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God's Own Garden in Meghalaya: Tourists Also Contribute to Cleanliness
Mawlynnong, a remarkable village in Meghalaya, not only holds the title of being the cleanest village in India but also in all of Asia. Located in the East Khasi Hills district, this village captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and a warm welcome sign that says "Welcome to Mawlynnong, God's Own Garden."
What makes this village exceptional when it comes to cleanliness? The people of Mawlynnong credit their clean habits to a long-standing tradition passed down through generations. The village elders have ingrained in everyone the importance of a clean environment and its numerous benefits. The village leader ensures that cleanliness is never neglected.
In 2003, Mawlynnong was recognized as the Cleanest Village in Asia by Discover India Magazine, further enhancing its reputation. Let's explore the habits and practices that contribute to maintaining the village's cleanliness. Bamboo dustbins are strategically placed throughout the village, and both residents and visitors use them diligently. These dustbins can be found in every corner of Mawlynnong.
As the cleanest village in Asia and a part of the picturesque state of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong attracts tourists from all over the world. Many visitors consider it their favorite destination in India and return repeatedly. Some European tourists even believe that Mawlynnong surpasses many beautiful locations in Europe in terms of cleanliness and beauty.
Cleaning supervisors take responsibility for keeping the garbage left by tourists clean, and they charge a cleaning fee to visitors. Tourists pay the charges happily. Smoking and the use of plastic bags are strictly prohibited, while rainwater harvesting is actively encouraged. The installation of solar panel lights not only saves electricity but also contributes to maintaining the village's cleanliness through the use of clean energy.
Mawlynnong is primarily inhabited by the Khasi tribe, known for their friendly and hospitable nature towards tourists. Villagers collect dried leaves and flowers, which they deposit in pits to create valuable compost. Food waste from households is fed to pigs located outside the village.
Furthermore, the residents of Mawlynnong, regardless of age, actively participate in upholding the village's cleanliness traditions. They hold deep respect for their surroundings, including natural water sources and forests, ensuring no wastage occurs.
The village's architecture is designed in a way that promotes cleanliness, with soak pits present in every house. Every household in Mawlynnong has toilet facilities, and the construction of a toilet is prioritized when building a new house. This village serves as an outstanding example, where people have willingly followed these practices without complaint for over 30 years.
What makes Mawlynnong special for visitors?
Mawlynnong is renowned for its unique tree houses and stilt houses, constructed primarily using bamboo. The village's beautiful architectural design, featuring Khasi huts made of bamboo poles and jute, is particularly appealing to visitors.
The culinary experience in Mawlynnong is equally delightful, as all the food is prepared using organic ingredients. A popular dish called Jadoh combines red rice, pork or chicken, and various spices, creating a tantalizing blend of flavors. Other famous dishes include Tungrimbai, Minil Tsonga, and Pukhleen.
When exploring Mawlynnong, visitors can't miss the Sky View, a bamboo structure offering breathtaking views of the Bangladeshi landscape. Other attractions include the Church of Epiphany, Mawlynnong Waterfall, and a unique surviving original bridge, similar to the double-decker bridge in Cherrapunji. Strolling across this bridge and capturing countless photos nearby is a must-do activity.
Best time to visit Mawlynnong:
Mawlynnong enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, with the monsoon and post-monsoon months adding an extra charm. The rainfall during this time enhances the beauty of the village's lush green surroundings, creating a captivating atmosphere.
