Assam

A delight for the tired souls, Assam greets you with abundance of mesmerizing landscapes. Comprising mostly of the valleys of Brahmaputra and Barak, Assam is one of the eight states in the Northeastern region of India. Beautifully carved by the almighty with a touch of serenity and simplicity, Assam shares an international border with Bhutan and Bangladesh. The people, culture and traditions of Assam are similar to that of the South Eastern countries.

Attractions
A jack of all traits when it comes to attractions, Assam is blessed with some fascinating destinations for the tourists to explore.

Kaziranga National Park, Dibru Saikhowa National Park and Orang National Park attract the wildlife lovers. The spiritual seekers can head towards the Kamakhya Temple, Purva Tirupati Shri Balaji temple and ISKCON Guwahati. Those looking for some moments of peace and relaxation can explore Haflong Lake, Diphu, Umrangshu and a cruise ride on River Brahmaputra.

Fairs and Festivals
Most of the festivals celebrated here are deeply rooted into the local cultures. Some of the major festivals of Assam are Bihu (middle of April), Baishagu (February), Ali-Ai-Ligang (February), Baikho (April-May), Rongker (April), Rajini Gabra Harni Gabra (April), Bohaggiyo Bishu (April), Ambubachi Mela (mid of June) and Jonbeel Mela (January- February). These festivals reflect the lifestyle of locals here.

Cuisine
The locals of Assam are majorly non-vegetarian, and the dishes are known for their simplicity. The dishes have a typical rich taste that stays on your tongue. Locals here prefer taking special diet, which includes rice with fish or meat. Cuisines such as Duck meat curry (duck meat cooked with Ash Gourd), Maasor tenga (tangy fish curry), Aloo Pitika (mashed potatoes cooked in local spices) and Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura (chicken with bamboo shoot) are popular among Assamese. Those with sweet tooth can savour pitha (moulded sticky rice cake with black sesame filling), a perfect pick served mostly during the Bihu festival.

Weather Conditions
The months from November to March (winters and summers) are considered as the best time to visit Assam. While the winter months of this beautiful state are chilling but pleasurable, summer months transform it into a blissful retreat. Monsoon season can be avoided due to heavy rains.

How to Reach
By Air - Guwahati's Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the closest airport of Assam located just 25 km away from the city.
By Train - Guwahati railway station is the main railway stations in Assam, with other stations including Dibrugarh railway station, and Jorhat railway station.
By Road - Road travel must be avoided during monsoon season when driving can be hazardous.