Backpacking India 98/129: Enjoy a thrilling trip around Dibrugarh city walk around Dibrugarh Assam

Backpacking India 98/129: Enjoy a thrilling trip around Dibrugarh city walk around Dibrugarh Assam

Traveling to Dibrugarh in Assam, India is like opening a door to another world filled with raw charm and a lifestyle that still retains the authentic blend of rural and urban life. I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to backpack solo and explore this city, which I must say is unlike the major tourist cities commonly known in India. Here, you will experience local life that remains largely unaltered.

Dibrugarh is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, a major river flowing through Assam, giving the city a natural charm mixed with the lively activities along the riverbank. Here, you will see villagers still living traditional lifestyles, transporting goods by small boats, and fresh markets full of local products including vegetables, fruits, seafood, and spices. The aroma of Indian spices blends with the scent of mud and fresh water from the river, making the market strolls even more enchanting and intriguing.

mr.hotsia recommends exploring the city early in the morning because that is when the markets are at their busiest. People line up to buy and sell goods diligently. Some stalls sell unique and delicious local breakfast dishes such aspithasticky rice flour stuffed with sweet fillings orkhoya ladoodesserts made from milk boiled down to a thick, chewy texture.

Besides the fresh markets, Dibrugarh also has small museums and cultural centers that are interesting for those wanting to learn about the history and culture of the Assamese people. mr.hotsia visited and spoke with staff and local tourists, discovering that this place is a cultural hub connecting various ethnic groups in the region.

Getting around Dibrugarh is easy and convenient. Although there is no direct train to the city, Dibrugarh Airport offers several domestic flights. I chose to use tuk-tuks and local minibuses popular among residents for city travel, which allowed me to see local life up close.

Food in Dibrugarh is another highlight that mr.hotsia did not miss. You must try Assamese-style chicken biryani, which has a rich and balanced flavor different from the chicken biryani I have had in Bengaluru or other Indian cities (for those interested in big-city Indian food, check outBackpacking Bengaluru). Assamese desserts made from tea and brown sugar are also sweet and smooth, distinctly different from those elsewhere.

While walking through the small alleys of this city, I also found a small coffee shop with the aroma of authentic Assamese coffee, which is another treasure of the region. I spoke with the shop owner who explained that the coffee here has a unique character because it is grown on plateaus near the mountains in a cool climate.

For those who love exploring nature and want to escape the hustle and bustle, Dibrugarh is a good starting point for trips to nearby forests and wildlife sanctuaries. You can also drive up to nearby hills for peaceful and refreshing views. However, I recommend planning ahead and consulting locals because some routes are still inconvenient and complicated.

If you have followed mr.hotsia's travels in India, I often recommend trying cities off the main tourist routes such asChennaiorMumbaiwhich have their own unique colors and stories. Dibrugarh in Assam is the same. It is a city suitable for those who want an adventurous trip and to truly experience local culture.

For anyone interested in seeing the real atmosphere, I recommend watching the clipBackpacking India 98/129: Enjoy a thrilling trip around Dibrugarh city walk around Dibrugarh Assamthat I filmed, where you can clearly see how diverse and interesting life in Dibrugarh is.

Finally, mr.hotsia's travels in India are far from over because each city and state has unique stories and experiences that are never boring. If you are interested in travel stories about northern India or other cities, I have compiled them inJourney to Darjeelingand other articles that will take you to deeply experience the lifestyles of people in every corner of India.