Assam known as the Tea capital of India has got wide array of things to offer for every traveller.

If you are wildlife lover, Assam has got many national parks. If you are interested in heritage, Assam got you covered with many options ranging from mask making village to traditional temples. If you are interested in cultural extravaganza, Assam has got various festivals and cultural dances to make you spell bound.

Jump in to see what all we saw during our seven days trip in the jewel state of North East India, Assam.

Visit Umananda temple 
We took a boat ride upon Mighty Brahmaputra to visit Umananda temple perched on a hill top in Peacock Island. Upon entering, we loved the island vibe and peaceful environment of temple. But the same was spoiled by priests demanding money at every Aarathi they take.

Cable car rides are also available for reaching Umananda temple. As we were running short of time, we opted for ferry services instead of cable car ride.

Spot Rhinoceros on the highway in Kaziranga national park
Journey to Kaziranga National park was very splendid. Roads were decent making the travel convenient. Even though Google maps showed 3 hours from Guwahati, speed limit inside national park for animal movement lengthens your journey. Prepare yourself for nearly 7 hours ride.

From tall trees on both sides of road to small tea estates in between, journey to Kaziranga itself was so beautiful. Guess what! You can spot Rhinoceros from your car on the highway if you drive during day time. Isn’t it beautiful?

Elephant safari to spot Rhinoceros in close quarter
We were up and about for an early morning elephant safari in western range. My son enjoyed elephant safari more as we were able to see Great Indian One horned Rhinoceros in close quarter. In Bagdoi safari range, We spotted baby deer camouflaged in grass, swamp deer and wild buffalos.

It is advised to book safari ride one day before. You can book safari online. Alternatively you can check with hotel or car drivers for booking the same on your behalf. As we arrived at Kaziranga in night, our car driver had arranged elephant safari booking.

Being home to largest population of one horned Rhinoceros, Kaziranga National park recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site is quite famous all over the world. If you are wildlife lover, you wouldn’t regret planning a trip to Assam.

Jeep Safari in Central zone
Early morning we started for Jeep safari in central zone. We booked Jeep safari one day prior. As jeep safari covers a long distance in comparison to Elephant safari, my son slept half way through the safari.

Central zone is best for spotting variety of animals and birds. We spotted birds like Great Indian Hornbill, Wood pecker, Eagles and many more. We spotted animals like Rhinoceros, Swamp deer, Wild buffalo and King Cobra. Apart from animals, we also spotted bear’s footprint near termite mounds and claw marks of a tiger marking territory.

Experience Assam culture in Orchid Park
Orchid Park is one place which should be on your list if you are interested in knowing cultural heritage of Assam. Apart from tea and rhinoceros, Assam is famous for orchids. In orchid park, dance performances happen every day. You can order yourself a big thali with varieties of Assam food and watch the dance performances of North East India from the dining area.

When few kids were dancing elegantly, our son also joined the dance performance. With lot of place for running around and well maintained kids play area, your kid will enjoy Orchid Park for sure.

With slides, swings and big dinosaur statue, Little V enjoyed a lot in play area. If you are having a kid just like us, I would suggest including Orchid Park to your itinerary.

Explore Assam’s country side
With Areca trees lining up the road, thatched roof huts with bamboo fencing, your drive through the country side offers simple yet exquisite sceneries.

Look at the beautiful yellow mustard farm blooming in all its glory. Isn’t it beautiful when you can have pit-stops like this?

Real beauty of Assam lies in the country side with endless fields and canopy of thick forest.

Board a Ferry to Majuli like a local
Embark on a local ferry to visit Majuli island. Majuli, the largest river island of Asia has a vibrant tribal culture and is rich in heritage. Even though the island is fast receding, people have taken effort to retain the heritage.

It was indeed splendid hopping from one satra to another satra. You need to book ferry one day prior when it opens. If you are taking your car, pl make sure to book ferry ticket for your car too.

Explore the art of Mask Making in Majuli Island
Chamugri satra is where you can experience the art of mask making. It was so beautiful to view masks painted with vibrant colours.

We even witnessed few artists making mask using mud & clay mixture and painting the same with utmost care. You can also buy masks from their showcase.

Experience culinary retreat of Assam
We had our proper Assamese Thali in Kharoli Ethnic Assamese Restaurant and loved every bit of it.

Though Orchid Park had a huge variety of dishes, we weren’t impressed with the taste of food. But the food in Kharoli restaurant was so yummy. Do try their Assamese thali.

We had our pitha laru in Guwahati and we loved the complementing taste of the two.

Considering the connectivity of Guwahati from major cities, Assam has got immense potential to become a favorite holiday destination. From splendid national parks to heritage places, Assam has got everything that makes your holiday special.

So Book your tickets to Assam and enjoy your holidays!

Note :

• Kaziranga was very cold during night time. Layer yourself for the chilly night.
• Book safari tickets atleast a day prior to avoid any last minute issue.
• Safari tickets can be booked online too. Pl check this booking site.
• Jeep Safari Timings : Morning 07:00 to 09:30 or Afternoon 13:30 to 15:30
• Elephant Safari Timings at Kohora region : Morning 05:30 / 07:30, Afternoon 15:00 to 16:00
• Check for more information at Tourist information center at Kohora in Kaziranga national park.
• Book ferry tickets to Majuli for yourself and your car as booking opens one day prior only.
• Kaziranga National park is closed during May to June due to flooding.