Things to do in Dawki
The Tamabil post in Bangladesh has a counterpart known as the Dawki Integrated Check Post, which is amongst the single road that connects Bangladesh with India. It is located in the West Jaintia Hills area of the Indian state of Meghalaya. The Dawki ICP’s building block was placed in January 2017 and it will start operating in 2018. It is mostly used to deliver coal to Bangladesh. During the busiest times of the year, five hundred trucks per day cross the border. In person as well as in poorly processed photographs, Dawki’s breathtaking views are fascinating. India’s northeastern region,lies this prominent tourist town of Meghalaya. Even if one only goes there once, it will undoubtedly be in one’s memory for the rest of their life. Additionally, Dawki is endowed with a range of minerals. Its coal mines and abundant limestone reserves make it a major commerce hub for India, notably with Bangladesh, which is a neighbour. Each morning, collective utilisation of transportation is offered from Iewduh in Shillong to the border checkpoint at Dawki. For the seventy kilometres trip from Shillong, buses are additionally an option. Frequently running buses to Sylhet fifty-five kilometres is available at the Tamabil bus station, one and half kilometres distant, as opposed to Bangladesh. Additionally English, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, and other Indian languages are spoken in Meghalaya. Communication with the locals of Meghalaya is not difficult for visitors. Agriculture is the main source of income for most people in Meghalaya. They gather ginger, sweet potatoes, rice, and other crops. The amazing Umngot River, further known as the Dawki River, is what makes Dawki the most well-known tourist destination. The water in this river is so clear that it could as well be transparent glass. Dawki is an excellent launching point for exploring the adjacent Shnongpdeng and Darrang, two well-known riverbank camps. In Northern Bangladesh, as the hills give way to the plains, one can see a blending of civilizations and shifting geography. While watching the lights flare above the nearby plains over the soft, black river, one can enjoy some breathtaking night time beauty at this location. When the boat riding competition on the Umngot River is held in the city, it becomes a hub of tourist activity, particularly in the spring. Dawki is a site worth visiting because of the lush vegetation, the chilly river, and the stunning span that is suspended over the Umngot River. The winter and summer months from November to May are the finest times for an excursion to Dawki to discover its vast natural splendour. Dawki is open for travel all year long. For touring, this is the season when the weather is still more hospitable. It is advised to stay away from visiting Dawki during the height of the monsoon due to the risk of landslides and road closures brought on by the city’s significant precipitation during the monsoon season. The heavily engrossed time of year in Dawki is from February to April, when a lot of travellers come to this area. Tourists can stay in a few guest rooms and tents nearby in Dawki. Shillong, on the other hand, ought to be the top choice for lodging because it is a significant tourist hub with a wide range of affordable lodging recourse. Dawki can be reached comfortably by air, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport which is one hundred and ninety kilometres, being the nearest airport or by train, Guwahati Railway Station which is one hundred and seventy two kilometres, being the nearest one. Another alternative could be by bus, Shillong Bus Station being the nearest one which is eighty kilometres. Driving from Shillong will take you to Dawki which is approximately eighty two kilometres away from Dawki. There are lots of lovely trees, fascinating rivulets, and lush forests along the way to Dawki. About six miles from Dawki River is where you may find this breathtaking natural beauty. Despite the fact that tourists may not be familiar with this waterfall, it is nonetheless worthwhile to see. Even if the road upto the falls is rather uneven, once you see them, you won’t think back on the challenges you faced.
Following are the things to do in Dawki
1 Delve in to Mawlynnong
Meghalaya’s Dawki region is a stunning and unspoiled location. Even while some sections of the region are more often frequented by visitors than others, they are nonetheless worth seeing. The Mawlynnong village, which has the distinction of being the most pristine settlement in Asia, is one of those places. Less than three hours’ travel separates Shillong’s neighbouring village and is among the greatest places to visit and errands to do in Dawki. One can tell Mawlynnong is clean the instant you get there, particularly if you have visited other regions of India. The locals take great care in maintaining a spotless home. There is absolutely no garbage or debris on the floor, and plastic is prohibited. One could see residents cleaning the streets and walks of any debris as you pass through the town and walk by houses. Mawlynnong doesn’t have a large population. There are just five hundred residents in the village as of 2015, therefore it is incredibly tranquil and quiet. All Saints Church, a building constructed in 1902 that combines European and Meghalayan idioms of architecture, is one of the area’s more intriguing attractions. In addition, it’s likely that one may see berries that can be picked at hand and the jackfruit trees are in full bloom. They taste great when they are mature and resemble mulberries or blackberries. There are a variety of items available, such as jewellery, a wooden grout and pestle, clocks, bamboo titfer and mufflers. Mawlynnong is an exceptionally lovely place overall, and it has the atmosphere of a little Caribbean or Middle foreign hamlet. It is a major attraction in Dawki for a cause, after all. Although most visitors to Mawlynnong come for a day excursion, the hamlet also offers homestays and guest or boarding houses for those who would like to stay a bit longer.
2 Purchase at Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, which is approximately thirty-five kilometres away from Dawki, is well regarded for being the cleanest village in all of Asia. Driving or even walking are both options for getting there. An advertisement for “Asia’s Cleanest Village” can be seen right at the entrance. The absence of plastic is one of contributing elements leading to the village’s cleanliness. In addition, there are trash cans everywhere, and the inhabitants regularly sweep up any street garbage. Here, one can go to the All Saints Church and snap up for trinkets in the neighbourhood market. There are many intriguing objects for home adornment, including tippets, keychains, broken ornaments, timber toys, clocks, bamboo helmets, and many others. Here, visitors can haggle and find goods for a reasonable price.
3 Explore the India-Bangladesh Border at the Sky Walk
A tall structure built solely from bamboo poles is called The SkyWalk. The building is held together by jute and bamboo strands, yet it’s remarkably solid. Although there is a mild ascent to the summit, the bamboo pathway is somewhat small, so you may have to push one side to the other to make room for other tourists descending from the top. At the summit, eighty feet above the earth, there is a peeping point in the shape of a square as well as four circular tiers of bamboo stairs. One will experience splendid views of the Bangladesh Plains flatlands from this breathtaking vantage spot. Few of the best things to do in Dawki is undoubtedly to arrive and explore the SkyWalk.
4 Ascend the Bamboo Tilt at Sky Walk
Mawlynnong also has the Sky Walk, which is well known for having a vantage spot from which one can overlook Bangladesh. Here one must climb a bamboo framework made completely of bamboo. Only 4-5 individuals in a line are advised to climb the somewhat small slopes at a time. The main difference between it and a treehouse is that the hill merely goes to a small platform constructed of bamboo. It seems as though one is suspended in the air when one stands on their feet there and observes the sight of the border between India and Bangladesh.
5 Camping at the sight of Shnongpdeng
Striking Shnongpdeng is one of the best things to carry out in Dawki. In contrast to Dawki, more of a hidden gem, Shnongpdeng is a little town. It is located along the Umngot River. Despite being relatively undiscovered by tourists, The town is unquestionably among the top places to go and things to do in Dawki. Beautiful locations like the Krang Suri Waterfall and the pure clear river waters are among the underestimated charisma of the region. Along with the stunning scenery, this region is popular and there are areas along the river where people can camp. Although there is a little entry fee to the town, spending the night here by the river beneath the stars will be of good merit and with a view of the amazing suspension bridge. The majority of visitors also find it impossible to refuse to ascend the bridge to capture breathtaking aerial captures of the river and the breathtaking and their surroundings are a lovely valley; however, it is important to keep in mind that the bridge can only hold eight to nine people at once and may also appear unstable at times. The bridge is a suspension one and is a great people to take in the gorgeous and green river valley surroundings. Locals may have witnessed swimming and taking a bath in the water that comes from the mountains, but it seems like a good idea to cool off in the water, a terrific method to battle the heat.
6 Riverside Camping
The most thrilling stance is spending hours at Riverside Camping with one’s close and dear to one, staring at the glitter of the sky at night, and having cosy and wonderful times in the tent. Yes! The closest camping area to it is Shnongpdeng Riverside Camping. Take advantage of all the activities that are available while spending special time with your dearest ones and family.
7 River Rafting
For fans of adventure sports, it is without a doubt one amongst the most well-liked locations and a stunning location in the state of Meghalaya, with Dawki staying in a tent, River Rafting on Clear Waters, and Boat Ride are the most well-liked ones. At Shnongpdeng, river rafting presents a secure and enjoyable method to discover the river’s natural beauty. Anybody who desires to do something new from their everyday routine can appreciate the rapids because they are not too challenging.
8 Enjoy the Boat Ride in Umngot River
Take a boat out and travel down the Umngot River, which is among the top things to see and do in Dawki. A local boatman will serve as your guide for the price of seven hundred rupees when you charter a little, timber boat for a quick, half an hour trip across the river. Once inside, one can enjoy a calm and unwinding journey through the river. The crystal-clear waters there may be seen, and up close they look even more beautiful. According to the season you visit, the river’s depth will change. During the wet season, the river’s level is substantially deeper. The admirable and lovely stone cliffs that are present along the river can be seen by guests from the boat. The Umngot River’s water turns as clear as glass when winter comes, and from the water’s surface, the scree is typically discernible. Some visitors also enjoy taking a quick dip in the river around the trivial finish. The boat race is a must-attend event for everyone visiting Dawki at this time, which is conducted every year, it takes place during the months of March and April and is one of the most eagarly awaited events in the area. One of the nicest things to do and see in Dawki is unquestionably taking a boat trip along the Umngot River.
9 Cliff Skipping in Umngot River
It is insufficient to just boat on this river. Anybody would desire to swim when the water is this clear and beautiful. Anyhow, a life jacket will be provided for you to wear on the watercraft. Around the river, there are numerous, high cliffs. To jump into the ocean, simply come to a stop on either of the sides of the boat, scale the cliff, and then do it. This will be among your most courageous actions during the trip, making it an escapade that will make you feel the most satisfied. The life vests should be of high quality, which is one of the things travellers are advised to check. Moreover, keep the vest in place while jumping. For fear that the force of impact could cause the vest to seperate from the body. Visit the appropriate cliff jump location as well. Hop and dive in pure clear water from heights of eight, fourteen and twenty-two feet. As soon as one arrives on Shnongpdeng island, the agent will accompany them to the location of the activity. Before entering the water, training will be given here by experts who will also supply all the necessary equipment. If not sufficient, the ones who cannot swim are also given the opportunity to enjoy the activity while keeping in consideration the significant safety concerns. This experience will include the underwater plunge into the glistening sea. It offers a thrilling memory because it is secluded from the city. Only those who are at least eleven years old may participate in this activity.
10 Relish Fishing at Dawki River
Tourists are welcome to take any fish they want since there are fishes in the river. There, a lot of the natives do that. Another sport you might want to attempt while at the place is fishing, especially if you are patient or just enjoy it. The most effective method of seizing a fish is with locally produced fishing poles, which are simply composed of bamboo and twine.
It is simple for anybody to seize fish here because the water is so clean and the fishes are readily seen. It is something that not everyone will be able to experience. Fishing along with tourism are the main economic drivers for the people. It is possible because there is not any pollution that fish caught in the Dawki River is so good and readily available. With fishing poles in their hands, native ladies, kids, teenagers, and seniors relax in the river each evening. engaging in a lucrative pastime. A magnificent view to see and a recollection to treasure the olive green sea lasts a lifetime dotted with the fishing boats.
11 Tickle your taste buds at Riverside Hut
A riverbank hut that doubles as a restaurant is amongst the finest places to get something to eat. There are lots of mouthwatering dishes to choose from, which includes the local river fish. Start with some rice and then add the incredible fish curry, which has a greenish hue and enormous river fish fillets in it. Jackfruit will also be included in the meal that will be provided to you at the hut. When jackfruit is ripe, it tastes sweet in flavour; but, when it is unripe, it tastes much more fair and has a surface that is nearly meaty. The spinach, bamboo, onions, spices, and mushrooms are all combined with the jackfruit. This dish serves as another high point of the hut because it is an earthy blend of several various vegetation-based grains. Definitely the most incredible and a must try dish of the hut. A forest vegetable that was a slight sharp and tasted a bit like spinach is also included in this feast, along with a dal that has a mild, delicious fruitiness. Examine each one to determine which one you shall prefer.
12 Kayaking at Umngot River
Dawki has this challenging outdoor leisurely activity, which is what character greatness requires. Kayaking is an additional activity that may be done on the Umngot River leaving tourists energised. Despite the water’s presence being very still and the kayaking is less challenging, this area. Because it offers a safe environment and an engaging experience, this site is excellent for students. Only kayaking is necessary to experience Dawki’s riverbank area. Unwinding in the midst of nature and experiencing a sense of renewal is unmistakebly a signal that one is in marvellous India. Clinging firmly or attaching to the pulley’s freely rotating surface. A security line, obviously necessary, was also added on top of it.
13 Jaflong Zero Point: Discover Two Nations Altogether
The Jaflong Zero Point, which is roughly a kilometre from Dawki Market and is positioned near the boundary between India and Bangladesh, allows travellers to effectively be in two nations at once. The famed Umngot River crosses over into Bangladesh at this location as well. Here, a large number of members of the Khasi tribe live, and the area is home to a collection of numerous stones in diffirent forms. It goes without saying that travellers go to this location in order to take beautiful photos and record special split seconds that they can keep forever. Additionally, an Indian Watchman is there at all times to watch over the Bangladesh-India border. The Zero point is free to enter and is accessible to everyone from 8 AM in the morning to 4 PM in the afternoon.
14 Tour of the Riwai Village
A little village called Riwai is highly regarded for its living root bridges. These remarkable constructions have existed in Riwai over the past three hundred years. They were initially erected by the indigenous Khasi tribes for spanning rivers in the woods, and they are located just a short stroll from Mawlynnong. The inhabitants turned to tampering with nature in a way that proved not only practical but also amazing to observe because the human-built bridges would frequently be demolished by the frequent severe rains and storms as experienced by this region of Meghalaya.
15 Engage in the splendour of Borhill Waterfalls
All enthusiasts of the outdoors will enjoy Burhill Waterfalls. The waterfall, which is on the Dawki-Riwai road, empties toward a stream before joining the river near the Sylhet India-Bangladesh border. Burhill Falls is surrounded by heavily forested hills, and the area in and around it may seem a bit risky for people who are not accustomed to these environments. The neighbouring bridge that was constructed provides the ideal vantage point from which to take in these falls. The Bophill Falls and Pangthumai Falls are other names for this cascade used by the locals.
16 Stop by the Byrdaw Falls
Pomshutia settlement can be found in Dawki just after that. Byrdaw Falls, amongst the top places to explore in Meghalaya, is a stunning waterfall in the town that is well renowned for. Monsoon season, when both the weather and the waterfall are at their most picturesque, is the ideal time to see the falls. After receiving a monsoon-style soaking, the area around the waterfall becomes significantly greener and more vibrant. Getting there from the waterfall to Pomshutia village requires max to max two kilometres of hiking. After arriving, take a moment to breathe deeply and enjoy the scenery. Morning 8 am till evening 5 pm, you can visit this lovely waterfalls.
17 Thrill at Mawshun Cave
18 Trek to Krang Suri Waterfalls
Thirty kilometres separate Dawki from the Krang Shuri Waterfalls. The neighbourhood café may be found at the main intersection, which requires driving. Before moving on to the waterfall, visitors can stop by this location to have some Maggi, an egg, and hot tea or coffee. Among the most beautiful waterfalls is this one hidden among the vegetation and may be reached after a fifteen minute hike, which is not even more kilometre in distance. The waterfall is a great place for plunging and cliff springing by tourists.
19 Swimming and Scuba Diving
Because of the distinctive water of the watercourse, the Umngot River offers both indoor and outdoor swimming. different experience from diving into any ocean or stream. Snorkelling in Dawki will get you ready even if you don’t know how to swim. The realistic underwater vantage points and the underwater pictures will provide for an engaging and memorable experience. There are no risks or difficulties involved in doing this water sling. In close proximity to Kolkata and North East India, it offers the ideal slight encounter. One shall be provided with a life jacket and other safety gear. The diver breathes underwater using a self-reliant breathing apparatus when scuba diving, which enables them to breathe subaquatally without requiring any supplies from the surface. The Dawki River offers scuba divers access to an entirely new realm of unsullied pure water. The water in the serene Shnongpdeng River is pure and crystal transparent, making it a great place for novice to learn to dive.
20 Rappelling Activity in Dawki
Rough activities, such as rappelling and rock climbing, are made possible by the hills around the Umngot River. Although the uncharted objective of Dawki also gives such an experience, it is not well renowned for its usual magnificence. One can easily scale the stream’s banks by rappelling. Thanks to the steep slopes and shaky terrain. Begin by slowly and steadily descending the ninety foot wall’s rock component after receiving a safety orientation. The safety line is fastened, and the instructor controls it. If you looked down, you would be able to gauge the size of the stones and determine where to apply pressure to break them. According to popular opinion, it is the most utilised and put to use in the neighbourhood. Visits from relatives or family and friends, and other visitors are welcome here.
21 Rock Climbing in Dawki
Seekers can fully satisfy their needs by experiencing the adrenaline they have always desired. The stream’s banks can be reached by rappelling down rocks are perfect activities on the steep slopes and shaky terrain. A rush from rock climbing makes one want scale mountains and see what is below them. There are several crevices on the exterior that can be used to aid in climbing, making Dawki rock climbing not too difficult. The site is amazing and rich in natural beauty, which enriches the whole expedition. Each morning, shared conveyance is offered from Barabazar in Shillong to the border checkpoint in Dawki. Bus service from Shillong, a seventy kilometre journey, is also offered which is about forty-three minutes. As for the activity, qualified trainers are provided to provide the necessary guidelines and to ensure everyone’s safety. Don’t worry if this is your first time engaging in a rock climbing activity, just pay attention to the directions and have fun. The minimum age for this sport should be at least eleven years. Also, the maximum weight of the adventurer should be ninety kilograms and should not exceed this limit. One safety line needs to be tied to the specific activity’s harness, which should last for about twenty to twenty five minutes.
22 Zip Lining Activity
With this activity, you can undergo one of the finest moments of your life while overlooking the Umngot River while zip lining and getting some of the most breathtaking views of the Jaintia Hills. One will also be able to feel the seafloor. A series of extremely sturdy wires or zip lines connected by a harness and pulley will be lowered during the activity, which will last for about ten to twelve minutes. Three hundred feet above the river’s level, roll the wire down. The journey, with its surrounding natural splendour and five hundred and sixty metre cable, will undoubtedly give you chills. Experts and trainers with extensive experience will be present for these activities, ensuring that participants have a fear free, secure, and enjoyable time flying downward.
Each morning, both public and private transportation of every kind is offered from Barabazar in Shillong to the border station at Dawki. Only individuals over the age of eleven years and who weigh a highest of ninety kilograms are permitted to participate in this activity. There are four trial or changing rooms close to the activity point.
23 Photography
One shall get a stunning overview of all one will be getting as an experience before you get to Dawki and before you are about to descend the steps. In order to save the occasion as an everlasting recollection, make sure to take a snap. Don’t forget to shoot stunning underwater photos of the Dawki River if your camera is water resistant. The Dawki River really does have water so clear you can see through it. The only reason most visitors travel to Dawki River is to capture images of its breathtaking clarity. A connected bridge over the Dawki River must be ascended. For those without access to a drone camera, this is an excellent view position. Visitors don’t need to pay an admission charge to take pictures from the air from this connected bridge. Dawki River offers it for no cost.
24 Memento Shopping at Dawki
Dawki doesn’t have a lot of goods for sale. Do some shopping in Shillong, if you need to purchase anything other than genuine jewellery, wooden products, pullovers, etc. From Shillong, one can purchase unusual pickles, spices, and more canned vegetarian and vegan food too. These can be easily transported on planes or in cars due to their long shelf lives. Large bags of garden-fresh kiwis, oranges, and plump, luscious pineapples can also be chosen.
25 Trekking Adventure
Start your journey and hike at approximately ten in the morning. Trek through the rocky, steep hills to the peak of Capitol Hill. Enjoy a great lunch while admiring the captivating vista of the surrounding hills. As you pass through the valleys, take in nature’s breathtaking beauty. Wander back to Dawki, where your journey comes to a close. Bring a lot of recollections with you as you return home.
26 Bind with Nature
Dawki is surrounded by natural features such as a river, valleys, bushes, and herbs. So all that is required of one is to go around and independently investigate the area. Numerous items that are worthwhile for a booth for taking snaps will undoubtedly be found. Already Dawki connects the visitors with its lush green hills, pure and clear air to breathe away all their troubles and hustle bustle of everyday life. An expedition to Dawki can prove to be one worthwhile recollection ever.
27 Meditate
River sounds are present and the cold morning wind, one would not find a more serene or better region to simply sit and meditate. In fact, the location is more than ideal for a trainee who wants to give meditation a try.
28 Watch the perfect Sunset Period
Witness the stunning and breathtaking sunset views, which are worthy of being immortalised in lovely photographs. The lush jungles and tribal communities that may be seen from this vantage point can be captured in aerial photographs by visitors. The roads leading to Dawki offer a clear view of this naturalist’s paradise. Tourists can enjoy this awesome view and of course can capture this beautiful memory and relive again, anytime. A location where the sky will undergo a hue change familiar to what one has witnessed at a beach. Yellow changes to orange, then orange transforms to maroon, and ultimately the sun sets. Now visualise all of this being time-lapsed. The video, which was recorded over a thirtyb to forty five minute time lapse, is beyond description.
29 Savour the bonfire
If one wishes to enjoy boating, sailing, plunging, and many other water sports, Dawki in Meghalaya is the ideal location. The Umngot River near Dawki is the tidiest river in India and a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Dawki’s camping scene is well renowned. To avoid any form of inconvenience, it is wiser to reserve campers in advance. In almost the maximum number of camps, bonfires are included as part of the programme. Generally speaking, while gathered around a campfire, guests can feel at ease in emotions like happiness, contentment, calmness, and connection. One only arranges a trip for this purpose. Enjoy the comforting bonfire along with your loved ones in the midst of a serene natural atmosphere.
30 Interconnect with Natives
Get out of your comfort zone when you travel by experiencing unfamiliar meals, new locations, unforeseen delays, and language challenges. Another approach to challenge oneself when travelling is to meet new people. Meeting natives is the only effective approach to truly plunge yourself in a new dialect and culture when travelling. In comparison to reading a manual or even using the internet, chatting to realistic people will teach you more. Building friendships while you are on the road is a terrific method to get opportunities. This is particularly crucial if you are travelling alone with the goal of having a more distinctive, individual expedition. The majority of people will comprehend that you might not be aware of them, but taking the effort to research social stigmas before travelling to another nation can aid you avoid trouble. You can discover opportunities for yourself by going out and making new friends that if you had kept your mouth shut, you would not have. Get over your fear and begin a chat.
