In the misty hills of Sohra, the village of Mawyir welcomes you to an enriching hands-on experience that celebrates the age-old craft of bamboo work, a tradition deeply rooted in Meghalaya’s way of life. This Bamboo Craft Workshop offers a rare opportunity to connect with local artisans, understand the material that shapes much of their culture, and learn the skill of transforming a humble stalk of bamboo into something beautiful and purposeful.
Begin your experience with a warm introduction to the world of bamboo. In a relaxed, interactive session, your local instructor will introduce you to the different varieties of bamboo found across Meghalaya and their distinct uses in daily life from crafting baskets and homeware to creating traditional musical instruments and structures. You’ll gain insight into how this versatile plant has long sustained local livelihoods and continues to play a vital role in community life, design, and environmental sustainability.
Once familiar with the basics, roll up your sleeves for the hands-on part of the experience. Under the guidance of your instructor, watch a live demonstration of bamboo crafting before trying your own hand at the process. You will learn how to split bamboo, scrape its outer and inner layers, measure the right proportions depending on the item being crafted, and slowly bring a small bamboo object to life. The rhythmic sound of tools at work, the scent of freshly cut bamboo, and the easy laughter shared with your local host make this a truly grounded, human experience.
By the end of the workshop, you will walk away not only with your crafted souvenir but also with a deep appreciation for the artistry and patience this craft demands and the people who keep this timeless tradition alive in the heart of Meghalaya.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Arrive at the workshop venue in Mawyir, Sohra. Meet your instructor and get an introduction to the day’s activities.
10:15 AM – 10:45 AM: Begin the theory session. Learn about the importance of bamboo in local culture, the different varieties used, and how bamboo crafting supports employment and community livelihoods.
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Watch a live demonstration by your instructor as they showcase the process of bamboo crafting, from raw stalk to finished product.
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Take part in the practical session. Try splitting, scraping, and shaping bamboo under the guidance of your instructor. Create your own small craft piece to take home as a keepsake of your time in Sohra.
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Conclude the workshop with light refreshments and an informal conversation with the artisans about their craft and way of life.
Mawyir is a serene village located near Sohra (Cherrapunji) in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills. It is approximately 55 kilometers from Shillong, and the drive takes around 2 hours through scenic hill roads.
Not at all. This workshop is designed for beginners and enthusiasts of all skill levels. Your instructor will guide you through every step, from understanding bamboo varieties to crafting your own piece, at a comfortable, hands-on pace.
Participants typically create a small bamboo craft item such as a coaster, pen holder, keychain, or miniature basket. The design depends on the instructor’s demonstration and the material available that day.
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including the introduction, live demonstration, hands-on crafting session, and light refreshments with the artisans.
Yes. The experience is family-friendly and suitable for children above 8 years of age, provided they are comfortable handling basic craft tools under supervision.
The session includes all materials and tools, a guided demonstration, and hands-on instruction. You’ll also take home your handcrafted bamboo souvenir.
Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit dusty, along with closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals. Carry a water bottle, a notebook if you’d like to jot down insights, and a camera to capture your process.
Yes! You’re welcome to take photos and short videos of the crafting process and your finished piece. Please be respectful and ask for permission before photographing the artisans directly.
Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly materials in the world—it grows quickly, regenerates naturally, and requires minimal resources. Through this experience, you’ll learn how bamboo crafting supports sustainable livelihoods and environmentally conscious design in Meghalaya.
Absolutely. Many artisans have locally made bamboo items available for purchase. Buying directly from them supports local craftsmanship and helps sustain traditional skills.
The workshop is available year-round, but the best time to visit Sohra is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the surrounding hills and villages.
