It is holiday season already and if you are looking for serenity plus the fun activities then India’s Northeast region is apparently the best choice. The landscape mountains, lush green forests and of course the hospitality, this region comes with a handful of amazing experiences.
If the gateway to the Northeast, Assam is on your itinerary list then brace yourself for the trip down tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries and the mighty Brahmaputra.
Here’s how to get the best of Assam:
Hands-on Traditional Crafts and weaves
The state has maintained a rich tradition of various traditional crafts for decades and presently, the cane and bamboo craft, bell metal and brass craft, silk and cotton weaving, jewellery making are doing wonders in the market. The Assam weaves are often displayed at the international fashion shows and are gaining momentum with the rise of sustainable fashion. Mekhela sador, gamusa are found in almost every market of the district. Want to take snaps donning the traditional weaves? Now you know what to do.
Enjoy Local Brews, Cuisine
Assam home to multi-ethnic, multi-linguistic society has at least 18 major tribes including both plain and the hills. Their diversity definitely calls for some really delicious traditional cuisines that the communities have to offer.
Also, the traditionally brewed beverages are considered to be a major part of their rituals when the family offers during a gathering or some occasion. Rice beer is one of the most popular brews you need to taste while in Assam.
Pay a visit to the historic Sivasagar
Sivasagar is known for its rich biodiversity, archaeology and of course the remains of the Ahom Dynasty who ruled for nearly 600 years resisting the Mughal expansion in the region. The district formerly known as Rangpur was the capital of the Ahom Kingdom from 1699 to 1788. The must-visit places of Sivasagar are Rang Ghar, Shivadol, Talatal Ghar and so on.
Do not miss out on spotting the one-horned Rhinocerous
Assam houses around 95% of the total one-horned rhino in the world. They are mostly spotted in the Kaziranga National Park and Orang National Park of the state. Listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, two-thirds of the rhinos are spotted in the KNP.
Jeep safaris are available at the parks for a wildlife tour giving you one of the most thrilling experiences.
Majestic Majuli
Majuli is the largest river island of the world and first in the first island in the country to have been declared as a district. The district is famous for its satras and the Raas Mahotsava. It is also known worldwide for its mask-making tradition. This place is a must-visit.
Valley of death for birds, Jatinga Village
Located in Dima Hasao district in Assam, Jatinga village is known as the valley of death for birds. The mysterious death of birds has been attracting a huge crowd for the phenomena. Ideally, the annual event is seen in between September-November from 7 pm-10 pm.
Maa Kamakhya
Nestled in the Nilchal Hills in Guwahati, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and is one of the 51 Shakti Pithas. Thousands of devotees throng the temple to offer their prayers. An annual event marks one of the biggest festivals—Ambubachi Mela. It is believed that Maa Kamakhya, goes through her annual cycle of menstruation during this time of the year.
Cruising at the Brahmaputra
For all the people who want to have a relaxing time with a view can embark on a river cruise at the mighty Brahmaputra. The tour offers the tourists a perfect sightseeing activity in Guwahati amid the mesmerizing sunset.
Cover Photo Credit: goibibo
