Trekking in Assam offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventurous experiences. This northeastern Indian state, known for its lush tea gardens and mighty Brahmaputra River, also boasts an array of trekking trails that cater to various skill levels. From the dense rainforests of Dihing Patkai to the rolling hills of the Borail Range, Assam’s landscapes provide a rich tapestry for explorers. Trekkers can immerse themselves in pristine wilderness, encounter diverse wildlife, and interact with indigenous communities. Whether seeking challenging hikes or leisurely nature walks, Assam’s trekking routes offer a perfect blend of adventure and serenity in the heart of Northeast India.
10 Best Trails For Trekking In Assam
Here’s a list of the best places for trekking in Assam India for an adventurous trip:
1. Haflong To Jatinga Trail
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The Haflong to Jatinga trail in the Dima Hasao district offers a captivating journey through the heart of Assam’s hill country. This trek begins in Haflong, the only hill station in Assam, known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty. As visitors embark on this trail, they will traverse through lush subtropical forests, crossing gentle streams and navigating moderate inclines. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, with the landscape changing from dense forests to open grasslands. This place for trekking in Assam culminates with breathtaking views of the Jatinga Valley, especially mesmerising during sunset.
Length Of The Trek: 12 km
Average Time To Complete: 5 – 6 hours
Suggested Read: Dehing Patkai National Park
2. Nameri National Park Trek
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The Nameri National Park trek offers an immersive experience in one of Assam’s most biodiverse regions. Located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, this trek takes trekkers through dense semi-evergreen forests, grasslands, and the banks of the Jia Bhoreli River. The park is also home to elephants, tigers, and leopards, though sightings are rare. One will come across numerous small streams and rivulets in addition to the trek’s charm. The path occasionally opens up to reveal stunning vistas of the distant Himalayas. A highlight of this place for trekking in Assam is the opportunity to camp near the Jia Bhoreli River, where one can enjoy the sounds of nature and possibly spot some riverine wildlife.
Length Of The Trek: 8 – 15 km
Average Time To Complete: 4 – 7 hours
3. Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
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The Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary trek in Jorhat district is one of the amazing Assam treks. It is India’s only sanctuary dedicated to hoolock gibbons, the only ape species found in India. This relatively easy trek takes visitors through tropical wet evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The trek also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the sanctuary. One must keep an eye out for colourful butterflies and unique flora, including several species of orchids. A notable feature of this place for trekking in Assam is the canopy walk, which allows visitors to observe the forest from a different perspective and increases the chances of spotting gibbons in their natural habitat.
Length Of The Trek: 10 km
Average Time To Complete: 3 – 4 hours
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Guwahati For Every Traveller
4. Dihing Patkai Rainforest Trail
Photo: Rohit Naniwadekar / Wikimedia Commons
The Dihing Patkai Rainforest trail takes visitors through one of the last remaining lowland rainforests in Assam. Located in the Dihing Patkai National Park, this trek offers a glimpse into a unique ecosystem that’s home to numerous rare and endangered species. The trail winds through dense, multi-layered forest canopy, crossing small streams and navigating over forest floors rich with decomposing leaves and fungi. Trekkers will encounter a variety of tree species, including hollong, mekai, dhuna, and nahor. This trek is particularly rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts. The forest is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with species like the great hornbill and white-winged duck often spotted.
Length Of The Trek: 12 km
Average Time To Complete: 3 – 6 hours
5. Mayeng Himalayan Foothills Trek
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The Mayeng Himalayan Foothills trek in Kamrup district offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experience. This trek takes visitors through the picturesque landscapes of the Mayeng region, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. The trail begins in the plains and gradually ascends into the hills, offering changing landscapes from paddy fields to bamboo groves and finally to mixed deciduous forests. Visitors pass through several villages where they can enjoy traditional weaving, farming practices, and local festivals. The trek offers stunning views of the Brahmaputra valley on one side and the Himalayan foothills on the other.
Length Of The Trek: 18 km
Average Time To Complete: 7 – 8 hours
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Dibrugarh To Witness The Surreal Beauty Of Assam
6. Chandubi Lake Circuit
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The Chandubi Lake Circuit in Kamrup district offers a relatively easy yet rewarding trek around one of Assam’s most beautiful natural lakes. Formed by an earthquake in 1897, Chandubi Lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The trek begins at the lake’s edge and follows a circular path around its perimeter. Visitors can traverse through mixed deciduous forests, bamboo groves, and occasionally open grasslands. The trail offers constant views of the lake’s serene waters, which reflect the surrounding greenery and sky. Birdwatchers will find this trek particularly enjoyable, as the lake attracts numerous water birds and migratory species.
Length Of The Trek: 15 km
Average Time To Complete: 5 – 6 hours
7. Borail Range Trek
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The Borail Range Trek in the Dima Hasao district is one of the more challenging treks in Assam, taking visitors through the highest mountain range in the state. This trek offers a true wilderness experience, with diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. The trail starts in the foothills and gradually ascends through dense subtropical forests. This trek is known for its diverse wildlife. One might spot hornbills and clouded leopards. It is also home to numerous orchid species, making it a paradise for botanists. The highlight of this trek is reaching the summit of Thumjang, the highest peak in the range at 1,866 meters.
Length Of The Trek: 25 km to the summit and back
Average Time To Complete: 2 – 3 days, including camping
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Guwahati For An Extra Special Trip To Assam
8. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park Trek
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The Dibru-Saikhowa National Park trek in eastern Assam offers a unique opportunity to explore one of India’s biodiversity hotspots. This park, situated at the confluence of the Brahmaputra and Lohit rivers, consists of grasslands, deciduous forests, and numerous water bodies. The trek takes visitors through a variety of habitats, including semi-evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and vast expanses of grasslands. The park is also home to feral horses, a unique attraction, and the highlight of this trek is the opportunity to spot river dolphins in the Brahmaputra. The trek also includes a boat ride to some of the park’s river islands.
Length Of The Trek: 10 km
Average Time To Complete: 5 – 8 hours
9. Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve Trek
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The Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve trek in upper Assam offers an exciting opportunity to explore one of the last remaining lowland rainforests in India. This trek takes visitors through the heart of elephant country, though sightings are carefully managed to ensure safety. The trail winds through dense tropical forests, crossing numerous small streams and navigating over undulating terrain. A unique feature of this trek is the opportunity to visit some of the tea gardens that border the reserve, offering insights into Assam’s famous tea industry. The trek also includes visits to some of the oil fields in the area, showcasing the delicate balance between conservation and development.
Length Of The Trek: 15 km
Average Time To Complete: 6 – 7 hours
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Guwahati Within 100 Kms
10. Manas National Park Trek
Photo: Anutosh Deb / Wikimedia Commons
The Manas National Park trek in western Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, is known for its variety of habitats, including grasslands, tropical evergreen forests, and riverine areas. One will navigate through tall elephant grass, cross mountain streams, and walk along the banks of the Manas River during this trek. This park is home to numerous endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and golden langur. The trek offers ample opportunities to observe various bird species and smaller mammals. This place for trekking in Assam includes a visit to the park’s orchid garden, showcasing some of the region’s beautiful native orchids.
Length Of The Trek: 18 km
Average Time To Complete: 4 – 8 hours
Trekking in Assam offers a diverse range of experiences, from lush rainforests to Himalayan foothills. These trails showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, unique cultures, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, Assam’s varied terrain and natural beauty provide unforgettable adventures for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. As you plan your next trip to Assam, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Ashim D’Silva / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only