Central Assam and Barak Valley Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Central Assam and Barak Valley, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, the best time to visit, safety and health, getting there and transportation, and nearby destinations and excursions.


Introduction to Central Assam and Barak Valley

Central Assam and Barak Valley are regions located in the Indian state of Assam, in the northeastern part of the country. Assam is known for its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, and Central Assam and Barak Valley are no exceptions. The region is home to scenic views, outdoor adventures, and culturally significant attractions. From hiking and biking to sampling local cuisine, Central Assam and Barak Valley have something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Central Assam and Barak Valley

Here is a list of must-visit places in Central Assam and Barak Valley:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati
  • Sivasagar, the ancient capital of the Ahom Kingdom
  • Talatal Ghar, a stunning example of Ahom architecture
  • Kachari Ruins, Dimapur

Natural Attractions of Central Assam and Barak Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Manas National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna
  • Haflong Hill Station, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities
  • Jatinga Bird Sanctuary, famous for its unusual bird behavior
  • Kaziranga National Park, famous for the one-horned rhinoceros

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Assam and Barak Valley

For hiking enthusiasts, the following are the best routes in Central Assam and Barak Valley:

  • Haflong Hill: The hill offers challenging trekking routes for adventure seekers.
  • Madhabpur Lake: A picturesque lake with surrounding hills and tea gardens, perfect for a peaceful bike ride.
  • Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary: Ideal for wildlife lovers and bird watchers, this sanctuary offers multiple trekking and nature trails.

Best Things to Do in Central Assam and Barak Valley: Activities and Tours

Here are the top things to do in Central Assam and Barak Valley:

  • Visit the ancient Kamakhya Temple and seek blessings.
  • Enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the beautiful Manas National Park.
  • Take a tea-plantation tour to learn about tea cultivation and sample authentic Assamese tea.
  • Experience traditional Assamese cuisine and explore local markets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Assam and Barak Valley

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to explore Central Assam and Barak Valley:

Day Activity
1 Kamakhya Temple and Umananda Temple, Guwahati
2 Explore the ancient capital of Ahom Kingdom - Sivasagar
3 Visit Haflong Hill Station
4 Drive to Kaziranga National Park
5 Spend the day at Kaziranga National Park
6 Visit the historic Kachari Ruins
7 Depart for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Central Assam and Barak Valley

Assam offers a unique fusion of culture and cuisine, and Central Assam and Barak Valley are no different. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Central Assam and Barak Valley:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Assamese thali: A full meal consisting of various traditional dishes like khar, pitika, tenga, and many more.
  • Assamese duck curry: A delicious curry made with locally sourced duck and spices.
  • Pitha: A traditional Assamese dessert made with rice flour and jaggery.

Local Beverages

  • Apong: A traditional rice beer, typically consumed during festivals and social gatherings.
  • Assam tea: Assam is famous for its tea, so don’t forget to try a cup of authentic Assamese chai.

Where to Stay in Central Assam and Barak Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Assam and Barak Valley offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Doliajan: Located in Dibrugarh, this hotel offers good amenities and comfortable rooms.
  • Prashanti Tourist Lodge: Located in Haflong, this is the perfect place to stay if you want to explore Haflong Hill.
  • Hotel Rains Inn: Located in Silchar, this hotel offers quality amenities and is situated close to transportation hubs.

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

Take a piece of Central Assam and Barak Valley with you by purchasing the following souvenirs and local products:

  • Handloom textiles: The region is famous for its silk and cotton fabrics.
  • Tea: Assam tea is famous worldwide, so don’t forget to take some home.
  • Bamboo and cane handicrafts: The region is known for its exquisite bamboo and cane handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Assam and Barak Valley

Assam is a cultural hub and a melting pot of various communities. The region’s culture and customs are unique and diverse. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Punctuality is not a major concern in Assam. However, it is best to arrive on time for formal meetings and events.
  • When visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and cover your head in some cases.
  • Assamese people are known for their hospitality and will go out of their way to make you feel at home.

Best Time to Visit Central Assam and Barak Valley

The best time to visit Central Assam and Barak Valley is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you wish to experience the famous Bihu festival, plan your visit in April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Assam and Barak Valley

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Central Assam and Barak Valley:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Ask for permission before taking pictures of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t pluck flowers or leaves from religious sites.
  • Don’t smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Assam and Barak Valley

Central Assam and Barak Valley are relatively safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to keep your belongings safe and secure and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid traveling alone at night and stay in well-lit areas.

Health in Central Assam and Barak Valley

Assam has a high prevalence of malaria and dengue fever. Therefore, it is advisable to take preventive measures, such as covering yourself up, applying mosquito repellant, and taking prescribed medication.

Getting to Central Assam and Barak Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Assam and Barak Valley

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and Kumbhirgram Airport in Silchar are the two major airports in Central Assam and Barak Valley.

Bus Stations Near Central Assam and Barak Valley

Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and private operators provide bus services to Central Assam and Barak Valley. Guwahati and Silchar are the major bus stations in the region.

Other Options

Renting a car or hiring a taxi is also an option to explore the region. Additionally, train services are also available to Central Assam and Barak Valley.

How to Get Around in Central Assam and Barak Valley

Local buses, taxis, and rented vehicles are available to navigate around the region. However, note that public transportation may not be the most reliable or comfortable option.

Where to Go Next from Central Assam and Barak Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you wish to continue your journey after exploring Central Assam and Barak Valley, the following are nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Nagaland: For a glimpse of Naga culture and tradition.
  • Meghalaya: Known for its natural beauty and cave exploration.
  • Manipur: Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic locations.

Conclusion

Central Assam and Barak Valley are a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering a unique experience to every traveler. With the above travel guide, you can explore Central Assam and Barak Valley and discover the best that this region has to offer.



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