Mawlynnong Village Meghalaya – The Ultimate Guide to the Cleanest Village in Asia
Imagine walking into a village where the air feels fresher, the streets shine without a single wrapper lying around, and flowers bloom outside every house like they’ve been carefully painted there.
Welcome to Mawlynnong, a little paradise in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya.
This village may be small, but it holds a big title – The Cleanest Village in Asia. It won this honour in 2003 when Discover India magazine first recognised what the people here had already been living for generations: that cleanliness is a way of life.
Mythological & Historical Background
The story of Mawlynnong begins centuries ago. According to Khasi folklore, the ancestors believed that nature is sacred and must always be respected. They say people believe the forest spirits would bless them with wealth if the land stayed pure and untouched.
Over time, Mawlynnong grew as a farming settlement. People cultivated betel nut, broomsticks, and spices, living close to the soil. Along with their crops, they preserved their traditions and stories—reminding every new generation that keeping the village clean and living in harmony with nature was not just a choice, but a duty.
How the People of Mawlynnong Village Maintain Cleanliness
The wonder of Mawlynnong lies not only in its serene surroundings, but in the way its people live with harmony and mindful habits. Cleanliness here isn’t taught in schools alone—it’s practised in daily life by everyone.
- Bamboo dustbins at every corner – Handmade bamboo baskets instead of plastic bins.
- Ban on plastics and tobacco – People keep in mind cleanliness, not only for nature but Strictly enforced to protect health too
- Composting waste – They follow the rule of recycle that is why Kitchen waste is turned into compost for farms. through this practice they stop the possibility of making garbage from kitchens make the garbage usable for farms .
- Eco-friendly toilets – people of Mawlynnong use the toilets made of Bamboo or pit toilets to keep ground water clean
- Rainwater harvesting – every thing given by nature they honour and respect that for rainy season Rooftop bamboo pipes are there to collect water for drinking and farming.
- Community rules – Everyone takes responsibility for cleanliness. cleanliness is in there blood following the rules regarding clean homes clean roads clean village whole community practice these it is the result that they have won the title The Cleanest Village in Asia IN 2003.
👉 This strong sense of togetherness is why Mawlynnong is more than just a clean village—it is an example for the whole world.
Social & Cultural Significance
- The people belong to the Khasi community, which follows a matrilineal system (family lineage passes through mothers).
- Women play a key role in decision-making and property inheritance.
- Colourful festivals like Behdienkhlam and the Nongkrem Dance Festival bring the community together to celebrate ancestors and nature.
- Guests are treated with warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel like family.
Things to Do in Meghalaya:
- Riwai Living Root Bridge (Near Mawlynnong Village, East Khasi Hills) this bridge is made up of aerial roots of the Ficus elastica tree, these bridges are masterpieces of bio-engineering and community wisdom. Length of this bridge is 30 meters
- 85- Foot Bamboo Skywalk is in Mawlynnong village Meghalaya which is fully made with bamboo. You will enjoy and feel thrill while climbing on this reaching on top stunning views of Bangladesh where blowing breeze will make you fresh.
- Khasi Homes: Khasi homes are made of bamboo which is found in plenty over here . Every home has a colourful gardens having beautiful flowers which enhance the beauty of homes and make the scenic view
- Dawki River: its original name is Umngot River but it passes through Dwaki village known as Dwaki River 30 km away from Mawlynnong village Meghalaya famous for its crystal-clear waters.
- While taking a tour in Mawlynnong see all Living Root Bridges to know more click here
- Spend a day in Shillong, the capital city, to enjoy its colonial architecture and lively markets.
Economic Aspects of Mawlynnong Village, Meghalaya
community of Mawlynnong village Meghalaya Tourism is now the backbone of the economy.
- except farming livelihoods based on the different type of Entry fees, homestays for tourists , and eco-tourism activities
- people of Mawlynnong continues Farming with betel nut, broom grass, and spices.
Items & Souvenirs
Beauty of Mawlynnong village Meghalaya is awasome but bring the memory of mawllynnong to your home you’d like to take a piece of Mawlynnong look for:
- As bamboo is grown in abundanceat mawlynnong so Handmade bamboo and cane baskets are crafted beautifully and very usable you can take as souvenir
- ladies are expert to make Colourful Khasi shawls and textiles
- Due to natural beauty flora and fauna of Mawlynnong village Meghalaya Organic honey , betel nut, and black pepper are in abundance these are also good stuff to bring as souvenir.
- Small wooden tribal carvings are also amazing and artistic too .
Interesting & Unique Facts of Mawlynnong
- 100% literacy rate. of Mawlynnong meghalaya shows the people understand the importance of education to improve or develop the Meghalaya.
- community don’t like to consume tobacco that’s why the reason Mawlynnong is Plastic-free and tobacco-free village.
- Every household contributes to cleanliness.
- Composting & waste recycling are routine.
- In the society of khasi community Mawlynnong is Matrilineal where they transfer the property from mother to daughter.
- Rainwater harvesting tradiitions in Mawlynnong villagege meghalaya are practised for centuries.
- Broomsticks (Thysanolaena maxima) grown here are used to keep homes and streets clean.
Best time to Visit Mawlynnong
- Best Time: October to April (pleasant weather).
- Avoid: June–September (heavy monsoon).
How to Reach: Best Time to Visit Mawlynnong village Meghalaya
- By Air: The Airport of Shillong named (Umroi) is – 90 km away.
- By Road: Shared cabs/taxis from Shillong (approx. 3 hours).
- By Rail: Guwahati Railway Station – 170 km away.
To know more visit the official Meghalaya Tourism Website
Practical Travel Tips
- Always Carry cash – in mawlynnong online payments are limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
- Respect local customs – cummunity respect their customs for cleanliness always use dustbins.
- Book homestays in advance during peak season.
- Bring a raincoat/umbrella if travelling in monsoon.
FAQs
Why is Mawlynnong called the cleanest village in Asia?
Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya is known as the cleanest village in Asia because every household actively participates in maintaining cleanliness. People use bamboo dustbins, practise composting & waste recycling, and follow strict bans on plastics and tobacco. This community-driven lifestyle makes it a true eco-friendly village in India.
What is special about Khasi culture in Mawlynnong?
The Khasi community of Mawlynnong follows a matrilineal society, where property is passed from mother to daughter. Women play a central role in decision-making, and vibrant festivals like Behdienkhlam and Nongkrem Dance Festival showcase their rich traditions
Why is Mawlynnong called “God’s Own Garden”?
Mawlynnong is called “God’s Own Garden” because of its breathtaking natural beauty, colourful flower gardens, spotless streets, and green landscapes. The nickname shows how harmony between people and nature makes this the cleanest village in Asia.
How safe is Mawlynnong Village for tourists?
Mawlynnong is considered one of the safest eco-friendly villages in India. With strong community rules, warm Khasi hospitality, and a focus on respect for guests, Mawlynnong tourism is safe even for solo travellers and families.
How long should I spend in Mawlynnong Village?
Most travellers spend one full day in Mawlynnong Village tourism to explore the living root bridge, bamboo skywalk, balancing rock, and Dawki River. However, staying overnight in a homestay in Mawlynnong Meghalaya gives you a richer cultural experience.
Why do travellers call Mawlynnong “a hidden gem of Meghalaya”?
Travellers call Mawlynnong a hidden gem because of its small size, remote location, and the surprising beauty of its clean streets, Khasi homes, living root bridge Mawlynnong, and colourful gardens.
Conclusion
Mawlynnong is more than just a village—it’s a lesson in harmony between people and nature. From bamboo dustbins to rainwater harvesting, from plastic bans to warm hospitality, every corner of Mawlynnong tells a story of care, respect, and community spirit.
It truly deserves its nickname: “God’s Own Garden.”
For any traveller seeking inspiration, peace, and beauty, Mawlynnong Village tourism is an unforgettable experience in Meghalaya.
