Do you believe that North East India significantly enhances the natural beauty of our country? Assam is known for its tea gardens, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, showcasing this beautifully. Did you know which place in Assam is known as the ‘Tea City of India’? Welcome to Dibrugarh!Dibrugarh, located in Assam, is known as the “Tea City of India” due to its extensive tea estates and tea processing factories. It’s a major city in Upper Assam and serves as an important commercial and educational hub. The city is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, providing scenic views and opportunities for river cruises.
Of all the places to visit in Assam, Dibrugarh offers a mix of tea culture, traditions, shopping, education, and nature experiences for a memorable trip to Assam. You can enjoy tea gardens and learn about tea. You can also take boat rides on the Brahmaputra River for beautiful views. Visit temples and cultural centres to learn about Assamese traditions and much more!
Don’t miss exploring this beautiful city and experiencing outdoor adventures in Dibrugarh! Get ready to discover the best things to do in Dibrugarh Assam. We are here to guide you through everything you need to know about the top things to do in Dibrugarh.
Things to Do In Dibrugarh for Nature Lovers
1. Explore the Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary
The Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary in Dibrugarh is a must-visit for nature lovers. It’s Assam’s only rainforest, established in 2004 and covering 231.65 square kilometres. This forest is dominated by dipterocarp trees and home to a diverse range of plants and animals, making it among the top things to do in Dibrugarh.Take a wildlife safari to spot elephants, gibbons, hornbills, deer, gaur, wild boars, and the clouded leopard. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy over 300 bird species, including the Bengal florican, rufous-bellied eagle, and Assam’s state bird, the white-winged wood duck. Explore lush greenery with towering trees like Hollong and Mekai, medicinal plants, orchids, and creepers which make Dibrugarh one of the best places to visit in Assam during the monsoon.
Location: Dehing patkai, Powai Mukh No.1, Assam 786181
Timings: 4 am to 5 pm
Entry Fees: INR 50 for adults and INR 30 for children
2. Go for a River Cruise on the Brahmaputra
A Brahmaputra River Cruise offers an unforgettable experience, revealing Assam’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Known as the “lifeline of Assam,” the majestic Brahmaputra winds through the heart of the state. A cruise lets you witness its vastness, serene beauty, and bustling life along its banks.Operating from October to April for ideal weather conditions, cruises vary from 4 to 10 nights. Popular routes include:
- Dibrugarh to Guwahati: Explore the upper Brahmaputra, showcasing lush greenery, monasteries, and tea gardens.
- Guwahati to Dibrugarh: Cruise downstream, passing historical sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant towns.
On a Brahmaputra River Cruise, you can indulge in various activities to do in Dibrugarh:
- Enjoy panoramic river views from the sundeck.
- Spot dolphins, otters, and various birds.
- Explore historic sites and local markets.
- Taste traditional Assamese dishes onboard.
- Experience cultural performances and movie nights.
3. Visit the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
The Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, one of the best places to visit in Dibrugarh, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Established in 1999, this park features a unique ecosystem blending moist mixed semi-evergreen and deciduous forests, canebrakes, and grasslands. It’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it one of the best activities to do in Dibrugarh. Spot tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, gaur, sambar deer, barking deer, and wild boars. Discover over 400 bird species, including the white-winged wood duck, greater adjutant stork, oriental pied hornbill, egrets, herons, pelicans, and migratory birds in winter and see majestic Hollong trees, medicinal plants, orchids, canes, and creepers.
Location: Laika Gaon, Assam 786150
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm ( Closed on Monday )
Entry Fees: INR 1200
4. Spend a day at Maijan Lake
Maijan Lake, nestled in Dibrugarh offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and locals alike. Despite its modest size, it’s a haven for relaxation, birdwatching and a glimpse of local life while experiencing outdoor activities to do in Dibrugarh.Visit Maijan Tea Estate for a glimpse of tea production and experience the culture and shop for souvenirs. Surrounded by lush greenery, spot egrets, herons, kingfishers, ducks, and cormorants. Observe the local flora and fauna around the lake. You might spot interesting insects, butterflies, and maybe even some small mammals like otters or mongoose.
Location: Dibrugarh, Assam 786001
Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
Suggested Read: Top 20 Places To Visit In Guwahati: Guide To The Capital Of Assam
Outdoor Adventures in Dibrugarh for Wanderers
5. Explore Dibrugarh Tea Gardens through Cycling
Cycling through the verdant tea estates of Dibrugarh offers unique and scenic activities in Dibrugarh city. Ride along narrow paths lined with lush tea bushes, enjoying the fresh air and the soothing scent of tea leaves.Discover the hidden beauty of tea estates away from typical tourist spots, at your own pace. Watch tea pluckers at work, experiencing Assam’s rich tea heritage. You might visit a tea factory to learn about the processing stages. Select from several tea gardens around Dibrugarh, like Maijan, AMC, or Heleka Tea Estate.
Cost of Activity: If you don’t have your own bicycle, you’ll need to rent one from a local shop or hotel. Rental fees can vary depending on the type of bike, duration, and shop policies.
Best Time: November to April
6. Go Kayaking on the Brahmaputra
Kayaking on the Brahmaputra River in Assam is an exhilarating challenge for experienced paddlers. It offers thrilling adventure activities in Dibrugarh city amidst stunning scenery, but it’s not for beginners. Between Tuting and Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, the Brahmaputra has challenging rapids that demand skilled navigation. Experience the river’s power and landscapes up close, passing through gorges and past villages. Encounter local Assamese villages and enjoy their hospitality. This adventure is best for experienced kayakers familiar with whitewater rapids.
7. Go Bird Watching at Maguri-Motapung Beel
Maguri-Motapung Beel, also known as Maguri Motapung Bill or Maguri Beel, is a captivating wetland and lake near Dibrugarh, Assam. It’s a favorite spot for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the area’s biodiversity.Maguri-Motapung Beel is home to more than 110 resident and migratory bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. It provides a sanctuary for eight bird species listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List, such as the Swamp Grass Babbler, Ferruginous Duck, White-winged Wood Duck, and Falcated Duck.
Location: 20 kilometres away from Dibrugarh town in Assam
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry Fees: INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children
Suggested Read: Explore Top 6 Hidden Gems Of Guwahati: A Traveller’s Guide
Things to Do In Dibrugarh for Cultural Seekers
8. Learn about Assamese Culture at Satras
Satras in Dibrugarh offers a peaceful retreat into Assamese culture and Vaishnavism traditions. Established in the 17th century by Mahapurush Sri Sri Shukulata Dewan, these monasteries are a haven of spiritual practices, history, and artistic expression.Experience Satriya, a unique school of Vaishnavism practiced here. Witness monks (Bhakats) engaged in prayers, chanting (Naam Kirtan), and rituals. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance surrounded by traditional Assamese architecture, featuring sloping roofs and intricate woodwork and explore Assamese art, music, and dance forms like Bhortal Nritya and Sattriya Nritya, which are integral to the Satra’s cultural heritage.
9. See the Historic Barbarua Maidam
Barbarua Maidam, near Dibrugarh, provides a glimpse into the history and architectural practices of the Ahom dynasty. Barbarua Maidam consists of burial mounds constructed as resting places for esteemed Ahom officials. These maidams offer insights into Ahom funerary customs and social hierarchy. They reveal details about construction materials, techniques, and the status of officials in Ahom society. The size and design of the maidams indicate the rank of the individuals buried there. Larger and more intricate maidams likely belonged to higher-ranking Ahom officials.
Visiting this site lets you admire the building styles and engineering skill of the Ahom era.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry Fees: Free
10. Explore the Radha Krishna Temple
The Radha Krishna Temple in Dibrugarh celebrates the deep devotion to Lord Krishna and Radha in the region. The temple honours Radha and Krishna, symbolising eternal love and devotion. Major Hindu festivals like Janmashtami (Krishna’s birth) and Ratha Yatra (Chariot festival) are celebrated with enthusiasm here, attracting crowds for festive rituals and vibrant decorations.
The temple’s architecture may blend traditional Assamese design with modern elements, featuring intricate carvings, artworks depicting Krishna’s life, and colourful motifs that enhance its cultural appeal. The Radha Krishna Temple in Dibrugarh offers a serene environment and spiritual ambiance, ideal for peaceful reflection and engaging in devotional things to do in Dibrugarh.
Location: Dibrugarh, Assam 786005
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free
Suggested Read: 20 Best Things To Do In Guwahati, Assam For Every Traveller
11. Shop for Souvenirs at the Chowkidhani Market
The Chowkidhani Market in Dibrugarh offers vibrant experiences, from sights and sounds to aromatic delights. It’s a bustling hub where you can find everything from fresh produce and local crafts to clothing and daily essentials.Experience the bustling atmosphere typical of traditional Indian markets, with narrow alleys filled with crowds, vendors calling out their goods, and a colourful, lively ambiance.
Here are the key items you can find at Chowkidhani Market in Dibrugarh, Assam:
- Local Produce: Fresh fruits like jackfruit and exotic varieties, vegetables, and indigenous lentils.
- Spices: Aromatic Assamese spices used in local cuisine.
- Handicrafts: Bell metal utensils, handloom silk garments, bamboo products, and traditional jewellery.
- Daily Necessities: Clothing, household items, and unique souvenirs reflecting Assamese culture.
- Street Food: Delight in local snacks and street food options available in the market.
12. Indulge in the Flavours of Local Cuisine
Dibrugarh offers a delicious journey through its renowned Assamese cuisine, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Experience the rich flavours of Assamese cuisine with iconic fish delicacies like masor tenga and patot diya mach, cooked in banana leaf at best places to eat in Dibrugarh. Discover unique spices such as bhut jolokia and methi, complemented by fresh ingredients like elephant apple and local lentils, creating a truly authentic culinary adventure in Assam.
Where to Eat:
- Mayabini Restaurant: Known for authentic Assamese cuisine and friendly service.
- Moung Phi Dhaba: Offers casual dining with fresh fish curries at affordable prices.
- Eat Repeat: Combines Assamese and North Indian dishes, ideal for diverse tastes.
Things to Do In Dibrugarh for Offbeat Enthusiasts
13. Immerse Yourself in Spiritual Traditions at the Dinjoy Satra
Dinjoy Satra, located in Dibrugarh, Assam, is a 17th-century monastery known for its peace and rich cultural heritage. Dinjoy Satra preserves Assamese art forms like mask-making, weaving, and traditional music, making it one of the offbeat things to do in Dibrugarh. Learn about Satriya, a unique Vaishnavism school from Assam. Watch monks (Bhakats) perform prayers, hymns (Naam Kirtan), and rituals. Experience the serene ambiance of the Satra with its traditional architecture and intricate woodwork. Visit workshops where artisans create masks, musical instruments like tokari (drums) and gogona (a single-stringed instrument), and handloom fabrics.
Location: Assam 786184
Entry Fees: Free
Suggested Read: Top 8 Places To Visit In Tezpur: Top Attractions You Can’t-Miss!
14. Explore the Historic Lekhapani Railway Station
Located in Tinsukia district, Assam, Lekhapani Railway Station offers a glimpse into the region’s past and historical significance. It holds the distinction of being the easternmost railway station of Indian Railways, adding to its historical charm.The station likely features colonial-era design with local influences. Look for brickwork, arched windows, and unique roof structures. Visit the nearby Lekhapani War Memorial, possibly honouring soldiers from World War II, highlighting the area’s wartime significance. Engage with locals to hear stories and anecdotes about Lekhapani’s history, adding personal insights to your visit.
Location: Lekhapani, Assam 786179
15. Spot Ganges River Dolphin at the Dolphin Point
Dolphin Point in Dibrugarh is a great place along the Brahmaputra River to take boat rides and try to spot the endangered Ganges River Dolphin, also known as the South Asian River Dolphin.Boat tours are available from Dolphin Point, where you can search for the river dolphin. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for dolphin watching, as the water is calmer and the dolphins are more active.
If you’re lucky, you might see a dolphin surfacing for air or playfully leaping out of the water. Spotting these fascinating creatures in the wild can be a truly memorable experience.
Location: Dibrugarh, Assam 786184
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry Fees: Free
Suggested Read: 5 Top Adventure Sports In Tezpur | Guide For Thrill Seekers
In conclusion, Dibrugarh offers a diverse range of experiences. From watching dolphins at Dolphin Point to enjoying local food at Mayabini Restaurant, the city combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore landmarks like Barbarua Maidam for insights into the region’s history, or immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Chowkidhani Market. Whether you’re sampling traditional Assamese dishes or discovering ancient monuments, Dibrugarh ensures a memorable journey through the best things to do in Dibrugarh Assam, featuring rich traditions and scenic landscapes of northeastern India.
