Assam Travel Guide (North-Eastern India/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Assam

Assam is a beautiful North-Eastern state in India, known for its lush tea plantations, wildlife reserves, and diverse culture. This region is tucked away in the Himalayan foothills and is home to many tribes, each with their unique traditions and customs.

Assam is also known for its wildlife sanctuaries, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park, which is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and many other animals. Apart from wildlife, there are plenty of other attractions to explore in Assam, including beautiful temples, historical sites, and scenic landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Assam

Assam has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions. Here are the top must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kamakhya Temple
Navagraha Temple
Sivasagar
Kareng Ghar
Ahom Museum
Assam State Museum

Natural Attractions of Assam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kaziranga National Park
Manas National Park
Nameri National Park
Majuli Island
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Assam

Assam is a beautiful region with scenic vistas, hills, and valleys. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes in Assam:

Brahmaputra River
Nohakalikai Falls
Shillong Peak Trail
Cherrapunjee to Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek
Umiam Lake Trail

Best Things to Do in Assam: Activities and Tours

Take a river cruise on Brahmaputra
Experience the local handicrafts in Sualkuchi
Visit tea plantations and taste the local tea
Experience the tribal village life
Attend the Bihu festival in January

Week-Long Itinerary for Assam

Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati and visit Kamakhya temple
Day 2: Explore the Brahmaputra river and take a river cruise
Day 3: Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaziranga National Park
Day 4: Experience the local culture and handicrafts in Sualkuchi
Day 5: Visit some serene temples and historical sites in Sivasagar
Day 6: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Majuli Island
Day 7: Return to Guwahati and depart

Food and Drink Scene of Assam

Assam has a very distinct cuisine, with influences from both Indian and South-East Asian cultures. Here are some must-try dishes in the region:

Must-Try Dishes

Assamese Thali
Masor Tenga
Khaar
Bamboo Shoot pickle
Pitha

Local Beverages

Assam Tea
Xaj
Apong

Where to Stay in Assam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Assam has various accommodation options available for travelers. Here are some recommendations:

Taj Vivanta - 5 star
Radisson Blu - 5 star
Hotel Nandan - 3 star
Hotel Siroy Lily - 3 star
Ginger Hotel - Budget

What to Buy in Assam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Assam Tea
Traditional Assamese Silk
Bamboo Decor
Handicrafts made by local tribes

Local Culture and Customs of Assam

Assam has diverse cultures with the presence of many tribes. The locals practice various customs and traditions that are worth experiencing. Here are some local customs of Assam:

Bihu Festival
Traditional weaving and handicrafts
The traditional dances of Bihu

Best Time to Visit Assam

Assam can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is from November to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Assam

Do:

Cover your head while visiting temples
Respect the local culture and customs
Dress modestly

Don’t:

Use plastic bags
Disrespect religious places
Disrespect the local culture

Safety and Health

Safety in Assam

Assam is a relatively safe state to visit for travelers. However, it is advised to take precautions and avoid going out alone after dark.

Health in Assam

Assam is a safe place for travelers when it comes to health. However, it is recommended to take precautions like drinking only bottled water and carrying a basic first aid kit.

Getting to Assam: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Assam

Guwahati Airport
Dibrugarh Airport
Silchar Airport

Bus Stations Near Assam

Guwahati bus station
Dibrugarh bus station
Tinsukia bus station

Other Options

Taxis - They are readily available to move around the various tourist spots
Trains - Assam is well connected by trains that run through the major cities of India.

How to Get Around in Assam

Assam has a good transportation network. Here are some modes of transportation you can use in the region:

Taxis
Private cars
Buses

Where to Go Next from Assam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Meghalaya
Arunachal Pradesh
Nagaland
West Bengal

Conclusion

Assam is a beautiful state in India that offers cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring wildlife reserves, visiting temples, or trying out some local cuisine, Assam has plenty to offer. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Assam. Enjoy your travels!