/0.jpg)
Overview
About Split Rock trail (MawsiangJroi)
Mawsiangjroi is a narrow vertical crevice on the outskirts of Mawlyngbna village in East Khasi Hills, often called the Split Rock trail. Local accounts and the state tourism department attribute the split to the great Assam earthquake of 1897. The crevice is about 60 ft deep and about 5 ft wide, and was opened up as a trail in 2013 by adventure groups working with local youths. The walk passes through three sections joined by man-made ladders, with tree roots, mossy rock and tight squeezes along the way. Other visitors describe climbing up and down rocks on wooden and bamboo steps, and some accounts rate it as fairly demanding. Mawlyngbna is a community tourism village known for its fossil-bearing rocks, canyoning and the Traveller's Nest stay, so the crevice walk is usually done as part of a longer visit there.
On the day
What to expect at Split Rock trail (MawsiangJroi)
Guide: Community guides are available through the Mawlyngbna Traveller's Nest and are recommended. Trail: Narrow fissures, vertical descents on ladders and steps, roots and slippery moss-covered rock. Fitness: Requires some climbing and squeezing through tight spots. Not suitable for anyone uncomfortable in confined spaces. Gear: Shoes with good grip, a small backpack to keep both hands free for ladders, and a torch for the darker sections. Pace: Guides set the pace and point out footholds; expect to stop and wait at ladders if other groups are ahead. Nearby: Mawlyngbna's fossil sites, river canyoning, Mawsynram.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to April
October to April is the best period, as dry rock and ladders make the descent safer. In the monsoon (June–September) the area receives very heavy rain and the crevice becomes slippery, so the walk is best avoided or done only if guides say it is safe. Start in the morning so you are out of the crevice well before dark, and keep the afternoon for canyoning or other activities in the village.
Getting There
Mawlyngbna is about 75–80 km from Shillong, roughly 2.5–3 hours by road via Mawsynram; the village is about 15 km beyond Mawsynram town.
Mawlyngbna is about 75–80 km from Shillong, roughly 2.5–3 hours by road via Mawsynram; the village is about 15 km beyond Mawsynram town. The last stretch is a narrow but motorable road. Shared vehicles to Mawlyngbna leave from Shillong's Anjali stand in the afternoon, which suits an overnight stay. For a day trip, a private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. Meet your guide at the Traveller's Nest or in the village; the trailhead is a short walk from there.
Entry & Duration
The crevice walk itself takes about 1 to 1.5 hours with a guide. Including the drive, most people treat Mawlyngbna as a full day or an overnight trip from Shillong.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Split Rock in Meghalaya?
The Split Rock or Mawsiangjroi crevice is on the outskirts of Mawlyngbna village in East Khasi Hills, beyond Mawsynram.
How far is Mawlyngbna from Shillong?
About 75–80 km, roughly 2.5–3 hours by road via Mawsynram.
How was the Mawsiangjroi crevice formed?
Local accounts and the state tourism department attribute it to the 1897 Assam earthquake.
Do I need a guide for the Mawlyngbna crevice walk?
Yes, community guides are recommended because of the narrow fissures, ladders and slippery rock. They can be arranged at the Mawlyngbna Traveller's Nest.
Best time to visit Mawlyngbna split rock?
October to April, when the rock and ladders are dry.
