The North-East states of India are a real paradise and the ‘Seven Sisters’ have a beauty that is almost other-worldly. Assam is the most visited of the seven states and there are plenty of things to see and do here. Here’s our pick of the top 10 for a long weekend if you’re here:
Wildlife in Kaziranga
Kaziranga National Park is one of the most happening wildlife destinations in Assam. It is situated in the Golaghat, Nagaon, and Karbi Anglong districts of Assam and a UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India. The most attractive part of this renowned park is the presence of one-horned rhinoceros. And Kaziranga National Park is listed officially as a Tiger reserve and is home to one of the world’s largest population of tigers. Here, you will also find other various animals like Asiatic elephants, wild water buffalo, leopards, and Royal Bengal Tigers. Kaziranga National Park’s scenery is of the mere forest, tall elephant grass, rocky reeds, marshes, and freshwater ponds. The best time to visit the national park is between mid-November to early April.
Dynamic Festivals: Bihu And Tea Festival
This is Assam’s most popular festival, which is celebrated three times a year to welcome and enjoy the numerous seasonal offerings. Make sure you become a part of the festivities if you’re holidaying in the state, as it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Assam. You’d get to witness everything from folk songs to fun costumes.
The harvest festival is also celebrated in Assam, as in other parts of the country. The festival, known as Magh Bihu, lasts for a whole week and is followed by song and dance, bonfire parties, sports and games, buffalo fights, and of course, fish and traditional sweets. If you are visiting Assam in mid-January, it is a must-do.
Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati is possibly the most famous temple in Assam. One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this Hindu temple is devoted to the Tantric Goddess Kamakhya. This is an important center for pilgrimages and the annual Ambubasi Mela takes place here. With a lot of fanfare here, Durga Puja is also celebrated.
Culinary Feasts
Of all the things to do in Assam, India, it is an absolute must-do to savour the popular local cuisines whenever you’re in the area. The Assamese cuisine is something you could not have had before, and for non-vegetarians, the state is a paradise. The local delicacies will certainly leave you amazed with so many choices, ranging from sweet, spicy to boiled ones. Khorikaa and Paradise Restaurant, The Woking Mama & more are the best places to eat in Assam.
The Satras of Majuli
Majuli, Asia’s largest river island, does not need to be opened to travellers because of its biodiversity and scenic views. But the Satras, the inseparable component of Assamese society, is what makes it more popular. These monasteries are the center of well-nourished Assamese dance forms, music and dance drama, founded by the followers of Sankardeva, the proponent of Eksarana Dharma. Ankiya Naat, Bhaona, Borgeet and numerous other types of performance art are devoted to the creation of the Gurus or the teachers living in these Satras. I’m sure you’d enjoy the masks and costumes they wear. Majuli is situated approximately 200km east of Guwahati.
Cruise Ride at River Brahmaputra
One of the greatest enjoyable things to do in Assam is definitely floating in the heart of the Brahmaputra river and seeing the sunset, and you can’t afford to miss this experience. This experience includes breath-taking sights and memories that will fill your heart with joy and excitement, leaving you with a lifetime memory to treasure.
River Rafting in Nameri National Park
Almost every lover of travel freak adventure should go to Nameri National Park for rafting. It’s near to Tezpur Town and can perfectly appeal to the needs of lovers of excitement. The Jia Bhorali River, which flows through the national park, is an excellent location for exciting adventures. Tourists can also opt for fishing for Mahseer.
Explore the First Oil Refinery of Asia
Digboi Oil Refinery is considered to be Asia’s oldest oil refinery. It is situated in the district of Tinsukia, about 510 km north-east of Guwahati. The small town is dotted with old houses, exclusive bungalows and particularly the golf course that was built in Assam under British rule. Digboi Oil Refinery is the country’s oldest continuously operating refinery.
Peacock Island
Due to its shape, Umananda Island is also known as Peacock Island in the Kamrup district of Assam. It is the tiniest river island in Assam, surrounded by the thriving Brahmaputra River. Peacock Island’s refreshing environment is suitable for delightful events like picnics, getaways, etc.
Weavers’ Huts at Sualkuchi
Assam is renowned for its handloom business. And nearly every Assamese family in the village has a weaving machine. But you can visit Sualkuchi, ‘The Manchester of Assam,’ to see the best use of this computer. This small block of Kamrup District is located at a distance of around 35 km from Guwahati and is inhabited by the weavers’ kin, who manufacture Assam’s best quality silk attires. You can hear the sounds of wooden weaving machines when walking through the village huts. In this region of Assam, the Pat silk, Muga silk, Eri silk and Endi fabric produced by the country are highly praised.