Things to do in Assam

Discover Assam, the gem of Northeast India, which entices visitors with a wide range of experiences to suit all tastes. With its lush landscapes and huge Brahmaputra River, Assam offers a one-of-a-kind mix of nature, culture, and excitement. You can start your adventure in Kaziranga National Park, where beautiful one-horned rhinos frolic among lush elephant grass. See the endangered Bengal tiger and golden langur flourish in their native habitat at Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discovering the vivid festivals of Raas and other celebrations of Assamese culture in the tranquil settings of Majuli is one of the top things to do in Assam. 

You can explore the diverse cultural fabric of Assam by traveling to Sualkuchi, a silk town known for its fine looms and customary Mekhela Chaddor sarees. At the top of Nilachal Hill, find spiritual comfort at the Kamakhya Temple, a famed Shakti Peetha that attracts both believers and admirers. So why wait? Let the adventure begin as you experience the many beauties of Assam.

Assam offers an array of experiences from wildlife safaris and river cruises to tea garden tours and cultural festivals. To make the most of your trip, consider exploring the various Assam tour packages available, which can help you plan an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region.

Here are the top things to do in Assam

Assam offers a plethora of activities and attractions; here we discuss some of the best things to do in this beautiful state.

1. Sight One-Horned Rhinos in Kaziranga

One of the best Assam things to do is visiting Kaziranga National Park in Assam for the exciting chance to see one-horned rhinos. Home to more than two thousand of these endangered giants, Kaziranga provides unmatched opportunities to see wildlife. Situated beside the Brahmaputra River, the park features thick forests where one can spot tigers, elephants, and buffalo. Its vast environment serves as a natural haven for a variety of animals, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Location: Kaziranga National Park

Timings: Open daily 7 AM - 5PM

2. Celebrate the Spirit of Unity with Bihu

From April 14–20, celebrating Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu is one of the best Assam things to do. With festive customs and ceremonies, this event welcomes the Assamese New Year. Witness the spirit of community as people get together for feasts, music, and traditional dancing. Enjoy Gila pithe and Poka Mithoi, seasonal delights. See flower garlands and festive decorations on the streets, symbolizing fresh beginnings and unity. Experience Assam's rich tradition and festive spirit during this seven-day festival.

Location: Sualkuchi, Kamakhya Temple

3. Watch Sunrise on the Brahmaputra

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Brahmaputra River as the sun rises is one of the must Assam things to do. As the sun rises over the sky, sailboats float quietly in the water. The calm, interrupted only by birdsong and early morning joggers, enhances the peaceful atmosphere. As the city awakens, you can watch the sun rise over the clouds and feel the warmth. For the best sunrise views, visit Fancy Bazaar or the nearby park, which features vivid flowers and benches.

4. Attend Tea Festival in Jorhat

Immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Jorhat Tea Festival, held each winter from November to January is one of the best things to do in Assam. Nestled in Assam's Jorhat district, renowned for its tea, this festival is a true celebration of the region's cultural and culinary essence. Picture yourself strolling through lush tea gardens, savoring exquisite blends, and enjoying lively music echoing through the air. Engage in golf, jungle safaris, and indulge in local delicacies. T

Location: Jorhat district

5. Visit the Silk Town of Sualkuchi

Setting out for Sualkuchi, a hidden treasure close to Guwahat is one of the best Assam things to do. Nicknamed the "Weaving Mecca of Assam" and the "Manchester of East," this Brahmaputra River hamlet is a silk refuge. In its narrow alleyways, hear the rhythmic noise of looms making gorgeous Muga, pat, and eri silks, where every house is a workshop. Observe as artists skillfully weave elaborate designs onto mekhla chadors, drawing inspiration from the region's wildlife and plants.

Location: Kamrup district

6. Stroll through Tea Gardens in Dibrugarh

Enter Dibrugarh, India's renowned "Tea City," where a massive network of tea gardens encircles the town. These estates, which were first planted in the British era, provide a window into Assam's rich tea history. Strolling around Chabua here, the first English tea garden, renowned for its rich liquors and golden tippy teas is one of the things to do in Assam. Discover Achabam, which was planted in 1924 and produces chic teas and vibrantly coloured liquors. 

Location: Dibrugarh District

7. River Rafting in Nameri National Park

Enjoy the rush of white-water rafting in Nameri National Park, a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true. Make your reservation at the park office or hotel, where you will receive safety instructions and all the necessary gear. For almost two hours, raft the Jia Bhoroli river, experiencing calm sections and mild to moderate rapids. Along the riverbanks, spot fauna including deer and elephants, as well as uncommon birds like the Great Hornbill and White-Winged Wood Duck.

Location: Nameri National PArk, Sonitput district

Timings: Open daily 7:30 AM - 5 PM

8. Explore Asia’s Oldest Refinery: Digboi

Discovering Digboi which is Asia's oldest refinery is indeed one of the top things to do in Assam. Here, you can watch its development from of refining 500 barrels per day to contemporary additions like a Wax Hydro finishing unit and a new Crude Distillation Unit. Find out how it keeps refining high-wax-content crude to make world-class paraffin wax and key distillates, showing off a century of industrial skill.

Location: Tinsukia district

Timings: Open Monday to Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM

9. Explore The Largest River Island: Majuli

Step onto Majuli, the world’s largest river island in the Brahmaputra, where tranquility meets cultural richness. Spanning 352 sq km, it hosts towns like Garamur and Kamalabari, amidst bamboo huts and handcrafted wonders. Here, you can encounter locals in vibrant attire, renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Indulge in birdwatching as you spot species like storks and kingfishers. Explore ancient monasteries, remnants of neo-Vaishnavite culture, echoing centuries of Assamese heritage. 

Location: Jorhat district

10. Take A Cruise Ride: River Brahmaputra

Take a sail along India's magnificent Brahmaputra, a river that flows from the Tibetan Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. Along its banks, you can discover a plethora of wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. Immerse yourself in the essence of Assam's cultural diversity, which includes Hindu temples, Islamic architecture, Buddhist relics, and Neo-Classical palaces. Select from a variety of cruise options provide by Assam Tourism and private operators which include opulent trips to Kaziranga and beyond. Discover the tranquil stretches of this legendary river as you stroll through villages, and see tea gardens.