Assam Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIMs & Mobile Providers

Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea are the main operators with good city coverage.

Acquiring a SIM

Tourist SIMs at air terminals and commerce stores.
Passport, visa copy, photo required for activation.
Activation from a few hours to AROUND the clock.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in most mid-range to luxury hotels, some coffee shops, plus dining places in cities.

Connectivity Notes

Wi-Fi speed and reliability vary.
Good 4G/LTE coverage in cities and major towns.
Coverage may be spotty in remote or rural areas.

Modern & Traditional Connections

Look into utilizing an eSIM or portable Wi-Fi device for reliable connectivity. India Post additionally runs throughout the state.

Alternative Connectivity

eSIM options for immediate data Airalo.
Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi.
India Post offers reliable postal services, but international delivery could require time.

Language & Translation

Assamese is the official language. Hindi is widely understood in urban areas. English is used by hotel staff, tour guides, and educated individuals in cities.

Helpful Phrases

Hello/Namaste: Nomoskar (Assamese), Namaste (Hindi).
Thank you: Dhonyobad (Assamese), Dhanyawad (Hindi).
How much?: Kiman? (Assamese), Kitna? (Hindi).

More Phrases for Interactions

Greetings & Basics

Hello/Namaste: Nomoskar (Assamese), Namaste (Hindi).
Thank you: Dhonyobad (Assamese), Dhanyawad (Hindi).
Please: Onugroho kori (Assamese), Kripya (Hindi).
Yes: Okhom (Assamese), Haan (Hindi).

Practical Words

No: Nai (Assamese), Nahin (Hindi).
How much?: Kiman? (Assamese), Kitna? (Hindi).
Water: Pani (Assamese/Hindi).
Food: Aahar (Assamese), Khana (Hindi).

Language Learning

Learning a few basic expressions shows respect. Consider Rosetta Stone for deeper language immersion.

Operating Hours & Holidays

Typical operating hours for various businesses and the impact of public holidays on services.

Shops

Generally open from 10 AM to 20:00. Some have weekly closing days.

Banks & ATMs

10 AM to 4 PM weekdays, 10 AM to 2 PM Saturdays. ATMs operate 24/7.

Restaurants

Lunch 12-3 PM, Dinner 7-11 PM.

Public & Religious Holidays

India observes national holidays like Republic Day and National Day of independence. Assam also observes state-specific holidays.

Holiday Impact

State-specific holidays like Bihu festivals, Durga Puja, Diwali.
Banks, government offices, and some businesses close or have reduced hours.
Plan travel by checking holiday calendars.

Seasonal Closures

National Parks like Kaziranga and Manas are generally closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

Park Access Notes

Kaziranga and Manas close from May/June to mid-October.
Closure due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
Verify exact dates on recognized park websites.

Access & Operations

General Services

Government Offices: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (weekdays).
Markets: Early morning to late evening (8 AM - 9 PM).
Logistics: May be slower during holidays.

Travel Considerations

Ferries to Majuli may have reduced frequency during heavy monsoons.
Hilly terrain roads can be challenging in monsoon.
Always confirm schedules closer to travel dates.

Important Notice

For flight delays or cancellations, services like Compensair may help with compensation claims.

Cultural Etiquette

Interact respectfully to ensure positive experiences and preserve local heritage.

Greetings & Attire

The ordinary greeting is Namaste (or Nomoskar in Assamese), accompanied by pressing the palms together in front of the chest, fingers pointing upwards, and a slight bow.

Dress Guidelines

Conservative attire at religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).
Remove footwear before entering temples, mosques, Satras.
Conservative dress advisable in public, especially outside cities.

Dining & Photography

Dining with locals offers cultural insight. Be mindful with photography to show respect to be alone and local etiquette.

Practices

Eat with your right hand. Wash hands before/after meals.
Polite to ask permission before photographing people, particularly for kids/women.
Some religious sites or tribal zones have photography restrictions.

Taboos & Sensitivity

What to Avoid

Avoid public displays of affection.
Do not point with your finger; use an open hand.
Do not touch someone's head, it is sacred.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Notes

General security tips for all travelers. While homosexuality has been decriminalized in India, public displays of affection by same-sex couples are not commonly accepted in Assam.

Traveler Safety

Women are advised to dress modestly, particularly in the countryside.
Solo female travelers are generally safe but stay aware of surroundings.
Using reliable transportation at night is advisable.

Tipping & General Considerations

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Restaurants may include a service charge.
Small tips for porters, drivers are common.

Interaction Tips

Don't get into discussions on sensitive politics or religion.
Bargain respectfully in markets.
Be open to local traditions.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure Notes

Public infrastructure is rarely wheelchair accessible.
Uneven roads and footpaths may make mobility difficult.
Some modern luxury hotels may offer accessible rooms.

Support Services

Private car hire offers most flexibility for transport.
Specific services are available not commonly available.
Prior arrangements and personal assistance are often necessary.

Respectful Engagement

Embracing local customs and showing deference for traditions greatly enriches the travel experience.

Airport Services & Access

Enhance your airport experience with these useful services and considerations.

Traveler Services

1

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access globally.

2

Flight Compensation

Compensair helps with claims for delays, cancellations, denied boarding.

3

Baggage Services

Look for luggage wrapping and storage options at major airports like Guwahati.

Airport Tips

Show up early for domestic flights, especially during peak season.
Make use of online check-in to save time.
Confirm baggage allowance for all flights.
Keep necessary have your documents ready (tickets, ID).
Be aware of security procedures at Indian airports.
Consider in advance-booking airport transfers for smooth arrival/departure.

Guwahati Airport GAU Information

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.
Main gateway to Northeast India.
Offers domestic and several global connections.
Car rentals and taxi services available outside terminal.
Bank machines and currency exchange facilities present.
Duty-duty-free shopping options available.

Additional Travel Preparations

Travel Insurance

Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering health and emergencies.

Health Precautions

Consult a doctor for necessary vaccinations and health advice before travel.

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency at airports or authorized dealers; ATMs are widely available.

Assam Travel Tips