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India is well known for the lavish diversity in it's share of flora , fauna and topography. India attracts a lot of tourists from in and around the world for it's picturesque locales. It is an exemplary hub for travel enthusiasts. In this series of travelogues, let's have a look at the Seven Wonder Places of India which would leave you spellbound for sure. These must visit places, which are one of it's kind, should definitely find a place in the Bucket-list of any travel lover !
The longest known Living Root Bridge
PC - Anselmrogers
Seven Wonder Places of India - Living Root Bridges In Meghalaya
In the abyss of northeastern India, in the midst of lush green mountains and thick tropical forests, bridges aren't built - they're grown!
It is not strange to spot a bridge in India which is a country with countless rivers and lakes. But how often do you get to see a living bridge?! Well, the forest villages in Meghalaya has this sole credit of having Living root bridges. The aerial roots of Rubber trees are used by the villagers in this area to form bridges across rivers and streams. The innovative members of the Khasi tribe are responsible for this man-made wonder.
The famous "Double Decker" root bridge of Nongriat Village
PC: Arshiya Urveeja Bose
The pliable tree roots are made to grow through betel tree trunks which have been placed across rivers and streams until the figs' roots attach themselves to the other side. It can take 15 or 20 years for the strong web of twisted root bridges to connect to the other side. But unlike traditional constructions, these root bridges grow stronger with time. The strongest root bridges are more than 100 years old! And not to mention, the splendour of these bridges are awe-inspiring.
The longest known example of a living root bridge is near the small Khasi town of Pynursla at over 50 metres in length. The most famous "Double Decker" root bridge of Nongriat Village, believed to be the only one of its kind in the world, is a spectacular sight to behold. There are also double bridges with two parallel or nearly parallel spans.
Double living root bridge in Padu Village
PC : Anselmrogers
Cherrapunjee still remains the picture-book town epitomised by the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore in several of his poems. There are 11 functional root bridges in the Cherrapunji area, situated around two and a half hours drive from Shillong. The treks to the root bridges vary in duration and level of difficulty. But who would not love to revel in the marvel of this place?!
In this era of tormenting nature, the Khasi people has a strong point to convey. This bioengineering masterpiece is a faultless model of men living in amity with the nature. Go and get soaked in the serenity of this place and feel the wonder by yourself!
How to reach : To see the living root bridges you must first get to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. A ride of two and a half hours from there would take you to the villages.
Watch this space for more Wonder places in India..
