Updated [28-Aug-23] In the northeastern part of India, Assam is a priceless gem with the aura of tourism and so many vistas to explore. Assam is considered to be the gateway to northeastern states. With lush undulating valleys, the meandering Brahmaputra River, abundant wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and many more, Assam is a treasure trove for wanderlusts. Nestled on the foothills of the Himalayas, Assam is nicknamed ‘The Land of Blue Hills’.
Whether you are a history and culture buff, nature and wildlife lover, or adventure enthusiast, Assam serves everything on the plate of the tourists. Let’s begin with browsing the best places to visit in Assam.
1. Manas National Park - Manas National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The national park is a fantastic destination for nature and wildlife lovers and is located on the foothills of the Himalayas and on the border areas of India and Bhutan. Tiger is the most attractive resident of the national park along with Elephants, Gaur, Barasingha, Water Buffalo, Indian Rhinoceros, Clouded leopard, etc. Manas tiger tour is a guaranteed awesome experience and other activities include river rafting, bird watching, trekking through the village, visiting tea plantation visits, etc.
2. Kaziranga National Park - Even if Assam trip is planned for a short duration, Kaziranga National Park is a must-visit. The national park is easily accessed from both Guwahati Airport and Jorhat Airport. In 1985, Kaziranga was crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kaziranga National Park is popular for its residing population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Jeep, elephant and boat safari and tribal cultural programs are the best attractions of the national park.
3. Guwahati - The well-urbanised city of Guwahati was once known as Pragjyotishpur, which means ‘Light of the East’. Guwahati is the capital city of Assam and contains a plethora of religious places as well as natural sights. One of the most famous sacred spots is Kamakhya Devi Temple. The shrine is dedicated to Devi Kamakhya and is one among the 51 Shakti Peeths, located atop the Nilachal Hills. Other attractions to visit in Guwahati are the Assam State Museum, Nameri National Park, Assam State Zoo, Umananda Temple, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Nehru Park, Guwahati Planetarium, etc.
4. Barak Valley - Barak Valley and Brahmaputra Valley are the two parts of Assam and Barak Valley is named after the second largest river in North-east India, River Barak. The virgin natural beauty is what entices the tourists. The surreal landscape is embellished by tea gardens, emerald hills, meandering rivers, and many more. The primary attractions of Barak Valley are Shiv Temple, Kachari Fort, Kanch Kanti Temple, Maniharan Tunnel, Bhuvani Hills, Barak Bhuban Wildlife Sanctuary, Karimganj, Badapur Ghat, etc.
5. North Cachar Hills - It is a pristine spot wrapped in natural beauty, cascading waterfalls and lush hills. North Cachar Hills is the home to several tribal communities of Assam, namely, Hmar, Zeme, Dimasa, Kuki, Hrangkhol and Biate. The ideal time to visit this heavenly abode is in the winter season. Haflong is the headquarters of the North Cachar Hills district. The best places to visit in North Cachar Hills are Haflong Lake, District Museum, Jatinga, etc. Tourists lovingly nicknamed this place ‘Switzerland of the East’.