Dawki Travel Guide

Discover the wonders of Dawki, a serene hill town in Meghalaya that promises a blend of natural beauty and adventure. Situated along the India-Bangladesh border, Dawki is a gem waiting to be explored, offering a rich dose of authentic Khasi culture and picturesque landscapes.

Dawki is a charming village just a 3-hour drive (95 km) away from Shillong, making it a convenient destination for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway amidst nature's bounty. The village is nestled by the Dawki River, renowned for its crystal-clear waters known as the Umngot river. Our Dawki travel guide unveils the top tourist spots in Dawki that you shouldn't miss during your visit.

One of Dawki's standout features is its suspension bridge that stretches across the Dawki River. This historic bridge, dating back to the British rule in India, still serves as a trade route between India and Bangladesh. The bridge isn't just a pathway, but a portal to the local culture. As you stroll across, consider picking up some souvenirs or handicrafts from Bangladeshi vendors to remember your visit. And while you're exploring, don't forget to witness the majestic Dawki waterfall, another jewel in the crown of Dawki's tourist attractions.

The white clouds of an unending sea of fog and mist that mildly floats through the many lanes of green Dawki, during late winter, and through majority of the year gives the place, an ethereal look. A trip to Dawki is surely a must for the poet in you, the photographer in you and of course, for the hopeless romantic in you. A loving couple with an aim to leave behind the hustle-bustle of general tourist spots and crowd can just take a drive to Dawki from Shillong on their honeymoon.

Tourist attractions near Dawki

1. Shnongpdeng Village

A mere 10 km from the Dawki border lies Shnongpdeng Village, an exciting destination for adventure enthusiasts. This is the place where adventure activities in Dawki come to life. Boating, camping, angling, cliff jumping, zip-lining, rafting, and scuba diving are all on the menu here. A stunning suspension bridge in the village corner offers panoramic views, making it a must-visit among tourist attractions in Dawki. It's an adventure haven that's perfect for families, friends, and those seeking a taste of the great outdoors.

2. Darrang Village

Darrang Village, located on the banks of the Umngot river and accessible by road before reaching Shnongpdeng, offers a slice of paradise for nature enthusiasts. This emerging eco-tourism and destination wedding spot in Meghalaya is your chance to capture the river's beauty while observing local fishermen's activities. Stay in a neat and clean campsite, explore a living root bridge, and trek to nearby waterfalls – it's all waiting for you in Darrang Village.

3. Dawki-Tamabil

Dawki-Tamabil serves as a road crossing that links India and Bangladesh, a critical connection for trade. It plays a vital role in the realm of Dawki tourism and stands as a testament to the region's cross-border interaction. The bustling trade of coal through this pathway adds to the unique character of Dawki's landscape.

4. Mawlynnong Village and More

As you explore Dawki, don't forget to venture beyond its borders to Mawlynnong village, renowned as Asia's cleanest village. Located a mere 40 km away, it offers an opportunity to visit tourist attractions like the single-decker root bridge and numerous cascading waterfalls. If your plans include visiting both Dawki and Jowai, it's worth checking out our insights on the Dawki River in Meghalaya to make informed decisions about your journey.

5. Adventure sports in Dawki

Dawki isn't just about serene beauty; it's also a hub for thrilling adventure sports that cater to adrenaline junkies. Whether you're captivated by boating on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River or tempted by cliff jumping into its refreshing depths, Dawki has it all. The landscape serves as a canvas for zip-lining adventures, camping escapades beneath starlit skies, and angling to catch local fish. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time thrill-seeker, Dawki promise unforgettable moments. The best point to enjoy adventur sports in Dawki is Shnongpdeng Village.

Homestay in Dawki

Most of the homestay or camping area is situated in the Shnongpdeng and Darrang village. Homestays are very basic with simple food and attached toilet and bathroom. Following are some of the best homestays in Dawki.
1. Satrangi homestay
2. Brightstar homestay
3. Toshan homestay
4. Lamin Guest House

When to visit

Winter is the best season to enjoy water sports and camping in Dawki. November to May would be the best months to visit Dawki. Although it's frequented by travelers all around the year however the best season to watch crystal clear water is winter and pre-monsoon. Avoid rainy and post-monsoon season during that time the muddy water of flood mix with river water and transformed it to muddy colour rather than its usual turquoise colour.

During winter, the temperature drops sharply by November and you have very low temperatures of around 3-4 degrees during the night. Day temperature is quite warmer and the weather remains sunny in winter.