Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Barak Valley, named after the Barak River, is an integral region in India. The Barak Valley in Assam consists of three districts namely Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi. Silchar is one of the main cities and also the educational hub of the region. The area is known to have fertile lands making agriculture a major occupation of the region. The area around the Barak River is a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance making it a special region in Northeast India. The diversity of the region, ranging from language and religion to festivals and traditions, makes it a vibrant and intriguing place to visit and explore.
Location
Photo: framesbytanmay / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Although located in the southern region of Assam’s landscape, the Barak valley has a centralised location as it shares borders with Meghalaya on its north, Mizoram on its south, Manipur on its east, and Tripura and Sylhet division of Bangladesh on its west. The Barak Valley Assam map has the central location in the state and its proximity to international borders with Bangladesh makes it a significant cultural and economic region in Northeast India.
How To Reach
Photo: Gary Lopater / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are a variety of options to reach the Barak Valley in Assam, specifically through Silchar. Visitors can reach the region conveniently via the following ways:
By Road: The visitors can opt for multiple means of transport from railways to buses to cars to reach the valley. For those travelling via roadways within Assam, it is suggested to take highways NH 37 and NH 53, which connect Silchar to other parts of Assam.
By Train: Silchar Railway Station is the main railway station in Barak Valley. It is connected to other parts of Assam and the rest of India via the North East Frontier Railway. After reaching the Silchar Railway station, one can board buses or taxis to reach the destination.
By Air: Silchar Airport (IXS) is the main airport serving the Barak Valley region. It is well-connected to other cities in Assam. From the airport, one can take a taxi or other local transportation to reach the destination.
Places To Visit In & Around Barak Valley In Assam
Barak Valley in Assam offers a range of attractions for visitors. Here are some notable places to visit in and around the valley:
1. Khaspur Ruins
Photo: Sandydessert / Wikimedia Commons
The ruins are located near Silchar in the Chachar district of Assam. It is an important archaeological and tourist site, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The Khaspur ruins are known to be remnants of the Dhimasa Kingdom, the Dhimasa people being one of the indigenous tribes of the northeast. A few notable features of the ruins are the Lion Gate, the Sun Gate, the Ancient Temple, the Royal Palace, stone carvings, and inscriptions. The Khaspur Ruins are located approximately 20 kilometres from Silchar, making it easily accessible by road.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
2. Badarpur Fort
Photo: Sabyasachi Dasgupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
It is a fort located in Badarpur town, Karimganj district of Barak Valley. This is the perfect place for those looking to explore a lesser-known historical site. The fort was originally built during the Mughal period and served as a strategic military post to control the movements along the Barak River and the surrounding regions. During the colonial reign, the fort was used as a garrison and administrative centre. The fort’s architecture includes features of Mughal military constructions, such as thick walls, bastions, and strategic vantage points for surveillance. The fort is easily accessible from the town of Badarpur, which is well-connected by road and rail.
Timings: Open 24 hours
3. Bhubaneshwar Temple
Photo: ৰাজদ্বীপ ৰাজবংশী / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Bhubaneswar Temple is a serene and spiritually enriching destination in Silchar, offering visitors a chance to connect with the rich religious heritage of Assam. It’s an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. The temple features traditional Hindu temple architecture, with intricately carved stone sculptures and a classic shikhara (spire) that towers above the sanctorum. The walls and pillars of the temple are adorned with detailed carvings depicting various Hindu deities and mythological scenes. The temple can be reached by hiring a taxi or using public transportation from the city centre of Silchar.
Distance From Silchar: 20 km
4. Haflong
Photo: JyotiPN / Wikimedia Commons
The Picaresque hill station located in the Dima Hasao district, Haflong is the only hill station in Assam. The town is situated at an altitude of approximately 966 metres above sea level and is surrounded by rolling hills and lush green landscapes. Prime attractions of the area are Haflong Lake, Jatinga (a village famous for bird suicides), Panimoor Waterfalls, Haflong Sadar Bazaar and many more. Moreover, the best time to visit Haflong is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Things To Do: Sightseeing, trekking, hiking, trying local cuisines, and attending local festivals
Where To Stay
Photo: Khadeeja Yasser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Barak Valley in Assam comprises three major districts namely- Cachar, Karimganj, and Hailakandi leaving the visitors with a range of accommodations to choose from according to their preferred location within the valley. A few are mentioned below:
Silchar, Cachar
Silchar comprises many good hotels to cater the tourists like Hotel Cachar Club by Siara, Hotel Riya Palace, Borail View Hotel and Hotel J C International. All the mentioned hotels are pocket-friendly and ensure a comfortable stay filled with all the basic amenities.
Karimganj
The visitors are recommended to stay at budget-friendly hotels like Hotel Centre Palace, Hotel Green Valley and Hotel Nakshatra. These hotels are well-connected and loaded with basic amenities required for a comfortable stay.
Hailakandi
Visitors looking for affordable options at easily accessible locations with basic amenities in the Hailakandi district can stay at Hotel Blue Hills and Hotel Sagarika.
Where To Eat
Photo: Gitika Gayan / Wikimedia Commons
The Barak Valley in Assam is famous for its delectable cuisine. The popular food items in Barak Valley include Assamese Thali, Bamboo Shoot Curry, Pitha, and Chung Achaar, making them a must-try for visitors. A few popular restaurants serving dishes ranging from continental to local Assamese/Bengali cuisine from all three districts are The Diner’s Restaurant, Bhogali Restaurant, Hotel Cachar Club, and many more.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Debabrata Hazra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Barak Valley in Assam is during the winter and early spring months from October to April. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rana Sawalha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A few more factors to keep in mind before planning a trip to Barak Valley are listed below:
Average Cost Of The Trip
An approximate cost for a five-day trip from major Indian cities to Barak Valley, per person can range from ₹15,000 to ₹70,000, depending on transportation, accommodation, food, sightseeing, and miscellaneous expenses.
Tips For Travellers
- Don’t miss out on trying local cuisine and experiencing local culture.
- Book and plan your trip well in advance.
- Bargain while shopping at local markets.
Whether you’re keen on exploring ancient ruins, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in vibrant festivals, the Barak Valley in Assam promises a unique and enriching adventure. Due to its unique blend of cultural richness, historical intrigue, and natural beauty, this valley has become full of potential yet less explored destinations. To experience this magical place, book a trip with TripXL and have a memorable time with your loved ones.
Cover Photo: Narayan Adhikary / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
