With its expansive plains and beautiful river valleys, Assam is rich in natural beauty, from its wildlife sanctuaries and verdant tea gardens to the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The largest state in Northeast India boasts an astounding biodiversity with tropical rainforests, grasslands and riverine forests. The must-visit tourist places in Assam include temples and ruins from the Ahom kingdom and seven national parks with rare animal species, including the two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kaziranga National Park (on the Brahmaputra River) and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (near Bhutan).
Try these eco retreats in Assam to experience the state’s celebrated biodiversity.
How to reach
- By air: The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is the primary airport connecting Assam to major Indian cities and international destinations. Dibrugarh Airport, approximately 450 km from Guwahati, connects to major cities in India.
- By train: Guwahati Railway Station and Dibrugarh Railway Station are major railway junctions connecting Assam to various parts of India.
- By road: Assam’s road networks are well-connected, allowing comfortable travel within the state and to neighbouring states.
- By boat: Assam offers boat rides and ferries to access riverine islands like Majuli and Umananda.
Best time to visit Assam
The best time to visit Assam is winter (October to March) and summer (April to June) when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) as Assam experiences torrential rainfall, with heavy floods disrupting major road networks. Springtime (March to May) is a particularly enchanting time to visit, as most of the tourist places in Assam burst into bloom. You can witness the colourful spectacle of orchids and experience the vibrant Rongali Bihu festival, a cultural extravaganza that celebrates the advent of spring. For thrill-seekers, October to May are the ideal times to travel to Assam. This time of year is perfect for adventures and outdoor activities because of the beautiful weather, which includes bright skies and ambient temperatures.
Also read | When To Visit India? Find The Perfect Time To Explore The Land Of Diversity
Things to do in Assam
Start an adventure
River rafting down the mighty Brahmaputra or casting a line for a thrilling angling experience, Assam offers adventure activities aplenty. Rock climbing at Simhasana Hill and Elephant Rocks is perfect for those seeking adrenaline rushes. The Nameri River, with its challenging Grade III and IV rapids, is a haven for experienced rafters. The Kameng River, winding through remote landscapes, offers a more moderate rafting experience, perfect for those who want to explore the region’s natural beauty. River rafting adventures in Assam typically cost between INR 1,200 (HKD 110) and INR 2,500 (HKD 230).
Get a good dose of nature
Assam is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting several sanctuaries and seven national parks. Kaziranga National Park is world-renowned for its one-horned rhinoceros population, alongside swamp deer, sloth bears, and Indian bison. Manas National Park, a Project Tiger reserve, is home to diverse wildlife, including wild boar, hog deer, one-horned rhinos, and sambar deer.
Nature enthusiasts can also explore Nameri National Park, known for its elephants, leopards, gaurs, and the majestic mahseer fish in its waters. The Dihing Patkai National Park, often called the “Amazon of the East”, is India’s longest stretch of lowland rainforests. Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is a must-visit for those fascinated by primates, as it’s home to the endangered Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape in India. Haflong, Assam’s only hill station, is renowned for the enigmatic Jatinga Valley. This mysterious valley witnesses a peculiar phenomenon where birds, drawn by an inexplicable force, descend from the sky and die.
Explore more with our guide to the must-visit national parks in Northeast India.
Pick up trekking
The Karbi Hills and Cachar Hills offer some of the best trekking opportunities in Assam. The Bageshwari Devi Temple Trek is popular, leading to a sacred temple with stunning Brahmaputra views. Another is the Mayong trek, which takes you through ancient temples and monasteries. You can also embark on treks along the banks of the Brahmaputra, offering breathtaking views of the river, lush forests, and the Eastern Himalayas. For a unique experience, hike through the lush green forests, picturesque villages, and scenic riverside trails of Majuli River Island.
Must-visit tourist places in Assam
Guwahati
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and the ‘Gateway to the Northeast’, is a captivating destination on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Explore ancient temples like Kamakhya, one of the oldest Shakti Pithas, perched atop Nilachal Hill or Umananda Temple on a river island. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Assam at the Srimanta Shankardev Kalakshetra, a renowned arts and culture centre.
For a serene escape, visit the Navagraha Temple or the Guwahati Planetarium. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the majestic river. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Assam State Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artefacts and exhibits showcasing the state’s history and culture.
Getting there: The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati offers direct flights to major Indian cities. Guwahati Railway Station is a major railway junction connecting various parts of the country. Additionally, well-networked roads connect Guwahati to neighbouring states and other parts of Assam.
Where to stay: Taj Vivanta, Novotel, or The Guwahati Address.
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Tezpur
Tezpur, a historic town on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and nature. Explore the ancient Agnigarh Hill, the Mahabhairab Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the intriguing ruins of Bamuni Hills with intricate stone carvings. For nature enthusiasts, Nameri National Park, located 35 km away, is a haven for diverse wildlife, including clouded leopards and sloth bears. Nearby, Bhalukpong is home to the Tipi Orchidarium, showcasing over 80 species of orchids, and the renowned Pakke Tiger Reserve, a haven for tigers and other wildlife. This region’s rich cultural heritage and serene landscapes make Tezpur a captivating tourist place in Assam.
Getting there: The nearest airport is Guwahati Airport, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Tezpur. Alternatively, you can take a train to Tezpur Railway Station, connected to major cities like Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat. It is approximately 185 kilometres from Guwahati by road.
Where to stay: Stay at Cygnet Inn Imperial or the Greenwood Hotel.
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Jorhat
Jorhat, often called the ‘Tea Capital of India’, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and colonial charm. Explore the serene beauty of Majuli River Island, accessible by ferry, and the Gibbon Sanctuary, home to the endangered Hoolock Gibbon.
Delve into the world of tea at the Tocklai Tea Research Institute, gaining insights into Assam’s rich tea heritage. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of the Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar, a prayer hall founded by the saint reformer Madhavdeva, and experience the tranquillity of the ancient Bangalpukhari pond, surrounded by lush greenery. Jorhat’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic Assamese experience.
Getting there: The fastest way is by air, with direct flights from Guwahati Airport to Jorhat Airport. Alternatively, take a train from Guwahati to Jorhat Town Railway Station (approximately 8 km from the city centre). For a scenic journey, you can also take a road trip by travelling approximately 300 kilometres from Guwahati.
Where to stay: Stay at the Monarch Hotel with comfortable doubles.
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Mayong
Mayong is a captivating village cluster shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Often dubbed the “land of black magic”, this enigmatic place has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries. Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, Mayong offers a unique blend of history, culture, and folklore. Explore the ancient temples and serene riverbanks, and immerse yourself in the local traditions. While the tales of black magic add a touch of mystery, Mayong’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a fascinating destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Getting there: Mayong is about 40 kilometres from Guwahati. You can hire a taxi or take a Guwahati bus to Mayong. The journey typically takes around 1-2 hours.
Also read | Balipara In Assam Offers A Peak Into The Laid-Back Plantation Life
Sivasagar
Sivasagar, a historic town 82 km from Dibrugarh, was once the capital of the mighty Ahom dynasty. This town is a treasure trove of historical sites, including ancient palaces, temples, and a grand arena, making it one of the top tourist places in Assam. The Charaideo Maidam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the final resting place of Ahom kings and queens, with large mounds like the pyramids of Egypt. These majestic burial mounds, often called the “Pyramids of the East”, offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Ahom kingdom.
Other notable attractions in Sivasagar include the Siva Dol (temple), Rang Ghar, a unique two-storied amphitheatre built by the Ahom kings for royal sports and cultural events, the Jodi-Mai Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Talatal Ghar, a unique palace with a network of underground tunnels, the Amguri Kamalabari Satra, a Vaishnavite monastery known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere, and the historic town of Gargaon, with its ruins of Ahom palaces. These historical sites and cultural experiences make Sivasagar a fascinating tourist place in Assam.
Getting there: Jorhat Airport is approximately 55 kilometres from the city centre. You can also take a train to Simaluguri Junction, located around 16 kilometres from Sivasagar. Sivasagar town is approximately 360 kilometres from Guwahati by road.
Majuli Island
Majuli, the world’s largest riverine island, is a captivating destination on the Brahmaputra River and a top-ranking tourist place in Assam. This idyllic island is a tapestry of emerald green rice fields, mustard fields, and serene lagoons dotted with water hyacinth. Traditional stilt houses and small bamboo bridges add to the island’s charm.
Explore the unique Vaishnavite culture of Majuli’s satras, or monasteries, where participants engage in dance, drama, and music. Witness the artistry of local mask-makers who create intricate masks using cow dung, straw, and paper. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Assam by attending a Bhaona, a traditional dance-drama performance depicting stories from the Hindu epic Ramayana.
Also read | Explore The Magical World Of Majuli In Assam, The World’s Largest River Island
Getting there: Take a ferry from Nimati Ghat, approximately 30 kilometres from Jorhat and 130 kilometres from Guwahati.
Stay: Majuli is dotted with homestays that offer home-cooked food and local knowledge.
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Shopping in Assam
While visiting Assam’s tourist places, don’t forget to shop from the silk emporiums and handicraft stores for authentic silks and unique souvenirs.
- Tea: Pick up packets of aromatic Assam tea, renowned for its rich flavour.
- Silk: Assam is famous for its three types of silk: Muga, Pat, and Eri. Buy beautiful sarees, shawls, stoles, and the traditional Assamese dress for women, the mekhela-chador.
- Handicrafts: As a cultural hub of the Northeast, Guwahati offers a diverse range of handmade crafts. Explore the local markets for bamboo products, masks, terracotta items, and the traditional Assamese hat, the jaapi.
- Gamusa: A versatile piece of cloth, the gamusa is a symbol of Assamese culture. It’s perfect as a souvenir or a practical item to use as a towel or scarf.
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Best restaurants in Assam
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Guwahati offers a diverse culinary scene catering to various tastes. Uptown Escape Cafe & Cocktail Bar combines Mexican, Indian, and Asian cuisines in a relaxed setting. For a more local experience, check out the Steaming Mug and Paradise, popular cafes in the city. Michinga Ethnic Cuisine offers a unique dining experience with Naga, Khasi, and Assamese delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the Parampara Thali at Paradise, a culinary journey through Assamese flavours.
In Jorhat, Saffron and Meridian are popular multi-cuisine restaurants offering various dishes. Tezpur boasts a vibrant café culture, with Café Mon Jaai and Seventh Heaven being popular choices for a cosy and delicious meal.
While Majuli doesn’t have standalone restaurants, the homestays on the island offer authentic Assamese cuisine, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Hotels in Assam
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For a unique nature experience, consider staying at Nameri Eco Camp. This tented accommodation offers a five-day tour of Nameri, immersing you in the lush wilderness.
If you prefer a more historical setting, Wild Mahseer near Jorhat is a heritage stay in a British-era planter’s bungalow. Surrounded by a bio-diverse estate with over 100,000 plants and 90 bird species, it offers a tranquil escape.
For a comfortable city stay, Vivanta Guwahati and Novotel Guwahati are top-rated hotels in the heart of Guwahati.
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(Feature image credit: Sangeeta Nath, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Assam has 7 national parks and several bird and wildlife sanctuaries as wildlife attractions.
No special permits are required to visit Assam.
The best cultural experiences to explore in Assam are temples like the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, the satras or monasteries of Majuli river island and the Ahom ruins of Sibsagar.
The best places to see plantations in Assam are Jorhat, Tezpur and Dibrugarh.
The most significant and important of all the cultural and vibrant celebrations in Assam is the Bihu festival in April.
Try pithas made from rice, small fish roasted in banana leaves (paatot-dia). A traditional meal invariably begins with a khar dish, which can be prepared with raw papaya, mustard leaves, vegetables, pulses, fish. Taste poita bhat where cooked rice is soaked overnight and left to ferment. It is served with mustard oil, onion, chili, pickle.
Assam is safe for tourists.
Assam does not experience snowfall.
Written By
Kalpana Sunder
Kalpana Sunder is a freelance journalist based in Chennai. In another lifetime she has dabbled in company ..Read More
