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Dawki: Full of Surprises

By Akshatha Vinayak

Some curiosity arises, the moment we hear of any North Eastern state of India! The reason is its hidden nature and culture. We always have more interest in the things that are unknown and mysterious.True to that, the region of North East India never fails to amaze and inspire us to protect our environment. Among several other enchanting places, there is a town called Dawki which has been a centre of attraction in Meghalaya.

Dawki

Suspension Bridge in Dawki
Photo Courtesy: Vikramjit Kakati

No doubt, Meghalaya is one region where we are bombarded with surprises! Dawki lies about 95km from Shillong and it is just 2 km away from Bangladesh border. A journey amidst the hilly regions from Shillong will take you to this thriving centre.

Dawki

Small Falls in Dawki
Photo Courtesy: Pooja Borar

What Makes Dawki a Happening Place?

Dawki is known for its pristine lush green surroundings, and it is truly a blessing in disguise! The town is not just a tourist attraction but also one of the nearest 'Gateways to Bangladesh'.

It has served as a trade centre between the two countries for a long time. Dawki is mainly known for coal mines and limestone exports which keep the trade between India and Bangladesh. In fact, it is the only place where there is a road route connecting to Bangladesh.

Umngot river Dawki

Umngot River
Photo Courtesy: Diablo0769

Among various other attractions in Dawki, it is the Umngot River which is the talk of the town!
The pictures of Umngot River keep appearing on social media platforms. You might have even come across a picture of a boat on transparent water? That is the ravishing Umngot River.

It is not wrong to say that Umngot river in Dawki is one the cleanest rivers in India. When we look at the boats sailing in the river from a distance, it looks like the water is transparent! Fishing is one of the main occupations here apart from agriculture and mining. So, fishing boats are a common sight in Umngot River.

Dawki

Fisherman
Photo Courtesy: Swagataliza

One one side it creates a natural boundary between Ri Pnar (Jaintia Hills) and Hima Khyrim (Khasi Hills) and on the other side, it is also one of the Indo-Bangladesh borders. A suspension bridge across Umngot river is the road route that connects the two boundaries. This bridge was built by the British in 1932.

A small market area in Dawki has been set up which allows people at both borders to share business connections.

Thus, Dawki is a box full of surprises for everyone. Experiencing the nature at its best and learning about unique cultures of the region is an interesting tour!

How to Reach Dawki

  • By Road: Dawki is well-connected by road from Shillong. However, it is better to hire a cab or a taxi to reach Dawki. Buses are also available from Shillong.
  • By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest railway station. Dawki is around 180km from Guwahati.

Read more about: rivers shillong meghalaya
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