Assam, nestled in the northeastern region of India, is a land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant natural beauty. Known as the “Land of the Brahmaputra,” it boasts a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
The state is renowned for its stunning tea gardens that stretch as far as the eye can see, producing some of the finest teas in the world. Assam is also home to the mighty Brahmaputra River, which flows through its heart, providing fertile plains and lush greenery.
Assam is a treasure trove of wildlife, with several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, where you can spot rare and endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger.
The culture of Assam is equally vibrant, with its rich history reflected in its ancient temples, classical dance forms, and the annual Bihu festival. Assam’s cuisine, known for its use of aromatic spices and flavors, offers a delightful culinary journey.
From exploring historic sites to embarking on wildlife safaris, savoring a cup of Assam tea to cruising on the Brahmaputra, Assam promises a diverse and enchanting travel experience in the heart of northeastern India.
Brahmaputra River: The mighty Brahmaputra flows through Assam, offering opportunities for river cruises and scenic boat rides.
Manas National Park: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is known for its biodiversity, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and wild water buffalo.
Bihu Festival: Experience the colorful and vibrant Bihu festivals, celebrated with traditional dance, music, and feasting.
Intricate art & Craft: Get introduced to some amazing Bamboo & Jute art and craft. Its the home to the gorgeous ‘Mekhala Chador’
Assam, known for its lush tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, and rich cultural heritage, also offers offbeat destinations that are less frequented by tourists. Here are some offbeat places to explore in Assam:
Haflong: Often referred to as the “Switzerland of the East,” Haflong is the only hill station in Assam. It’s a serene destination with rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and a pristine lake. Haflong is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Sualkuchi: Known as the “Manchester of Assam,” Sualkuchi is a quiet town famous for its silk weaving. Visit the silk weaving workshops, interact with weavers, and explore the vibrant silk sarees and traditional Assamese attire.
Madan Kamdev: This archaeological site, often called “Khajuraho of Assam,” features ancient ruins of temples with intricate erotic sculptures. It’s a lesser-known destination with historical and artistic significance.
Diphu: Diphu is the headquarters of the Karbi Anglong district and offers opportunities for trekking and exploring the Karbi tribal culture. The nearby Diphu Wildlife Sanctuary is another attraction for nature enthusiasts.
Manas National Park: While not entirely offbeat, Manas National Park is less visited compared to some other wildlife sanctuaries in India. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna, including Bengal tigers and Indian elephants.
Bordua Tea Garden: For a unique tea experience away from the popular tea gardens, visit Bordua Tea Garden. You can explore the tea estate, interact with tea pluckers, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Hajo: Hajo is a historic town known for its religious diversity. It’s home to temples, mosques, and a Buddhist stupa, making it a symbol of communal harmony. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple and the Poa Mecca Mosque are notable attractions.
Gaurisagar Tank: Located in Sivasagar, Gaurisagar Tank is a massive man-made tank with three temples in its center. It’s a serene and lesser-visited site with historical significance.
Panidihing Bird Sanctuary: Situated near Sivasagar, this bird sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species. It’s an excellent place for birdwatching in a peaceful setting.
Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary: Known as the “Amazon of the East,” this sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered white-winged wood duck. It offers offbeat trekking and wildlife experiences.
When visiting these offbeat places in Assam, it’s essential to respect local customs and the environment. Additionally, check the latest travel advisories and permit requirements, if any, for certain regions. These offbeat destinations offer a chance to explore the lesser-known facets of Assam’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Assam, a state in northeastern India known for its lush tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant culture, offers a wide range of activities for travelers. Here are some of the top things to do in Assam:
Visit a Tea Estate: Assam is renowned for its tea. Take a guided tour of a tea estate or plantation like Margherita Tea Estate to learn about the tea-making process and savor freshly brewed Assam tea.
Explore Kaziranga National Park: Home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy wildlife safaris to spot rhinos, tigers, elephants, and various bird species.
Take a River Cruise: Cruise along the mighty Brahmaputra River on a traditional boat and witness the serene beauty of the countryside, including river dolphins and migratory birds.
Visit Kamakhya Temple: This ancient Hindu temple in Guwahati is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. It’s a significant pilgrimage site and a stunning example of Assamese temple architecture.
Explore Majuli Island: The world’s largest river island, Majuli, is a cultural and ecological treasure. Visit traditional Mishing villages, enjoy the serene ambiance, and attend the Raas festival.
Attend Bihu Festival: If you visit Assam during April, don’t miss the Bihu festival, the state’s most celebrated festival. It’s a time of vibrant dance, music, and feasting.
Discover Sivasagar’s Monuments: Explore Sivasagar’s historical monuments, including the Sivasagar Sivadol (Shiva Temple), Rang Ghar, and Talatal Ghar, which are remarkable examples of Ahom architecture.
Birdwatching at Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: This lesser-visited park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to a diverse range of bird species. Boat safaris on the Dibru River offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Trek in the Nameri National Park: Embark on a trekking adventure in Nameri National Park, known for its scenic trails and diverse wildlife. River rafting on the Jia Bhoroli River is another exciting activity.
Sample Assamese Cuisine: Try traditional Assamese dishes like Assam Laksa, Assam Tea, Assam Fish Curry, and various rice-based preparations in local restaurants.
Visit the Orang National Park: Known as the “Mini Kaziranga,” Orang National Park is a sanctuary for the Indian rhinoceros. Take a jeep safari to spot wildlife.
Explore the Silk Town of Sualkuchi: Discover the silk weaving industry in Sualkuchi, where you can purchase exquisite silk sarees and traditional Assamese garments.
Experience Traditional Dance and Music: Attend cultural performances that showcase traditional Assamese dance forms like Bihu and Sattriya, accompanied by traditional music.
Visit Historic Hajo: Explore the religious diversity of Hajo, home to Hindu temples, a mosque, and a Buddhist stupa. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple and the Poa Mecca Mosque are highlights.
Shop for Handicrafts: Buy authentic Assamese handicrafts like bamboo products, Assamese jewelry, and handwoven textiles as souvenirs.
These activities offer a glimpse into the natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse wildlife of Assam, making your visit to this northeastern state a memorable and enriching experience.
The best time to visit Assam is during the winter and early spring months, which span from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for travel and exploration in the state. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Assam:
1. Winter (November to February):
- Winter in Assam is characterized by cool and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F).
- The skies are generally clear, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities, wildlife safaris, and exploring historical and cultural sites.
- This is also the time when migratory birds visit Assam, making it ideal for birdwatching at places like Kaziranga National Park and Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.
2. Early Spring (March to April):
- Early spring in Assam is characterized by gradually rising temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
- The weather remains pleasant, and the landscape starts to bloom with colorful flowers.
- This is a great time for tea garden visits, river cruises, and exploring the vibrant culture of Assam, especially during the Bihu festival in April.
While winter and early spring are the most popular times to visit Assam, the state can be visited year-round, depending on your preferences:
3. Monsoon (June to September):
- The monsoon season in Assam brings heavy rainfall, which rejuvenates the lush green landscapes.
- While the rain can sometimes lead to flooding, it also offers a unique opportunity to witness Assam’s natural beauty in its prime.
- Rainfall decreases towards the end of September, making it a suitable time for travelers who enjoy a bit of rain.
4. Summer (May to June):
- Summer in Assam can be hot and humid, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
- It’s still a suitable time to visit, but it can be less comfortable due to the heat. Early mornings and evenings are more pleasant.
- Summer is a good time for trekking in the hill stations of Assam, such as Haflong.
When planning your visit to Assam, consider your preferred activities and the kind of weather you enjoy. Be aware of any travel advisories, especially during the monsoon season, when some areas may experience flooding and transportation disruptions. Regardless of the season, Assam offers a wide range of experiences, from wildlife safaris to cultural festivals, ensuring an enriching travel experience.
Assam, located in northeastern India, is accessible by various modes of transportation, including air, train, and road. Here’s how to reach Assam:
By Air:
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati is the primary international airport in Assam. It’s well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, as well as international destinations.
Another important airport in Assam is Dibrugarh Airport (DIB), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Dibrugarh is situated in Upper Assam.
By Road:
Assam is well-connected by road to neighboring states like West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.
National Highways 27, 31, 37, and 38 pass through Assam, providing good connectivity to different parts of the state.
You can also hire taxis or use interstate buses to reach Assam from nearby cities and states.
By Train :
Assam has a well-developed rail network. Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) is the major railway station in Assam and serves as a gateway to the state.
You can reach Guwahati by train from various Indian cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. There are several long-distance trains that connect these cities to Guwahati.
By River : The Brahmaputra River flows through Assam, and river cruises are a unique way to reach the state. Some cruises offer journeys from Kolkata to Guwahati, taking you through the scenic landscapes of Assam.
When traveling to Assam, especially if you plan to explore remote areas or national parks, it’s essential to check permit requirements and any travel advisories. Inner line permits or restricted area permits may be necessary for specific regions, so it’s advisable to obtain them in advance, if applicable.
Additionally, consider the time of year you plan to visit Assam, as weather conditions and transportation options may vary depending on the season. Whether you’re interested in exploring tea estates, wildlife sanctuaries, or cultural attractions, Assam offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
