Assam and Meghalaya are 2 states Nestled in northeastern India.
Assam – known for its tea plantations and wildlife, including the famous one-horned rhinoceros.
Meghalaya – meaning “the Abode of Clouds,” known for its picturesque hills and valleys, as well as its rich culture and traditions. Both states Have an Amalgamation of diverse ethnic groups, with Assamese and Meghalaya being the predominant languages spoken.
Below are few things to do in Assam and Meghalaya :
Visit the Kaziranga National Park in Assam to see the one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the state of Assam, India. Famous for its diverse wildlife, particularly the large population of one-horned rhinoceroses, tigers, elephants, and various species of birds. The total landmass of the park is spread over an area of 430 sq. kms & is Located on the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River.
It is also home to several indigenous communities, who have lived in harmony with the park’s wildlife for generations. A Jeep safari or an Elephant ride is highly Recommended.. Kaziranga National Park also offers a great opportunity for bird watching with more than 450 species of birds.
Accessibility –
By Air – The Closest Airport to Kaziranga National park Is – Jorhat Airport which is approx. 120 Kms & Tezpur airport which is Approx. 51 Kms. These airports are well connected to other International Airports in the country.
By Road – National Highways Have direct connectivity, from Major Cities like Guwahati, Shillong, Delhi, Lucknow, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai. Public Transport Like Buses, as well as Private Transport like Cabs/Taxis are easily & frequently available from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park.
By Rail – The Nearest Railway Station from Kaziranga National park is
“Furkating Junction” which is at a distance of 80 Kms approx. Regular trains are available for Guwahati from here.
Best Time to visit–
Kaziranga National Park is closed to Tourist Access during the Summer and Monsoon months,
The Best Flora and Fauna can be Witnessed Starting from Late September till the month of April.
Safari Timings –
Elephant Safari is Operational During Morning hours between 5 AM to 7 AM – It lasts for an hour.
Jeep Safari is Operational between 7 AM to 12 PM – It Lasts for 2 Hours
Kaziranga Safari is one of the best things to do in Assam and Meghalaya
Preferred Zones for Jeep safari are Central and Western Zones.
Explore the tea gardens of Assam and learn about the history of tea production in India
Assam tea gardens are renowned WorldWide for producing some of the finest tea in the world. It has a strong and Malty Flavour. Green Tea, Black Tea, White tea, Oolong Tea and many other flavourful blends are produced at Assam Tea Plantations. Located in the picturesque Brahmaputra Valley, India, The Tea Gardens are hidden in Nature. The lush green tea gardens with terraced landscape, the serene environment is a perfect getaway to relax, unwind and connect with nature.
The aroma of fresh tea leaves and the panoramic views of the Himalayas make for a truly unforgettable experience. The Assam tea gardens are truly a hidden gem that should not be missed by any tea lover or nature enthuse, and one of the best things to do in Assam and Meghalaya.
Take a Cruise on the Brahmaputra River in Assam to see the beautiful scenery and local villages.
Brahmaputra River Cruise is a popular way to explore the scenic beauty of the Brahmaputra River, which flows through the states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in India. The cruise offers visitors a chance to discover the rich culture and heritage of the region, as well as its natural beauty.
The cruise boats are equipped with comfortable cabins, dining facilities, and a sundeck, providing an opportunity to enjoy the views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
There are Short Cruises as well as long Overnight cruises available.
Accessibility : Located Just 2 kms From Guwahati Railway Station, Local cabs and autos are easily available, which will take you to the pier.
Cruise timings : There are various Slots for the Brahmaputra Short Cruise, Lunch Cruise, Sunset Cruise, Dinner cruise.
And multiple packages available to choose for overnight cruise experience.
Starting From 3Nights/ 4Days and so on.
Duration – It Lasts for 2-3 Hours ( Including boarding and deboarding time )
Cost – Due To Multiple Private Operators, The Cost Ranges Between
INR – 350 TO INR -1200 Per Adult.
It is advisable to Pre – book your slots for the Short – cruises.
During the cruise, visitors can witness the daily life of the people living along the riverbanks and visit various temples, monasteries, and other places of cultural and historical interest. Visitors can also spot various species of aquatic life, migratory birds and also enjoy the sunset and sunrise over the Brahmaputra. It is also a great opportunity to explore the wildlife of Assam including the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and tigers that can be spotted at Kaziranga National Park.
A Brahmaputra River cruise is one of the best things to do in Assam and Meghalaya and a unique way to experience the natural beauty, rich culture and heritage of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and is a must-do for any traveler visiting the region.
Visit Majuli Islands – The Largest River Island in the World and The first Island to be made a district in India.
Majuli Island is the largest river island in the world, located in the Brahmaputra River in the state of Assam, India. Known for its traditional satras, which are monasteries that serve as centers for preserving and promoting Assamese culture and heritage. You can also spot several rare species of birds, and it is a popular destination for birdwatching.
The island is also famous for its handloom products and pottery. The island’s landscape is dotted with paddy fields, wetlands, and sandbars, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Accessibility : The Island Is accessible by Ferries, However the Locals use their own Small Fishing Boats/ Gondolas to Commute on Daily Basis.
You can Board a ferry from the city of Jorhat.
The ferry ride takes about 30 Mins – 1 Hour to reach Majuli Island.
Visit the living root bridges in Meghalaya, a unique feature of the Khasi tribe’s culture.
Living root bridges are a unique form of bridge found in the state of Meghalaya, India. They are made by the Khasi tribe, who have been practicing this technique for generations. The bridges are made by training the roots of the rubber fig tree, Ficus elastica, to grow over a wooden or bamboo frame.These bridges are not only functional but also beautiful and unique features of the natural environment
Accessibility : For accessing the Living root bridge, Which is Located at the Rawai Village, A small village near Bangladesh India Border, you will have to hike down into the woods for close to 15-20 mins and you’ll reach the Living root Bridges.
The Living root bridges are not only a means of crossing streams and rivers but also a symbol of the relationship between the people and the natural environment. They are also an example of sustainable living, as the bridges are created with minimal human interference and are maintained only by natural processes.
The bridges are relatively stronger than traditional bridges, can withstand heavy rainfall, and last for hundreds of years. Your trip is incomplete if you are not visiting the living root bridge so add this in your list of things to do in Assam and Meghalaya
Visit the Mawlynnong Village
Mawlynnong Village is a small village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. Known for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices, it is often referred to as the “Cleanest Village in Asia”. The village is home to a diverse community of Khasi people, who are known for their warm hospitality and traditional customs.
Visitors to Mawlynnong can experience the unique culture and customs of the Khasi people, as well as explore the village’s beautiful natural surroundings, including its lush green forests and waterfalls.
The village also offers a variety of eco-tourism activities, such as trekking, rock climbing, and bird watching. Overall, Mawlynnong Village is a must-see destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of rural India.
Accessibility – Mawlynnong village has connectivity only via road, it is located at a distance of 95 Kms from Guwahati Airport, you can book a cab for a day trip. or you can choose to travel by public busses.
Visit the Famous Kamakhya Temple
A revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of power and fertility- Goddess Kamakhya, located on the Nilanchal Hill in Guwahati, Assam, India. It Is said to be Around 458 Years old The temple is considered one of the oldest and most important Shakti shrines in the country, and it is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
The temple is built around a natural Rock cave Formation, The temple is a perfect example of the ancient architectural style of Kamarupa and also offers a great cultural experience.
Operating timing : 5:30 am to 1 pm & 2:30 pm to 5:30 Pm
Accessibility : Kamakhya temple is situated only 8 Kms from Guwahati Railway station, Multiple Public & Private transport options are available to reach the temple.
Umiam Lake : A perfect place to spend a relaxing day in the lap of nature.
Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, is a man-made lake, in the state of Meghalaya, India. It is situated in the East Khasi Hills district. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and lush green vegetation, making it a popular spot for picnics, boating, and fishing.
The lake also offers opportunities for water sports like kayaking, speed boating and water scooter rides. Visitors can also take a leisurely walk around the lake or hike to the nearby hills for a panoramic view of the lake and its Surreal surroundings
Operating time: 9 AM – 5 PM
Accessibility : It Takes about 1 & Half hours to reach Umiam Lake from the city of Guwahati. Multiple Public buses and Private cabs are easily available To reach Umiam Lake.
Visit the Border Village of Dawki
Dawki is a village in the Indian state of Meghalaya, located in the Jaintia Hills district. It is situated on the border with India & Bangladesh , known for its clear, clean waters and beautiful natural scenery.
The village is home to the Dawki-Tamabil border checkpoint, which is an important trade route between India and Bangladesh. The Umngot River, which flows through Dawki, is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and the village also attracts many tourists for its trekking and camping opportunities
Accessibility : The Border Village of Dawki is well connected to the city of guwahati by roadways, it is recommended to hire a cab/taxi as the commute is long.
It takes Around 5-6 Hours to reach Dawki.
Whenever you visit North East, these are must things to do in Assam & Meghalaya. In case you need help to plan a trip to North East Get in touch with us at support@adventourist.in and we will be happy to help you with this.
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