Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Assam, India
Assam, a state located in northeastern India, is known for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Assam:
List of Top 10 Assam Tourist Attractions
Kaziranga National Park - UNESCO Heritage Site
Famous for its one-horned rhinoceros population, Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most celebrated national parks in India. Kaziranga National Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park is also home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for conservation of avifaunal species.
Majuli - World's Largest River Island
Majuli is the world's largest river island located in the Brahmaputra River. In 2016 it became the first island to be made a district in India. Majuli is since 2004 in the UNESCO Tentative List for nomination as a World Heritage Site. It is known for its serene beauty, cultural heritage, and the famous Majuli Festival.
Kamakhya Temple - Centre of Tantric practices
Situated atop the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Maa Kamakhya or Goddess Kameswari. Kamakhya Temple is one of the oldest and most revered centres of Tantric practices and also one among the oldest 4 of the 51 pithas in the Shakta tradition. The temple is known for its unique architecture and religious significance. The temple is the site of the annual Ambubachi Mela, festival that celebrates the menstruation of the goddess.
Manas National Park - UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site
Located in the Himalayan foothills, Manas National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Located in the Barpeta District, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rare and endangered endemic wildlife including the endangered Bengal Tiger, pygmy hog, Assam roofed turtle, golden langur and hispid hare. Manas is famous for its population of the wild water buffalo. It is also home to more than 450 species of birds including endangered Bengal florican.
Sivasagar - Ancient Capital of Ahom Kingdom
Formerly the capital of the Ahom Kingdom, Sivasagar is a historical town that houses several ancient temples, palaces, and tanks. Formerly known as Rangpur, The Shiva Dol, Rang Ghar, and Talatal Ghar are among the notable attractions. Sivasagar, previously spelled Sibsagar which means "the ocean of Lord Shiva". The Shivadol is believed to be the highest Siva Temple in India.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary - Greater One Horned Rhino
Known as the "Mini Kaziranga," Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its dense population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 375 species of birds and wildlife inlcuding golden jackal, wild boar and feral water buffalo. The best time to visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to April.
Umananda Island
Situated in the Brahmaputra River near Guwahati, Umananda Island is home to the Umananda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can enjoy a ferry ride to the island and explore its serene surroundings. The island is home to a large population of golden langurs, an endangered species of primate.
Haflong
Often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East," Haflong is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Dima Hasao district. Haflong is the only hill station of Assam and offers panoramic views, lush valleys, and trekking opportunities for nature enthusiasts. It is renowned for its majestic view of the mountain ranges, bounty vibrant green forests. Trekking and camping are the most popular things to do on Haflong Hill.
Hoolock Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuar
Located in Jorhat district, the Hoolock Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered hoolock gibbons, India's only ape species. The sanctuary is also home to various other primates, birds, and reptiles, offering a unique wildlife experience. The upper canopy of the forest is dominated by the hollong tree while the nahar dominates the middle canopy and the lower canopy consists of evergreen shrubs and herbs.
Digboi
Known as the "Oil City of Assam," Digboi is famous for its rich petroleum reserves. The Digboi Refinery, established in 1901, is one of the oldest in the world. Visitors can explore the refinery, visit the Digboi Oil Museum, and enjoy the colonial architecture of the town. Digboi had a well-developed infrastructure and a number of bungalows unique to the town. It has guest houses and tourist residential apartments laid on Italian architectural plan to promote tourism in upper Assam.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Assam has to offer. The state is also known for its vibrant festivals, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a delightful destination for travelers.
