water, snacks, and a small first aid kit

• Best done during the dry season (November to April)

• Mobile signal is patchy, let someone know your plans

• Start early if you’re returning to Shillong the same day

• The trail is safe, but not beginner friendly, go with a local guide if unsure

The Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trek is not just a hike, it’s an experience — full of thrill, beauty, and the deep sense that you're walking a path that few others have. It’s raw, real, and something you’ll remember long after your legs stop aching.