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Introduction: Why Dawki Should Be On Your Ultimate Travel List
Honestly, I was absolutely amazed when I went to Dawki for the first time. I saw the Umngot River, which was so clear that it looked like the boats were levitating in the air instead of floating on the water. So much so that it has now become my favorite spot to recommend to people who are enamored by untouched natural beauty and wish to commune with it.
Dawki literally offers the triple threat – India’s purest rivers (yes, that’s right), striking landscapes, and a real northeastern way of life—and is void of the crowded tourism that the rest of Meghalaya sees. Situated on the border of India and Bangladesh, Dawki experiences a one-of-a-kind cultural amalgamation.
Because of the Umngot River, which is probably the cleanest river in India, Dawki has carved a niche for itself. The water of this river is so crystal clear that anything and everything from the riverbed pebbles to the fish can be seen, which makes boating here a reality out of some fiction story.
Craving more crystal-clear waters? Explore the stunning beaches of Lakshadweep in my detailed Agatti Island guide for 2025.
Best Time to Visit Dawki
October to March: The ideal month for a Dawki visit would be October to March, as the climate remains cool and the river water is clear.
Winter (December-February): Ideal weather with temperatures varying in the range of 15 to 25°C, which renders near-perfect visibility [5 sec], providing better comfort for boating.
Spring (March-April): Warm temperature with clear skies, making it an excellent climate for outdoor activities & sightseeing.
Monsoon (June-September): In this season, heavy rainfall gives a muddy look to the river with poor road connections. I’d suggest avoiding it.
Pro Tip: November would be the perfect time to come when the weather is at its best and the water is at its clearest. The early hours of the morning offer the best light for photographers.
How to Reach Dawki
By Air
The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (30 km), but connectivity is limited. For better-maintained connections to major cities, consider flying into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (100 km).
By Train
From Guwahati, which is the nearest major railhead, the ride is around 100 km and well connected to major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi, among others.
By Road
If you are going by road,
- From Guwahati: 100 km via NH6 (2.5 hours drive)
- From Shillong: 96 km via Shillong-Dawki Road (2 hrs)
- There are regular buses and shared taxis from Shillong
Pro Tip: Start your journey to Dawki from Shillong using the mountain pass for the most scenic route. The trip itself becomes an interesting part of the experience with captivating views of the valleys as you drive along.
My Perfect 1-Day Dawki Itinerary
Morning (8:00 AM):
- Arrive at Dawki and head straight to the riverfront
- Book your boat ride early to avoid crowds
- Enjoy breakfast at local dhabas serving authentic Khasi cuisine
Afternoon (12:00 PM):
- Take the famous glass boat ride on Umngot River
- Visit the Indo-Bangladesh border and Dawki Bridge
- Try local fish curry at riverside restaurants
Evening (4:00 PM):
- Explore Shnongpdeng village for camping options
- Watch sunset over the river
- Return to Shillong or stay overnight in local homestays
Top Things to Do in Dawki
1. Crystal Clear Boat Ride on Umngot River
Famous for its “floating on air” boat ride where you can see 30 feet inside the river. India’s cleanest Umngot River will look like a boat floating in the air. Boat rides cost around ₹100-200 per person for 30
2. Visit Dawki Bridge and Indo-Bangladesh Border
Walk on the suspension bridge that connects India and Bangladesh. Along with the voguish panorama of the Umngot River and southward hills, it’s a bridge between two countries. No special permits are required for a visa.
3. Camping at Shnongpdeng
Stay overnight in tents by the riverside and next to a rivulet. The place offers basic camping arrangements with a bonfire. And rooms with misty mountain mornings beside the chirping of birds.
4. River Swimming and Cliff Jumping
The Umngot River water is crystal clear and clean for river swimming. Adventure seekers can try cliff jumping from the spots located at the riverside. As per the local guidelines and permissions.
Where to Stay in Dawki
Shnongpdeng Camping
- Tents are set beside the river with some basic facilities.
- Bonfire & food make this more convenient.
- Price: ₹800-1200 per person with meals
- It’s best to book it in advance in peak season.
Dawki Homestays
- Homely place with local, authentic food
- Khasi family can also interact with for local information
- Cost: ₹500-800 per night
Shillong Base
- Best of Hotels available in Shillong (nearly 96 km’s away)
- Day trip to Dawki is easily manageable
- Return journey offers beautiful sunset views
Essential Travel Tips for Dawki
- Pack cotton clothes and light jacket for evening
- Respecting local customs – Khasi folks are easygoing but like a bit of cultural sensitivity
- Carry cash – ATMs are limited; UPI is operable
- Use eco-friendly products – River remains untouched
- Learn basic Khasi phrases—say “Khublei” (thanks), even infectiously
- No littering – Can impact the river’s preservation journey
- Pre-book hotels before your trip if you are coming between October and March
FAQs About Dawki
Q1: Is Dawki safe for solo travelers and families?
Dawki is very safe for all types of travelers. The local Khasi community is hospitable and helpful. However, inform someone about your travel plans and avoid isolated areas after dark.
Q2: Can I visit Dawki during monsoon?
While possible, monsoon visits aren’t recommended. Heavy rainfall makes the river murky, roads slippery, and boat rides unsafe. The main—crystal-clear water—isn’t visible during this time.
Q3: How clean is the water in the Umngot River?
Umngot River is considered one of India’s cleanest rivers. You can see the riverbed clearly even at 10-15 feet deep. The water quality is good, but I recommend carrying drinking water from reliable sources.
Q4: Are there ATMs and mobile signals in Dawki?
Limited ATM facilities are available. Mobile network coverage is decent, with Airtel and Jio working reasonably well. BSNL has better coverage in remote areas.
Q5: Do I need permits to visit Dawki?
No special permits are required for a Dawki visit. However, carry valid ID proof for border area verification. Inner Line Permit isn’t needed for Meghalaya.
Conclusion
Will I go back to Dawki? Definitely yes. It’s a hidden gem that offers a real beauty of nature along with a true cultural experience. Something that you won’t find in regular hill stations.
If you want to relax and be closer to nature rather than be surrounded by tourists, Dawki is your best bet. Like when we were floating on the water, which was as clear as a crystal, with green hills around us. That memory is so fresh in my mind.
It was at the time of the sunset, sitting by the Umngot River, when it started changing its colors from crystal blue to amber golden. It reminded me of traveling for those quiet moments that are pure healing.
Ready to experience Dawki?
🌐 So, grab your tickets, pack your stuff, and relive a life-changing experience.
💬 Got any queries or need help to plan your trip to Dawki? Do not hesitate to ask us in the comment section below.
📌 Share the blog and let your travel buddy experience the adventure also — in this hidden heaven of Meghalaya.
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