Assam , tucked away in lush Northeastern part of the country, is often overshadowed by more touristy states. But you don’t make a mistake, as this emerald paradise is actually a dream come true for nature lovers. Misty hills, mighty rivers, sprawling tea gardens, and wildlife encounters are some of the highlights that will feature in your travel itinerary. If you haven’t explored Assam yet, here are some reasons to plan a trip in the near future.
Kaziranga National Park
This national park is located in Assam and is unique in itself as it provides shelter to 70% of the world’s great Indian one-horned rhinoceros , along with tigers, elephants, swamp deer and also more than 400 bird species. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has seen great success in conservation. Here, you can also go on a Jeep Safari, an Elephant Safari or even a Boat Safari to explore the lush green landscapes and wildlife.
Majuli river island
Majuli is not scenic, and soul-soothing at the same time. Accessible by ferry, this serene island is all about birdwatching, and postcard-perfect landscapes of paddy fields and water bodies. It’s where one gets to experience time slowing down and feel the relaxed vibe.
Aquatic biodiversity
This is considered a biodiversity hotspot because of the presence of the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems, with more than 185 fish species reported from Assam. One can also find the freshwater mollusks here; 39 species of freshwater snails have been reported.
Great butterfly diversity
Butterflies are the most beautiful creatures on earth, and around 1500 species of butterflies have been reported from India, of which almost half are found in Assam and North-eastern India.
Land to conservation
This place is a great conservation spot of nature as it contributes 5% of its land for protected areas. The protected area network includes 5 national parks, 17 wildlife sanctuaries as well as 3 proposed Wildlife Sanctuaries, 4 Tiger Reserves, 5 Elephant Reserves, 2 Biosphere Reserves and 2 World Natural Heritage Sites.
Manas National Park
This park, located in Assam, is also a biosphere reserve which protects the flora and fauna found here. The floral diversity includes 543 plant species, and the fauna includes 60 mammalian species, 42 species of reptiles, 7 species of amphibians, 5 fish species, 103 invertebrate species and 327 species of birds. It shelters rare species like the pygmy hog, golden langur, Assam roofed turtle, and wild water buffalo.
Tea plantations
The places in Assam that offer beautiful trips to tea gardens are Jorhat, Tinsukia, and Dibrugarh. These plantations look even more beautiful after rain and are quite photogenic. Some tea plantations offer tours and tastings as well.
