‘Asia’s cleanest village’ in Meghalaya to close for tourists on Sundays

Mawlynnong, located in Meghalaya’s East Khasi district and renowned as Asia’s cleanest village , will no longer welcome single-day tourists on Sundays , local authorities have announced. The decision comes as the village council (Dorbar) seeks to preserve the community’s religious observances and ensure a smooth experience for visitors.

According to the Dorbar, from January 2026 onwards, Mawlynnong will be open to tourists only from Monday to Saturday . All tourist-related services , including restaurants, shops, stalls, and public toilets , will remain closed on Sundays .

The Dorbar explained that Sunday is primarily a day of religious observance , with most residents attending church services throughout the day. “Hence, they would not be able to offer or render any kind of services or hospitality to visitors,” the statement said.

The restriction is also intended to prevent inconvenience to tourists, particularly elderly visitors , and to protect the village’s reputation by avoiding dissatisfaction caused by unavailable services.

However, tourists who are staying overnight in guest houses or homestays during weekdays and extend their stay through Sunday, as well as those checking in on Sunday nights , will be exempt . In such cases, accommodation providers will be responsible for offering necessary services.

Several other tourist destinations in Meghalaya, including Nongjrong Sunrise Village, have implemented similar measures by discouraging or banning one-day visits on Sundays, following decisions made by local communities.