Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas and the Meghalayan plateau, Assam is a beautiful state in the northeast region of India. The state shares its borders with the Kingdom of Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh in the North and East. This diverse state is blessed with an incredible range of cultures, sprawling tea estates, tropical forests, rich biodiversity and most importantly, the swiftly flowing River Brahmaputra. If you are planning a visit to this charming state of the “seven sisters’ states of India”, than read on to this articles to know the must do things you should go for.
Exploring Exotic Wildlife
Assam is blessed with a rich biodiversity. With its dense jungles, wetlands and grasslands makes it perfect for home to some of the most exotic flora and fauna. This state has a total of 5 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, namely, Kaziranga National Park, Nameri National Park, Manas National Park, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park. Amongst all, Kaziranga is the most famous one where the Indian one-horned rhinoceros can be seen in its natural habitat.
Brahmaputra River Cruise
An exclusive way of experiencing the wildlife and scenic beauty of Assam is cruising through the Brahmaputra River. The river begins from Tibet and flows through the entire state. In fact, Assam Bengal Navigation operates regular river cruises, which include the national parks of Kaziranga and Manas National Park. These exclusive cruises not only cover national parks, but also includes visits to tribal villages, tea gardens, wildlife safaris, barbeques on the river islands and dance performances on board. One has a choice of taking a cruise ranging between 4 and 14 nights. Visit Tripmos.com to explore various holiday packages in India.
Tea Tasting
Apart from wildlife and cruising, the state of Assam is very famous for producing the finest quality of tea, which is also exported all over the world. If you are a tea lover than visiting Assam, especially the Jorhat region (which is dotted with tea plantations) and attend the Tea Festival organized in November and includes tea tastings, ethnic fairs, visits to tea estates and heritage sites. So, in succinct we can say that this stunningly beautiful state of Assam is a paradise for tea lovers and enthusiasts.
Spiritual Experience
Assam offers a lot of reasons for you to encounter spiritual experiences. The most famous in the state is Kamakhya Temple (in Guwahati). This Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, which is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Therefore, it is a significant pilgrimage centre for devotees who come here for annual Ambubasi Mela, apart from usual pilgrimage. Another major religion practiced by several tribes of Assam is Buddhism. Therefore, it has some popular Buddhist temples, amongst which the Bamunimaidan temple is. Besides, the Hayagriva Mahadeva temple is a pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Exploring Majuli- One-of-its Kind River Island in Brahmaputra River
Last but not the least, Assam has a unique attribute in its territory. Mājuli or Majoli is a unique and large river island in the Brahmaputra River. The island is spread over an area of 421.65 square kilometers, but having lost significantly to erosion it has an area. Located at a distance of around 200 KM, this beautiful island is only accessible by ferried from the City of Jorhat. Like the state, it is a hub for neo-Vaishnavite culture and satras. Apart from these, to experience the peek-a–boo into the culture of Assam, visit this state in April and be a Bihu Dance.