Assam also known as the Gateway to the Northeast is a traveller’s paradise. It is famous for its vibrant culture and mesmerizing landscapes. Assam is often overlooked as a travel destination and only visited en-route to other states in the North-East like Meghalaya and Nagaland. Here are the top 5 reasons you should definitely add Assam on your travel bucket list of 2019.
#1 Kaziranga National Park
Located in the Brahmaputra flood plains, Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the highest population of one-horned rhinoceroses and has the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world. With over 35 species of mammals and 500 species of birds, there is no better place in the India to experience the kind of biodiversity that is found in this park. You can take a Jeep Safari, an Elephant Safari or even a Boat Safari to explore the lush green landscapes and wildlife. The best part about Kaziranga is that it is a destination suitable for all ages. It is an ideal vacation spot for kids as they can enjoy and learn more about the world that we live in.
Pro Tip :Kaziranga National Park only remains open from November to April so you can plan your visit to Assam in these months.
#2 Majuli Island
Brahmaputra is one of the largest rivers in the world so it is no surprise that a permanent island exits in the middle of it. Majuli is the first river island in India to be made into a district. This unique destination can be accessed via ferry from the city of Jorhat . You can spend a day here or even stay the night in a homestay. You can try your hand at the various handicraft activities that happen in Majuli and even go for a forest trek. The island is a haven for bird watching enthusiasts as rare species of birds can be seen here. There is a whole world that exists in the middle of Brahmaputra on this island that you must definitely check out.
Pro tip: If you don’t have time to visit this island then a great alternative is to just take a cruise on the Brahmaputra River. It can range from a few hours to an entire day depending on your preference. You can enjoy the calm and majestic waters of this beautiful river at your own ease.
#3 Kamakhya Temple
Temples in Assam are famous for their architecture and beautiful locations. The historically significant Kamakhya Temple is one of the most popular places to see in Assam for pilgrims and tourists alike. Located atop Nilachal Hills, this is a great day trip from Guwahati for some light hiking and unique photography opportunities.
Pro Tip :If you want to see the real glory of this temple, then plan a visit during the annually celebrated Ambubachi Mela held in the month of June.
#4 Tea Estates
Assam is full of tea gardens and some of the best tea in the country is grown here. This is one of the most compelling reasons to include Assam on your travel bucket list. Tea estates in Assam are a significant part of its culture and history. These scenic tea gardens are a special delight for tea connoisseurs as the state is a proud producer of some of the finest teas in the world. You can even stay at a tea estate in a bungalow and witness the entire process of tea making . The highlight of course is the constantly filled cups of exquisite Assamese tea at your disposal .
Pro Tip: Every November the Assam Tea Festival is held in several parts of Assam. If you are an elite tea lovers, then this is the best time to visit Assam!
#5 Not Overcrowded with Tourists
The best part about Assam is that it is not a commercialized tourist destination. Unfortunately a lot of scenic and culturally rich places in India like Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh are overcrowded with tourists and cannot be enjoyed by those seeking an authentic and peaceful travel experience. Assam lies on the other end of the spectrum holding in all its culture, nature and adventure but because such few people know about it, most of it is preserved in its pristine form. The assortment of travel experiences that you find is this state is rare so you must catch up on it before the rest of the world finds out about this traveller’s paradise!
So come find your adventure in Assam with Offbeat Tracks.