Borgang Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to eat, and things to do in Borgang, an off-the-beaten-path destination in Assam, Northeastern India.


Borgang, a small town located in Lower Assam, is an underrated gem waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. Assam is known for its tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient temples, but Borgang offers something different. Its quiet charm and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the chaos of city life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about Borgang, including places to visit, things to do, and practical travel tips.

Introduction to Borgang

Borgang is a quaint little town located in the Sonitpur district of Assam, India. It’s nestled between hills and green valleys, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many indigenous tribes. Despite being off the beaten path, Borgang has a lot to offer to its visitors. Apart from natural beauty, Borgang is also known for its art and craft forms, which are unique to the region.

List of Places to Visit in Borgang

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Borgang Manor: The old British bungalow, built in the early 20th century, is the perfect example of Anglo-Indian architecture, with its high wooden ceilings and ornate furniture. Today, it serves as a heritage hotel, but visitors can still take a guided tour of the manor.
  • Deoparbat Ruins: The ruins, located on a hilltop, offer a panoramic view of the Brahmaputra River and are said to date back to the 6th century AD.
  • Surya Pahar: A holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists, Surya Pahar is home to numerous temples and rock carvings, including a 10 feet high statue of Lord Vishnu.
  • Tezpur Mahabhairab Temple: The temple, located on a hillside, has a commanding view of the surrounding area. It’s known for its shrine to the deity Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Natural Attractions of Borgang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary, located on an island in the Brahmaputra River, is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and go on a guided safari.
  • Rani Reserve Forest: The forest, also called the Queen of Forests, is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can take a guided trek through the forest and camp overnight.
  • Orang National Park: The park, located around 80 km from Borgang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Visitors can go on a safari and see the rhinos up close.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Borgang

  • Borgang to Khetri: The route takes you through the scenic countryside, passing through small villages and lush green forests.
  • Borgang to Tezpur: The route takes you through the heart of Assam, passing through ancient temples and historical sites.

Best Things to Do in Borgang: Activities and Tours

  • Tea Plantation Tour: Assam is known for its tea plantations, and Borgang is no exception. Visitors can take a guided tour of a tea plantation and learn about the process of tea-making.
  • Waterfall Trek: Borgang is home to several waterfalls, and visitors can take a guided trek to these falls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters.
  • Indigenous Villages Tour: Borgang is home to several indigenous tribes, and visitors can take a guided tour of their villages, learn about their way of life, and even try their local cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Borgang

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Borgang, check-in to hotel, and local sightseeing
2 Trek to Deoparbat ruins and visit to Surya Pahar
3 Wildlife safari in Bura-Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary
4 Visit to the Tea plantation and Waterfall Trek
5 Visit to indigenous villages and local markets
6 Trekking at Rani Reserve Forest
7 Departure from Borgang

Food and Drink Scene of Borgang

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pitha, a rice flour-based sweet dish that is served with sweet chutney.
  • Masor Tenga, a tangy fish curry made with tomatoes and lemons.
  • Khaar, a traditional Assamese dish made with raw papaya and meat.
  • Bora Saul, a local variety of rice that is cooked with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Assam Tea: Assam is known for its tea plantations, and a cup of Assam tea is a must-try for visitors.
  • Rice Beer: Rice beer, known as apong in Assam, is a local alcoholic beverage made from rice.

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

Borgang is still an off-the-beaten-path destination, but a few accommodation options are available for visitors. The options range from budget guesthouses to heritage hotels.

  • Borgang Manor: The old British bungalow has been converted into a heritage hotel and offers a luxurious stay with a glimpse of Anglo-Indian architecture.
  • Borosaika Guesthouse: The budget-friendly guesthouse, located on a hilltop, offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.
  • Hariyali Retreat: The eco-friendly resort, located in the heart of a forest, offers comfortable cottages and a peaceful atmosphere.

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

  • Mekhla Chadar and Traditional Assamese Silk Saree: Assam is known for its intricate handloom work, and visitors can buy traditional Assamese sarees as a souvenir.
  • Bamboo Artworks: Bamboo is an important raw material in Assam, and visitors can buy bamboo products such as bags, lampshades, and baskets as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Borgang

Borgang is home to several indigenous tribes and has a rich cultural heritage. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions. Smoking or drinking in public places is generally frowned upon, and it’s essential to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Borgang

The best time to visit Borgang is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season, from June to September, should be avoided as heavy rainfall can cause landslides and disrupt travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Borgang

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Smoke or drink in public places.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Click photos of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Borgang

Borgang is generally safe, but visitors are advised to take precautions while traveling. Traveling alone at night, especially in remote areas, should be avoided. It’s always recommended to keep your valuables in a safe place and not to carry too much cash with you.

Health in Borgang

Visitors are advised to carry mosquito repellent and to cover up to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses. Medical facilities in Borgang are limited, so it’s necessary to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary prescription medication.

Getting to Borgang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Borgang

The nearest airport to Borgang is the Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, which is around 25 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Borgang

Borgang has a small bus station, and regular buses connect the town to nearby cities like Guwahati and Tezpur.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a private car from Tezpur or Guwahati to reach Borgang.

How to Get Around in Borgang

Borgang is a small town, and it’s easy to get around on foot. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for hire within the town.

Where to Go Next from Borgang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Borgang is located in a region with many other interesting destinations that visitors can explore. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Tezpur: The city is known for its ancient temples and archaeological sites.
  • Shillong: The capital of Meghalaya, known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure sports.
  • Kaziranga National Park: The park is home to the great one-horned rhino and many other animals.

Conclusion

Borgang is an off-the-beaten-path destination in Assam, but it’s a place that should not be missed. The town offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and quietude that many travelers crave. From scenic treks to rich cultural experiences, Borgang has it all. So pack your bags, and come explore this hidden gem in Northeast India!