The Umngot River, also known as the Dawki River, has gained immense popularity for its stunning natural beauty, showcased in viral photos that capture its crystal-clear waters. These images have piqued the interest of travellers worldwide, making Dawki a sought-after destination.
However, a word of caution: while the river is as beautiful as seen in photos, conditions can vary based on weather, the number of visitors, and seasonal changes. Travellers should keep expectations realistic, as the river’s appearance might differ during peak tourist times or on overcast days.
It’s also important to note that many iconic photos of boats on the river are taken from above or a distance, offering a third-person perspective. When you’re actually in the boat, the view might not fully align with these photos, creating a different but still unique experience.
To help you make the most of your trip, here’s a detailed FAQ guide on visiting Dawki, covering specific aspects of the location and travel tips.
Are Dawki and Umngot Rivers the same?
The Dawki River, whose actual name is Umngot River has captured global attention with viral images showing boats seemingly suspended in mid-air over crystal-clear, emerald-green waters. These enchanting pictures often depict a serene, crowd-free setting, where the river appears almost magical. Thanks to the dedicated conservation efforts of the local people, the Umngot River is considered one of the cleanest rivers in the world—a testament to Meghalaya’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
Adding to Dawki’s allure is a historic suspension bridge built in 1932 by the British. Spanning the river and connecting the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, this bridge serves as a scenic lookout point, enhancing the area’s charm. Additionally, nearby Shnongpdeng, accessible from Dawki, offers thrilling adventure activities such as river rafting and camping, making the region a prime destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What is special about Dawki River?
The Umngot River has captured global attention with viral images showing boats seemingly suspended in mid-air over crystal-clear, emerald-green waters. These enchanting pictures often depict a serene, crowd-free setting, where the river appears almost magical. Thanks to the dedicated conservation efforts of the local people, the Umngot River is considered one of the cleanest rivers in the world—a testament to Meghalaya’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
Adding to Dawki’s allure is a historic suspension bridge built in 1932 by the British. Spanning the river and connecting the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, this bridge serves as a scenic lookout point, enhancing the area’s charm. Additionally, nearby Shnongpdeng, accessible from Dawki, offers thrilling adventure activities such as river rafting and camping, making the region a prime destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Which month is best to visit Dawki?
The table below details the climatic conditions of Dawki during the year.
| Variables | Unit | Jan | Feb | Marc | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Temp | °C | 22 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 |
| Min Temp | °C | 10 | 12 | 16 | 19 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 20 | 15 | 12 |
| Max Temp | °F | 71 | 75 | 80 | 81 | 82 | 83 | 83 | 83 | 83 | 82 | 78 | 74 |
| Min Temp | °F | 50 | 54 | 60 | 66 | 70 | 73 | 74 | 74 | 73 | 68 | 60 | 53 |
| Precipitation | mm | 15 | 46 | 170 | 463 | 644 | 1016 | 997 | 724 | 430 | 208 | 37 | 13 |
| Humidity | % | 73 | 70 | 71 | 84 | 88 | 92 | 92 | 91 | 89 | 83 | 75 | 73 |
| Rainy Days | Number | 3 | 5 | 11 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 12 | 4 | 1 |
As you can see in the table above, the best time to visit Dawki is during the winter months, particularly from November to February. During this period, the Umngot River is at its most photogenic, often described as being in its “Instagram best” form. The occasional light winter rain keeps the air clear of dust, enhancing the river’s remarkable transparency. Visitors can marvel at the pristine emerald-green water and clearly see the riverbed rocks through its still, mirror-like surface. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rains can make the river murky and less ideal for sightseeing and photography.
When not to visit Dawki?
Monsoon season in the region can be intense and unpredictable. Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, is only a two-hour drive away. While the Indian monsoon enhances the landscape, making everything lush and vibrant, heavy rains during this time make it difficult to experience the Umngot River’s famed crystal-clear beauty. Persistent rain can also restrict outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, the tourist infrastructure outside Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong, is not well-equipped to provide comfortable travel experiences during extreme weather conditions.
You should also read here about the best time to visit India to get any idea about other locations that you can cover as you plan your trip in a partiucular season.
How do I go to Dawki?
Dawki is a town in Meghalaya, with Shillong as the state capital. The road distance between Shillong and Dawki is approximately 80 kilometers, typically a 3-4 hour drive in good conditions. Shillong Airport (SHL) connects to Kolkata Airport with two daily flights. Travelers from other major cities, like Delhi or Mumbai, usually fly to Kolkata for a connecting flight to Shillong.
Another option is Guwahati Airport (GAU), which has better connectivity to major Indian cities. There are 15 non-stop flights daily from Delhi (DEL) to Guwahati (GAU) and three from Mumbai (BOM) to Guwahati, while the Kolkata (CCU) to Guwahati route has 10 daily flights. Guwahati, an established hub and known as the Gateway to the Northeast, offers extensive road transport options to many places in the region, including Dawki. The distance from Guwahati to Dawki is about 175 kilometres, typically taking 5-6 hours to drive.
Due to limited lodging options in Dawki, many visitors opt to stay in Shillong and visit Dawki on a day trip. Motorbikes are now available for rent from Guwahati, in addition to private cabs and public transport options.
The nearest railway station to Dawki is Guwahati, with connections to most major Indian cities.
Can we cover Dawki and Mawlynnong in one day?
Yes, many travellers choose to visit both Dawki and Mawlynnong in a single trip, often starting with Dawki. However, it may be more efficient to visit Mawlynnong first, as it’s a short detour from Shillong, allowing for more time in Dawki if you are on a tight schedule. Starting early from Shillong is recommended. Additionally, it’s wise to consult with a local guide or host for the latest travel insights, as road conditions, new attractions, or personal preferences can influence the best route and timing.
We welcome recent travellers to Dawki, as well as locals, to share any updated information or unique insights that could enhance this guide and help your fellow travellers.
