Assam, one of the seven sisters of India, is known all over the world for its mesmerising hill stations. Most of the hill stations in Assam are covered in lush greenery, tea gardens, lakes, streams and rivers, thus creating a soothing aura. Also, a few of them are offbeat destinations, and you can only find people with a yen for travelling. Nevertheless, Assam’s hill stations are undoubtedly special and perfect for a refreshing holiday.

If you are looking to visit Assam on your next holiday, here are a few popular hill stations to choose from –

1. Haflong

Haflong is a perfect amalgamation of opulent valleys, sparkling waters and thriving greenery. Located approximately 310 km away from Guwahati, Haflong is undoubtedly one of the famous hill stations in Assam. This hilly terrain boasts its panoramic vistas and is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Moreover, it has thriving wildlife and a refreshing ambience, which is perfect for a trip.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Bird watching, photography, meeting local tribes, and exploring nature.
• Top Places to Visit:  Haflong Lake, Dayang Railway Bridge, Bendao Baiglai Waterfall, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

2. Diphu

Diphu is located close to Guwahati and is a popular destination among tourists. This place is adorned with serene beauty and thriving greenery, which is enough to leave you spellbound. Moreover, this place also provides opportunities for outdoor activities and is away from frenetic tourists. Hence, Diphu stands out for its uniqueness and serenity among all the mini hill stations.

• Best Time to Visit: November to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, hiking, photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit:  Iskcon temple, Marat Longri National Park, Shiva Mandir and Deopani Durga mandir, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,500 per person (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

3. Umrangso

Umrangso is located in the district of Dima Hasao, which is about 112 km from Haflong. Most tourists visit here for its enchanting and mesmerising views that will rejuvenate your soul. Additionally, the zephyr here is very soothing and perfect for washing away your quotidian stress. Most importantly, getting here is fairly easy as Barapani Airport is located in proximity, and you can hire a taxi or get on a bus to reach here effortlessly.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Bird watching, photography, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Garampani, Kopli River, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

4. Maibang

Maibang is the former capital of Kachari kings and is one of the offbeat locations in Assam. Compared to other hill stations, Maibang is less explored. Hence, you have the opportunity to discover the mystical beauty of this place. Besides this, the place has an exciting history, and you can see the popular stone houses that made this place an interesting tourist spot.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Kachari Rajbari, Ek Patthar Ghar, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

5. Sualkuchi

If you want to visit a village offering a leisurely vibe, Sualkuchi is the place for you. This small village is also famous for its craftsmanship and is popularly known as the 'Manchester of East.' Although the skills of the local people take all credit for the popularity of this village, the mesmerising looks of this place are worth capturing. Additionally, this village is also bustling with wildlife, and you can spot some exotic birds and animals of various species.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Top Things to Do: Photography, shopping and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Brahmaputra River, Sidheswar Devalaya, Hatisatra, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

6. Lilabari

Lilabari is a popular tourist destination located in the North Lakhimpur district and is nestled amidst serene natural beauty. This destination is located on the left bank of River Brahmaputra, providing access to the spectacular waterfront. Lilabari is also located close to Arunachal Pradesh, so you can also easily visit the neighbouring state to explore more. Apart from its natural beauty, you can also enjoy adventure sports here for an eventful excursion.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Rafting, mountaineering, camping, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Ziro, Yupia, Majuli, Kaziranga National Park, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

7. Morigaon

Morigaon is located east of Guwahati and is famous for its market, wildlife sanctuary and temples. This place is bestowed with natural beauty, and you will very much like home because the warmth of people is overwhelming. At the place where River Brahmaputra meets the northern limit of the district. So, you can see many temples there, and if you move to the west, you can see views of the snow-capped mountains. 

Furthermore, if you love natural company, Morigaon has bustling wildlife for you. Hence, you can see a variety of flora and fauna here with some delightful scenes. Travellers here wander inroads to explore new sights away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Bird watching, photography, nature exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Nizora Park, Bikers Hill, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road.

8. Bongaigaon

Another interesting and one of the best hill stations in Assam is Bongaigaon. Located about 180 km from Guwahati, this is an ideal place if you are looking for a calm and soothing atmosphere. Recently, Bongaigaon has been rising in popularity among tourists as it is a rising industrial and commercial hub of northeastern India. 

Visitors also sort this place for its religious importance. You can see remnants of Buddhist culture here and stone carvings of Jogighopa hill rocks. Amidst the greenery, the spectacular cityscape is blissful to watch; if you explore more, you will be engulfed in the wilderness of this place.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Bird watching, photography, nature exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Bagheswari Temple, Bagheswari Hill, Kakoijana Reserve Forest, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,000 per person (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

9. Karimganj

If you are looking for a short trip near Guwahati, away from the din of the city, Karimganj is an attractive option. Although Karimganj is not as famous as other popular hill stations, it is one of the most picturesque hill stations in Assam. The paddy fields in the middle of the hills make it an enchanting view for visitors. 

Additionally, if you are a photographer, you can take some gorgeous pictures that will be a stunning addition to your portfolio. Ideally, one day is enough to explore this place, and you can spend more time if you want to explore more.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, bird watching, shopping and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Chhatachura Range, Duhalia Range, River Kushiara, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹2,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

10. Jorhat

Jorhat is nestled in the northeastern part and is counted among the top hill stations in Assam. This place lies parallel to a tributary of the River Brahmaputra, and tourists from around the country visit this place for a serene experience. Also, due to its strategic location, Jorhat can be easily accessed from nearby states, and the connectivity is also good. 

Jorhat is also known as the 'Tea Capital of Assam'; so, if you want to see tea gardens, there is no better place like Jorhat. Furthermore, here you can find the world’s largest riverine island, Majuli Island.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Bird watching, photography, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Dhekiakhowa Bornaamghar, Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium, Raja Maidam Park, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,500 per person (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

11. Dima Hasao

If you are a hodophile, Dima Hasao might be a popular destination choice for you. Dima Hasao is located in central Assam, and due to its cultural beauty and sceneries, it is also one of the popular hill stations in Assam. Similar to other destinations, Dima Hasao is also known for its greenery and tranquillity. From the hilltops, you will see some of the beautiful views of the neighbouring Barali Mountains, and after witnessing all those, you will realise why this place is called the "Switzerland of the East."

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, photography, nature exploration, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Panimur Waterfalls, Mt Tumjang Peak, Bendao Baiglai Waterfall,  Abraham View Point, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹3,000 per person (2 Day/1 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

12. Dibrugarh

Dibrugarh is located at a distance of around 435 kilometres from Dispur, and thriving tea plantations engulf it. This gives the characteristic soothing vibe of this city, making it a popular spot among travellers. The name Dibrugarh is derived from "Dibrumukha”, which came from the river “Dibru”, with the word “mukh” which means mouth. Furthermore, the edges of the city are connected with the Himalayas, and you can feel that freshness in the air whichever place you visit in Dibrugarh.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Radha Krishna Mandir, Mahatma Gandhi Udyan/Khanikar Park, Jokai Botanical Garden, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹1,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road