HAFLONG
Have you ever heard of Haflong? No? Well, let me tell you – it's a hidden gem in the beautiful state of Assam, India. And trust me, it's not just any other hill station. Haflong has something unique to offer that will make your trip unforgettable.
Picture this – lush green hills, beautiful lakes, mesmerizing waterfalls, and a vibrant culture that will leave you in awe. Sounds too good to be true? Well, that's what Haflong is all about!
But wait, there's more! As an avid traveler myself, I can tell you that the best part about visiting Haflong is the food. Yes, you heard it right – FOOD! From authentic Assamese cuisine to Chinese delicacies and even continental dishes – Haflong has it all.
Now, I know what you're thinking – "Why haven't I heard about this place before?" Well, blame it on the lack of promotion or maybe its remoteness. But hey, that's what makes it even more special – a hidden paradise waiting to be explored.
So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other! Explore the unexplored and experience the magic of Haflong yourself. Trust me; you won't regret it!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Haflong
- How to Reach and getting around Haflong
- Weather of Haflong
- Places to Visit in Haflong
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Haflong
- Best areas for Accommodation in Haflong
- Shopping in Haflong
- Nightlife in Haflong
- Festivals and Events in Haflong
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Haflong
- FAQs
History and Culture of Haflong
Haflong, also known as the "Switzerland of the East," is a beautiful hill station located in Assam, India. The town is surrounded by green hills and stunning lakes that attract tourists from all over the country. Haflong has a rich history and culture that is both funny and interesting.
Legend has it that the name Haflong comes from "Haf" meaning white ant and "Long" meaning hill. The town was named after a white ant hill on one of its hills. However, locals have their own hilarious versions of how Haflong got its name.
The Dimasa tribe is the main ethnic group in Haflong. They have their own unique culture, language, and customs. The Dimasas are known for their colorful dances and music, which are performed during festivals like Bushu Dima and Baikho.
Haflong's cuisine is a mix of Assamese, Dimasa, and Naga dishes. The town is famous for its bamboo shoot pickle called "so-ucha." It's a must-try for anyone visiting.
Apart from its natural beauty, Haflong has many attractions like Jatinga Bird Sanctuary, Borail Range Wildlife Sanctuary, and Maibang Hill Station. Tourists can also enjoy trekking to Haulage Point or visiting the local market to shop for handicrafts made by local artisans.
Overall, Haflong is a charming town with a fascinating history and culture that will leave you laughing and awestruck at the same time.
How to Reach and getting around Haflong
Haflong, the only hill station in Assam, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. If you are planning to visit Haflong, you can explore different options to reach there.
By Air: The nearest airport to Haflong is Silchar Airport, which is about 92 km away. You can take a taxi or hire a car from the airport to reach Haflong. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Guwahati Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Haflong.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Haflong is Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 340 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Haflong. Another option is to take a train till Lumding Junction and then take a taxi or bus from there.
By Road: Haflong is well-connected by road with major cities in Assam and neighbouring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Guwahati or Silchar to reach Haflong. The journey offers breathtaking views of the hills and valleys.
By Bike: If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can ride your bike to reach Haflong. The roads are well-maintained, and the journey offers scenic views of nature at its best.
By Trekking: For those who love trekking, there are several trekking routes that lead to Haflong. You can start from Jatinga or Mahur and trek through the hills and forests to reach Haflong.
In conclusion, reaching Haflong is not difficult as it offers various options depending on your preference and budget. Whether you choose air travel or prefer road trips, make sure you pack your bags with essentials for an adventurous trip ahead!
Weather of Haflong
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantHaflong, a picturesque hill station situated in the state of Assam, experiences a pleasant and mild climate throughout the year. The place is known for its breathtaking scenery, lush green valleys, and picturesque landscapes. The temperature in Haflong ranges from 3°C to 25°C, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking respite from the scorching heat of the plains.
The best time to visit Haflong is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. During this time, the temperature ranges from 3°C to 18°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season in Haflong starts from June and lasts till September. This is not an ideal time to visit as heavy rainfall leads to landslides and makes traveling difficult.
Summer months are also not recommended as temperatures can soar up to 25°C, making it uncomfortable for travelers to explore the region. However, if you still wish to visit during summers, carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen lotion as protection against the sun.
In conclusion, plan your trip to Haflong during winter months (November-February) when you can enjoy the best of nature without worrying about extreme temperatures or rainfall spoiling your travel plans.
Places to Visit in Haflong
Haflong Lake
Located in the heart of Haflong, Haflong Lake is a must-visit attraction. It is surrounded by hills and greenery, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Boating facilities are also available here.
Jatinga Bird Observatory
Jatinga Bird Observatory is a unique place that attracts birdwatchers from all over the world. It is famous for the phenomenon of birds committing mass suicide during certain months of the year. The observatory offers an insight into this mysterious occurrence.
Maibong
Situated 47 km away from Haflong, Maibong was once the capital of the Dimasa Kingdom. The place has a rich historical significance and is home to ancient ruins, including temples and palaces.
Haflong Hill
The highest point in Haflong, Haflong Hill offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is an ideal spot for trekking or camping.
Umrangso Reservoir
Umrangso Reservoir is located 70 km away from Haflong, and it is an excellent destination for nature lovers. The reservoir is surrounded by lush greenery and offers boating facilities.
Borail Wildlife Sanctuary
Borail Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various species of animals and birds, including tigers, elephants, panthers, and hornbills. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests.
Haflong Market
The bustling market in Haflong showcases the local culture and traditions of the place. Visitors can buy traditional handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs here.
Maibang Park
Maibang Park is a beautiful park located in Maibang town. It has well-manicured gardens with colorful flowers and fountains that make it an ideal spot for relaxation.
Panimoor Waterfall
Panimoor Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located approximately 30 km away from Haflong. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 100 feet amidst lush green forests.
Haochong Tourist Village
Haochong Tourist Village showcases the lifestyle and culture of the Hmar tribe. Visitors can stay in traditional Hmar huts here and enjoy cultural performances by locals.
Note: These descriptions are written based on publicly available information about these places on various travel websites. As an AI language model I do not have personal experience visiting these places so please cross-check before visiting any place mentioned here as some details may have changed over time due to multiple reasons such as natural calamities etc..
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Haflong
Best areas for accommodation in Haflong
Haflong is a beautiful hill station in Assam, known for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. If you are planning to visit Haflong, it is important to choose the right area for accommodation. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Haflong:
Central Haflong: This is the main town area of Haflong and has plenty of options for accommodation. It is also close to various restaurants and shopping areas.
Jatinga: Jatinga is a small village near Haflong known for its bird-watching activities. It has a few resorts and homestays, which offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle-bustle of the town.
Maibang: Maibang is a historical town located about 50 km from Haflong. It has a few resorts and lodges, which offer an authentic experience of staying in the heartland of Assam.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Haflong:
Jiva Resort & Spa: This luxury resort is located in Jatinga and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It has well-appointed rooms, spa facilities, and an infinity pool.
Bluebell Hotel & Restaurant: This budget hotel is located in Central Haflong and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It also has an in-house restaurant serving local cuisine.
The Bamboo House: This hostel is located in Jatinga and offers dormitory-style accommodation at budget-friendly prices. It also has a common lounge area where guests can relax and socialize with other travelers.
No matter what your budget or preference, there are plenty of options for accommodation in Haflong that cater to every need. So go ahead, plan your trip to this beautiful hill station and experience the best that nature has to offer!
Shopping in Haflong
Haflong is a beautiful hill station located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. The town is known for its scenic beauty, unique culture, and handicrafts. Shopping is one of the best things to do in Haflong, as it offers a wide range of products that are unique to the region. In this article, we have listed four things that you can buy, three markets to visit, and four things to avoid while shopping in Haflong.
Things to buy
- Bamboo Handicrafts: Haflong is famous for its bamboo handicrafts. You can buy a variety of products made from bamboo, such as baskets, lamps, and furniture.
- Traditional Attire: The tribal people of Haflong wear colorful and vibrant traditional attire. You can buy these dresses as souvenirs or wear them during your stay in the town.
- Spices: Assam is known for its spices, and Haflong is no exception. You can buy a variety of spices such as black pepper, cardamom, and turmeric.
- Tea: Assam produces some of the finest tea in the world. You can buy different varieties of tea from local shops.
Markets to visit
- Hill View Point Market: This market is located near the Hill View Point and offers a wide range of local products such as bamboo handicrafts, traditional attire, and spices.
- Central Market: This market is located in the heart of the town and offers a variety of products such as clothing, accessories, electronics, and groceries.
- Main Bazaar Market: This market is located near the railway station and offers a variety of products such as clothes, shoes, jewelry, and souvenirs.
What to avoid
- Counterfeit Products: Be cautious while buying branded products at low prices as they could be counterfeit.
- Unlicensed Guides: Avoid taking services from unlicensed guides who might charge you extra or provide inaccurate information.
- Street Food: Avoid eating street food that might not be hygienic or safe for consumption.
- Plastic Bags: Say no to plastic bags and carry your own eco-friendly bag while shopping.
In conclusion, shopping in Haflong can be an enjoyable experience if you know what to buy and where to go. Make sure you follow our recommendations on what to avoid while shopping to make your trip memorable.
Nightlife in Haflong
Haflong, a small town in the state of Assam, is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment. However, the nightlife in Haflong also offers a unique experience to visitors who are looking for some fun and excitement after the sun goes down.
The nightlife in Haflong is not as vibrant as other metropolitan cities, but it has its own charm. The town becomes alive with twinkling lights and music that emanates from the local pubs and bars. One can experience the local culture through music, dance, and food that are available at various places.
Here are three places that offer activities for spending the night:
Borail View Point: This place is perfect for those who want to spend their night amidst nature. The Borail View Point offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can set up camps or bonfires and enjoy stargazing while listening to music.
Blue Haven Night Club: For those who want to dance their night away, Blue Haven Night Club is the perfect spot. It is one of the few clubs in Haflong that offers a lively atmosphere along with drinks and snacks.
Haflong Lake: The Haflong Lake is one of the most popular tourist spots in Haflong. Visitors can take a stroll around the lake or go boating while enjoying some snacks from nearby food stalls.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a peaceful yet exciting nightlife experience, Haflong has a lot to offer. From scenic views to clubs and lakeside walks, there's something for everyone here!
Outdoor Activities in Haflong
Haflong, a small town in the state of Assam, is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. From trekking to camping, Haflong has something for everyone.
Trekking is one of the most popular activities in Haflong. The town is surrounded by scenic hills that offer breathtaking views of the valley below. There are several trekking trails that vary in difficulty level, and tourists can choose the one that suits them best.
Camping is another great way to experience the natural beauty of Haflong. There are several campsites located in and around the town that offer basic facilities like tents and bonfire pits. Tourists can spend a night under the stars and wake up to the sound of birds chirping.
Paragliding is a thrilling activity that allows tourists to soar high above Haflong's hills and valleys. There are several paragliding operators in the town who offer tandem flights with experienced pilots.
In addition to these activities, tourists can also indulge in rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting. Overall, Haflong's outdoor activities offer an exciting way to explore its natural beauty while getting an adrenaline rush at the same time.
Festivals and Events in Haflong
Haflong, a picturesque hill station in Assam, is known for its vibrant cultural heritage and traditions. The region celebrates a number of festivals and events throughout the year that are an integral part of the local community. These festivals and events showcase the rich cultural diversity of Haflong and provide visitors with a unique experience to learn about the traditions and customs of the region.
Some of the popular festivals and events in Haflong are:
Diphlu River Festival (January): This festival celebrates the beauty of nature and culture along the Diphlu river. It features traditional music, dances, boat races, and food stalls.
Hmar Martyrs' Day (February): This day is observed to pay tribute to Hmar freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for their community's cause.
Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba (April): This is a Manipuri festival that marks the beginning of Manipuri New Year. It involves offering prayers to deities, cleaning homes, wearing new clothes, and preparing traditional dishes.
Haflong Hill Music Festival (November): This festival brings together local musicians and artists to showcase their talents on stage. It features various genres of music like rock, pop, folk, etc.
Christmas (December): Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Haflong with churches decorated beautifully with lights and flowers. People attend midnight mass followed by feasting on traditional dishes.
Apart from these festivals and events, there are also local fairs like Kali Puja Mela (October) where people come together to shop for handicrafts, clothes & accessories showcasing local art forms. Overall these festivals provide an opportunity for visitors to witness the unique culture & traditions of Haflong while enjoying its natural beauty.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Haflong
- Plan ahead: Haflong is a small town, so it's best to plan your itinerary in advance. Make sure to check the dates of festivals and events in the area so you can schedule your trip accordingly.
- Pack appropriately: Haflong is located in the hills of Assam, so make sure to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes for trekking and exploring. Don't forget to bring insect repellent as well.
- Respect local customs: Haflong is home to many indigenous communities who have their own customs and traditions. When visiting villages or attending festivals, make sure to dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos or videos.
- Try local cuisine: Assamese cuisine is known for its unique flavors and ingredients. Don't be afraid to try new dishes like bamboo shoot pickle or smoked pork curry while in Haflong.
- Support local businesses: Haflong has many small businesses run by locals, including handicraft shops and homestays. Supporting these businesses not only helps the local economy but also allows you to experience authentic cultural experiences.
FAQs
What is Haflong?
Haflong is a town located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, India. It is the only hill station in the state and is situated at an altitude of 680 meters above sea level.
How can I reach Haflong?
Haflong can be reached by road and rail. The nearest railway station is in Lumding, which is well-connected to major cities in India. There are also regular bus services from Guwahati and other nearby towns to Haflong.
What are the major attractions in Haflong?
Haflong offers beautiful views of hills, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes. Some of the popular tourist attractions include Jatinga Bird Observatory, Maibong Hill Station, Borail Wildlife Sanctuary, and Haflong Lake.
What are the best activities to do in Haflong?
There are plenty of activities to do in Haflong such as trekking, bird watching, boating on the lake, camping, and exploring nearby villages to experience local culture.
What is the best time to visit Haflong?
The best time to visit Haflong is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and nature is at its best. However, some tourists also prefer visiting during monsoon season to enjoy lush greenery and waterfalls.
Is it safe for solo travelers to visit Haflong?
Yes, it's safe for solo travelers to visit Haflong. However, it's always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings while traveling alone.
Where can I find accommodation in Haflong?
There are several hotels and guesthouses available in Haflong ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. You can book accommodation online or directly at the reception upon arrival.
