Have you ever seen a river so clear that you can see the bottom of it? If not, then you need to visit Dawki River in Meghalaya, India. Dawki River, also known as Umngot River, is a stunning natural attraction that will leave you speechless with its beauty and tranquility.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Dawki River, including how to reach it, when to visit it, what to do there, and where to stay. Read on and discover why Dawki River is a must-visit destination for your next trip.
How to Reach Dawki River
Dawki River is located in the West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, near the border with Bangladesh. The nearest major city is Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, which is about 80 km away from Dawki. You can reach Dawki from Shillong by road in about 2.5 hours, either by hiring a taxi or taking a shared cab or bus. The road journey is scenic and enjoyable, as you pass through lush green hills, waterfalls, and bridges.
Another option is to reach Dawki from Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and the gateway to Northeast India. Guwahati is well connected by air, rail, and road to other parts of India. From Guwahati, you can take a flight or a train to Shillong and then proceed to Dawki by road. Alternatively, you can drive directly from Guwahati to Dawki in about 5 hours, covering a distance of 200 km.
If you are coming from Silchar, another important city in Assam, you can also reach Dawki by road in about 4 hours, covering a distance of 150 km. Silchar has an airport and a railway station that connect it to other cities in India.
Some tips and suggestions for reaching Dawki are:
- The best time to travel by road is during the daytime, as the roads can be narrow and winding at some places.
- Carry some snacks and water with you, as there are not many eateries on the way.
- Carry your identity proof and passport (if applicable), as you may have to show them at the border check post.
- Enjoy the views and stop at some places for taking photos or admiring the nature.
When to Visit Dawki River
Dawki River is blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C. However, the best time to visit Dawki River depends on what you want to see and do there.
If you want to witness the crystal clear water of Dawki River, then the best time to visit is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the water level is low and the visibility is high, making it possible to see the riverbed and the fish swimming in it. The weather is also cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
If you want to experience the cultural and festive side of Dawki River, then the best time to visit is during the spring season, from March to April. During this time, Dawki hosts the annual boat racing festival called Umsyiem or Sajar Nangli. This festival celebrates the friendship and harmony between India and Bangladesh, as people from both sides of the border participate in the boat race and other cultural events. The festival also attracts many tourists who come to enjoy the colorful spectacle and the local cuisine.
If you want to enjoy the greenery and freshness of Dawki River, then the best time to visit is during the monsoon season, from May to October. During this time, Dawki receives heavy rainfall that fills up the river and makes it livelier and more vibrant. The surrounding hills and forests also become lusher and more verdant, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue water. However, be prepared for some roadblocks and landslides that may occur due to the rain.
You may also like to read: Here's How to Get to the Sparkling and Surreal Umngot River
What to Do in Dawki River
Dawki River offers a variety of things to do for different types of travelers, whether they are looking for adventure, nature, culture, or food. Here are some of the things that you can do in Dawki River:
Bamboo rafting:
One of the most popular activities in Dawki River is bamboo rafting or boating. You can rent a bamboo raft or a boat from one of the local operators and glide along the clear water of the river. You can also enjoy the views of the hills, forests, villages, and bridges that line up along the riverbanks. The best time for bamboo rafting is during the winter season when the water is calm and clear.
Kayaking:
If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also try kayaking in Dawki River. You can rent a kayak from one of the local operators and paddle your way through the river. You can also challenge yourself by navigating through some rapids and currents that may occur during the monsoon season. The best time for kayaking is during the monsoon season when the water is high and fast.
Fishing:
If you are fond of fishing, you can also indulge in this activity in Dawki River. You can rent a fishing rod from one of the local operators and try your luck in catching some fish from the river. You can also learn some fishing techniques from the local fishermen who frequent the river. The best time for fishing is during the winter season when the fish are more visible and active.
Walking:
If you prefer a more leisurely activity, you can also go for a walk along the riverbank or the Dawki Bridge. You can enjoy the fresh air and the serene atmosphere of the river. You can also interact with the local people and learn more about their culture and lifestyle. The best time for walking is during any season, as long as the weather is favorable.
Camping:
If you want to spend a night under the stars, you can also opt for camping near Dawki River. You can rent a tent or a campsite from one of the local operators and set up your camp near the riverbed. You can also enjoy a bonfire, a barbecue, and some music with your friends or family. The best time for camping is during the winter season when the nights are cold and clear.
Exploring villages:
If you want to get a glimpse of the rural life of Meghalaya, you can also visit some of the nearby villages around Dawki River. You can explore the villages of Shnongpdeng, Darrang, or Tamabil, which are known for their natural beauty and hospitality. You can also witness some of the traditional practices and customs of the local tribes, such as Khasi, Jaintia, or Garo. The best time for exploring villages is during any season, as long as you have permission from the villagers.
Waterfall:
If you want to see a waterfall near Dawki River, you can also visit the Byrdaw Falls, which is about 10 km away from Dawki. Byrdaw Falls is a cascading waterfall that flows into a pool of clear water surrounded by rocks and trees. You can also take a dip in the pool or sit on the rocks and enjoy the sound of the water. The best time to visit Byrdaw Falls is during the monsoon season when the water flow is high and impressive.
Eating:
If you want to taste some of the local delicacies of Meghalaya, you can also try some of the food stalls or restaurants near Dawki River. You can savor some of the dishes such as jadoh (rice cooked with meat), tungrymbai (fermented soybean), dohkhlieh (pork salad), or pukhlein (sweet bread). You can also try some of the fresh fruits such as pineapple, banana, or jackfruit that grow in abundance in this region. The best time to eat is during any season, as long as you are hungry and adventurous.
Rock formations:
If you want to see some rock formations near Dawki River, you can also visit the Mawlynnong Village, which is about 35 km away from Dawki. Mawlynnong Village is famous for being one of the cleanest villages in Asia and for having some unique rock formations such as balancing rocks or living root bridges. You can also admire the cleanliness and beauty of this village and learn more about its history and culture. The best time to visit Mawlynnong Village is during any season, as long as you have enough time and curiosity.
Where to Stay in Dawki River
Dawki River has some options for accommodation that suit different budgets and preferences of travelers. Here are some of them:
Camps:
If you want to stay close to nature and experience camping near Dawki River, you can choose from one of the camps that are available near the riverbed. Some of them are Dawki Riverside Camps, Shnongpdeng Riverside Camps, or Umngot Riverside Camps. These camps offer basic amenities such as tents, mattresses, blankets, toilets, and parking facilities. They also provide food, bonfire, music, and other activities on request. The price range for these camps is from Rs 500 to Rs 1500 per person per night.
Homestays:
If you want to stay with a local family and experience their hospitality and culture near Dawki River, you can opt for one of the homestays that are available in some of the nearby villages. Some of them are Shnongpdeng Homestay, Darrang Homestay, or Tamabil Homestay. These homestays offer basic amenities such as rooms, beds, blankets, bathrooms, and parking facilities. They also provide food, which is usually cooked by the host family using local ingredients and recipes. The price range for these homestays is from Rs 1000 to Rs 2000 per person per night.
Hotels:
If you want to stay in a more comfortable and luxurious accommodation near Dawki River, you can book one of the hotels that are available in some of the nearby towns. Some of them are Hotel Polo Orchid, Hotel Pala Resort, or Hotel Jiva Resort. These hotels offer modern amenities such as rooms, beds, blankets, bathrooms, TV, Wi-Fi, and parking facilities. They also have restaurants, bars, spas, and other facilities on their premises. The price range for these hotels is from Rs 3000 to Rs 6000 per person per night.
Resorts:
If you want to stay in a more secluded and exclusive accommodation near Dawki River, you can reserve one of the resorts that are available in some of the nearby locations. Some of them are Ri Kynjai Resort, Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort, or Polo Orchid Resort. These resorts offer premium amenities such as cottages, villas, suites, bathrooms, TV, Wi-Fi, and parking facilities. They also have swimming pools, gardens, terraces, and other amenities on their premises. The price range for these resorts is from Rs 7000 to Rs 15000 per person per night.
Also check out: Umngot, the Cleanest River in Asia Is Under Threat! Here's What's Happening!
Dawki River is a crystal-clear wonder of Meghalaya that deserves a place in your bucket list. Whether you want to enjoy the natural beauty, the cultural diversity, or the adventurous activities of Dawki River, you will find something that suits your taste and preference. Dawki River is also a great place to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body in the lap of nature.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Dawki River today. We will take care of all your travel needs and ensure that you have a memorable and hassle-free experience.
