It's been a few weeks since his latest film 'Varshangalkku Sesham' hit theatres and post that, as always, actor Pranav Mohanlal is again on wanderlust. After exploring Ooty, his latest trip is to the North East Indian state of Meghalaya and the actor also shared some beautiful pictures from the state. A photo of the Living Roots Bridge, which he captured and shared on his page, was embraced by his fans in no time. During the trip, Pranav also crossed paths with popular travel vloggers Mythili Bose and Manjit Manohar. Sharing their experience of meeting Pranav, they said, "Cherrapunji has a Nongriat trekking. Eye-catching vistas such as Double Decker Root Bridge and Rainbow Falls, among others, are in store after trekking through four mountains. The trekking experience is out of this world. When we were resting after the strenuous trekking, we saw a person walking carrying a big bag. It is pretty difficult to trek while carrying a bag. Who was that crazy person carrying a huge bag while walking in this tough terrain? A cursory glance at that person was a revelation for us. That person was none other than Pranav Mohanlal. We took a snap with him, exchanged pleasantries and parted ways.”
Of late, he has also been sharing a few interesting clicks, which seem to be from Kolkata. Meanwhile, fans in the comment section are wondering where he will head next, as the actor rarely shares the location while posting his photographs. Many also ask when he would work on the film based on the hit 'Ram c/o Anandi' novel, soon.
A man-made spectacle
The Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village is undoubtedly a must-see and sought-after spot in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. The Living Root Bridge was built by people belonging to the Khasi tribe and this unique bridge was put in place by twisting and shaping living roots. Interestingly, Meghalaya is dotted with many such bridges that are close to nature. Many people believe that some of the living root bridges have been in existence for centuries. The Double Decker Root Bridge in Cherrapunji is the most popular in Meghalaya. This man-made spectacle, which is more than 150 years old, can be reached after descending 1,400ft from the Lumpsophie village. One has to descend steep steps and cross an iron bridge to reach the iconic two-tier root bridge, which is a sight to behold.
Nongriat is like paradise
Nongriat is a sleepy village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The age-old village is nestled amidst a rainforest and is enveloped by the Sohra Valley. The village is a paradise on earth as it is replete with verdant forest, lofty hills, wonderful valleys, arresting waterfalls and mesmerizing blue lakes. A 90-minute drive from Shillong will take you to Tyrna village and the last point on the route could be reached only on foot. From that point, you have to walk for 5km to reach Nongriat village. Once you step into the village, the first destination on your itinerary should be the Living Root Bridge. Many root bridges weaved out of the roots of a rubber tree called Ka diengjri Figus Elastica by the Khasi tribal people could be seen in the village. The huge rubber trees found in the northeastern Indian states, Nepal and China are not like the rubber trees in Kerala. It may be noted that the knots in the living root bridges get tighter and stronger with time.
Another tourist attraction of the hamlet is the stunning Rainbow Falls. The waterfall can be reached only by trekking and is 3km away from the bridge. The Rainbow Falls, which is surrounded by thick forest, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Meghalaya. The falls got its name as a rainbow formed whenever sunlight glitters on the gushing waters. The waterfalls empties into a lake that is as blue as the sky. Summer is the best time to visit the Rainbow Waterfalls. Though the flow of water is less during the summer season, one could rule out the dangers of gushing waters in monsoon. The trek to the Nohkalikai Waterfall, which is one of the highest falls in India, starts from the Rainbow Falls.
What is the best time to visit?
The best time to travel to Nongriat village is between the months of October and May. The climate will be pleasant with less rain and perfect for outdoor activities, including trekking. Avoid travelling to Meghalaya between June and September as heavy rain during that period can trigger landslides in many places.