Living Root Bridge
Living root bridges are unique and natural wonders found in the northeastern region of India, particularly in the state of Meghalaya. They are made by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes, who have been using this technique for centuries to cross rivers and streams in the dense forests of the region.
Living root bridges are formed by training the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, also known as the Indian rubber tree, to grow in a particular direction, often across a river or stream. The roots are guided and woven together to form a strong and durable bridge. Over time, the roots continue to grow and strengthen, eventually becoming self-supporting and capable of bearing the weight of multiple people at a time.
The process of creating a living root bridge can take anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and the bridges can last for centuries. They are also eco-friendly and sustainable, as they are made from natural materials and do not require the use of modern construction methods or materials.
Living root bridges are not only functional but also beautiful, blending seamlessly into the surrounding forest environment. They have become a popular tourist attraction in the region and have even been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to their practical uses, living root bridges are also considered sacred by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes, who believe that the trees and bridges are imbued with spiritual energy and have the power to bring good luck and blessings.
Which state is known for living root bridge? / Where is living root bridge located?
The state of Meghalaya in northeastern India is known for its living root bridges. The Khasi and Jaintia tribes in Meghalaya have been using this unique and traditional technique for centuries to cross rivers and streams in the dense forests of the region. The living root bridges have become a popular tourist attraction in Meghalaya and have even been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Which is the living root bridge in UNESCO?
The living root bridges of Meghalaya in northeastern India have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site includes 11 different living root bridges located in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. The bridges are a unique example of the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, as they are made by the local communities using natural materials and traditional techniques. The UNESCO designation helps to promote the conservation and protection of these remarkable structures and the surrounding environment.
Top 10 Living Root Bridges in India
Here are ten examples of living root bridges in Meghalaya, India, along with their approximate coordinates:
- Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nongriat Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.1479° N, 91.7352° E
- Jingkieng Nongriat Living Root Bridge, Nongriat Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.1486° N, 91.7366° E
- Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Riwai Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.2196° N, 91.7276° E
- Mawsaw Living Root Bridge, Mawsaw Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.2214° N, 91.7269° E
- Mawlynnong Living Root Bridge, Mawlynnong Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.1668° N, 91.6727° E
- Ritymmen Living Root Bridge, Ritymmen Village, East Jaintia Hills District: 25.3127° N, 92.0488° E
- Tyrna Living Root Bridge, Tyrna Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.1374° N, 91.7214° E
- Ummunoi Living Root Bridge, Ummunoi Village, West Khasi Hills District: 25.4024° N, 91.3334° E
- Kudeng Rim Living Root Bridge, Kudeng Rim Village, East Jaintia Hills District: 25.3192° N, 92.0475° E
- Nongthymmai Living Root Bridge, Nongthymmai Village, East Khasi Hills District: 25.1972° N, 91.8355° E
Which is the first living root bridge in India?
It's difficult to determine the exact first living root bridge in India, as this traditional technique has been used by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes in Meghalaya for centuries. However, it is believed that some of the oldest living root bridges in India are located in the remote and inaccessible parts of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, and may be several hundred years old.
One of the most famous and oldest living root bridges in Meghalaya is the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge, located in the Riwai village of the East Khasi Hills district. This bridge is estimated to be around 200 years old, and is unique in that it consists of two levels, with the upper level providing a higher and drier crossing point during monsoon season. However, there may be other living root bridges in Meghalaya that are even older and more ancient than this one.
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