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Assam Travel and Tourism Guide

Welcome to Assam Tourism! The land of majestic rhinos, magical rivers, beautiful tea gardens, unique culture and traditions, and a plethora of tourist places and attractions that place Assam at the top of the world tourism map, where thousands of national and international travelers come to spend quality time in the lap of nature. In true words, Assam is the Jewel of Northeast India.

Home to one of the World’s Largest River slightly larger than New Zealand it is bordered by Arunachal Pradesh to the east, Nagaland to the south, and Bhutan to the south-west; Assam is a region in northeastern India characterized by its stunning beauty, exciting wildlife, and vibrant culture. The state is famous for its huge tea gardens, and some of the finest teas consumed in the world are produced here. Assam Tourism Pradesh is famous for its beautiful scenery, unique wildlife, and vibrancy. The Highlands of Assam are comparatively free from disturbance, valleys lush green, and fertile plains are all gifts of the mighty Brahmaputra river. It has Kaziranga National Park a world heritage site famous for fauna and one-horned rhinoceros.

Assam is geographically a melting pot where traditions of the various cultures of people are blended. Perhaps unlike any other group, the Assamese have an extraordinary passion for celebrating Bihu – their harvest festival that signifies the change of seasons, and which comes complete with traditional dancing, music, and cuisine. Assam’s culture is also boosted by the silk sector which is also producer of Muga and Eri silk.

Besides, the positioning of Assam as a gateway to the Northeast speaks a lot and gives additional importance to the state. The state is maintaining a balance between developing infrastructure services and preserving the ecological system via updated infrastructure services, and the promotion of eco-tourism. According to its ecological assets, social structure, and natural appeal, Assam is a land of academicians as well as tourists. Visitors enjoy the natural, social, and biological attractions that are found in this region making it functional and tourism for those who are exploring Assam.

Assam Tourism

History of Assam

History of Assam

The story of hindsight adopted by Assam is ever so phenomenal, a chronicle of resilience, amalgamation, and strategic relevance. The historical records for Assam date back to the Mahabharata period and are also known by the names of Pragjyotisha and Kamarupa. At this time, it was a powerful kingdom. The period under discussion was successfully governed by the Varman dynasty (4th – 6th cent., CE) as well as the Kamarupa rulers, who played quite a crucial role in the formation of the early structure of the region’s society and polity. Exploring the best places to visit in Assam provides history lovers as well as tourists with a better feel of the state’s history.

Translated as the kings of the period of the rajas of the Ahom dynasty were instrumental in managing the medieval period’s state of Assam and ruled for 598 years approximately from about 1228 to 1826. Already present in Southeast Asia, the Ahoms introduced a unique cultural characteristic, tactics in battles, and administration to the region. Later, they fought the Mughals and with the leadership and General-ship of Lachit Borphukan, they turned away numerous Mughal invasions, especially the 1671 battle at Saraighat.

In the main, colonial rule in Assam could be said to have begun, following the signing of the Treaty of Yandaboo in the year 1826. British government was highly influential in modifying the structure of Assam’s economy where influences such as the tea garden, railroad, and modern education were introduced. However, it led to economic exploitation and cultural debasement that occasioned RE concrete protective actions. The liberation process of the country got much boost due to leaders such as Gopinath Bordoloi of Assam, North East India.

After the treaty of Yandabo in 1826 British took control of Assam during the age of imperialism. The British Government was influential in the economy of Assam, particularly with bearing the tea plantation, construction of railroads, and modern system of education. And, it led to the distortion of both their economic welfare and their culture hence creating social revolutions. The leadership of the Gopinath Bordoloi was crucial in the fight for independence not forgetting the fact that Assam played a significant role during the fight for India’s independence.

Folk, Dance, and Culture of Assam

Assam Tourism

Folk dances and culture are mirror images of the communal characteristics of a locality since they exhibit the characteristics of the community. Each place has its sort of dances and many of these dances are related to folklore, religious beliefs, or dances performed during the different seasons. For example, Spain’s Flamenco has employed footwork and music passionate narrated stories while Indian’s Bhangra employed agricultural boosted energy. Collecting and maintaining the tradition of wearing, telling, or displaying different kinds of artistic products that are part of the pre-industrial societies’ cultural heritage, folk culture is not merely entertainment. With many of its performances often taking place at festivals or any other public events it fosters togetherness. There is always something for visiting the top tourist places in Assam as there are folk dances and cultural shows performed to showcase the history of the state.

Following an appeal to emotions the performers and the audiences respond to each other through the color of costumes, the energy and intensity in the music, and the motions enacted on stage. Folk traditions are still alive and have not been erased by modernity, while they take elements from modernity can still be seen as folk traditions. It is significant to note that besides being cultural displays in the true sense of the term, these are living examples of people’s talent, endurance, and craving for the best and the worst this life has to offer.

Wildlife Tourism in Assam

Wildlife Tourism in Assam

Being rich in diverse type of flora and fauna and some of the rarest forms of wildlife, Assam, a particularly beautiful state of Northeast India is a famous wildlife tour destination for the tourists around the world. The one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephants, and a wide range of birds are famous in the state’s UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kaziranga National Park. Another UNESCO site, Manas National Park, has Bengal tigers, golden langurs and pygmy hogs in plenty. The inhabitants of Assam’s Brahmaputra River include river dolphins as well as numerous aquatic and terrestrial creatures.

Holidays in Assam makes tourists to explore the wealth of the ecosystem following guided trekking, boating, and car tours. Also, Assam has – Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary that boasts one of the highest population’s density of rhinos and Dibru - Saikhowa National Park which host wild horses. In addition to providing tourists with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, this type of tourism in this area maintains a positive impact on the protection of wildlife and support of economies.

Tea & Golf Tourism in Assam

Tea & Golf Tourism in Assam

Due to its natural beauty and beautiful tea gardens coupled with the serene environment, Assam is gradually emerging as a tea and golf destination. The state of Assam famous for its high-standard tea plantation/industry provides tourists a view of vaster estates such as the Jorhat Tea Bungalows and do’s such as plucking the tea leaves and learning the intricate process of making tea. Divine locations such as Digboi Golf Club and Kaziranga Golf Resort boost the charm of Golf tourism nowadays.

These top places to visit in Assam provide beautiful sceneries of the flora and fauna of Assam besides giving the thrill of the sport. For people seeking elegant vacations specifically amid tea and golf tourism, leisure becomes a pleasure. But for those who are looking for quiet yet exciting destinations, Assam remains a popular tourist destination for very good reasons: its welcome is warm, and its people are always cheerful.

Religious Tourism in Assam

Religious Tourism in Assam

Religious tourism in Assam presents centuries, millennia of spirituality, mythology, and many cultural rites to a fascinating traveling. As for religious sites, there are numerous across the state, and all of them are steeped in tales of lore and tradition. Some of the well-known sites, that tourists and travelers can observe include; The Kamakhya Temple Located in Guwahati and dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya; The temple draws millions of devotees during the Ambubachi Mela. That is not all about the religious heritage of Assam; Poa Mecca Mosque Structures at Hajo are the symbols of Islamic lineage and the Hayagriva Madhava Temple also in Hajo depicting both Buddhism and Hinduism.

The Namghars- who form the core of the Neo-Vaishnavite setup propagated by Srimanta Sankardeva – add to the plurality of the spiritual. They are vibrant cultural centers apart from being religious facilities. These eastern monasteries being with influences of Tibetan Buddhism give people the seeming tranquility they seek. Religious quests are one of the main reasons that you must consider travel to Assam as religious tourism has visually embraced architectural elegance blended with spiritual devotion in existence and co-existence of many religions.

Tribal and Culture Tourism in Assam

Tribal and Culture Tourism in Assam

Situated at the geographical heart of north-eastern India, Assam offers an invigorating experience in tribal and cultural tourism. The state is thus a true mosaic of customs, languages, and livelihoods, and is inhabited by more than twenty tribes of the Bodo, Mishing, Rabha, Karbi, and others. No two tribes are the same; they all have their days, celebrations, and norms, to mention the Bihu festivity that is celebrated with immense passion. Cultural tourism is possible with touristic, and realistic exposures which include the Mishing tribe’s heritage in its food made from naturally grown produce and viscose handloom weaving. Fortunately, visitors to the top tourist places in Assam can fully appreciate this vast matrix of cultural interactions and traditions of the tribes.

Fine and energetic(panel) clothing, ornaments, and other products and accessories worked by the tribes can be obtained at the tribal markets. To learn about tribal life sustainably, ecotourism initiatives in such complexes such as Majuli, the largest river island in the universe could be practiced. Tribal culture tourism in the state of Assam is not just a historical tour but it is taking a step into a living history of the civilization of human beings in synchronizing with nature and tradition.

River Cruise Tourism in Assam

River Cruise Tourism in Assam

Assam is also rich in river tourism, particularly with cruise tourism which they describe as luxury, culture, and environment in one experience them and start an exciting journey through the beautiful landscapes of Assam. The scene is set up successfully for an amazing ride along the side of Brahmaputra River which is one of the most enormous rivers in the world. Tourists can feel the serenity of river islands which are like Majuli – the biggest river island across the globe– and explore the historic and cultural history of the tribes residing there, all made comfortable in luxury state-of-the-art cruise ships.

While traveling along the center of the region and passing Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary the cruises can also witness other typical Assamese animals such as river dolphins and one-horned rhinoceroses. Include locally prepared foods and dances to make the ride a cultural experience that is worth everyone’s try. The cruises are must-visit places in Assam, both eco-tourism boating services for nature explorers, and luxury travelers with growing consciousness towards sustainability.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Assam

Popular Tourist Destinations in Assam

Guwahati

Guwahati is the fast-growing, bustling entry point to the entire north-east of India, located in Assam, and poised on the sides of the fierce Brahmaputra river. Its food, culture, and customs have a date with tradition while it has all those modern facilities that any traveler can desire. Magnificent serene spot, on Nilachal Hill that has been recently recognized as a popular tourist attraction in Assam. There is Deepor Beel for bird watchers or being on a boat ride of the mighty Brahmaputra river to witness the mesmerizing SUNSET. Fancy Bazaar called local markets include a wares cross-section of colorful local produce, handloom, handicrafts, and food such as pitha and joha rice among others. A friendly city with a good transport network and links to some of the most attractive destinations in Assam and the North East, Guwahati is an ideal gateway to the region’s scenery.

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, a magnificent website inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list due to the extraordinary lengths it was maintaining intact beauty and incredible bio-diversity, is located right in the heart of Assam. This park covers an area of more than 430 sq km and hosts nearly two-thirds of the magnificent one-horned rhinoceros’ population of the whole world. Along with the famous rhino, it is a popular point of interest, which include "The Big Four": Tiger, Elephant, Swamp Deer, and water Buffaloes. This bird-watcher paradise has grasslands, forests, and serene waters teeming with birdlife that is best viewable through exciting vehicle game viewing or a more serene elephant back view. Earlier declared as the Tiger Reserve in 2006, Kaziranga hosts the largest population density of tigers in India. The park which offers a combination of adventure with a sense or feeling of getting very close to nature is more enjoyable to tour between November and April.

Manas National Park

One of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations is the Manas National Park in Assam, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. This bio-diverse region is situated in the eastern Himalayan Region and is endowed with threatened species of wildlife such as the Indian one-horned Rhinoceros, Pygmy Hog, and Golden Langur. The park which is renowned to be among the best places to explore in Assam offers a fantastic animal safari over the famous savannah grassland zone, the dense forest zone, and the secluded Manas River zone. Aside from the physical attraction, it is a beautiful site for the odd and enthusiastic, with possibilities for trekking, bird watching, and white-water rafting. Manas is a very significant conservation unit and is also a Project Tiger Reserve that supports the tiger and its prey the elephant. Staying amidst the Bodo community helps create cultural interest and an aspect to tour. This park should be on any traveler’s list for nature enthusiasts, wildlife, and serenity lovers; this park is best to be visited from November to April.

Orang National Park

Orang National Park which is also called Mini Kaziranga is still a hidden gem of wildlife and nature enthusiasts in the lush of Assam. Famous for numerous animals and beautiful sceneries, the area of this park is about 78.81 km2; therefore, this park is one of the popular tourist destinations in Assam. Bird watchers will be pleased with the sight of migratory birds like the Bengal Florican and several wetland birds. The park takes its water from the Brahmaputra River offering the grasslands and riverine habitats necessary for the growth of many plants and animals. Some of the people who may be interested in wildlife experience in Northeast India in particular Orang National Park are allowed from November to April and offer exciting boat riding and Jeeps safari.

Kamakhya Temple

Kamakhya Devi Temple is one of the revered Shakti Peethas in India, which is located on the Nilachal Hill of Guwahati, Assam, in India seen by people from all around the globe. Commemorated to the goddess Kamakhya, this oldest temple represents the ultimate combination of Shiva & Shakti and the deity of fertility and female power. Famous for its unique Ambubachi Mela held every June in honor of the Goddess’s ‘monthly menstrual cycle’, it receives as many devotees, holy men, and tourists. A large number of monumental complex constructions; richly carved stonework; beehive architectural domes of the temple give a mysterious and ancient appearance. Owing to the greenery of its environment the beautiful large valley and the Brahma puja river in the background, these places are associated with peace and spiritualism. One of the cultural tourism destinations accessible by air and road is Kamakhya Devi Temple which is an abode full of dynamism and mystery of Assam.

Majuli Island

Cultural, ecological and spiritual wonders all rolled into one, Majuli Island is located on the mighty Brahmaputra River in the mid of Assam. This city is famed as the largest riverine island in the world not only for its area of more than 880 square kilometers, but also for giving people a break from the noise and chaos of the cities. Majuli is gifted by wetland and known for paddy fields and migrants bird species that give shelter in this island. Again, it is home to more than 20 Satras or monasteries related to the Vaishnava sect, as well as the cultural capital of Assam. Here traditional dancing, singing, and mask designing have been developing. Agriculture is organic and the lifestyle adopted by the people of Majuli makes it one of the most sustainable destinations in the world. Despite a rich and unique signature weathering has played an important role in eradicating most of the features hence, to preserve the island features, conservation is important. In general, the atmosphere of rustic appeal of this wonderful place inhabited is somewhat felt by having a felt taste of the character of Assam as the ferries from Jorhat can be taken to reach there.

Halflong Lake

The unexplored pacific beauty of nature waits to embrace those who venture to its gorgeous beauty in Haflong Lake situated in the Hill state of Assam. The area of Haflong town can boast of large and pure freshwater lake, which seems to be a haven for those, who desire for calmness and quietness. Fed by green hilly terrains, bright colour floral trappings and gigantic forests, the frame of the lake looks heavenly by reflecting the serene skies. Sailing, bird watching, and strolls along the maintained paths are amongst activities possible for guests. Due to many bounties of flora and fauna, this makes Haflong Lake to be one of the best destinations that can support ecotourism. Following the increase in the political push towards green travel, the local government has followed efforts to sustain this kind of appeal. Haflong Lake is beautiful and can provide a good opportunity to get into the lap of nature which will be more colorful during the dawn and also during the night when the stars are twinkling. A recommended site for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-track tourist attractions in Northeast India.

Nameri National Park

Also, important to pioneers and nature lovers, Nameri National Park is situated in Assam in the peaceful area of the Lower Himalayan ranges. Nameri National Park is yet another fabulous park that increases adventure tourism in Assam for those who love adventure and paying close attention to the environment of Assam also gets the chance to trace the wildlife and bird sanctuaries. These 200 square kilometers of land is among the biologically rich areas and there are numerous animals which include; the white-winged wood duck, elephants, and the endangered tiger. The park offers relief into the bosom of nature, especially the semi-evergreen forested region of the park. Thistle, the park is surrounded by the sparkling Jia Bhoroli River that boosts the park’s beauty a major eyesight fishing and river rafting. Actually, Nameri supports over three hundred kinds of birds, so birding enthusiasts have a good time. The pictorially beautiful Nameri National Park offering a rare taste of Assam’s wildlife and bird sanctuaries is a perfect destination for adventurers and nature lovers.

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

If only outdoor and wildlife is the preference then one must look out for Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, a beautiful spot tucked away in the middle of Assam. Guwahati, the nearest city, is a concrete jungle, but this sanctuary gives visitors a peaceful stay in a teeming biological hot spot. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is widely famed for the large population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros which it is often referred to as ‘Mini Kaziranga’. Beyond these marvelous creatures, there is much more to it. Being a wildlife sanctuary, it offers sites for photographers, bird watchers, and any kind of adventurous enthusiasts and it premises have more than 200 types of birds, migratory ones inclusive, other than Tiger, wild boar, elephant, etc. Go for a jeep or elephant safari to have an eye on the Real unspoiled beauty of nature which is found in ponds, grounds, and forests. Pobitora gives both a unique natural experience for the soul in search of solitude and nature or an unadulterated wildlife experience.

Buddhist Tourism in Assam

Buddhist Tourism in Assam

The state possesses many archeological Buddhist places, most famous among which is the Da-Parbatia temple at Tezpur, famous for the exquisite carvings on the Gupta-style temple ruins. The famous Hayagriva Madhava Temple, known amongst the Buddhists and Hindus as the place where Budha attained Nirvana is in Hajo; the religious cum cultural microcosm of Assam. Namphake village monasteries well represent Theravada form for example Assam has always remained deeply connected to monasteries of Southeast Asia. In addition to the rich history of cultural heritage, the natural beauty of Assam tour increases with its tea gardens, the Brahmaputra River, and wildlife is a serine place for spirituality. For travelers who want nothing more than a desire for peace and a respect for history and cultural heritage, travel through Buddhist Assam is travel through centuries of sage.

Best Time to Visit Assam

Best Time to Visit Assam

Visiting Assam during the months between “October to April” will allow tourists to witness the more serene side of the state due to the more comfortable climatic conditions for traveling and sighting some of the best wildlife, strolling through the tea gardens, and other activities. Tourists could discover the colorful Assamese festive season is also a part of tourism during this particular period.

Get to taste traditional “Magh Bihu” cuisine, fire-side dance, typical feasts, and bonfire times, in “January”. Get a taste of the gorgeousness of “Rongali Bihu in April” in the spirit of Assamese New Year with cultural fairs, dances, and rounds of songs. Also, in February, do not miss the grand “Brahmaputra River Festival” – it showcases traditional boats or crafts and extra activities. What Assam looks like and what it transforms into during these months, blending culture and mystique of the earth. The experiences they will get there are mapped by Assam; sure, to have a fabulous trip be it the early misty morning at Kaziranga or the festivity of Guwahati.

How to Reach Assam?

How to Reach Assam
  • By Road : Road transport can always be enjoyable because the state is well linked to the other states by the national roads such as the NH27 and NH37. Daily and local short-distance services are available for both public and private travel linking West Bengal and Meghalaya. Another possibility for the alternation of endeavoring is self-drive road tours that call for those, who desire to appreciate the attractive views of Assams when traveling. Be it roadways, railways, or airports, reaching out to Assam is as comfortable as reaching the destination itself.
  • By Air : The most popular may be reached by air through Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which connects well with Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. As for local airlines, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Silchar airports are also functional which make transportation to many areas of the state convenient.
  • By Train : Guwahati is one of the bulk train transport available in Assam and Guwahati is well connected with other parts of this great network. Long distance includes spectacular ones like the Rajdhani Express, passing through promising tea gardens and riverine landscapes and there are flights to the other major towns. In addition, other stations, such as Dibrugarh and Silchar, are linked to other states and areas in Assam and neighboring regions.

For those who wish to interact with nature and animals, tourism at Assam will be a paradise with green tea gardens, the calm and soothing Brahmaputra River, and wildlife in national parks like the Kaziranga and Manas. Simple and traditional hospitality is observed everywhere in the state like in the Bihu, dance, and the religious calmness of the Kamakhya Sthan. Guwahati teems with life and has a bustling market; island settlements in Majuli may be tranquil but Assam nonetheless has opened its doors to visitors. Every time one visits Assam, the traveler gets more than sights of aesthetic beauty to cherish and understand more about Incredible India in terms of culture.

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