Jorhat Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Jorhat is a city located in the Indian state of Assam. It is the second-largest city in the state and is known for its tea industry, as well as for being a cultural and educational hub. Jorhat is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by scenic hills and forests.

The city has several tourist attractions, including the Majuli Island, which is the world’s largest river island and a hub of Neo-Vaishnavite culture. The Kaziranga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also located near Jorhat and is known for its one-horned rhinoceroses.

Jorhat is also home to several educational institutions, including the Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat Engineering College, and Jorhat Institute of Science and Technology. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional dances and music, such as the Bihu dance and the Toka Xopon.

Overall, Jorhat is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, and it is a popular destination for tourists and students alike.

Places to Visit in Jorhat

Jorhat is a beautiful city located in the Indian state of Assam, and it has many interesting places to visit. Here are some popular tourist attractions in Jorhat:

• Majuli Island: Majuli is the world’s largest river island, and it is located near Jorhat. The island is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. You can take a ferry ride to the island and explore its many temples, monasteries, and local villages.
• Dhekiakhowa Bor Namghar: This is a historic temple located in Jorhat, and it is known for its unique architecture and religious significance. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for the followers of the Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism.
• Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is home to the only ape species found in India, the Hoolock Gibbon. The sanctuary also houses a variety of other animals and birds, and it is a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
• Jorhat Gymkhana Club: This is a colonial-era club located in the heart of Jorhat city, and it is known for its historic architecture and social events. The club has a golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the colonial ambience.
• Thengal Manor: This is a historic mansion located in Jorhat, and it is known for its architecture and cultural significance. The mansion was built in the 19th century by a wealthy tea planter, and it now serves as a heritage hotel.
• Tocklai Tea Research Institute: This is a research institute dedicated to the study of tea, and it is located in Jorhat. The institute has a museum and a library, and it is a great place to learn about the history and science of tea production.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Jorhat. The city is also known for its tea plantations, cultural festivals, and handicrafts, so there is plenty to explore and enjoy in this beautiful part of India.

Best Time To Visit Jorhat

Jorhat is a city in the Indian state of Assam, and the best time to visit Jorhat depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to do. Generally, the best time to visit Jorhat is from October to April, which is the winter season and considered the peak tourist season.

During this time, the weather in Jorhat is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries in the region. The average temperature during this time ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

However, if you want to witness the traditional Bihu festival of Assam, which is celebrated in April, then visiting Jorhat during this time is recommended. On the other hand, if you want to experience the monsoon season, you can plan a visit between June to September. The rains during this season make the region lush and green, and the temperatures are cooler. However, it is important to note that heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to flooding and road blockages.

In summary, the best time to visit Jorhat is from October to April, but it ultimately depends on your interests and preferences. Looking for more places in Assam? Have a look on our guide to Tinsukia here.

Things to Do in Jorhat

Jorhat is a city in the state of Assam in India, known for its tea gardens, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Here are some things to do in Jorhat:

• Visit the Majuli Island: Majuli Island is the largest river island in the world and is located near Jorhat. It is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and local festivals.
• Explore the tea gardens: Jorhat is home to many tea gardens, including the famous Cinnamara Tea Estate. You can take a tour of the tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and taste different varieties of tea.
• Visit the Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to the only ape found in India, the Hoolock Gibbon. You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and spot various species of primates, birds, and butterflies.
• Explore the historical monuments: Jorhat has many historical monuments, including the Raja Maidam, a royal cremation ground, and the Lachit Borphukan’s Maidam, a memorial to the Ahom general who fought against the Mughals.
• Attend a cultural festival: Jorhat is known for its cultural festivals, including the Bihu festival, a celebration of Assamese culture, and the Jonbeel Mela, a tribal fair.
• Visit the Thengal Manor: This is a heritage property located in Jorhat and is known for its beautiful architecture, artifacts, and furniture.
• Enjoy the local cuisine: Assamese cuisine is known for its unique flavors and use of local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Jorhat include masor tenga (sour fish curry), pitha (rice cakes), and xaak bhaji (assorted leafy greens).
• Visit the Jorhat Science Centre and Planetarium: This is a popular tourist attraction in Jorhat, where you can learn about science and astronomy through interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.
• Take a river cruise: You can take a leisurely boat ride on the Brahmaputra river, which flows near Jorhat, and enjoy the scenic views and sunsets.
• Shop for local handicrafts: Jorhat is known for its handloom products, such as Muga silk and Gamusa, which make for great souvenirs to take back home. You can also shop for traditional Assamese jewelry, pottery, and bamboo crafts.

How to Get Around in Jorhat

Jorhat is a relatively small city, and getting around is relatively easy. Here are some ways to get around in Jorhat:

• Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transport in Jorhat. They are affordable, and you can hire them for short distances within the city.
• Buses: Jorhat has a good bus network that connects different parts of the city. You can take a bus from the Jorhat bus station or any other designated bus stop in the city.
• Taxis: Taxis are also available in Jorhat, and you can hire them for short or long distances. You can either book a taxi through a taxi company or hire one from a taxi stand.
• Cycle-rickshaws: Cycle-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport for short distances in Jorhat. They are cheap, and you can negotiate the fare with the rickshaw puller.
• Car rental: You can also rent a car in Jorhat if you prefer to drive around the city on your own. Many car rental companies offer a variety of cars, including economy and luxury cars.
• Walking: Walking is also a great way to explore Jorhat. The city is small, and many of the major attractions are located close to each other. Walking can also be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the city at a leisurely pace.

Where to eat in Jorhat

Jorhat has a vibrant food scene, and you can find a wide range of restaurants and eateries serving both local and international cuisines. Here are some of the best places to eat in Jorhat:

• Maihang: Maihang is a popular restaurant in Jorhat that serves authentic Assamese cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes here include the fish tenga, chicken curry, and bamboo shoot pickle.
• Anuraag Restaurant: Anuraag Restaurant is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Chinese, Indian, and Continental dishes. The restaurant is known for its biryani, tandoori dishes, and butter chicken.
• Radhika Family Restaurant: Radhika Family Restaurant is a popular restaurant that serves a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The restaurant is known for its South Indian cuisine, such as dosas and idlis.
• Kakoti’s Restaurant: Kakoti’s Restaurant is a family-run restaurant that serves authentic Assamese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its pork dishes, fish curries, and bamboo shoot pickle.
• New Punjabi Dhaba: New Punjabi Dhaba is a popular restaurant that serves North Indian cuisine, such as parathas, chole bhature, and dal makhani. The restaurant is known for its affordable prices and generous portions.
• Blue Berry: Blue Berry is a bakery and cafe that serves a variety of desserts, such as cakes, pastries, and cookies. The cafe also serves coffee and tea.
• Mama’s Kitchen: Mama’s Kitchen is a casual restaurant that serves Chinese and Indian dishes. The restaurant is known for its momos, noodles, and fried rice.
• Mosaic: Mosaic is a rooftop restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, such as pasta, pizza, and seafood. The restaurant is known for its live music performances and beautiful views of the city.
• Haveli: Haveli is a fine-dining restaurant that serves North Indian and Mughlai cuisine. The restaurant is known for its luxurious interiors and elegant ambiance.
• Biggies Burger: Biggies Burger is a fast-food restaurant that serves a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and fries. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices.

Famous street stalls in Jorhat

Jorhat is a city that is known for its street food, and you can find a variety of street stalls that serve delicious and affordable food. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Jorhat:

• Chatpata Chura Muri: Chatpata Chura Muri is a street stall that serves a popular snack made from puffed rice, peanuts, and a variety of spices. The snack is light and spicy, and it is perfect for a quick bite on the go.
• Jorhat Ke Dohne: Jorhat Ke Dohne is a street stall that serves a delicious meat dish made from goat intestines. The dish is spicy and flavorful, and it is a popular local delicacy.
• Jhal Muri Stall: Jhal Muri Stall is a street stall that serves a spicy snack made from puffed rice, peanuts, and a variety of spices. The snack is a popular street food in the city, and it is often served in a cone-shaped paper wrapper.
• Pani Puri Stall: Pani Puri Stall is a street stall that serves a popular Indian street food made from hollow puri shells filled with a mixture of spiced potato, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney. The snack is served with a tangy mint water that is poured into the puri shell.
• Lassi Stall: Lassi Stall is a street stall that serves a refreshing drink made from yogurt and flavored with different fruits and spices. The drink is perfect for a hot summer day and is a popular drink among the locals.
• Momos Stall: Momos Stall is a street stall that serves a variety of momos, which are a popular street food in India. The momos are steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat or vegetables and are served with a spicy sauce.
• Ghugni Chaat Stall: Ghugni Chaat Stall is a street stall that serves a popular snack made from boiled chickpeas mixed with spices, tamarind chutney, and crispy sev. The snack is spicy and flavorful and is often served in a paper cup.

These are just a few examples of the many street stalls you can find in Jorhat that serve delicious and affordable food. Looking for more places in Assam? Have a look on our guide to Tezpur here.

Where to stay in Jorhat

Luxury accommodation

Jorhat offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels and resorts that cater to travelers seeking comfort and high-end amenities. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Jorhat:

• The Manor: The Manor is a luxury hotel that offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a host of facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. The hotel is located in a peaceful and green setting and is ideal for a relaxing stay.
• Thengal Manor: Thengal Manor is a heritage hotel that offers an authentic experience of Assamese culture and history. The hotel is housed in a 19th-century tea planter’s bungalow and offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of activities, including bird watching and elephant rides.
• Kaziranga Golf Resort: Kaziranga Golf Resort is a luxury resort located amidst the beautiful tea gardens of Jorhat. The resort offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a golf course, swimming pool, and spa.
• Hotel MD’s Continental: Hotel MD’s Continental is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Jorhat. The hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a fitness center, business center, and conference rooms.
• Jironi Resort: Jironi Resort is a luxury resort located in a peaceful and green setting. The resort offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, and conference rooms.

These are just a few examples of the luxury accommodations available in Jorhat. There are many other hotels and resorts in the city that cater to different tastes and budgets, so you can easily find the right accommodation for your needs.

Budget accommodation

Jorhat offers a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses that cater to travelers seeking comfortable and affordable lodging. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Jorhat:

• Hotel Paradise: Hotel Paradise is a budget hotel located in the heart of Jorhat. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.
• Hotel Gulmohar Grand: Hotel Gulmohar Grand is a budget hotel located in a peaceful and green setting. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.
• Hotel Grand Palace: Hotel Grand Palace is a budget hotel located in the heart of Jorhat. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.
• Hotel Jora Palace: Hotel Jora Palace is a budget hotel located in the heart of Jorhat. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.
• OYO 43292 Hotel Green Heaven: OYO 43292 Hotel Green Heaven is a budget hotel located in a peaceful and green setting. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a range of facilities, including a restaurant, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.

These are just a few examples of the budget accommodations available in Jorhat. There are many other hotels and guesthouses in the city that cater to different tastes and budgets, so you can easily find the right accommodation for your needs.

Travel Tips Jorhat

Here are some travel tips for visiting Jorhat:

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jorhat is between November and April when the weather is mild and pleasant. During the monsoon season, which lasts from May to October, the region experiences heavy rainfall and travel can be difficult.
• Local transportation: Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the most common forms of transportation in Jorhat. Taxis and buses are also available, but they are less common.
• Safety: Jorhat is a relatively safe city, but it is still advisable to take precautions while traveling. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas.
• Culture and customs: Jorhat is a culturally rich city, and it is advisable to respect local customs and traditions while traveling. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temples or other religious sites.
• Food: Jorhat is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Assamese dishes like pithas, fish curries, and bamboo shoot pickles. Be sure to try the local food, but take precautions to avoid eating street food that may not be hygienic.
• Places to visit: Jorhat is a historic city with many interesting places to visit, including the Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar, Thengal Manor, Majuli Island, and Kaziranga National Park.
• Language: The primary language spoken in Jorhat is Assamese, but English and Hindi are also widely spoken.
• Currency: The currency used in Jorhat is the Indian rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in the city, and major credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.
• Health: It is advisable to drink bottled water while traveling in Jorhat to avoid getting sick. It is also recommended to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.
• Etiquette: It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions while traveling in Jorhat. Remove your shoes before entering temples or other religious sites, and avoid touching or patting children on the head as it is considered disrespectful.

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