From Cocoon to Craft: Exploring Umden’s Ryndia Legacy
1
Days
Umden (also called Diwon), located in Ri‑Bhoi district about 75 km from Shillong, is the first officially recognized Eri Silk Village in Meghalaya.
Renowned for its “peace silk” (Ahimsa Eri)—harvested without harming silkworms—the village handles the entire process in-community: from rearing silkworms on castor leaves to spinning, dyeing, and weaving on traditional looms
Itinerary
DAY 1
- Depart from Shillong and drive toward Umden (Diwon) through scenic forest roads and open hills.
- Arrive in Umden and start your experience with a guided walk through the village. Learn about the community’s role in keeping Eri silk traditions alive.
- Visit local homes and rearing sheds where villagers raise Eri silkworms on castor leaves.
- Observe (and try your hand at) traditional spinning and reeling methods using bamboo tools like the takli.
- Head to a dyeing station where natural colours are made from turmeric, lac, onion skin, and iron ore.
- See how yarn is handwoven into Ryndia fabric on traditional looms, entirely without electricity.
- Enjoy a traditional lunch, post which walk to nearby monolith sites and sacred groves, and join a short cycling loop through the village trail, also enjoy fishing along some trails.
- Optional stop at the DIRC (Design, Innovation & Resource Centre) to see fabric samples, process documentation, and shop for authentic Ryndia scarves, shawls, or accessories.
- Drive back to Shillong for the night, and unwind for the day.
GALLERY
Trip Highlights
- Complete insight into the “peace silk” process, from cocoon to loom
- Hands-on interaction with women artisans preserving traditional Eri craft
- Organic dyeing with over 30 plant-based colours
- Scenic, slow-paced rural setting with forest trails and sacred groves
- Craft purchase options directly from makers—ethically sourced and traceable
- Cycling and fishing in the heart of nature.
- Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a short offbeat escape from Shillong
Includes
- ED Local expert
- Immersive one of a kind, non violent, silk weaving experience.
- Local cuisine experience for lunch
- Cycling in Umden
- Fishing in Umden
Excludes
- Travel to and from Shillong available as an optional add-on
- Meals, beverages, or refreshments not mentioned above
- Personal expenses like shopping, snacks, or additional activities
- Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff
- Accommodation or transport not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary
- Extra costs arising due to unforeseen situations like weather delays, roadblocks, strikes, or natural events
- Any other items or services not clearly listed under “Inclusions”
FAQs
Great question! Peace silk (or Eri silk) is made without killing the silkworm. The moths are allowed to emerge naturally from the cocoon before the silk is spun—making it a cruelty-free, ethical alternative to traditional silk. It’s soft, breathable, and full of character—like nature’s version of slow fashion.
Not at all! This experience is for everyone—whether you’re a textile nerd or just curious about how beautiful things are made. The artisans guide you through each step, and you’ll even get to dye, touch, spin, and weave a bit yourself (no homework, we promise).
Yes, and that’s the best part—you’re buying directly from the makers. The pricing is fair, transparent, and supports the women who’ve made it by hand. Expect their traditional wear, scarves, stoles, and naturally dyed fabrics—each with a story and a smile behind it.
This is a scenic, rural escape far from the crowds. Picture bamboo houses, forest trails, sacred groves, and rivers where you can fish or just dip your toes. It’s quiet, green, and grounded—ideal for a deep breath and a slower pace.
Absolutely. Families love it for the interactive, educational aspect (kids enjoy the dyeing and cycling), and solo travelers find it peaceful and personal. Whether you're coming with friends or just yourself, there's warmth waiting for you.
Who is this for?
- This immersive, craft-based escape is perfect for:
- Conscious travelers and slow explorers seeking meaningful, hands-on experiences
- Textile lovers, designers, and creatives curious about ethical silk, natural dyes, and traditional weaving
- Eco-minded souls interested in sustainability, forest-based living, and women-led initiatives
- Weekend wanderers who want to unwind in a scenic village setting—with options to cycle, fish, and just breathe
- Supporters of local craftsmanship looking to buy directly from the makers and understand the story behind what they wear
Terms and Conditions
The company shall not be liable for damages/charges incurred by travellers including but not limited to the following reasons if applied:
- Natural Disaster, war, civil unrest, pandemic, alteration or cancellation of tour itinerary due to such causes.
- Accidents during transportation or accommodation, damages by fire.
- Orders of either Indian Govt or immigration regulations, isolation resulting from infectious diseases and tour itinerary alterations due to such causes.
- Accidents occur during travels or activities.
- Food Poisoning.
- Theft.
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Trip name: Whistles and Roots: A Journey to Kongthong and Wah Myor