Umngot River Suspension Bridge
The Dawki Suspension Bridge, also known as the Umngot River Bridge, is an iconic landmark that connects the Jaintia and Khasi Hills. Built in 1932 by the British, this bridge served as a vital trade link between India and the then East Bengal (now Bangladesh). It is a single-span suspension bridge that hangs gracefully over the emerald waters of the Umngot River. The bridge is not just a functional structure but a prime tourist attraction due to the panoramic views it offers. From the bridge, one can look down and see the boats on the river appearing as if they are floating in mid-air. It also provides a clear view of the international border and the plains of Bangladesh stretching out into the horizon. The bridge is relatively narrow, originally designed for light vehicles and pedestrians, and it still retains its old-world charm with its rusted steel cables and wooden-planked pathways in some sections. Walking across the bridge is a thrilling experience as it sways slightly under the weight of traffic and the wind. It serves as the gateway to the Dawki-Tamabil border crossing. The surrounding area is bustling with local vendors selling Khasi snacks and handicrafts. For many, this bridge is the starting point of their Dawki adventure, offering the first real glimpse of the river's legendary beauty. It stands as a testament to colonial engineering, surviving the harsh monsoons of Meghalaya for nearly a century.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 to 45 MinutesPlace Type:
Historical Landmark / ViewpointEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: There is no fee to walk across or view the bridge; it is a public road.
Parking Fee: A small fee of 50-100 might be charged for vehicles parked near the bridge entry. ...Entry Fee: There is no fee to walk across or view the bridge; it is a public road.
Parking Fee: A small fee of 50-100 might be charged for vehicles parked near the bridge entry.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open 24 hours (walking is best during daylight).
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise or early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) to avoid the heavy tourist traffic and enjoy the mist. ...Regular Timings: Open 24 hours (walking is best during daylight).
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise or early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) to avoid the heavy tourist traffic and enjoy the mist.Special Events:
Independence Day Celebrations: Being near the border, the bridge area is often decorated during national holidays, with flag-hoisting ceremonies held nearby.
Local Fair: Small local markets occasionally expand onto the approach roads during...Independence Day Celebrations: Being near the border, the bridge area is often decorated during national holidays, with flag-hoisting ceremonies held nearby.
Local Fair: Small local markets occasionally expand onto the approach roads during the harvest season in December.Best Photo Spots:
The Center Span: Standing right in the middle gives you the symmetrical view of the cables and the river below.
The Pylon Frame: Using the massive steel supports to frame the emerald river in the background.
Th...The Center Span: Standing right in the middle gives you the symmetrical view of the cables and the river below.
The Pylon Frame: Using the massive steel supports to frame the emerald river in the background.
The Sunset View: Capturing the bridge silhouette against the orange sky as the sun sets over the Bangladesh plains.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Scenic Walking: Walk across the bridge to feel the slight vibration and enjoy 360-degree views of the river gorge and the plains of Bangladesh.
Photography: Capture wide-angle shots of the Umngot River from the center of the bridge, which is the most famous photo spot in Dawki.
Border Spotting: Use binoculars to see the Tamabil border gate and the movement of trucks between the two countries from a safe distance.
Observing Local Life: Watch the traditional fishermen in their wooden canoes casting nets into the transparent water far below.
Snack Tasting: Try local Meghalayan street food like 'Jadoh' or 'Dohkei' from the small stalls located at either end of the bridge.
Geological Study: Observe t...
Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Significance: Built in 1932, it is one of the oldest functioning suspension bridges in the region.
Photographic Vantage Point: Offers the best elevated view of the "floating boats" on the Umngot River.
Read MoreHistorical Significance: Built in 1932, it is one of the oldest functioning suspension bridges in the region.
Photographic Vantage Point: Offers the best elevated view of the "floating boats" on the Umngot River.
International Border Views: Located just a few hundred meters from the Bangladesh border, providing a unique geopolitical perspective.Architecture:
Colonial Suspension Design: The bridge follows a classic early 20th-century suspension model using heavy-duty steel cables anchored into stone pylons.
Dimensions: The bridge has a total length of approximately 75 meters (246 feet) and a wid...Colonial Suspension Design: The bridge follows a classic early 20th-century suspension model using heavy-duty steel cables anchored into stone pylons.
Dimensions: The bridge has a total length of approximately 75 meters (246 feet) and a width of about 4. 5 meters.
Materials: It is constructed using high-tensile steel for the cables and hangers, with a roadway that was historically timber but has been reinforced with steel over time.How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Shillong Airport and take a 3-hour taxi ride.
By Train: Guwahati is the nearest station; take a taxi via Shillong.
By Road: It is located on the main road from Shillong to Dawki, impossible ...Near Tourist Places:
Tamabil Border (1. 5 KMS), Shnongpdeng (8 KMS), Mawlynnong (30 KMS), Krang Suri (30 KMS), Borhill Falls (10 KMS), Jaflong (2 KMS), Byrdaw Falls (16 KMS), Riwai Bridge (28 KMS), Pynursla (35 KMS), Umiam Lake (95 KMS)Tourism Tips
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Safety: Do not lean over the railings or stop for too long in the middle if vehicles are crossing; the bridge is narrow.
Packing: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the surface can be uneven.
Ca...
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