Backpacking Northern India 22/45: Dibrugarh City view ASSAM Riding an Indian rickshaw in Dibrugarh

Backpacking Northern India 22/45: Dibrugarh City view ASSAM Riding an Indian rickshaw in Dibrugarh

When talking about Northern India, many might think of big cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai. But this time, mr.hotsia invites you to experience a different side in a small corner that few talk about, which is “Dibrugarh,” a small town in Assam state in Northeast India, where the chaotic charm of India remains truly unique.

I arrived in Dibrugarh one bright morning with cool and comfortable weather because it is located in an area with a large river flowing through and surrounded by lush green mountains. Although the city is not as bustling as Bangalore or Mumbai, it has its own lively character. The first thing I did was book a motorized rickshaw, locally called a “tuk-tuk,” to explore the town.

Riding a rickshaw in Dibrugarh is different from what I have experienced in big cities like Bangalore.Backpacking BangaloreBecause here, some streets are still quite narrow and full of potholes. Encountering some dirt roads made riding this open rickshaw more fun and exciting than I expected. The tuk-tuk took us through a fresh market filled with bargaining voices and the aromas of spices, onions, dried chilies, and fresh vegetables arranged disorderly but lively. I had the chance to try local dishes at a roadside stall, including a local-style chicken biryani that was rich and fragrant with spices, just as good as in the big cities.

This rickshaw ride reminded me of the atmosphere I once experienced inMumbaiandChennaiAlthough they are in different regions, the rickshaw remains a local vehicle that helps us absorb the lifestyle of the locals up close.

Dibrugarh has a large river flowing through the city, making the city view especially beautiful in the evening. I sat watching the sunset from a small hill viewpoint that locals call Dibrugarh City view. This spot reminded me of the atmosphere I experienced inTraveling to Darjeelingwhich is also a northern Indian town with equally beautiful mountain and river views.

During my stay here, I also witnessed the lifestyle of locals who remain deeply connected to nature and the river. Fishermen use small boats to catch fish in the river, and some families come to sit by the riverbank. Time seems to slow down compared to the big cities I have visited.

Another special aspect of Dibrugarh is the food influenced by local culture and the Assamese people. I tried local dishes at small roadside eateries, such as dried fish marinated with spices and curries made with local vegetables. The flavors were rich and balanced, typical of Northern India but different from big city cuisine. There are also local desserts made from sticky rice and various beans, which are hard to find elsewhere.

Speaking of rickshaws, I can’t help but think of the friendliness of the drivers here. They are unhurried and ready to chat with tourists in a friendly manner. You will hear stories about daily life and get good advice from them, making traveling in Dibrugarh more meaningful than just crossing the streets.

If anyone wants to experience India from a different perspective than the usual image, mr.hotsia recommends visiting Dibrugarh and taking a rickshaw ride around the city at least once. I guarantee you will have a unique experience and truly feel the essence of Northern India.

For more information about traveling and accommodation in Dibrugarh, mr.hotsia has written in the episodeBackpacking Northern India 6/45: Indian breakfast, hotels in Dibrugarh dibrugarh hotelwhich will help you prepare better.

Finally, I invite everyone to watch mr.hotsia’s travel video atBackpacking Northern India 22/45: Dibrugarh City view ASSAM Riding an Indian rickshaw in Dibrugarhto capture the atmosphere and experience real life in this town through my eyes and voice.

Believe me, this kind of travel is not just about collecting landmarks but about experiencing the lives of people and a way of life that continues to move slowly but steadily with time in a corner of Northern India.