Meghalaya's living-root bridges are a marvel of indigenous bioengineering — footbridges grown, not built, over generations.
The technique
Villagers guide the aerial roots of the Indian rubber fig (Ficus elastica) across rivers using hollowed betel-nut trunks as scaffolding. Over 15–30 years the roots thicken and fuse into a living span.
Living and strengthening
Because they are alive, the bridges grow stronger with time and can last for centuries — the famous double-decker at Nongriat is the best known.
- Grown from Ficus elastica roots
- Take 15–30 years to form
- Strengthen with age
- Nongriat's double-decker is iconic
We arrange guided treks to the bridges with local Khasi guides — request net rates.
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