By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 22: The Dorbar Shnong Mawlynnong of Raid Lyngkhat, Khyrim Syiemship, has announced that Mawlynnong, known across Asia for its cleanliness and popularity as a tourist destination, will be closed to tourists and visitors on Sundays beginning January 2026.
The village will remain open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, while all tourist-related services such as restaurants, shops, stalls and public toilets will remain shut on Sundays.
In its notification, the Dorbar said the decision followed long and careful deliberation.
It explained that Sundays in Mawlynnong are devoted to religious services, with most residents attending church for much of the day. Because of this, villagers are unable to extend services or hospitality to visitors, which has often caused inconvenience, especially to elderly tourists.
The Dorbar noted that such situations risk creating dissatisfaction and potentially harming the village’s reputation, prompting the need for a clear policy.
The Dorbar clarified that tourists who are already staying in guest houses or homestays during the week and extend their stay until Sunday will not be affected by the closure, and visitors who wish to check in on Sunday nights may still do so.
In both cases, responsibility for hospitality and services will rest entirely with the respective guest house or homestay owners.
The Dorbar Shnong has appealed for the cooperation of all concerned as it moves to implement the decision.
