Living Root Bridges: How Meghalaya Grows Its Bridges

For generations, the Khasi and Jaintia communities of Meghalaya have guided the aerial roots of the rubber fig tree (Ficus elastica) across rivers and streams, training them over 15 to 30 years into living, load-bearing bridges. The most famous example, the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge near Nongriat village, actually consists of two bridges stacked on top of each other, built up over multiple generations. Unlike wooden or steel bridges, living root bridges grow stronger with time and require minimal maintenance once established. Visiting typically involves a steep trek of several thousand steps down into the valley and back — a demanding but memorable day out from Cherrapunji or Shillong.