It was a crisp October morning when a group of five friends set out on an unforgettable journey to the Dawki River in Meghalaya. They had heard tales of its crystal-clear waters and the surreal experience of boating on a river so transparent that it felt like floating on air. Eager to escape the chaos of city life, they packed their bags with camping gear, adventure essentials, and a shared sense of excitement.
The Journey Begins
The group flew into Guwahati, where they rented a sturdy SUV for the drive to Shillong. A preview of the grandeur that awaited them was provided by the spiraling roads through misty valleys and verdant hills. They started the last part of their journey from Shillong to Dawki, a little town close to the border between India and Bangladesh. There was music, laughter, and the occasional pause to take in Meghalaya’s incredible beauty throughout the drive.
As they approached Dawki, the air grew fresher, and the anticipation built. The first glimpse of the Umngot River left them speechless. The water was so clear that they could see the riverbed, dotted with smooth pebbles and aquatic plants, even from a distance. It was as if nature had painted a masterpiece just for them.
Boating on the Umngot River
A boat excursion on the Umngot River was their first activity. It was magical as they drifted over the river in a traditional wooden boat that they had rented.
The riverbed was visible below them, and the boat seemed to float on air. We marveled at the water’s clarity as we plunged our palm into the chilly water. It was like looking through glass. The boatman told tales of the river’s importance as a natural border between Bangladesh and India and the arduous efforts of the locals to maintain it free of pollution. Inspired by his words, the group vowed to be mindful of their impact on the environment during their stay.
Adventure in Shnongpdeng Village
We traveled to Shnongpdeng Village, which is only 8 kilometers from Dawki, the following day. The hamlet was well-known for its adventure sports, which included zip-lining and kayaking. I was the first to attempt cliff leaping, and my excited cry reverberated throughout the river. Then we went kayaking, enjoying the beauty of the surroundings as we paddled through the calm seas. Above the river, my buddies also went zip-lining.
They camped along the river in the evening. Their bonfire was perfectly complemented by the starry sky and the soft sound of the running water. We cooked marshmallows, told stories, and enjoyed the peace and quiet of the evening.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Over the next few days, we explored the nearby attractions. A visit to Mawlynnong Village, dubbed “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” left them inspired. The well-maintained pathways, vibrant flowers, and living root bridges were a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving their environment. We also hiked to Krang Suri Waterfalls, where the turquoise pools and cascading water provided a refreshing escape.
Challenges and Lessons
Our trip wasn’t without its challenges. The limited infrastructure in Dawki meant we had to rely on basic accommodations and plan the meals in advance. We also noticed signs of environmental strain, like plastic waste near popular tourist spots. We prompted them to organize a small cleanup drive, picking up litter and encouraging others to do the same.
A Farewell to Remember
As the trip came to an end, we friends gathered by the river one last time. The sun cast a golden glow on the water, and the tranquility of Dawki seemed to seep into our souls. All of us reflected on the beauty we had witnessed, the adventures we had shared, and the lessons we had learned about responsible tourism.
