Shnongpdeng Camping: A Riverside Bliss in Meghalaya

If you are looking for an experience of the raw beauty of Meghalaya, then you simply must include Camps in Dawki as one of the top things to do. The Dawki River is known to be the cleanest river in Asia, with such clear water that on certain days, you could even see the riverbed. As a result, the Riverside Shnongpdeng Camping experience in Dawki is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Meghalaya.

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about camping at Dawki River, including where you will be setting up the camp, the experiences you will enjoy, facilities available, nearby attractions, how to get there, and when you should go camping in Dawki Shnongpdeng. Planning a trip? Consider adding this experience to your Meghalaya tour package for an unforgettable adventure by the crystal-clear waters.

About Camping at Dawki Shnongpdeng

To enjoy the serene beauty of the Dawki River, or Umngot River, head to Shnongpdeng, a quiet village just 6.5 km from Dawki town. What makes Shnongpdeng Camping special is its peaceful, less crowded setting compared to the busier Dawki area. You can choose from bamboo cabins, Swiss tents, alpine tents, or simply pitch your own tent by the riverside.

The Shnongpdeng camping experience is pure magic. Wake up to birdsong, fall asleep to the gentle flow of the river, and spend your days surrounded by forested hills. Beyond the tranquillity, there's plenty of action too: kayaking, boating, zip-lining, and exploring the stunning landscape. Dawki River Camping at Shnongpdeng offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the most memorable camping in Meghalaya experiences you'll ever have.

Shnongpdeng Camping Price

Shnongpdeng Camping fits every budget. At camps in Dawki, you can choose from Swiss tents, alpine tents, or bamboo cottages, with prices ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500 per person per night. Basic shared tents start at ₹500, while Swiss tents with attached bathrooms go up to ₹1,500. If you're bringing your own tent, campsites charge around ₹200 to ₹300. Prices can vary with the season, so booking your camping at Dawki River in advance is a smart move.

Best Time for Camping at Dawki Shnongpdeng

The best time for Dawki Camping is between October and April, when the weather is at its finest. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, with clear skies and cool breezes that make riverside Shnongpdeng camping absolutely delightful. Winter months (December to February) get cooler, dropping to around 10°C to 15°C, perfect for cosy nights under the stars. The Umngot River is also at its clearest during winter, making it ideal for boating and water activities at Shnongpdeng camping. This period also happens to be the best time to visit Meghalaya overall, so you can easily combine your camping trip with exploring other attractions in the region.

Avoid the monsoon season from June to September, when Meghalaya receives heavy rainfall and temperatures hover around 20°C to 25°C, but with constant downpours. The river swells, trails turn slippery, and camping in Dawki becomes risky. If you're planning Shnongpdeng camping, stick to the dry season to fully enjoy the natural beauty, adventure activities, and the peaceful vibe that camping in Shnongpdeng has to offer.

How to Reach Dawki Shnongpdeng 

Getting to Dawki is straightforward from major cities. If you're flying in, Shillong Airport (Umroi) is the closest at 90 km away, about a 2.5-hour taxi ride. Alternatively, fly into Guwahati Airport (170 km from Dawki), which has better connectivity, and hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Dawki in around 4 to 5 hours. For those travelling by train, Guwahati Railway Station is your stop. From there, you can take a taxi directly to Dawki or catch a shared cab to Shillong first, then continue onward by road.

Driving to Dawki is easy too. From Shillong, it's a pleasant 2.5-hour drive covering about 80 km. From Guwahati, expect 4 to 5 hours on the road. You can hire a private taxi, self-drive, or hop on a local bus or shared cab from Shillong. Once you reach Dawki, Shnongpdeng is just 6.5 km away. Grab local transport or drive yourself to your Shnongpdeng camping spot and enjoy the scenic journey.

Places to Visit While Riverside Camping in Dawki Shnongpdeng 

While enjoying your riverside Shnongpdeng camping experience, don't miss out on exploring the area around you. Dawki and its surroundings are home to some of the most beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya. Here are six must-see spots that will make your trip even more memorable.

1. Mawlynnong Village

A short drive from Shnongpdeng, Mawlynnong Village has earned global recognition as Asia's Cleanest Village. What makes it special is the community's commitment to cleanliness and sustainability. Bamboo dustbins line the spotless streets, and every home has beautiful gardens. The friendly Khasi locals welcome visitors warmly, sharing their way of life. Don't miss the handwoven Living Root Bridge nearby and climb up to Sky View Point for panoramic views stretching across the Bangladesh plains. It's a wonderful example of eco-tourism done right.

• Location: East Khasi Hills district, around 90 km from Shillong

• Best time to visit: October to April

• Activities to do: Village walk, visiting Sky View Point, and seeing the Living Root Bridge

2. Borhill Waterfalls

This lesser-known waterfall near Dawki remains refreshingly uncrowded, making it perfect for those seeking tranquillity away from tourist hotspots. The waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs surrounded by dense tropical greenery, creating a naturally cool microclimate. The sound of gushing water combined with the misty spray offers a therapeutic experience that's hard to find elsewhere. It's an ideal spot for nature photography, picnics, or simply sitting by the water to reflect and recharge. The short trek to reach the falls adds a touch of adventure to your camping trip.

• Location: Near Dawki, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya

• Best time to visit: November to March

• Activities to do: Short trekking, nature photography, relaxing near the falls

3. Umngot River

Recognised as one of India's cleanest rivers, the Umngot River is the main reason most travellers choose camping in Shnongpdeng. What sets it apart is the water's extraordinary transparency. On clear days, you can see every pebble and fish on the riverbed, even in deeper sections. Boat rides here create an optical illusion where boats appear to float in the air. The river is also perfect for kayaking, snorkelling, and cliff jumping. Its pristine condition reflects the local community's dedication to keeping its natural resources protected and pollution-free.

• Location: Shnongpdeng village near Dawki

• Best time to visit: November to February

• Activities to do: Boating, kayaking, riverside camping, photography

4. Jaflong Zero Point

Located at the Indo-Bangladesh border, Jaflong Zero Point offers a unique vantage point where you can see two countries simultaneously. The Dawki River flows through here, flanked by the Khasi Hills on one side and the plains of Bangladesh on the other. The contrast between the hilly Indian terrain and the flat Bangladeshi landscape is striking. It's also a great spot to witness cross-border trade and local life. Many visitors come here for the panoramic views and photo opportunities. 

• Location: Indo-Bangladesh border near Dawki

• Best time to visit: October to March

• Activities to do: Sightseeing, photography, observing border life

5. Tamabil Border

Just a few kilometres from Dawki, the Tamabil Border Crossing is more than just an international checkpoint. It's a fascinating place where you can observe the daily movement of people and goods between India and Bangladesh. The area buzzes with activity as locals cross over for trade and family visits. Standing here gives you a real sense of how border communities live and interact. The surrounding landscape is also quite scenic, with hills rising on the Indian side. It adds a memorable cultural dimension to your Shnongpdeng camping experience and offers insights into cross-border relationships.

• Location: Around 5 km from Dawki town

• Best time to visit: October to March

• Activities to do: Border visit, local interaction, scenic views

6. Kudengrim Living Root Bridge

Reaching this natural marvel requires a relatively easy walk from Kudengrim village, making it accessible for most visitors. The living root bridges of Meghalaya are remarkable bio-engineering feats created by the Khasi tribes over centuries. They train the aerial roots of rubber fig trees across streams, and over 15 to 20 years, these roots strengthen into functional bridges. The Kudengrim bridge is strong enough to hold 50 people at once and grows stronger with age. 

• Location: Kudengrim village, East Khasi Hills

• Best time to visit: October to April

• Activities to do: Walking trail, exploring the bridge, and learning local culture

Things to Do While Camping at Dawki Shnongpdeng

Shnongpdeng camping isn't just about pitching tents by the river. There are plenty of exciting things to do in Meghalaya here, from thrilling water sports to peaceful evening rituals. Here's what you can experience:

1. Boating on the Dawki River

Boating on the crystal-clear Umngot River is an absolute must when camping at Dawki River. The water is so transparent that boats seem to float in mid-air, creating a surreal visual effect. As you glide across, you can spot fish swimming below and see pebbles on the riverbed. It's peaceful yet mesmerising, and easily one of the best water activities in the region.

2. Indulge Yourself in Adventure Activities

For thrill-seekers, camping in Shnongpdeng offers plenty of adrenaline-pumping options. Try kayaking through the river's calm stretches, zip-line across the valley for an aerial view, snorkel to get up close with aquatic life, or take the plunge with cliff jumping. The surrounding Meghalaya beauty adds drama to every adventure, making each activity feel even more special.

3. Walk on a Suspension Bridge

The suspension bridge over the Dawki River gives you a different perspective of the landscape. As you walk across, you'll see the emerald waters flowing beneath and lush green hills stretching in every direction. It's slightly thrilling, especially when the bridge sways gently, but the views make it completely worth it. Perfect for photos too.

4. Enjoy a Bonfire

As evening sets in at Shnongpdeng camping, gather around a crackling bonfire with your travel companions. Share stories, roast marshmallows, or simply sit back and soak in the starry night sky. The combination of warmth from the fire and cool mountain breeze creates the perfect ending to an adventurous day. Most campsites include this as part of their package.

5. Relax by the River

Sometimes the best activity is doing nothing at all. Find a quiet spot by the riverside during your camping in Shnongpdeng and just be present. Listen to the water flowing, watch birds flying overhead, and let the natural surroundings calm your mind. It's the kind of simple pleasure that stays with you long after you've left.

Travel Tips for Camping at Dawki River

If you're planning to camp at Dawki River, here are some tips to make your experience easier and smoother:

• Most campsites in Dawki and Shnongpdeng only accept cash payment. Bring cash to account for your stay, food, and activities, as ATMs are not nearby. 

• Please help keep the area clean and beautiful. Properly dispose of your trash or carry it out. 

• Most camping has basic facilities - shared toilets, a single light bulb in tents, and a common place to charge phones, tablets, etc. Do not expect luxury there, so please plan accordingly. 

• Food is basic and brought to you when needed. If you're feeling adventurous, you may want to ask the host or your organiser for some local Meghalayan food. 

• Most activities take place between 10 AM and 4 PM, as it is dark early in Meghalaya, such as boating and ziplining. Please plan your day according to this. 

• Most campsites charge extra for things like bonfires and hot water due to limited ability to provide these things. Please check the charges first.

Conclusion

Shnongpdeng Camping offers the perfect escape into Meghalaya's untouched natural beauty, far from the noise of city life. Whether you're paddling through the crystal-clear Umngot River, trying your hand at kayaking and cliff jumping, or simply sitting by the water listening to the gentle flow, every moment here feels special. The combination of adventure activities, peaceful riverside settings, and starlit nights creates an experience that's hard to replicate anywhere else. If you're looking for a destination that balances thrill with tranquillity, camping at Dawki is exactly what you need. Pack your bags, gather your friends or family, and head to this hidden gem in Meghalaya for memories that will last a lifetime.