Dawki is a small town located along the border that separates India and Bangladesh. The town also forms the demarcating location that divides the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, along with being a major centre of trade between the countries of India and Bangladesh. Dawki is most famous among tourists for the fascinating Umngot River, also known as Dawki River, which features water so clear it could be mistaken for a see-through glass. Apart from the exquisite beauty of this river, there are a number of hidden local attractions here that make Dawki an exceptional destination worth visiting. Here are our recommendations with the top places to visit when in Dawki.

Jaflong Zero Point is a spot located along the India-Bangladesh border. This is also the point where the Umngot River crosses over from India and enters into Bangladesh. Located about 1 km away from Dawki market, Jaflong Zero Point is usually bustling with Indian security forces, but that doesn’t deter tourists from enjoying the views around this region and going home with several pictures of Bangladesh right across the border. There are communities of the Khasi clan who reside here as well, and visitors also get to check out interesting stone accumulations along the border.

Burhill Waterfalls is situated around 9 km away from Dawki and is a scenic spot drenched in natural beauty. Situated among thickly wooded hills, the milky white water from the falls eventually goes on to form a river along Bangladesh’s Sylhet border. There is a bridge near the waterfall that allows visitors to enjoy lovely views of the surroundings and capture memorable moments with their loved ones. Since going too close to the waterfall is considered slightly dangerous, it is best to admire these views from the bridge.

Most famous for being the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a small hamlet with about 80 houses and a population just a little over 500. Mawlynnong is located around 35 km away from Dawki, and as visitors approach the long, winding road leading to the village, the local residents can often be seen sweeping the streets and picking up the trash so the little hamlet can continue living up to its name. Little houses arranged neatly in a row on each side, with a small personal garden outside almost every house adds to the exquisite charm of the place. There is also a little homestay here where visitors can stay overnight; although, Mawlynnong is a small village and can be explored easily enough on a day trip.

The village Riwai is encountered on the same route as Dawki and Mawlynnong and is mostly known for its living root bridges. These root bridges were built by the Khasi tribes over a period of several generations and are believed to be more than 300 years old. The locals built these bridges to cross over the rivers in the forest since the man-made ones often got destroyed during heavy rains in the region. Over time, the living root bridges have become one of the most identifiable structures among tourists in this part of Meghalaya. The Riwai village also has an abundance of Robab Tenga tress, which bears delicious citrus fruits.

Umngot River, also known River Dawki, is the town’s chief attraction. The Umngot River divides the Khasi and the Jaintia Hills and also flows partially in India and partially in Bangladesh. The pristine waters of the river are a sight to behold during the winter season when it becomes so crystal clear that the river bed is visible in the shallow regions. The serpentine stream is frequently dotted with boats as it meanders through the woods and hills; in fact, a boat ride is the best way to enjoy the beauty of the river. The clear water often makes it seem as if the boat is simply floating in mid-air. There is also a small island in the centre of the river that is packed with rocks in all shapes, sizes and colours.

Shnongpdeng is a little town located along the Umngot River and can easily be considered a true hidden gem. Most tourists often do not know about the existence of this village, which is packed with underrated attractions like the Krang Suri waterfall and exceptional campsites that are perfect for those looking to spend a night under the stars. Don’t forget to take a walk across the bridge here that has been built over the river; although only seven or eight people can cross it at a time so it’s important to remain mindful of that.