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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
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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.
Suggested Read: Barak Valley In Assam
How To Reach In Barak Valley
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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
Suggested Read: Umananda Temple
2. Badarpur Fort
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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
Suggested Read: Must-Visit Guwahati Temples
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
5. Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most popular places for every wildlife enthusiast. This national park is a mix of marshlands, tropical forests and a wide range of exotic flora and fauna. It is home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros with more than two-thirds of the world’s population. Other than the rhino, you can also witness Bengal tigers, elephants and wild water buffaloes. Kaziranga National Park offers a mix of experiences to its travellers from witnessing elephants bathing in the river to enjoying the lush green meadows.
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Raimona National Park
6. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
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Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is an offbeat place in the Morigaon district of Assam, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary is home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceroses, acting as a perfect alternative to Kaziranga National Park. Due to its smaller size, the chances of seeing this majestic animal is relatively high. Other than rhinos, this sanctuary gives shelter to other wildlife as well including wild boars, buffaloes, deer and leopards. You can also witness breathtaking landscapes including wetlands, grasslands and dense forests.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 3:30 PM
7. Kamakhya Temple
Photo: Kunal Dalui / Wikimedia Commons
Kamakhya Temple, atop the Nilachal Hill, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the country, drawing pilgrims from all over the world. The temple is dedicated to goddess Kamakhya, an incarnation of Shakti, which holds high religious significance. The spiritual atmosphere, cultural depth and charming beauty of the temple sets it apart from any other place. The temple structure is composed of beehive-shaped shikaras, carved walls and domed chambers. Kamakhya Temple is a perfect blend of history, peace and scenic views.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 1 PM and 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Suggested Read: Top Assam Temples
8. Guwahati
Photo: Parichay Sen / Unsplash
Guwahati is the largest city in Assam, which is fondly known as the “Gateway to Northeast India.” It is a vibrant city brimming with natural beauty, spirituality and picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by rolling hills, it is renowned for its ancient temples, breathtaking islands and historical sites. One of the biggest attractions of Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, drawing devotees from all over the country. Peacock Island is another highlight of this city you cannot miss. Guwahati is also a heaven for nature lovers with attractions like the Assam State Zoo and Hengrabari Reserve Forest.
Things To Do: Visit ancient temples, enjoy boat rides, witness wildlife at zoos, try Assamese cuisine
9. Chandubi Lake
Photo: Prof. Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
Chandubi Lake is a sparkling natural lake, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. The lake is surrounded by lush green meadows, rolling hills and traditional villages. The mirror-like waters of this lake reflects the surrounding greenery and sky, creating a magical landscape for nature lovers to witness. This lake also offers occasional glimpes of migratory birds, making it a heaven for birdwatchers. The region is also home to a wide range of wildlife including exotic flora and fauna. You can also enjoy the annual Chandubi Festival, which is a celebration of art, music and food.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: Lakes In Assam
Where To Stay
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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
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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.
Suggested Read: Explore The Best Foods In Guwahati
Best Time To Visit In Barak Valley
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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
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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.
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Assam
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
