North Cachar Hills district, which is now known as Dima Hasao district, lies in Assam, a northeastern state of India. There are only two autonomous hill districts in Assam and one of them is Dima Hasao. The headquarter of this district, Haflong is apparently the only hill station in the state of Assam. People actively visit here from many parts of the world to spend their vacations. The hilltop here offers some of the most wonderful views of the nearby Borail mountains. What’s more interesting to know is that this place is also known as the 'Switzerland of the East'.
Best Time to Visit North Cachar Hills
While you can visit this beautiful place whenever you want, the best time to visit is the winter season when you can enjoy to your heart's content without worrying about humidity.
History of North Cachar Hills
The earlier inhabitants of this place were a group of people who lived by their own set of rules and also practiced their own traditions and rights. As per the historians, these hills were already occupied by a number of tribes like Dimasa Kacharis, Kuki tribes, Zeme Nagas during the time of the British colonial era.
And going further back in the medieval period, the Dima Haso belonged to the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom which was also known as the ‘Cachar Kingdom’. At that time in history, the capital of this place was Maibang. However, during the colonial period, it was Khaspur which was the administrative center of the place.
It is said that owing to some internal tiff in the kingdom, it was further divided into North Cachar and South Kachar. It was only due to the efforts of a man named Tularam that it became possible to carve out the North Hills of Cachar from the Cachar Kingdom.
But in '1850s, Tularam passed away after which the frequent Angami raids started to happen to further prove the influence of the Britishers over North Cachar geography. And then as a consequence, sometime in 1853, North Cachar was annexed and then made part of the Nagaon district of the British Assam.
But in 1867, this particular sub-division was completely abolished. After that, this place was divided into a total of three geographical parts named Cachar, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills. Finally, it was in 1970, that the government declared an independent administrative district.
Major Attractions in and Around North Cachar Hills
1. Haflong
It is an enticing hill station situated in the North Cachar Hills at a height of around 966 meters. Haflong is actually a Dimasa word and its meaning is 'Anthill.' It is undoubtedly one of the most amazing places to explore the beauty of nature.
2. District Museum
Here, one can witness the wonderful collection of artefacts, and many of the collections are ancient ornaments, musical instruments, hunting tools, and fishing equipment. If you are an adventure lover, trekking can also be enjoyed here as it’s an ideal destination for trekking lovers.
3. Jatinga
It is a small town in Assam where you get to appreciate its green and grand forests, encircled with enthralling mountains. What is really intriguing is the fact that this place is considered as a town where a great number of birds commit suicide. Yes, you heard it right and this fact gives this place a more prominent reason to visit here especially for the tourists and explore the mystery behind such happenings.
4. Haflong Lake
This lake stands among one of the most beautiful destinations in Assam, positioned in the heart of the hill station. The water of the lake is crystal clear, well-maintained, where one can indulge in various activities such as boating, alongside, thousands of migratory birds can be seen. Undoubtedly, the lake offers a sense of heaven to everyone, a spot where you can collect unforgettable memories.
How to Reach North Cachar Hills
To reach North Cachar Hills, you will need to cover a total distance of about 2,178, 3,001, 1,277, 3,249 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Check out the following details on how you can reach here by the following means of public transport.
By Air
You will need to deboard at the Silchar Airport (IXS) situated about 140 km away. However, the nearest international airport to this region is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati situated at a distance of 290-300 km. Depending on your convenience, you can consider deboarding at either of the aerodromes. Both the airports are well-routed with other cities. From the airport, you can consider booking a taxi or board a bus to reach your destination.
- From Bhubaneswar - Board IndiGo, Spicejet flights from Bhubaneswar Airport. The airfares start from INR 6,000-7,000
- From Imphal - Board IndiGo, Spicejet flights from Imphal Airport, The airfares start from INR 8,000-9,000
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to North Cachar Hills
By Train
The Haflong Hill Railway Station (NHLG) is the nearest railway station from this place situated about 40 km away. It is well-connected with nearby cities and towns. From the station, you will need to book a taxi or some other locally available means of transportation to reach your destination.
By Road
If you are residing in the nearby cities and towns, you can consider travelling here by well-maintained and structured roadways and national highways. There are several regular buses (state-run/private) which connect this region with other towns and districts without any kind of complexity. You can also take a taxi or self-drive to this place.
- From Dimapur - 206 km via SH16
- From Kohima - 270 km via NH29
- From Shillong - 203 km via NH6 or NH627
Frequently Asked Questions about North Cachar Hills
Q. What is the capital of North Cachar Hills district?
A. The capital of North Cachar Hills district is Haflong.
Q. What are the major tourist attractions in North Cachar Hills?
A. The major tourist attractions in North Cachar Hills include Maibong, ancient capital of Kachari Kingdom, and Umrangso, a scenic waterfall. Other popular attractions include Jatinga, known for bird watching, and Diyun, a tribal village famous for its rich cultural heritage.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here
