Assam

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Introduction

Assam is the largest of the seven states comprising the North-Eastern region of India. This is the least explored region of India though it is endowed with tremendous natural beauty. However, of late tourism is picking due to the aggressive promotion done by the authorities.

Geography

Cities

• Guwahati
• Jorhat
• Dibrugarh
• Majuli
• Sibsagar
• Digboi
• Tezpur

Sights and Activities

• Kaziranga National Park - A Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of natural parks in India. It is also one of the oldest national parks in India and it is the largest habitat for Indian single horned rhinos. Apart from rhinos, also tigers, swamp deer, elephants, buffalos and numerous bird species. The best time for visiting the park is from October to March, when temperatures are fine and it is mostly dry and a better time for viewing animals.

Events and Festivals

Assam is known for its fairs and festivals. Most of the festivals originated due to the diverse faith and tribal characteristics of its inhabitants, but a sense of togetherness marks the celebration of all festivals. These festivals reflect the true spirit, tradition and lifestyle of the people of Assam. Most of the festivals are organized by the tourism authorities to encourage tourists to visit Assam. Some of the popular ones are listed below.

Bihu

Bihu is the most important festival of Assam and is celebrated with joy and abundance by all Assamese people irrespective of caste, creed, religion, faith and belief. In a year there are three Bihu festivals locally known as Bohag, Kaati and Magh. The most important and colourful of the three Bihu festivals is the spring festival "Bohag Bihu" celebrated in the middle of April, which marks the sowing of seeds by the farmers. Kaati Bihu is observed to mark the cutting and binding of grains and Magh Bihu celebrated in the month of January marks the season of harvesting of grains. Young and old alike come out dressed in traditional attire made out of Assamese silk and dance to the lusty and wild beats of Dhol and Pepa(buffalo hornpipe). Bihu dances performed by young boys and girls is characterized by brisk stepping, flinging and flipping of hands and swaying of hips representing youthful passion and songs sung are based on the theme of love and often carry erotic overtones.

Tea Festival

Tea festival is organized by the Tourism Authorities in the month of November every year and is a unique experience which offers holidays combining visits to Tea Gardens, jungle safaris, rafting, golf, river cruises, shopping and cultural programs. The “Guwahati Tea Auction Centre” based in Guwahati is the largest of its kind in India and is well worth a visit.

Dehing Patkai Festival

Dehing Patkai festival is quite popular in the eastern parts of Assam and derives its name from the lofty Patkai mountain range and the swift flowing Dehing River. This festival organized in the month of January every year includes ethnic fairs, adventure sports, wildlife excursions and trips to the World War II cemeteries and the Stilwell road, once used as an entrance to Myanmar.

Majuli Festival

Majuli Festival lasts for 4 days and is celebrated every year in the month of November. The festival showcases the rich cultural and natural heritage of Majuli, which is the largest river island in the world.

Elephant Festival

Elephant festival is organized by the Government authorities in the Kaziranga National Park for conservation and protection of elephants. Various cultural programs are held and shows by domestic elephants are a treat to watch.

Weather

Getting There

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Getting Around

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Eat

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See also International Telephone Calls

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