Practical Information: Assam

Local SIMs & Mobile Providers

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

Acquiring a SIM

Tourist SIMs at airports and retail stores.
Passport, visa copy, photo required for activation.
Activation from a few hours to 24 hours.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in most mid-range to luxury hotels, some cafes, and restaurants 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

Consider using an eSIM or portable Wi-Fi device for reliable connectivity. India Post also operates 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 may take time.

Language & Translation

Assamese is the official language. Hindi is widely understood in urban areas. English is spoken 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 basic phrases 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 8 PM. 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 Independence Day. 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 official 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 common 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

Modest clothing 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 respect privacy and local norms.

Practices

Eat with your right hand. Wash hands before/after meals.
Polite to ask permission before photographing people, especially children/women.
Some religious sites or tribal areas 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 safety advice 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 should dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
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

Avoid 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.
Specialized services are 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

Arrive early for domestic flights, especially during peak season.
Utilize online check-in to save time.
Confirm baggage allowance for all flights.
Keep necessary documents accessible (tickets, ID).
Be aware of security procedures at Indian airports.
Consider pre-booking airport transfers for smooth arrival/departure.

Guwahati Airport GAU Information

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.
Main gateway to Northeast India.
Offers domestic and some international connections.
Car rentals and taxi services available outside terminal.
ATMs and currency exchange facilities present.
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.

Practical Information