Discover The Best Of Assam: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Assam, located in the northeastern part of India, is a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant traditions. From the mighty Brahmaputra river to the lush green tea gardens, from the majestic wildlife to the ancient temples, Assam has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Assam.
Top Attractions in Assam
Assam is home to some of the most fascinating attractions in India. The Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros. The Manas National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its tiger reserve and elephant conservation. The Kamakhya Temple, located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, is a sacred shrine dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. The Sivasagar Sivadol, a group of three Hindu temples, is a fine example of Assamese architecture.
Hidden Gems of Assam
Assam has many hidden gems that are worth discovering. The Majuli Island, the largest river island in the world, is a serene and picturesque place that offers a glimpse into the rural life of Assam. The Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, located near Jorhat, is a protected area that houses the only ape found in India, the hoolock gibbon. The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Guwahati, is a lesser-known destination that is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros.
Food Scene in Assam
Assam is famous for its cuisine, which is a blend of local and regional flavors. The traditional Assamese thali, which consists of rice, dal, fish curry, and a variety of vegetables, is a must-try. The bamboo shoot pickle, the duck roast, and the pitha, a sweet dish made of rice flour and jaggery, are some of the other popular dishes. The tea gardens of Assam produce some of the best tea in the world, and a visit to a tea estate is a must for tea lovers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Assam is a budget-friendly destination, with affordable accommodations and food options. The state transport buses and shared taxis are a great way to travel within the state without spending too much. The local markets in Assam offer a wide range of products at reasonable prices, and bargaining is a common practice.
Outdoor Adventures in Assam
Assam is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities to choose from. The Brahmaputra river offers opportunities for river rafting and kayaking. The Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, located in the eastern part of Assam, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Nameri National Park, located near Tezpur, offers trekking, camping, and river rafting opportunities.
Historical Landmarks in Assam
Assam has a rich history that is reflected in its monuments and landmarks. The Ahom Kingdom, which ruled Assam for six centuries, has left behind a legacy of architectural marvels such as the Rang Ghar, a royal sports pavilion, and the Talatal Ghar, a palace complex. The Kareng Ghar, located in the Sivasagar district, is another example of Assamese architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities in Assam
Assam has many family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained. The Assam State Zoo, located in Guwahati, is home to a wide range of animals and birds. The Science Museum, also located in Guwahati, is a fun and educational destination for children. The Nehru Park, located in the heart of Guwahati, is a popular picnic spot.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Assam
Assam has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that are waiting to be explored. The Hajo pilgrimage site, located near Guwahati, is a place of religious significance that is visited by people of different faiths. The Digboi Oil Refinery, located in the eastern part of Assam, is the oldest oil refinery in India. The Khasi Hills, located near Shillong, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Natural Wonders in Assam
Assam is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders that are sure to leave you spellbound. The Majuli Island, with its pristine beaches and lush green forests, is a natural wonder that is unique to Assam. The Umiam Lake, located near Shillong, is a serene and picturesque place that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Jatinga Bird Sanctuary, located near Haflong, is a place where birds mysteriously commit suicide every year.
Vibrant Nightlife in Assam
Assam has a vibrant nightlife that is centered around its cities. Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, has a lively nightlife scene with a range of bars and nightclubs to choose from. The Shillong Bar and Restaurant, located in the heart of Shillong, is a popular destination for music lovers. The Naga Kitchen, located in Kohima, is a place to experience the local cuisine and culture.
Local Markets in Assam
Assam is known for its local markets, which offer a range of products at reasonable prices. The Fancy Bazaar, located in the heart of Guwahati, is a bustling market that sells everything from clothes to electronics. The Jorhat Market, located in Jorhat, is a great place to buy tea and handicrafts. The Tawang Market, located in Tawang, is a place to buy local souvenirs and handicrafts.
Beaches and Mountains in Assam
Assam has a diverse landscape that includes beaches and mountains. The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Guwahati, has a beautiful lake that is perfect for picnics and camping. The Haflong Hill Station, located in the Dima Hasao district, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Mawsynram, located near Shillong, is the wettest place on earth and a popular destination for nature lovers.
Cultural Immersion in Assam
Assam has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals and traditions. The Bihu festival, celebrated in January, is a harvest festival that is marked by music and dance. The Durga Puja, celebrated in October, is a Hindu festival that is celebrated with great fervor and devotion. The Hornbill Festival, celebrated in Nagaland, is a cultural extravaganza that showcases the traditions and customs of the Naga tribes.
Art and Music Scene in Assam
Assam has a vibrant art and music scene that is unique to the state. The Sattriya dance, a classical dance form of Assam, is a must-see for art lovers. The Assamese film industry, also known as Jollywood, produces some of the best regional films in India. The Zubeen Garg, a popular singer and actor from Assam, is a household name in the region.
Walking Tours in Assam
Assam is a great destination for walking tours, with many historical landmarks and natural wonders to explore. The Guwahati Heritage Walk, organized by the Assam Tourism Development Corporation, is a guided tour of the city’s historical landmarks. The Shillong Nature Walk, organized by the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation, is a guided tour of the city’s natural wonders.
Architectural Marvels in Assam
Assam has many architectural marvels that are worth seeing. The Rang Ghar, located in Sivasagar, is a royal sports pavilion that is considered to be one of the oldest amphitheaters in Asia. The Kareng Ghar, also located in Sivasagar, is a palace complex that was built by the Ahom kings. The Talatal Ghar, located in Sivasagar, is an underground palace that served as a military base during the Ahom rule.
Historical Sites in Assam
Assam has a rich history that is reflected in its historical sites. The Madan Kamdev Temple, located near Guwahati, is a group of ancient temples that date back to the 9th and 10th centuries. The Agnigarh Hill, located in Tezpur, is a place of historical significance that is mentioned in the Mahabharata. The Rangpur Palace, located in Sivasagar, is a palace complex that was built by the Ahom kings.
Biking Routes in Assam
Assam has many scenic biking routes that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts. The Majuli Island, with its winding roads and picturesque landscape, is a popular biking destination. The Kaziranga National Park, with its flat terrain and smooth roads, is another great destination for biking. The Shillong-Cherrapunji road, with its steep inclines and hairpin bends, is a challenging but rewarding biking route.
Wellness Retreats in Assam
Assam has many wellness retreats that offer a range of therapies and treatments. The Jiva Spa, located in the Vivanta by Taj hotel in