BEAUTIFUL ASSAM
ASSAM
Assam is a state in northeastern India, south of the eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra and Barak River valleys. Assam is known for Assam tea and Assam silk. The state was the first site for oil drilling in Asia. Assam is home to the one-horned Indian rhinoceros, along with the wild water buffalo, pygmy hog, tiger and various species of Asiatic birds, and provides one of the last wild habitats for the Asian elephant. The Assamese economy is aided by wildlife tourism to Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, which are World Heritage Sites. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is famed for its feral horses. Sal tree forests are found in the state which, as a result of abundant rainfall, look green all year round. Assam receives more rainfall than most parts of India; this rain feeds the Brahmaputra River, whose tributaries and oxbow lakes provide the region with a distinctive hydro-geomorphic environment.
The Assamese history has been derived from multiple sources. The Ahom kingdom of medieval Assam maintained chronicles, called Buranjis, written in the Ahom and the Assamese languages. History of ancient Assam comes from a corpus of Kamarupa inscriptions on rock, copper plates, clay; royal grants, etc. that the Kamarupa kings issued during their reign.
The history of Assam can be divided into four eras. The ancient era began in the 4th century with the mention of Kamarupa in Samudragupta's inscriptions on the Allahabad pillar and the establishment of the Kamarupa kingdom. The medieval era began with the attacks from the Bengal Sultanate, the first of which took place in 1206 by Bakhtiyar Khilji as mentioned in the Kanai-boroxiboa rock inscription, after the breakup of the ancient kingdom and the sprouting of medieval kingdoms and chieftain-ships in its place. The colonial era began with the establishment of British control after the Treaty of Yandaboo in 1826, and the post-colonial era began in 1947 after the Independence of India.
Assam can be divided into three natural regions, namely the Brahmaputra valley, the Barak valley and the Hilly regions. These regions are quite distinct from one another with regard to the composition of people, manner of living and culture. The mighty Brahmaputra along with Barak has nourished the state from time immemorial and has been a source of solace as well as a source of sorrow for the people of the state.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Assam
1. Kaziranga National Park: Home To One-horned Rhinoceros
The Kaziranga National Park is home to two-thirds of the planet’s population of the one-horned rhinoceros. Apart from that, this national park is also a World Heritage Site and a major highlight on the Assam tourist places map. It’s vibrant, well preserved, sustained ecology, and versatile biodiversity is what contributes to keeping this place on the top of the list of tourist places in Assam. Other than the one-horned Rhino, the park draws its popularity from other pleasant surprises like the Swamp Deer, Elephants, Wild Buffalos, Chinese Pangolins, Bengal Foxes, Gibbons, Civets, Sloth Bears, Leopards, and Flying Squirrels to name a few. It’s also a tiger reserve since it houses an enormous population of the royal Bengal Tigers, making it one of the most important Assam points of interest. This is certainly among the best places to visit in Assam.
2. Manas National Park: Biosphere Reserve
The next on the list of Assam places to visit is the Manas National Park, which is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, a Project Tiger Reserve, an Elephant Reserve, a Biosphere Reserve all in one, and the best tourist place in Assam! Being famous for the rare golden langur and the adorable red panda, Manas is one of the best national parks in Assam and even all of India for those who wish to witness the rare species of India’s flora. It’s one of the best tourist attractions in Assam owing to not only its rich biodiversity but also for its stunning scenery and surreal natural landscape ranging from forested hills, alluvial grasslands, and tropical evergreen forests. Home to India’s second-largest tiger population, it harbours the maximum population of endangered Indian species as listed in the IUCN Red Book.
3. Kamakhya Temple: Religious Expedition
One of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India, the Kamakhya Temple carries a myth to protect devotees from evil eyes. It’s one of the most popular and famous tourist places in Assam for pilgrims and tourists alike owing to its amazing Tantric adoration. Located atop Nilachal Hills, this temple’s main deity is Lord Shiva and Daksha Yagna (Death Incarnation). This temple is certainly one of the most revered temples in Guwahati.
4 Tourist Places In Jorhat
A perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Jorhat has numerous attractions holding both national and international importance. It draws its popularity from the world’s largest river island – Majuli – located 20 km from this town, as well as the Jorhat Gymkhana Club which is the first to be ever built in Asia apart from being the third oldest in the entire world. Jorhat is undoubtedly one of the best Assam destinations that endow visitors with tremendous scenic beauty and virgin landscapes.
Prime Attraction: Majuli, Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, Kakochang Waterfalls, Gymkhana Club, Sukapha Samannay Kshetra, Bangalpukhari, Cinnamora Tea Estate, Lachit Borphukan Maidam, Thengal Bhawan
4. Majuli Island: Largest Riverine Island
Majuli’s eye-warming naturescapes make it one of the top tourist places in Assam. It is the world’s largest riverine island as well as one of the most important Satras established by Sankardeva and Madhavdev. The Majuli islands are spread over an area of around 452 sq km and most of these get submerged underwater during the monsoons, leaving the bigger islands like Kamalabari, Auniati, and Garamur on the surface. This is why it’s best to visit this place in Guwahati in May. This is undoubtedly among the best places to visit in Assam. Apart from having remarkable natural beauty, Majuli is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. A holiday with Assam tourism is incomplete without seeing one of the most beautiful places to visit in Assam.
5. Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary: Best Spectacles Of Assam
Located less than 20 km from Jorhat city center, Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for Assam’s Hoolock Gibbon population. Surrounded by the Brahmaputra river on one side and tea gardens on all others, this wildlife sanctuary is among the best spectacles of Assam sightseeing for wildlife lovers and nature seekers. Other than over 40 species of Hoolock Gibbons, this enclosure houses Capped Langur, Stump-Tailed Macaque, Pigtail Macaque, Assamese Macaque, Rhesus Macaque, Slow Loris, Elephants, and so many more species of animals.
6. Kakochang Waterfalls: Magnificent Wonder Of Nature
Cascading down furiously between the rubber and coffee plantations of Jorhat, the Kakochang Waterfalls are a magnificent wonder of nature. The main waterfall is located 13 km from the Bokakhat in Jorhat and attracts tourists in great numbers year-round. Apart from providing a refreshing retreat and a great subject for shutterbugs, this waterfall gives splendid views of the ruins of Numaligarh and lush green tea plantations.
7. Tocklai Tea Research Centre: Oldest Tea Research Stations
Established in 1911, the Tocklai Tea Research Centre is among the largest and oldest tea research stations in the world. All the scientific knowledge that the world holds about tea, has come from this center in Assam. Various researches on the extraction, cultivation, and processing of tea are conducted here day after day in order to enhance tea’s nutritional value.
8. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: A Diverse Ecology
Situated Located on the Eastern Himalayan foothills, this park gives you not only the chance to spot some of the country’s rarest animal and bird species, but also blesses you with unbeatable views of the snowy Himalayan peaks and endless orchid meadows. One of the best Assam tourist places, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary shares its borders with Arunachal Pradesh and somewhat merges with the Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, giving visitors the best of both worlds! The park is an absolute heaven for birdwatchers courtesy its marshy landscapes and ecology. But what makes it shine out is its Elephant Reserve where orphaned and abandoned elephants are taken care of.
9. Orang National Park: Rare Species Of Aquatic Beings
Among other Assam places to visit is the Orang National Park or Rajiv Gandhi National Park nestled quietly on the northern shores of the Brahmaputra. It’s the popular home of Assam’s one-horned rhinos, and though small in size, this park is among the most unique Assam destinations. It provides shelter to more than 50 species of fish and is unbelievably rich in fauna, which contribute majorly to its bewitching landforms and scenic charm. Undoubtedly, Orang National Park is one of the most popular tourist places of Assam.
10. Umananda Island: One Of The Smallest Islands In The World
This religious island is among the best places to visit in Assam in June and should be on the bucket list of every traveler visiting Assam. Also called Peacock Island by the British, this small islet owes its fame to its location smack in the middle of river Brahmaputra and the fact that it is easily accessible from Guwahati. This island is among the smallest islands of the world and houses the famous Umananda Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
11. Dipor Bil: Water Lilies And Hyacinths
Bil in Assamese translates to “Lake”, and this is a splendid one at that! The list of tourist places in Assam is never complete without mentioning the incredible Dipor Bil. Formed as an extension of the Brahmaputra river, this lake is situated 13 km southwest of Guwahati and is the perfect spot for birdwatching and basking in the sun. You’ll find all sorts of waterlilies, water hyacinths, aquatic grass, and other rare species of flora here that add a magical touch to this place and make it a favorite spot of couples and photographers.
11.Tourist Places In Tezpur
Proudly boasting off its tag of the most beautiful city in Assam, Tezpur is bathed in unmatched scenic natural beauty and a resonating cultural vibe. The Brahmaputra river flows right through this city and further adds to the beauty of this place. This is surely the most popular Assam destinations. It’s the undisputed cultural hub of Assam owing to its theatres, traditional dances, and cultural events. Apart from that, the sprawling tea estates around the city are like a cherry on the cake!
12. Nameri National Park: Dauntless Safari
Famous for its royal Bengal Tigers, Elephants, and other animals including Leopards, Gaurs, Wild Pigs, Sambars, and more, the Nameri National Park is among the most adventure-packed Assam places to visit for thrill seekers and wildlife fanatics. Apart from its fauna, Nameri also has a large population of avifauna which makes it a bird watcher’s paradise. One of the best things to do in Assam while in the Nameri Sanctuary is to embark on a dauntless safari down its lush thickets and dirt tracks. Other than the wildlife, the rich fauna and the evergreen vegetation also tends to enchant visitors. A stop at the Nameri river will let you spot a variety of fish, including the Golden Mahseer which is known as the “Tiger of the Himalayan rivers”.
13. Padam Pukhuri: Archaeological Excavation
Hazara Pukhuri and Padam Pukhuri are a pair of tanks positioned in the vicinity of the Bamuni Hills. While Hazara Pukhuri is recognized as the third largest artificial lake in Tezpur, the Padam Pukhuri is an island park famous for lotuses. Created from an archaeological excavation in the early 19th century, this pond contributes to the cool and breezy atmosphere of the city and is among the most popular historical places of Assam. When here, one must not miss out on the rejuvenating experience on walking on the bank of the pond and witnessing the park’s musical fountains, toy trains, and the iron bridge.
14,Tourist Places In Haflong
A dreamy town set in the oscillating hills and lush valleys of Dima Hasao, Haflong is often referred to as the “Scotland of Assam”. Enriched with stunning hills, lofty terrains, and a sparkling lake, Haflong is among the best places to see in Assam for camping enthusiasts, hikers and trekkers, and peace seekers.
15. Haflong Lake: Beautiful Lake
The Haflong Lake is undoubtedly the most beautiful lake and best tourist place in Assam, India. Located in the heart of the city, this lake is the perfect tourist spot that offers travelers the chance to indulge in watersports, boating, fishing, and even bird watching owing to the thousands of migratory birds that take refuge here in winter. Well-maintained and clean, the lake falls under the protection of the Dima Hasao Tourist-Forest Department and Dima Hasao Autonomous Council.
16. Haflong Hill: For Adventure Seekers
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Assam, this attraction is popular for thrilling activities like paragliding & trekking. Surrounded with a mesmerizing aura, this is a beautiful hill that’’ sweep you off your feet. The view of the mountains around and the lush greenery offers a perfect opportunity to up your Instagram game.
17. Panimoor Falls: Panoramic Sights
Despite being situated over a 100 km away from the town, this waterfall is one of the major attractions in Haflong. If you’re a movie buff and that entices you more than nature, you’d be glad to know that a few shots from Rangoon were shot here. So, just pick your camera and make sure you stop by here for capturing a few of your own special moments.
18. Dima Hasao: Home Of Assamese Tribes
Also called North Cachar Hills in Assam, this marvelous place is home to the minor and major tribes of this state like the Dimasa Kachauris, Zeme Nagas, Hmars, and Kukis, each of which occupy a small space in the area but an enormous significance in building and preserving the heritage of Assam. Considered to be one of the best places to see in Assam, all who visit this place find themselves lost in the tranquility of nature and end up wishing they could stay here forever!
19. Dibru Saikhowa National Park: Untouched Wilderness
The wetlands of the Tinsukia district in Assam are what constitute the Dibru Saikhowa National Park. Still in its untouched and tranquil form, this is one of the an amazing wildlife sanctuary in Assam that is home to some of the rarest beings on the planet. The wetlands and marshes of this area also attract many birds, because of which the park witnesses more than 500 species of migratory and native aviaries. Other than wildlife safaris and birdwatching, what makes this one of the best places to visit in Assam in May drawing tourists from all over India is the unparalleled opportunity to go on a boat safari and spot the Gangetic River Dolphins.
20. Sivasagar: A Centuries-old Civilization
The Sivasagar is believed to be the home of a centuries-old civilization that has always lived right here. While it’s one of the most surprising Assam tourist places, it was also the kingdom of Ahom kings from 1699 to 1788 AD. This ancient city tells tales of its royal splendor not just by its beautiful architecture but also by its prominent features like grand Shiva, Vishnu, Durga Maa temples, as well as one of the largest man-made tanks located here including the Joysagar, Gaurisagar, and Rudrasagar.
21. Silchar: Enchanting Landscapes
One of the most beautiful tourist places in Assam, Silchar will make your jaw drop with its enchanting landscapes. Located by the banks of Barak River, Silchar is profuse with nature’s splendour. The second largest town of Assam shares its borders with Mizoram, Bangladesh, Manipur and Barai Hills. This is the reason why it is culturally rich.
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