Introduction
Assam is known for its rich biodiversity, tea plantations, and vibrant culture. While Assam is renowned for its lush plains and the mighty Brahmaputra River, it’s also home to some hidden gems—hill stations that offer a refreshing escape from the heat and hustle of the city of Guwahati. In this blog, we will take you on a virtual tour of the five best hill stations in Assam and provide insights into the best months to visit them.
1.Haflong – Mini Switzerland of Northeast India
Nestled amidst the Dima Hasao district, Haflong is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Assam” due to its picturesque beauty. This district head-quarter is famous for its beautiful valley, hills and landscape. If you are a nature lover and adventure enthusiast, then Haflong hill can be a great choice for you. Close to Haflong, there are 3 must-visit tourist attractions which are attracting tourists across the world. They are:
Jatinga:
Jatinga is famous worldwide for its migratory birds and the myths surrounding the phenomena of different birds committing suicide. Tourists come from across the world to visit Jatinga during the months of August and November to see how these birds fall to their deaths. The phenomenon has been observed for over a hundred years, when birds from all over the region flock to Jatinga, where they fly into buildings, trees, and other obstacles and ultimately fall to their deaths.
Haflong Lake:
Haflong lake is the only natural lake in the state which is spread over 2.5 square kilometers. The lake attracts thousands of migratory birds, and that makes it mesmerizingly beautiful for camera enthusiasts. The adventure-loving tourist can go boating and enjoy picnics with their friends and families. For angling enthusiasts, Haflong lake is a perfect angling spot for catching fishes.
Maibong:
Maibong is situated 48 kilometers away from Haflong, but it is not at all a place to miss if you visit Haflong. Maibong used to be the capital city of the once powerful Kachari Kingdom between the 1500s to 1700s and is famous for its age-old relics from the rule of the Kachari kings. Maibong is also famous for its two roofed monolithic temple called Ramchandi, which has inscriptions that date back to the 1750s. It is a great outing for the history buffs. The best time to visit these places is winter and summer, avoid going in monsoon due to heavy rain.
2.Diphu – Capital of Karbi Anglong District
Diphu is the second most popular hill station of Assam in our list. The name Diphu has been derived from the two words Di and Guphu from the Dimasa language. Di translates to water and Guphu translates to white. Diphu is known for its cultural diversity because it is home to several tribes including karbis, bodos, dimasas, hrangkhol etc. Some of the attractions of Diphu includes:
Arboretum Cum Craft Centre:
The centre is located 8 kilometres away from Diphu. It has a planned park that has a variety of flowers, herbs, shrubs, and other rare plants. Other than the park, it has a craft exhibition centre to experience the thousands of years of culture of the region.
Botanical Gardens:
This is a well-maintained garden where flowers, trees, and shrubs are grown. It is located around 5 km from Diphu town towards Marat Longri Sanctuary on the road to Lumding.
Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary:
This wildlife sanctuary is hardly 10 kilometres away from the town of Diphu. This protected reserve is a part of Dhansiri-Lungding Elephant Reserve, where you can find Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Himalayan Bear and the Gibbon. It is spread over an area of approximately 451 sq km.
District Museum:
Established in 1886, the District Museum houses many regional archaeological artifacts. It is located at a distance of 2 kilometres from central Diphu. If you are interested in knowing socio-cultural and archeological things then you must visit this museum of Diphu which have handicrafts, textiles, hunting, house tools, ornaments, and traditional instruments of that time which gives glimpses about the life of the indigenous tribes of Karbi Anglong.
Trek to Singhason Peak:
Located at around 4 km from Diphu, Singhason is the highest peak in the district of Karbi Anglong. It gives trekking and hiking options through the rain forest, and from the peak, you can have the glorious views of the Brahmaputra valley and snow-covered Himalayan ranges.
3.Umrangso – Land of Medicinal Hot Water Springs
Umrangso is the most underrated tourist destination of Dima Hasao region, yet it has one of the most breathtaking views of the district. Umrangso is 112 kilometers away from the district headquarters – Diphu. Here are the famous spots and views you must not miss if you visit Umrangso:
- The first thing that you cannot miss is the natural view of Umrangso. It leaves an unforgettable memory of the beauty of mother nature.
- Kopili Hydro Electric Project: If you want to know more about hydroelectricity, Kopili Hydro Electric Project is a must-visit. It is a government of India enterprise located near the Assam-Meghalaya border. Sadly, the hot spring of Garampani is now lost in the dammed water of Kopili river after completion of Kopili Hydro Electric Project.
- Umrangso Golf Course: The district is now promoting the Umrangso Golf Course as a destination wedding spot. With horses grazing, the valley surrounded by water reminds one of Switzerland.
- Panimur Waterfall: It is one of the biggest waterfalls in Assam and is located close to Umrangso. You can also visit the botanical garden of Umarangso if you want.
4.Kachasila Hills – Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Kachasila Hill is a popular hill spot located in the district of Morigaon. It is only a few kilometers away from the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as a tourist attraction point in Morigaon because of a 9th century temple that has the statues of Shivji, Parvati and sculptures of elephant God, Ganesha. The hill holds both historical and religious significance. In the temple complex, there are several sculptures of the elephant god Lord Ganesha, who, according to the Hindu mythology is the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The statues have immense artistic value and many tourists come to the place to have a look at them. The best time to visit this place is November to February but people avoid the January month due to the cold, if you are ok with cold you can visit in January too.
5.Nilachal Pahar – The Seat of Maa Kamakhya
If you have visited Nilachal hills ever, then I do not need to explain the beauty of Nilachal Pahar, but if not, you must visit this place at least once in your life to see the beauty of the various ancient temples on the top; the most eminent of them is the Kamakhya temple. It is situated 7 kilometre away from the centre of Guwahati. It is mainly famous for the Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to goddess Sati, first wife of Lord Siva which is situated at the top of the hill, and the best time to visit Nilachal is during Ambubachi mela, which is an annual festival that attracts a lot of tourist and devotees across India. It is of remarkable historical, archaeological as well as spiritual importance.
Conclusion
Assam’s hill stations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Whether you seek tranquillity, spirituality, adventure, or a glimpse into the wonders of nature, these hill stations have something for everyone. From the serene Haflong to the mysterious Jatinga, you can embark on a journey to explore the hidden treasures of Assam’s hill stations and create memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your visit and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the lap of nature!
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