Assam, a magnificent state located northeast of India, epitomizes diverse landscapes combined with lush tea gardens and vibrant culture. The state is also home to numerous hidden gems – hill stations that are breathtakingly captivating yet less explored by tourists seeking a respite from bustling cities.
For those whose hearts beat louder amid nature’s serenity than within city limits these serene retreats offer unforgettable experiences worth exploring. This blog post highlights some of the most famous hill stations in or around Assam guaranteed to leave you mesmerized.
1. Haflong: The Switzerland of Assam
Haflong, the “Switzerland of Assam”, is a captivating hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil ambiance. With the pristine Haflong Lake as its star attraction, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks and moments of contemplation.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Haflong is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.
Top Things to Do:
- Trekking and Hiking
- Boating in Haflong Lake
- Visit Maibong
- Bird Watching
- Visit Orchid Garden
Top Places to Visit:
- Haflong Lake
- Panimoor Waterfalls
- Maibong
Average Cost of the Vacation: The average cost of a vacation in Haflong depends on various factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. Which costs up to 6000 per week.
How to Reach: To reach Haflong, it is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Silchar Airport (75 km), where you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Haflong. Haflong Hill Railway Station is also available, connecting to major cities. Buses and taxis from nearby cities and towns provide road transportation options.
2. Shillong: A Lush Escape
Located near the Assam-Meghalaya border, Shillong is a captivating hill station often referred to as the “Scotland of the East”. This picturesque destination is nestled amidst rolling hills, offering visitors a tranquil and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With its cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, and breathtaking landscapes, Shillong truly feels like a slice of paradise.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shillong is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and less rainfall.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore Ward’s Lake
- Visit Shillong Peak
- Explore Elephant Falls
- Discover the Living Root Bridges
- Shop at Police Bazaar
Top Places to Visit:
- Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
- Umiam Lake
- Mawphlang Sacred Forest
- Laitlum Canyons
- Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians
Average Cost of the Vacation: On average, a moderate budget for a week-long trip, including accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing, can range from 5000 to 6000 per person.
How to Reach: Shillong can be reached by air, train, and road. The nearest airport: is Shillong Airport, with better connectivity via Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport. The nearest railway station: is Guwahati Railway Station. Well-connected by road, accessible by driving or taking a bus from Guwahati.
3. Jatinga: Discovering The Truth Behind Bird Suicides
Nestled amidst the Dima Hasao district of Assam is Jatinga – a small hill station known for mysterious bird suicides. Every year during certain months these birds fly towards bright lights leading them towards their death causing much intrigue amongst animal enthusiasts and scientists alike.
Surrounded by serene landscapes and mountainside terrains Jatinga is an ideal location for exploring untouched beauty while trying to unravel this fascinating mystery.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Jatinga is between September and November when the phenomenon of bird suicides is said to occur. During these months, visitors have a higher chance of witnessing the unusual event.
Top Things to Do:
- Bird Watching
- Visit Haflong Lake
- Explore the Local Culture
Top Places to Visit:
- Jatinga Bird Suicide Point
- Haflong
- Maibang
Average Cost of the Vacation: The average cost of a vacation in Jatinga varies based on accommodation, transportation, and duration. Being a remote location, costs may be slightly higher. A rough estimate for a moderate budget would be around 5000 to 8000 per person for a week, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing.
How to Reach:
To reach Jatinga, fly to Silchar Airport and take a taxi or bus. Alternatively, take a train to Guwahati, transfer to Lumding Junction, and then take a taxi or bus. Road options include taxis or buses from Guwahati or Silchar.
4. Cherrapunji: The Wettest Place on Earth
Cherrapunji, located in the state of Meghalaya in northeastern India, is renowned as the Wettest Place on Earth. This captivating destination offers a unique and mesmerizing experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cherrapunji is during October to May. The weather during these months is pleasant, with mild temperatures and less rainfall compared to the monsoon season.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Nohkalikai Falls
- Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge
- Explore Mawsmai Cave
- Experience the Living Root Bridges
- Discover the Dawki River
Top Places to Visit:
- Seven Sisters Fall
- Mawsynram
- Dain-Thlen Falls
- Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint
- Mawlynnong
Average Cost of the Vacation: The cost of a vacation in Cherrapunji varies based on accommodation, transportation, activities, and duration. A moderate-budget traveler can expect to spend around INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per day, covering accommodation, meals, and local transportation expenses.
How to Reach: The nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (150 km). The nearest major railway station: Guwahati Railway Station. Good road connectivity from Guwahati to Cherrapunji (4-5 hours).
5. Tawang: The Abode of Tranquility
Tawang is a serene destination situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India. Known as “The Abode of Tranquility”, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. Tawang is famous for its snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, gushing waterfalls, and lush forests.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tawang is during March to October when the weather is pleasant and the region is accessible. However, if you’re interested in witnessing the Tawang Monastery festival, which usually takes place in January or February, you may plan your visit accordingly.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit the Tawang Monastery
- Explore Sela Pass
- Pay homage at Jaswant Garh
- Trek to Bum La Pass
- Visit the Nuranang Waterfall
Top Places to Visit:
- Tawang Monastery
- Sela Pass
- Madhuri Lake (Shonga-tser Lake)
- Jaswant Garh
- Nuranang Waterfall
- Gorichen Peak
- Pankang Teng Tso Lake
- Tawang War Memorial
- Urgelling Monastery
- Tawang Craft Centre
Average Cost of the VacationThe average cost of a vacation in Tawang varies based on accommodation, transportation, activities, and personal preferences. A moderate-budget traveler can expect to spend around INR 2,000 to INR 4,000 per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing expenses.
How to Reach: To reach Tawang, options include Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, a 10-12 hour drive, or road travel from Guwahati, Tezpur, or Bomdila. Tezpur Railway Station is the nearest railhead, followed by a 10-12 hour road journey to Tawang.
6. Khasi Hills: Where Nature’s Beauty Touches the Sky
While parts of the Khasi Hills, such as Shillong, are well-known, there are many unexplored areas within the region. These include places like Mawlyngot, Mawphanlur, and Dawki, which offer mesmerizing landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and unique cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit: October to May.
Top Things to Do:
- Living root bridges
- Mawlynnong village
- Cherrapunji waterfall
- Nongriat trek
- Mawphlang sacred forests
Top Places to Visit:
- Shillong
- Cherrapunji
- Mawlynnong
- Dawki
- Mawphlang
Average Cost of the Vacation: Approximately 5000 to 8000 per week.
How to Reach: By road and air, with Shillong Airport as the nearest airport and Guwahati Railway Station offering good connectivity. Road travel from Guwahati is also convenient.
7. Bhalukpong: Where Adventure Meets Serenity
Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhalukpong offers breathtaking views, dense forests, and the enchanting Kameng River. It serves as a gateway to the Tawang region and is known for its wildlife sanctuaries.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Top Things to Do:
- River rafting
- Explore Bhalukpong Fort
- Bird watching
- Visit Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking
Top Places to Visit:
- Bhalukpong Fort
- Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary
Average Cost of the Vacation: Around 5000 to 8000 per person for a week-long trip.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport, and the nearest railway station is Tezpur Railway Station. Road connectivity is available from Tezpur and Guwahati.
8. North Cachar Hills: Where Tranquility Meets Nature’s Majesty
Also known as Dima Hasao, this district is known for its picturesque landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and the mesmerizing Jatinga River.
It offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit North Cachar Hills is during October to April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the hills and enjoying outdoor activities.
Top Things to Do:
- Trekking and Camping
- Visit Haflong Lake
- Explore Jatinga Bird Observatory
- Discover Waterfalls like Borkhola Falls and Ditgupta Falls
- Experience the rich culture of indigenous communities
Top Places to Visit:
- Haflong Lake
- Jatinga Bird Observatory
- Borkhola Falls
- Ditgupta Falls
- Barail Range
Average Cost of the Vacation: A rough estimate for a week-long trip can range from 5000 to 8000 per person.
How to Reach: Accessible by road and rail. The nearest airport is Silchar Airport (80 km), and the nearest major railway station is in Silchar. Buses and taxis are available for travel.
For those who crave solitude amidst the natural beauty, Assam is a perfect destination. It boasts some of the most breathtaking and lesser-known hill stations that any traveler would fall in love with instantly. You can’t afford to miss this opportunity.
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