Landmarks:

1. Kamakhya Temple (Guwahati) – A revered Shakti Peetha and one of the most important Hindu temples
in India.
2. Umananda Island (Guwahati) – The smallest inhabited river island in the world, located in the
Brahmaputra River.
3. Kaziranga National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses.
4. Agnigarh (Tezpur) – A historic site linked to Hindu mythology, offering a panoramic view of the
Brahmaputra.
5. Mahabhairab Temple (Tezpur) – An ancient Shiva temple, believed to have been built by King Bana.
Rivers:
6. Brahmaputra River – The lifeline of Assam, flowing through both Guwahati and Tezpur.
7. Subansiri River – A major tributary of the Brahmaputra, contributing to the region’s hydroelectric
potential.
8. Dhansiri River – Another important river, flowing near Kaziranga and supporting biodiversity.
 People and Language of Assam
Assam is a diverse and multicultural state with a rich heritage of ethnic
communities, languages, and traditions.

People & Ethnic Groups: Assam is home to various indigenous communities,

tribes, and ethnic groups, each contributing to the state's vibrant culture.
Major communities include:
1. Assamese (Ahom, Koch, Kalita, etc.) – The dominant ethnic group with a deep-
rooted history in the region.
2. Bodo – One of the largest indigenous tribes, primarily residing in western
Assam.
3. Tea Tribes – Descendants of laborers brought during British rule to work in
tea plantations.
4. Bengalis – Primarily settled in Barak Valley and parts of Brahmaputra Valley.
5. Mishing, Karbi, Dimasa, Rabha, Tiwa, and Other Tribes – Each with their own
distinct customs and traditions.
Languages Spoken:
1. Assamese – The official language and the most widely spoken.
2. Bengali – Predominantly spoken in the Barak Valley and some parts of
Brahmaputra Valley.
3. Bodo – One of Assam’s official languages, primarily spoken by the Bodo
community.
4. Hindi & English – Used for communication, education, and business.
5. Tribal Languages – Mishing, Karbi, Dimasa, Rabha, and others are spoken by
respective tribal communities.
Cultural Aspects:
1. Bihu Festival – The most popular Assamese festival, celebrating agriculture
and the new year.
2. Bodo Kherai Puja – A traditional festival of the Bodo community.
3. Durga Puja – A grand festival celebrated by Bengalis in Assam.
4. Folk Music & Dance – Bihu dance, Bagurumba (Bodo dance), and Sattriya
dance are famous art forms.
 Traditional Dress and Ornaments of Assam
Assamese culture is rich in traditional attire and ornaments, reflecting the
diversity of its people.

1. Traditional Dress:
For Women
Mekhela Sador– The traditional Assamese attire, consisting of:
1. Mekhela – A cylindrical skirt-like lower garment.
2. Sador – A long piece of cloth draped over the upper body.
3. Blouse – Worn underneath the Sador.
Rignai & Risa (Bodo Women) –
4. Rignai – A wrap-around skirt with beautiful patterns.
5. Risa – A decorative cloth worn on the upper body.
6. Dokhona (Dimasa & Karbi Women) – A long, elegant wrap-around dress.

For Men
1. Gamosa – A white rectangular cloth with red motifs, symbolizing Assamese
identity.
2. Dhoti & Kurta – The traditional attire for Assamese men, worn during
festivals and rituals.
3. Saron & Rikha (Bodo Men) – A traditional outfit similar to a dhoti, worn by
the Bodo community.

2. Traditional Ornaments:
Assamese jewelry is mainly made of gold and inspired by nature, with unique
handcrafted designs.
Japi (Traditional Headgear) – A conical bamboo hat worn by farmers and
during celebrations.
Dugdugi – A small, drum-shaped gold necklace.
Gamkharu – A large, thick gold or silver bangle.
Loka Paro – A beautiful necklace with bird-shaped designs.
Jonbiri & Dholbiri – Crescent and drum-shaped earrings.
Thuria – A traditional Assamese earring with a floral motif.
Hasuli – A heavy silver or gold necklace, commonly worn by tribal women.
 Traditional Food of Assam
Assamese cuisine is simple yet flavorful, with an emphasis on rice, fish, meat, and
leafy vegetables. The use of minimal spices and natural flavors makes it unique.
Staple Food:
1. Rice – The main staple, eaten in different forms (boiled rice, sticky rice, or rice
flour items).
2. Fish (Mas) – A major part of the Assamese diet, usually prepared in mustard
gravy (Masor Tenga).
3. Meat (Mutton, Pork, Duck, and Chicken) – Popular, especially among non-
vegetarians.
Famous Dishes:
1. Masor Tenga – A tangy fish curry made with tomatoes, lemon, or Thekera
(sour fruit).
2. Assamese Thali – Includes rice, dal, vegetable curries, fish or meat, chutneys,
and pickles.
3. Aloo Pitika – Mashed potatoes with mustard oil, onion, and chilies.
4. Xaak (Green Leafy Vegetables) – Commonly eaten with rice, such as Lai Xaak,
Dhekia Xaak (fern).
5. Pork with Bamboo Shoot – A favorite among tribal communities, cooked
with aromatic bamboo shoot.
6. Duck Curry (Haanh Mangxo) – A rich and flavorful dish, often made with
black sesame seeds.
Traditional Sweets & Snacks:
1. Pitha– Rice flour-based snacks, including:
2. Til Pitha (Sesame-filled roll)
3. Narikol Pitha (Coconut-stuffed)
4. Jolpan – A traditional breakfast made of sticky rice, curd, and jaggery.
5. Laru (Ladoo) – Sweet balls made from coconut, sesame, or rice flour.
Beverages:
1. Apong & Xaj Pani – Traditional rice beer, popular among the tribal communities.
2. Assam Tea – World-famous strong black tea, enjoyed with or without milk.
Assam is home to some of the most stunning and culturally rich destinations in
India. Here are five famous places to visit, each offering a unique experience.

1. Kamakhya Temple (Guwahati) :

One of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in
India, the Kamakhya Temple is perched atop
Nilachal Hill in Guwahati. Dedicated to Goddess
Kamakhya, a form of Shakti, this temple is known
for its deep spiritual significance and unique
rituals. Unlike most Hindu temples, Kamakhya
does not have an idol but instead worships a
natural stone formation believed to symbolize
the goddess’s womb. Every year, thousands of
devotees gather for the Ambubachi Mela, a
festival that celebrates the goddess’s fertility.
Apart from its religious importance, the temple
also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of
Guwahati and the mighty Brahmaputra River.

2. Kaziranga National Park :🦏

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga
National Park is one of India's most renowned
wildlife reserves, famous for its population of one-
horned rhinoceroses. Spread across the
floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, the park is a
biodiversity hotspot, home to elephants, tigers,
swamp deer, and over 500 species of birds. The
vast grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests
provide an unparalleled safari experience. Visitors
can explore the park through jeep safaris and
elephant rides, allowing them to witness wildlife
up close. Kaziranga is also a paradise for
birdwatchers, especially during the migratory
season.
3. Majuli Island:
Recognized as the world’s largest river island,
Majuli is a cultural and spiritual hub of Assam.
Located in the Brahmaputra River, this
picturesque island is famous for its Vaishnavite
monasteries (Satras), established by the saint
Srimanta Sankardeva in the 16th century. These
monasteries serve as centers of Assamese
dance, music, and art. Majuli is also known for
its traditional mask-making, pottery, and
serene village life. The island is accessible only
by ferry from Jorhat, adding to its charm and
tranquility. Due to river erosion, Majuli is
shrinking over time, making it even more
precious for visitors to experience its beauty
4. Manas National Park:
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas National Park is a breathtaking wildlife
sanctuary located in the Himalayan foothills along the Indo-Bhutan border. It is known
for its rich biodiversity and is home to endangered species like the Assam roofed turtle,
golden langur, and pygmy hog.
Unlike Kaziranga’s grasslands,
Manas features dense forests,
rolling hills, and crystal-clear rivers,
offering a completely different
wildlife experience. Apart from
safaris, visitors can also go river
rafting, explore tribal villages, and
enjoy birdwatching. The park’s
untouched beauty and diverse
ecosystem make it one of Assam’s
most treasured destinations.
5. Haflong
Known as the only hill station in Assam, Haflong is
a paradise for nature lovers. Surrounded by
rolling green hills, misty valleys, and serene lakes,
Haflong offers a refreshing break from city life.
The town is home to indigenous communities like
the Dimasas, who have preserved their rich
traditions and customs. Haflong Lake, one of the
largest natural lakes in Assam, is a major
attraction, offering opportunities for boating and
picnicking.