Quick Facts
- Capital: Dispur (in Guwahati)
- Largest City: Guwahati
- Official Languages: Assamese, Bodo, Bengali (Barak Valley)
- Formation: 26 January 1950 (Statehood)
- Nicknames: “Tea Garden of India”
- Borders: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bhutan, Bangladesh
- UNESCO Sites: Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park
Contents
History & Heritage
Assam has a rich history influenced by the Ahom dynasty, Kamrupa kingdom, and colonial British tea plantations. It is known for ancient temples, like Kamakhya, and its role in the freedom struggle.
- Ahom Rule: Ruled for 600 years until the 19th century.
- Tea Estates: British-era tea plantations shaped Assam’s economy.
- Temples: Kamakhya Temple and ancient archaeological sites.
Geography & Climate
Assam is dominated by the Brahmaputra Valley and the Barak Valley. It has lush greenery, tea gardens, and wetlands.
- Rivers: Brahmaputra, Barak.
- Climate: Subtropical with high rainfall; monsoon lasts June–September.
Top Places to Visit (Handpicked)
- Kaziranga National Park: Famous for one-horned rhinoceros.
- Manas National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Majuli: World’s largest river island with Vaishnavite monasteries.
- Sivasagar: Historical monuments of Ahom kingdom.
- Tezpur: Scenic town with ancient temples.
- Jorhat: Cultural hub with tea gardens.
- Kamakhya Temple: Sacred Shakti Peetha in Guwahati.
Festivals of Assam
- Bihu: Harvest and New Year festival.
- Ambubachi Mela: Celebrated at Kamakhya Temple.
- Tea Festival: Showcasing Assam tea culture.
- Majuli Raas: Traditional dance-drama festival.
Cuisine – What to Eat
Assamese cuisine is simple, less spicy, and uses fresh herbs.
- Staples: Rice, fish curry.
- Specials: Pitha, khar, duck curry, bamboo shoot dishes.
- Beverages: Assam tea.
Arts, Handicrafts & Culture
- Silk weaving (Muga, Eri, Pat).
- Bamboo & cane crafts.
- Classical dance forms like Sattriya.
Adventure & Wildlife
- Jeep safaris in Kaziranga.
- River cruises on Brahmaputra.
- Birdwatching in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.
How to Reach
- By Air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati).
- By Rail: Guwahati is the major hub.
- By Road: Well connected via NH 27 & 17.
Best Time to Visit
November to April is perfect for wildlife and cultural experiences.
Sample Itineraries
4 Days – Kaziranga & Guwahati
- Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple.
- Day 2: Drive to Kaziranga, safari.
- Day 3: Morning safari & return to Guwahati.
- Day 4: River cruise & local sightseeing.
5 Days – Majuli & Tea Gardens
- Day 1: Jorhat arrival.
- Day 2: Explore tea gardens.
- Day 3: Ferry to Majuli.
- Day 4: Monasteries & cultural activities.
- Day 5: Return.
Famous Personalities
- Bhupen Hazarika: Legendary singer and composer.
- Hima Das: International sprinter.