I would like to go to Assam, and it is a part of India I have never been too. Before any plans are made for the trip I have some queries which I would like answered by members who know about Assam or have been there. Is it safe to travel to Assam? What would be the best mode of transport to get the Assam, cost and time wise? Is there anything special to see in Assam? How long do you think the holiday duration should be for?
Hello and welcome to the forum! There has been recent cases of violence in Assam. However, these cases of violence are not towards foreign tourists or even Indian tourists. For instance, explosions in the region of Lakhimpur, Karbi Anglong and Guwahati caused the death of one person and injuries to five people. Another issue with Assam is the politically-motivated attacks. Usually, the attackers target government officials and soldiers but even bystanders can get affected. Terrorism is another issue that is quite common in Assam. But then again, it does happen as well in other parts of the countries. Primarily, this has to do with the proximity of the region to countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan. Cross-border insurgencies also add to the issue. Lastly, ethnic conflicts within tribes in Assam are a part of the problem. Although these conflicts don't affect tourists directly, it's still wise to know about them so you can prepare yourself before you go to Assam. Like any other city or region, there's that higher chance of danger just because you're a tourist and you're a likely target. However, as have been stated before, most of the issues with Assam are within its people. The best thing you can do is avoid the region during the height of political conflicts or even elections. Make sure that you are with someone who knows the region completely. For that reason, you need to hire a guide to explore Assam. It's for safety purposes as well so you have someone with you who knows what places to avoid or go to. To reach Assam, the best mode of transportation would be airplane. It's the fastest, safest and most convenient. Airports are in Guwahati, Dibrugarh and Silchar. Cost-wise, this is the most expensive though. Your next option would be via train. The North East Frontier Railways covers the entire area of Assam. It also links Assam to other states like Kolkata and Delhi. The problem with trains though is that stone pelting can occur. For that reason, it's best to reserve the upper classes of train seats with windows. Cost-wise though, this is by far cheaper than riding an airplane. Time-wise, this is faster than buses but slower than airplanes. Buses are available as well. Guwahati is well-connected to some other states. However, roads can be tough and patchy. Worse, travel time isn't predictable and might take longer than you expect. Cost-wise though, this is the cheapest option you have. There's lots of special places to see in Assam, some of them are: Parks/Sanctuaries Kaziranga National Park - The rare one-horned rhinos can be found here. In fact, about 70% of their population in the whole world is in the park. Manas National Park - About 20 endangered species of animals reside here. Some famous animals to see are the leopard cat and the Himalayan black bear. Nameri National Park - The endangered white-winged wood duck can be found here along with a variety of other animals. Historical Monuments Rhan Ghar - Signifying Ahom architectural style, this is Asia's first amphitheatre. Madan Kamdev - Although this temple ruins still remain as a mystery now, it's one of the most beautiful temples in Assam. The ruins consist of Hindu deities and other sculptures. Temples Kamakhya Temple - This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. You can find this on top of Nilachal Hills which offer quite an amazing view of the city. Nabagraha Temple - This is also known as the "Temple of the Nine Planets." Some believe that this used to be a centre for astrology and astronomy. It depends on how much sightseeing you are going to do. But in order to explore Assam completely, you'd need at least two weeks. For exploring just some areas in Assam, then a week will do. Just prioritise the important attractions like the ones I've mentioned above. I hope this helps!
Hi We are happy to know that you are interested in visiting Assam. It is safe to visit Assam now a days. Cost and time wise best mode is railway, If you are coming from North India, Rajdhani Express is best and if you are coming from South India you can come to Assam by flight. Special in Assam are lush green tea gardens, Kaziranga , Manas and Nameri National Park, Historical monuments Rang Ghar , Kareng Ghar etc. and several temples located in Sibsagar and Tezpur district. Another worth visit place is the only hill station in Assam - Haflong. It is good to have 10 days holiday in Assam.
