Assam tourism and travel guide
Overview
Assam is known for its many rivers, rolling hills covered in greenery, and a vibrant cultural scene that sits at the heart of North East India. This attractive state is sometimes referred to as the “Land of Red Rivers and Blue Hills” and serves as an excellent gateway to the rest of North East India with its mysterious yet fascinating landscapes. In the Assam Travel Guide, the state stands out due to its unique combination of natural beauty spots and historical past events.
Geographically, it shares its borders with the Himalayan foothills on the northern side while surrounded by states such as West Bengal and the rest of the seven sisters. The Brahmaputra River Valley lies across the Barak River valley from east to west through this state. Amongst seven sister states located in the Northeast region of India, Assam covers approximately 78,438 square kilometres, which provides various attractions that contribute towards making Assam the best place to visit this part of the country.
Historically known as the Kamarupaand Pragjyotisha or Pragjyotishpur, the history of Assam is very captivating since there have been references even in ancient Sanskrit scriptures about this place while several powerful dynasties, along with the Ahoms, ruled over it, leaving behind their imprints on its culture, too.
When one wants to experience life's vibrant culture, what better way other than festivals? Bohag Bihu, or Assamese New Year celebration, epitomises spirit at any given time within year-round calendar events held across the State. For instance, during the spring season, people come together, dance, sing, play music, and exchange love, peace, harmony, and friendship. All these are common traits observed during such festive occasions.
Assam tourism is not complete without mentioning the efforts put in by the state towards the conservation of biodiversity, which has resulted in the creation of World Heritage Sites in Assam, such as Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, among others. Additionally, there are ancient temples scattered around various parts, including the famous Kamakhya Temple situated atop Nilachal Hill within Guwahati city limits, attracting both pilgrims and historians.
Assam state is a place that offers different experiences for tourists. The experiences range from the cultural wealth of Majuli, which is the world’s largest river island, to various ecosystems found in Manas National Park. Instead of promoting only Assam tourist places, each site reflects some unique aspects of the ecological and cultural prosperity of this part of India. With many attractions like historic cities such as Tezpur, Jorhat or Sivasagar, Assam Tour Packages opens up its enchanting world for travellers, thus ensuring every tour becomes an everlasting memory in their lives.
Top Cities in Assam
A visit to Assam is not only about the scenic beauty, but it is a trip through its soul where every element, right from thrilling adventures to lip-smacking dishes of kitchens and buzzing marketplaces, calls for travellers to dig deeper. This guide for those who are crafting their Assam Holiday Packages tries to capture what makes Assam a must-visit place.
1.Adventure in Assam
The spirit of Adventure in Assam is as vast as the Brahmaputra itself. There are various activities that can quench your thirst for an adrenaline rush because of the diverse terrain in this state.
Garbhanga Reserve Forest. This reserve foresthas rough trails which can be trekked upon, along with rock climbing undertaken by local adventure clubs.
Dima Hasao District: The district offers mountaineering challenges at the highest peaks of Assam amidst surreal beauty all around.
Chandubi Lake: Provides a serene atmosphere for boating and other light water sports activities.
Thobgang Jungle Tourist Camp and iconic Majuli Island: Represent a blend between cultural immersion & nature-based tourism. Perfect places for people seeking peace as well as excitement simultaneously.
2.Food of Assam
Assamese cuisine is like a tapestry filled with different flavours waiting to be savoured. Each dish tells us about the rich cultural heritage and agricultural abundance that we enjoy here in Assam.
Assamese Famous Food: Begin your gastronomic journey with Khar, followed by a tangy fish curry called MasorTenga and hearty Duck Meat Curry.
For Vegetarians: A simple yet satisfying mashed potato dish known locally as Aloo Pitika can act as comfort food, while fresh flavours from neighbourhood greens may fill up Xaak Aru Bhaji on your plate.
Flavours of Festivity: During the Bihu festival, You can experience an assortment of traditional snacks and sweets brought along with it. Among these, rolled rice cakes filled with sesame seeds and jaggery, known as Til Pitha, and fried rice cakes called Ghila Pitha are most common. Additionally, Jolpan or assorted snacks made from rice, such as Chira Muri Akhoiserved with curd or cream and jaggery, can be eaten during this period, too.
3.Best Places to Shop in Assam
Assam purchasing is a good way to experience culture and tradition in various markets and towns that happen to be unique for several handicrafts, textiles, etc. Other than Guwahati, here are some places you may want to visit:
Sualkuchi: Often called ‘Manchester of the Assam’,Sualkuchi is known for making beautiful silk fabrics such as golden Muga, ivory white Pat and light beige Eri.
Sarthebari: The reason why Sarthebari became famous was because they produced utensils made from bel metals.
Barpeta: Apart from being a vibrant Vaishnavitecentre, Barpeta has many crafts like traditional Assamese jewellery making also prevalent here.
Nagaon: The District is famous mainly because of the terracotta work done there alongside the side pottery-making industry that is very popular around these parts, especially amongst tourists who love collecting such items.
Tezpur: This historic town has plenty of local bazaars selling authentic clothes from Assam, as well as handloom products and crafts that can be found easily at every street corner here.
4.Best Shopping Places in Guwahati
A lively city in Assam, Guwahati is a shopping paradise with its vast range of traditional and contemporary products. Following are some of Guwahati famous things for shopping from the best shopping places:
Fancy Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the native culture by buying traditional Assamese clothes, handcrafted items, and local food products. It is a must visit place if you want to have a true experience of Assam.
Paltan Bazaar: If you are looking forward to doing some affordable shopping or finding something unique then this is the right place.
GS Road: This is where one can get all that trendy stuff like branded clothes, fashionable shoes or boots as well as stylish accessories. Everything related to high fashion can be found here.
NEDFiHaat: This market focuses on promoting regional skills while also providing an opportunity for rural artisans to sell their fine handloom products or traditional handicrafts, which could serve as perfect souvenirs.
Pan Bazaar: For those inclined towards literature, there are many books, old and new, available in different bookstores in this area of Guwahati city.
Many people may wonder How to Reach Assam. Well, there are many ways you can reach this wonderful state, whether you plan for a peaceful vacation or an exciting expedition:
By Air: In order to get to Assam, Assam tour packages offer flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore which land at Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is 20 kilomtres away from the city. Besides, it also has flights from Bangkok and Paro. There are smaller airports as well in the state, such as Dibrugarh, Silchar, Jorhat and Tezpur, where domestic flights mostly arrive from Kolkata or Delhi, whereas international travellers ought to think about connecting through one of India’s bigger hubs.
By Rail: Train journeying through Assam Holiday Packages offers both scenic beauty and convenience due to the well-developed rail network across different parts of the state centred around Guwahati, which acts as the main junction for trains coming from various directions nationally. There are fast trains like Rajdhani Express or Saraighat Express, which connect New Delhi and Kolkata with Guwahati directly within a short time. Other than that multiple railway stations within its territory ensure connectivity not only with other states but intra-state as well.
By Road: Road travel in Assam is another way to have fun because the roads are very good, especially National Highways 31 and 37, which link the different districts smoothly. Interstate Bus Terminus (ISBT) located at Guwahati serves as a focal point where buses operate between Assam and neighbouring states, thus adding viability to road transport.
Distances and Travel Times of Some of the Major Cities
Kolkata to Guwahati: Almost 1000 kilometres by road and 600 kilometres by air. It takes about 18 hours or 17 hours by train (Saraighat Express).
New Delhi to Guwahati: About 1900 kilometres on the road and approximately 1,450 kilometres in the air. It will take around 24 hours by bus and twenty-seven hours by train (Rajdhani Express).
Mumbai to Guwahati: Approximately 2,700 via highway which should be covered within 48t hours, about three-hour flight time if you choose to go by plane. The train journey between Mumbai to Guwahati will take about 51hrs10 mins.
Assam is a melting pot of different cultures and natural beauty. There is no other place like it where people live side by side with nature. So many communities, so much religion, art and ecology – this diversity has always fascinated us.
Demographics
With an estimated population of 35.74 million people, Assam is the most densely inhabited among other northeastern states of India. Its population is as diverse as its geographical features. The cultural tapestry of Assam has been shaped by the Assamese themselves, Bengalis, Bodos, and many tribes, including Karbis, Mishings, and Dimasas, among others.
Religious
The religions of Assam are a lively representation of its diverse background. This is supported by the fact that 61.47% of the people in this state are Hindus. Another faith followed by a large number of individuals (34.22%) living in Assam is Islam. Additionally, there are small Christian communities along with Buddhist minorities and those belonging to other tribal religions, which greatly contribute towards making up an inclusive society where everyone respects each others’ cultures without discrimination.
Cultural Heritage
Assam boasts a rich cultural heritage that draws from diverse sources. Also known for its variety of classical and folk dances like Bihu and Sattriya, which not only entertain but also narrate stories related to historical background as well as social integration. The Bihu Festival among locals signifies the beginning of the New Year when life sprouts up once again after winter. Its textile industry is famous worldwide, especially Muga Silk, Eri Silk, etc., and it is used widely in traditional wear, such as the Mekhela Chador, among others.
Flora and Fauna
Covering a wide range of habitats, including tropical rainforests and grasslands, Assam is a biodiversity hotspot in northeastern India where many kinds of plants grow. More than one hundred species of them exist only there, while the rest are water or medicinal plants. This area is home to some famous animals like royal Bengal tigers, greater one-horned rhinoceroses and 937 different species of birds, among others. The natural parks scattered throughout this state work against problems such as habitat destruction due to human activities or illegal hunting, which are dealt with through community-based initiatives supported by government organisations. The cultural value attached to biological diversity in Assam cannot be overestimated because it reflects both heritage and environmental awareness.
From the wildernesses of national parks to the stillness of temple sanctuaries, Assam provides various experiences that arrest our senses and feed our spirits. Here are the top places to visit in Assam:
Kaziranga National Park: The serene Kaziranga National Park is a well-acclaimed national park placed at the core of Assam and holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located in the lush landscapes of two districts. This calm sanctuary covers 430 sq km. It provides shelter for the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses and many endangered species such as tigers, elephants or wild water buffaloes.
The Wildlife of Kaziranga: An incredible amount of wildlife lives within the flourishing ecosystem of the National Park. It is most famous for being home to such animals as the majestic one-horned rhinoceroses, wild buffalo, and also royal Bengal tigers. Nonetheless, this National park has other larger mammals, too, like Indian elephants along with some others, including but not limited to wild boar, swamp deer or Barasingha (Rucervusduvaucelii), and Indian bison (Bos gaurus). The reptile population in this park is also diverse. It boasts many types of snakes, e.g., king cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) Russel vipers (Daboia russelii), among others while there are lizards such as common Bengal monitor or common Indian monitor lizard and Indian water monitors too.
Furthermore there exist abundant fish species in waters while marshy areas along river banks harbor turtles such as Gangetic Softshell Turtle as well as Indian Roofed Turtle. Smaller mammals also contribute to Kaziranga’s rich biodiversity apart from numerous bird varieties making it an important conservation area besides being an attractive place for wildlife lovers.
Major Safari Zone in Kaziranga:
The Kaziranga National Park Tour Package offers a jeep safari that takes place at the following locations, which are some of the pre-defined tourist circuits:
Mihimukhis located in the central range at Kohora.
Bagoriis located in the western range.
Agaratoliis located in the eastern range at Agaratoli.
Ghorakatiis located in the Burapahar range at Ghorakhati.
Optimal Time for Your Visit:
Because of its tropical climate, The best time for the Kaziranga National Park tours is between the months of November and April because it is then that the sunshine is mild enough to create wonderful conditions for game-viewing activities. Also, the Park remains closed for visitors between May 1 and October 31.
Things to Remember:
Dress Appropriately: Don’t wear anything too bright, like reds, whites, or blacks, that might attract the attention of animals. Instead try colours such as, try olive greens, khaki browns and greys.
Noise and Proximity: Silence should be maintained around animals so that they are not disturbed while keeping a safe distance from them also increases the possibility of watching them behave naturally.
Permits and Receipts: All tourists need to hold their national park entry permit and camera fee receipt carefully in hand or pocket throughout the visit until leaving the place.
Stay on Vehicle: Visitors should stay inside the jeep during the safari unless allowed by naturalists or experienced jeep drivers.
Things that should not be carried: Inside the park, carrying arms, ammunition, fireworks, etcetera is strictly prohibited by law as well as sharp tools.
Do not throw Garbadges: Littering non-biodegradable waste materials like plastics, tins and bottles is strictly prohibited within the parking area. Alcohol consumption, as well as non-vegetarian food is also not allowed here.
Regulations on Photography: Once you have purchased the camera fee receipt, then feel free to take photographs, but remember do not use flash, which can disturb animals while snapping them.
Costs for a Safe and Memorable Adventure: Visiting Kaziranga is a delightful experience, though it involves several fees. The costs include park admission, a vehicle entry permit, jeep rental, and camera fees. Additionally, an armed guard must accompany all jeep safaris for safety, adding another layer to the adventure. These fees help make sure that your journey through this stunning park is both enjoyable as well as secure.
How to reach the national park
By Air: The International Airport in Guwahati is the closest. It is well-connected to all major cities in India. Jorhat town has the nearest domestic airport, around 96 Kilometers from the park.
By Train: The national park may be reached by car in four and a half hours from Guwahati Railway Station. It is a major railway junction in the North-East India, connected to all of the main cities in India by superfast trains. You will find the nearest railway station, Furcating Junction, in the Golaghat district.
By Road: One has to cover over 200 Km from Guwahati and about the same from Lokpriya the International Airport in the city to reach the National Park by road. From there, one can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach the Park gate entrance.
Dibrugarh Tea Estate: Dibrugarh has many sprawling tea gardens. It happens to be an industrial town located in the Upper Assam. Known as the “Tea City of India”, Dibrugarh is placed at the top of the list when it comes to recording the famous tea estates in Assam. The British East India Company made this place a paradise for tea lovers during the 19th century by converting it into beautiful green gardens. Today, Dibrugarh has many different tea estates, such as Manohari, Halmari, Chabua and Mancotta, which are among the most famous names worldwide. These are the places in the area where one can get deep into all those complications involved with making tea, from plucking leaves to brewing them finally. If anyone wants a cultural past mixed with peace, then they must visit any tea estate or its neighbouring areas.
Majuli Island: Majuli happens to be the largest riverine island in the world. It is a dynamic emblem of Assam’s wealth, be it cultural or spiritual. This serene island can be reached by one, via boat or ferry from Jorhat and serves as a melting pot for the cultural aspect of the region. From different forms of art, and religious zeal to traditional crafts. The Satras in Majuli Island are monastic centres that serve as the home of neo-Vaishnavite culture through classical dance, Bhaona - a traditional performance art form and folk drama and music while serving as places for worship, too. Festivals like Raas Purnima on this island mirror the vibrant cultural diversity of Assam that pulls crowds from around the world.
Here is an all-inclusive travel handbook to help you through your stay at Majuli:
How to Reach Majuli:
By Air: Rowriah Airport is the closest to the location. Regular flights connect Jorhat with Guwahati and other significant cities in the northeast. From there, you can easily hire a taxi to Neemati Ghat.
By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Guwahati for Jorhat which takes a few hours.
By Ferry: From Neemati Ghat in Jorhat, you can take a ferry to Majuli.
Where to Stay:
There are many options for accommodation ranging from budget homestays to more comfortable resorts on this unique island, but bamboo huts reflect authenticity for many tourists visiting this place for obvious reasons such as low cost or sustainability, so they should not be overlooked as potential choices either:
La Maison de Ananda: Known for its rustic appeal and traditional Mishing architecture.
Risong Family Guest House: Provides a homey atmosphere along with local cuisine.
Prashanti Cottages: These are slightly upscale and run by Assam Tourism located near Kamalabari.
Things to Do:
Majuli has several Satras (monastic centres) where Assamese culture and spirituality flourish. Kamalabari Satra, Auniati Satra, and Dakhinpat Satra are the most prominent ones where you can witness Sattriya dance – a classical dance from Assam.
Adventure and Nature: Things to do in Majuli:
Cycling Tour: You can rent a bike and explore the island that you are own pace.
Boat Ride on the river: A boat ride across the river is one of the best ways to see How beautiful the island is.
Workshops: You can learn how to make masks as well as pottery in the local workshops. Their skilled craftsmen are always ready to share their knowledge with you.
Explore Nature: Explore the natural side of Majuli Island by walking through green fields full of rice, watching different kinds of birds, or discovering plants which grow there but nowhere else in India.
Best Time to Visit
The best period for visiting Majuli falls between November to February because this duration avoids heavy monsoons as well as summer, which could otherwise spoil your outdoor plans or make them unbearable due to high humidity levels all around you.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary Assam
Positioned in the Eastern Himalayas at six districts of Assam is the Manas National Park. This place is a paradise for many that admire nature. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site bordering Bhutan’s Royal Manas National Park.
Different types of Species: Manas Wildlife Sanctuary Assam is home to some of the rarest animals on earth. It gives visitors an opportunity for close encounters with vibrant Indian wildlife like nowhere else can do.
How to reach Manas National Park:
By Air: The nearest airport to Manas National Park is the International Airport in Guwahati. It is a 3-5 hours drive depending on the traffic conditions. The airport has good connectivity with all major cities of India and international destinations like Bangkok and Paro (Bhutan) through airlines.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road Railway Station. It serves as a major railhead linked with the rest part of the country.
By Road: Manas National Park has good road connectivity with various nearby cities & towns. It takes around 5 hours to reach by road. Barpeta Road is connected with Guwahati through National Highway 427.
Manas National Park Safari Zones
Manas National Park is divided into different safari zones. Each safari zone here has its own significance and offers a unique experience of exploring the wildlife:
Bhuyanpara Range: It is located in the eastern part of Manas National Park. The most important feature of this zone is that it creates a good habitat for grassland, which acts as a safe place for tigers to breed, especially around the Makibana area. Bhuyanpara itself showcases rich biodiversity harbouring rare and endangered species like the Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur, Greater One-horned Rhino, Swamp Deer, Bengal Florican and Pygmy Hog.
Bansbari Range: Another notable section of the Manas National Park is known as Bansbari Range or central range which boasts high levels of biodiversity as well as scenic beauty. It has jeep safaris where visitors can have an opportunity to see various types of animals living in the jungle, such as tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, etc. because they are found abundant around this area during their migration season from one place to another across these forests.
Panbari Range: The third major safari zone at Manas National Park is called Panbari Range. It may not be mentioned much often when talking about its specific details on game drives or sightings but it still acts as one among many options offered by the park for those willing to explore wider areas covered under this sanctuary, thus boosting the overall diversity richness encountered throughout the safari experience in Manas National Park.
Additional Travel Tips:
The ideal time for visiting this park starts from November till April when the weather remains pleasant enough throughout the days, facilitating the maximum possible chances for sighting various animals in their natural surroundings by going on jeep safaris, river rafting, or nature walks organised within its premises.
It is good to book your transportation and accommodation well in advance.
Make sure you have all the necessary permits and passes for entry into the park.
Kamakhya Temple: This divine shrine is placed atop the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati. The Kamakhya Temple is a sought-after place of worship, especially for devotees who follow Tantric traditions. It is also counted to be one of the oldest among 51 Shakti Peethas across the world. Many people from different countries visit this temple, seeking blessings and spiritual peace. This holy shrine worships ‘yoni’, or female genitalia, representing divine feminine power as well as fertility.
The overall design of the temple, with its bee-hive-shaped shikhara and intricately carved interiors, reflects the architectural brilliance achieved during the medieval Assam period. The most suitable time to visit is when the Ambubachi Mela happens. It is an event organised every year celebrating goddess menstruation on earth, which draws millions of followers from all corners of India as well as abroad.
Hajo Powa Mecca: Located in the town of Hajo on the top of Garurachal Hill, Hajo Powa Mecca is a holy site revered by both Muslims and Hindus not because it is spiritual but also because it unites them. It is said that this mosque has earth from Mecca which makes it famous with many people who come there searching for blessings as well as spiritual satisfaction. Assam’s inclusivity and diversity are represented by its syncretic culture, which makes the site an important symbol for interfaith dialogue and understanding. Hajo reveals Assamese cultural heritage, where one can see different religious practices blended together into one system based on faith and devotion.
Umananda Temple: Located on Peacock Island in the middle of the River Brahmaputra, Umananda Temple is a calm place for worship which was built to praise Lord Shiva and demonstrate architectural excellence as well as spiritual dedication. The temple can be approached by going on a beautiful ferry ride from Guwahati where it gives a serene break from the hustle-bustle of city life around. With all its historical importance and mythological tales, this temple has an air of mystery that makes people who are looking for peace or revival want to visit here more often than not.
Knowing about the weather in Assam and Assam temperature is crucial when planning a trip to this enchanting state.There are various reasons that determine the ideal times to visit Assam. However, the climate varies from region to region within the state. In general, the best time to visit Assam covers from November through April. During this time, you can get closer to its culture, wildlife as well as nature.
Weather and Climate
Assam has a tropical monsoon rainforest climate characterised by abundant rainfall during monsoon months that lasts from June to September. Monsoons being strong can cause floods, especially along the Brahmaputra River which may make travelling difficult within this period.
Suitable Visiting Seasons
Winter (October to March): Winter is considered as the best time to visit because the temperature varies between 7°C – 20°C, which is quite pleasant. Skies remain clear throughout these months while surroundings remain green, thus making it perfect for wildlife safaris in Kaziranga National Park, among other national parks as well.
Spring (March to April): This season witnesses moderate weather (20.9°C – 29.7°C) alongside the blooming of rare orchids and rhodendrons whose beauty cannot be ignored easily by anyone who happens here at this time of year. The whole state comes alive with celebration during the Bohag Bihu festival, which marks the agricultural new year besides signifying the beginning of harvest.
Summer (April to June): These months, though hot ( 25°C to 38°C), present less crowded attractions with potentially more reasonable accommodation rates due to the reduced number of visitors expected during low seasons. Such a situation would favour people who are ready for a little bit more warmth combined with high humidity levels but still want to see many places within a short duration without facing heavy traffic.
