Upper Assam Travel Guide

Explore the natural attractions and culturally important attractions of Upper Assam, India with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best hiking/biking routes, must-try local dishes, safety and health tips, and more.


Ultimate Travel Guide to Upper Assam

Upper Assam, a region located in the northeastern Indian state of Assam, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its lush tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, historic towns, and warm hospitality, Upper Assam offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the best places to visit, food and drink scene, things to do, itinerary ideas, safety and health tips, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Upper Assam

Upper Assam is a vast region, offering tourists plenty of options to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places in the area:

  • Kaziranga National Park
  • Majuli Island
  • Sivasagar
  • Dibrugarh
  • Jorhat
  • Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Digboi Oil Refinery
  • Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Upper Assam is home to several museums, palaces, and historical sites that give an insight into its rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top culturally important attractions in the area:

  • Talatal Ghar
  • Rang Ghar
  • Kareng Ghar
  • Ahom Museum
  • Sivadol
  • Tai Ahom Museum

Natural Attractions of Upper Assam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Upper Assam has plenty of natural attractions that can leave you spellbound. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the region:

  • Kaziranga National Park
  • Majuli Island
  • Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Namdang Stone Bridge
  • Joysagar Tank
  • Slackline Park Dibrugarh

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper Assam

Upper Assam offers several biking and hiking trails that take you through some of the most scenic locations in the region. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Upper Assam are:

  • Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
  • Digboi Oil Town
  • Joypur Rain Forest
  • Kakochang Waterfall
  • Rukmini Island

Best Things to Do in Upper Assam: Activities and Tours

Apart from natural attractions and cultural sites, Upper Assam has plenty of activities and tours to keep you engaged. Here are some of the best things to do in Upper Assam:

  • Tea garden tour
  • River cruise on the Brahmaputra
  • Bird watching
  • Visit local pottery workshops
  • Enjoy traditional Assamese music and dance

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper Assam

If you are planning to visit Upper Assam for a week, here is a suggested itinerary that covers some of the top attractions in the region:

Day 1: Arrive in Dibrugarh and visit Sivasagar Day 2: Visit Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary and Digboi Oil Refinery Day 3: Explore Dibru-Saikhowa National Park Day 4: Visit Namdang Stone Bridge and Joysagar Tank Day 5: Explore Majuli Island Day 6: Visit Kakochang Waterfall and Rukmini Island Day 7: Depart for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Upper Assam

Assamese cuisine is known for its simplicity and unique flavors. Upper Assam has several traditional dishes and local beverages that you must try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Upper Assam:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Assamese Thali
  • Khar
  • Pitha
  • Duck curry
  • Maasor Tenga

Local Beverages

  • Assam Tea
  • Apong (Rice beer)
  • Xaj (Local liquor)

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

Upper Assam has several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Upper Assam:

  • Hotel Natraj
  • Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow
  • MDs Continental
  • Brahmaputra Jungle Resort
  • Jonai Guest House

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

Upper Assam has several local products and handmade items that make for great souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Upper Assam:

  • Assamese silk and cotton textiles
  • Traditional Assamese jewelry
  • Handmade pottery
  • Assam tea
  • Bamboo products

Local Culture and Customs of Upper Assam

Assamese culture is a blend of various indigenous and immigrant cultures. Assamese people are known for their warm hospitality and love for music and dance. Some of the customs and traditions that you may come across in Upper Assam are:

  • Bihu dance
  • Namghar prayer hall
  • Gamocha (a traditional handwoven towel)
  • Assamese silk sarees and mekhela chaddar

Best Time to Visit Upper Assam

The best time to visit Upper Assam is from October to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and humidity is low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper Assam

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try local food and beverages
  • Wear modest clothing while visiting religious sites

Don’t:

  • Use plastic bags and bottles
  • Litter in public places
  • Disrespect the wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper Assam

Upper Assam, like any other tourist destination, has its share of petty crimes. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables safe
  • Use licensed taxis and public transport

Health in Upper Assam

Upper Assam is a malarial zone, and hence, it is essential to take precautions while traveling. Here are some health tips to keep in mind:

  • Use mosquito repellents
  • Cover your arms and legs while outdoors
  • Drink only bottled water

Getting to Upper Assam: Transportation Options and Logistics

Upper Assam is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Here are some of the transportation options to reach Upper Assam:

Airports Near Upper Assam

  • Dibrugarh Airport
  • Jorhat Airport

Bus Stations Near Upper Assam

  • Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus stand in Dibrugarh
  • Jorhat ASTC bus stand

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars can be hired for local transportation

How to Get Around in Upper Assam

The best way to get around in Upper Assam is by hiring a taxi or a private car. Public transport options are limited, and hence, it is advisable to book a tour package or hire a private car.

Where to Go Next from Upper Assam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Upper Assam is surrounded by several popular tourist destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the nearby destinations:

  • Arunachal Pradesh
  • Nagaland
  • Meghalaya

Conclusion

Upper Assam, with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, food, adventure, or relaxation, Upper Assam has plenty of options to keep you engaged. Follow this travel guide to make the most of your trip to Upper Assam.



    Jorhat
    Lakhimpur
    Majuli
    Tinsukia