Assam, situated in the north-eastern part of India, is known to the travelers all over the world for its flora and fauna as well as its forests. It is also known for its tea-gardens. Tea from this region is exported to other parts of the world as well. The natural beauty of the place, the hills and mountains and the mighty Brahmaputra River has thus attracted tourists from all over the world. There are a large number of travel agencies who offer various packages for cultural tours in Assam.
The best time to visit Assam for any kind of tour is October to April. In these winter months, the weather is quite pleasant. However in the months of December and January, the temperatures may below the normal levels. If you are visiting the place during these months, carry lots of woolen clothes. Apart from this, as you will visit the wild life sanctuaries, it will be a good idea to carry walking shoes. You should also carry medicines and first aid box along with a torch light.
Assam is known for its Bihu songs and dances and is popular all over India. Dancers from Assam are specially invited in various programs all over India. Apart from this, another major attraction of Assam is the Kaziranga Wild Life Sanctuary. The one-horned rhinoceros which have become rare in the recent times can be found here. The Nameri National Park is a must visit. Here you will be able to see the White Winged Wood Duck. Do not forget to visit the Temple of Kamakhya Devi which attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Assam is also known for a large number of fairs and festivals. Apart from the festivals celebrated all over India, lots of colorful tribal festivals are celebrated with grandeur and pomp. Bihu is the principal festival of Assam. It is an agricultural festival and there are three types of Bihu celebrated here. These include Bahag Bihu, Kati Bihu and Magh Bihu.
Some of the tribal festivals celebrated in Assam includes the Sagra-misawa wansawa and laghun of the Tiwas tribe, Me-Dem-Mehfi celebrated by the Ahomes of Tai area, Kherai Puja of the Bodos, Bathow festival of the kacharis, Rangi Gobr and Harni gobra,The Baikhu and Pharkantis of the Rabhas, Ali-ai-ligang and Prag of the Missing tribe, The Ojapali dances, Bohagiya visu or the Spring time festival, the Ambubasi Mela and Jonbeel Mela.
Assam is known for its silks like 'paat' and 'muga'. This is renowned all over the world. The handicraft items for which Assam is famous includes bamboo and cane products. You will also find a large number of colorful Assamese Japi or headgear and terracotta of Gauripur. The woodwork, pottery and sitalpati (a kind of mat) is famous all over India.
To know more about cultural tours in India, browse through the pages of Adventure Asia.
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