Assam: Day 2 Dawki River, Meghalaya

This was originally posted in a saree group on November 3rd.

It was a long drive today on winding roads through the Khasi Hills from Shillong to Dawki River. The river waters however were not at their clearest best. That happens in December. It was still beautiful. The boat ride was a very relaxing experience. Several locals were seen fishing from the rocks along the banks of the river. India and Bangladesh borders are adjoining in this location. It was interesting to see the people across in their local attires enjoying in the river. Border security forces had a noticeable presence in the area. Leading up to the river the roads were flanked by dense plantations of betel nut trees. Many of these trees had vines of betel leaves climbing on them. Interspersed between these were banana plantations, bamboo grasses and other local vegetation. Hibiscus was seen everywhere as well. 

After the Dawki river we drove to Mawlynnong that is declared the cleanest village in Asia! We simply fell in love with this little village. Such was its charm that we walked and walked and forgot about time. Small homes, several of them built out of bamboo, each with well manicured gardens, and a lot of them offering home stays were simple yet inviting. Young children played on the roads. There were tree houses and bridges built out of bamboo at several places. One can easily spend hours at this place and walk away feeling overjoyed. 

It was past 4 pm when we left Mawlynnong and headed to see the Root Bridge. On the way we came across large bamboo baskets specifically made to collect betelnuts. We even caught glimpse of some men actively weaving such baskets roadside. By the time we reached the parking lot outside the root bridge the sun had already set. We hurried down the rocky steps and barely saw the bridge before darkness began to creep in. This bridge formed out of the roots of the neighboring trees is a marvel that has to be seen to be believed. We managed to get a few decent pictures of the bridge before we had to climb our way back to reach the car. It was barely 5 pm and yet alm dark outside!

Another 3.5 hours drive and we were back in Shillong. Hurriedly went into the market to buy some local spices. Was lucky to find one shop still open that sold locally grown turmeric which has the highest curcumin levels. Another prized item I found on the stands of a street vendor was the Bhoot Jolokia peppers! Came back to the hotel feeling quite happy. Called it a day after dinner. checking out early tomorrow morning.

Saree for today was a Assamese weave in Eri silk in a bluish grey color. The border design is adapted from a traditional shawl of the Bodo tribe called Aranai or Aronai. This saree is entirely handwoven. Unlike most Assamese sarees this border is not stitched onto the saree. Eri silk is also called Ahimsa silk because the silk is obtained and boiled after the worm leaves the cocoon. However the worm is a local delicacy. So even though the silk is obtained in a non-violent manner , the worm is not so lucky after all !!

Eri silk is isothermal, keeps cool in summers and provides warmth in the cold. Sure enough today it gave so much comfort as the temperatures dropped in the evening.