Assam: The Gateway to Northeast India

General Information

- Area: 83,743 km²

- Altitude: 45-1,960 meters

- Population: 31,205,576

- Climate:

- Summer: 35–38 °C

- Winter: 6–8 °C

- Annual Rainfall: 110 inches

- Best Seasons to Visit: November to March and September to December

- Recommended Clothing: Light clothes in summer and woolen clothes in winter

- Languages Spoken: Assamese, Bodo, Bengali

Major Sightseeing Places

1. Kaziranga National Park

- Established in 1905 as Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest to protect the one-horned rhinoceros.

- Home to the largest population of one-horned rhinos, 9 of the 14 primate species in India, wild Asiatic water buffalo, and Eastern swamp deer.

- Highest density of tigers in the world, with approximately one tiger per five square kilometers.

- A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

2. Kamakhya Temple

- One of the oldest and most revered centers of Tantric worship.

- Associated with the legend of Sati and Lord Shiva.

- Destroyed by Hussein Shah in 1498 and rebuilt by Naranarayan in 1565, with contributions from the Ahoms.

- Hosts the annual Ambubachi Mela Festival, attracting numerous pilgrims.

3. Manas National Park

- Known for its adventure opportunities and biodiversity.

- Extends into Bhutan, merging with the Royal Manas National Park.

- Famous for its population of wild water buffalo.

- Declared a sanctuary in 1928, previously a hunting ground.

- Home to pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros, sambar, and Malayan giant squirrel.

4. Guwahati Planetarium

- An advanced astronomical research center in Assam.

- Offers educational and entertaining shows on astronomy and science.

- Hosts daily shows about the solar system and organizes seminars and activities for students and science enthusiasts.

- Features a library section with books on space and terrestrial bodies.

5. Rock Cut Caves at Jogighopa

- Located in the Bongaigaon district.

- Exemplify the Salasthambha style of architecture.

- Although not as elaborate as the rock cut caves in Western India, they provide evidence of this architectural style in Northeast India.

Additional Attractions

- Majuli Island: One of the world's largest river islands, known for its Vaishnavite monasteries and vibrant culture.

- Sivasagar: A historical city showcasing the remnants of the Ahom dynasty, including Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, and Sivasagar Tank.

- Dibrugarh: Famous for its tea estates and scenic beauty.

- Haflong: The only hill station in Assam, offering stunning landscapes and a serene environment.

Assam is a state that beautifully blends culture, history, and nature, making it an essential destination for travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences.