The state of Assam, located in Northeast India, has gained international recognition as one of The New York Times’ "52 Places to Go in 2025." Known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife, Assam proudly holds the 4th position on this esteemed list. There are numerous ways to enjoy the richness of culture and nature in the state. From the Charaideo Maidam which has even been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the cultural property category to Majuli, a unique riverine delta situated on the Brahmaputra River. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate visiting Kaziranga National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site jewel of India’s biodiversity. It offers the opportunity to see the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, a species that thrives in this area despite facing extinction threats in other regions. Assam is also known as the "Land of Blue Hills," a name inspired by the charming town of Haflong, nestled among the hills of southern Assam. Here is our seven-day itinerary to help you maximise your trip to Assam.
Start your day in Guwahati with a visit to the Kamakhya Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, Kamrup Kamakhya or Kamakhya Devi. She plays a significant role in Hindu mythology and is revered as a Shakti tantric deity, often referred to as the Goddess of Desire. The Kamakhya Temple is the oldest and most sacred among the 51 Shaktipeeths. According to legend, it is believed to be the site where the "Yoni" (female reproductive organ) of Goddess Sati fell. The temple complex comprises several small shrines, each dedicated to different deities. The most venerated site is the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), which houses a yoni-shaped stone symbolizing the goddess's creative power. Every year, the Ambubachi Mela is held at the temple. It celebrates the divine feminine energy known as Shakti, with Kamakhya embodying this powerful force. During the Ambubachi Mela, the temple remains closed for three days, and men are not permitted to enter.
Make sure to visit the hidden gem of Umananda Temple. Located in the middle of the Brahmaputra, Umananda's only inhabitants are some temple priests and a couple of fishermen. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and accessible by boat. With its intricate stone engravings and vibrant annual Shivaratri celebrations, Umananda Temple offers a rich cultural and spiritual experience you won’t want to miss.
For lunch, consider trying a traditional meal. You can enjoy dishes such as pork curry, aloo pitika, omita khar (young papaya curry), maas pura (roasted fish), and haa kumora (duck cooked with white gourd). Additionally, be sure to sample some pitha—these traditional Assamese sweet and savoury snacks can be found at local sweet shops.
After lunch, go shopping for textiles and handicrafts. Be it the famed silk mekhela chadar or traditional handcrafted items, the local markets have them all. Indigenous musical instruments, bamboo products and Assamese gamosa are must-buy items and they make for very good souvenirs.
Assam's Muga silk is renowned worldwide. To witness the production process firsthand, you should travel to Sualkuchi village from Guwahati. Here, both men and women produce Pat, Eri, and Muga silks, continuing a long tradition of weaving that dates back to the 11th century, when artisans were brought to the area under the patronage of the Ahom kings.
You’re in the enchanting land of the mighty Brahmaputra, so don’t miss the chance to visit the riverside. You can choose a tranquil spot along the riverbanks to watch a stunning sunset. To enhance your experience, check out Café Hendrix, a vibrant live blues bar and café, or unwind at The Lounge, Kitchen Bar & Restaurant, and the quirky Zero Mile. These venues offer the perfect atmosphere for a delightful evening filled with live music and delicious food.
Begin your journey to Kaziranga National Park early in the morning, as it is approximately four hours away from Guwahati. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is a crown jewel of India’s biodiversity. It offers the chance to see the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, a species thriving in this area despite facing the threat of extinction elsewhere. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the park's diverse bird population, including pelicans, hornbills, storks, and eagles. Kaziranga’s wetlands and grasslands create a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Situated to the south of the park are the lush Karbi Anglong hills. The park comprises five ranges: the Eastern Range, located at Agaratoli; the Central Range, found at Kohora; the Western Range, which is approximately 12 km west of Kohora at Bagori; the Burapahar Range, located at Ghorakati, about 25 km west of Bagori along NH 37; and the Northern Range, situated at Biswanath. Spanning 1,355 square kilometres, it is considered one of the world's conservation success stories. According to the March 2022 census, it is home to an estimated 2,613 greater one-horned rhinos and boasts a significant population of tigers. In 2023, Dr. Sonali Ghosh made history by becoming the first woman to serve as the Field Director of this renowned tiger reserve. Check out our guide to the park here.
Set out early for Majuli, which is about four hours away. This unique riverine delta, located on the Brahmaputra River in Assam, has formed due to the dynamics of this vast river system. Primarily rural, it is home to over 240 villages with a rich mix of tribes and communities. Majuli is renowned for being the seat of the neo-Vaishnavite culture of Assam and houses numerous satras, or monasteries. Spend the whole day there.
The famous satras in Majuli predate the island itself and have a long tradition of tribal art, folk culture, and heritage from the Ahom kingdom. Each satra has a distinct identity and serves as a sanctuary for different art forms. For instance, the Dakhinpat and Garamur satras are known for their theatre performances, which feature dramatic masks. Some of these masks have even been exhibited in museums abroad, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Additionally, the traditional art forms of Mukha Xilpo and Manuscript Paintings in Majuli have been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition underscores the deep cultural heritage and historical significance inherent in these folk crafts.
The famous satras in Majuli predate the island itself and have a long tradition of tribal art, folk culture, and heritage from the Ahom kingdom. Each satra has a distinct identity and serves as a sanctuary for different art forms. For instance, the Dakhinpat and Garamur satras are known for their theatre performances, which feature dramatic masks. Some of these masks have even been exhibited in museums abroad, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
The traditional art forms of Mukha Xilpo and Manuscript Paintings in Majuli have been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition underscores the deep cultural heritage and historical significance inherent in these folk crafts.
Head out next to explore the former seat of the mighty Ahom kings: the ruins of Sivasagar. Check out the town's well-preserved palaces, temples, and the amphitheater-like Rang Ghar. Situated near the Rangpur Palace, this two-storied structure served as a sports pavilion during the reign of the Ahom kings. What makes Rang Ghar particularly interesting is its architecture; the roof is shaped like an inverted boat, a characteristic feature of Ahom architecture.
After your visit to Rang Ghar, head to explore a remarkable historical gem: the Ahom Maidams, the royal burial grounds of the Ahom dynasty. These ancient structures encapsulate Assam's majestic history, offering a captivating blend of history, architecture, and folklore. The Charaideo Maidam in Assam has even been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list under the cultural property category.
Make your way to the hills next. Assam is known as the "Land of Blue Hills," a name derived from Haflong, located in the Dima Hasao district. This charming town is nestled among the hills of southern Assam, primarily inhabited by the Dimasa, Jeme-Naga, Hmar, Kuki, Biate, Hrangkhol, Khelma, Jaintia, Karbi, and Vaiphei tribes. You can enjoy beautiful blue hills, scenic rivers, and roaring waterfalls here. Best of all, the area remains relatively undiscovered.
Spend two days here exploring the roads that lead to charming villages shaded by a bamboo canopy, or follow the trails of vibrant orchids without worrying about getting lost. There are numerous small trekking paths, and adventurous visitors can also try paragliding. If you are a bird-watching enthusiast, this place may be a treasure trove. The town is situated around Haflong Lake, and the breathtaking views of the valley from the Circuit House—perched on a hill—will leave you in awe, wishing to experience such beauty every day. Here, the clouds hang low, enveloping you in a gentle mist.
If you time your visit to Haflong well, you will find the orchards bursting with ripe fruit. This area produces large quantities of oranges, pineapples, and ginger. Be sure to ask around for recommendations on which orchards you can visit. You can explore an orchard, savour the fresh fruit, and then relax on the fragrant grass under the sun's gentle warmth.