Defining the beauty of Northeast India, the Brahmaputra Carnival is a celebration of Assam's culture, writes ABHI SINGHAL

Northeast India, a treasure trove of cultural diversity and natural beauty, is a region where traditions and modernity coexist in harmony. Among its enchanting states, Assam stands out with 

its lush tea gardens, lively festivals, and the mighty Brahmaputra River. Assam is all alive with the Brahmaputra Carnival, a grand celebration that promises to showcase the region's rich heritage, arts, and cuisine. 

Set against the stunning backdrop of the majestic river, the carnival features cultural performances, adventure sports, food festivals, and more. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the soul of Assam like never before. 

A fun carnival that looks like a colourful masterpiece full of river breezes, and sunshine. On the banks of the majestic Brahmaputra River, Assam culture is celebrated at the Brahmaputra Carnival. The river itself is serving as the stage for this festival, which is organised by the Assam Tourism and is a symphony of culture, adventure, and unadulterated delight.

To make your experience even more fun and adventurous is the Lachit Ghat is the site of the Brahmaputra Carnival, and Sandbar Island serves as the tent city during the event. It would take you 15 to 20 minutes by speed boat from the Lachit Ghat to Sandbar Island, and the journey is visually stunning. 

Glamping in Style

The festival provides a luxurious glamping experience with three categories of tents namely the Royal Tents, Premium Tents, and Deluxe Tents. All of the three options offer you a comfortable and stylish retreat, complete with modern amenities and breathtaking river views that would blow away your mind. 

The foggy layers engulfing the Brahmaputra River will want you to have a cup of tea or coffee with those views and chills. You would also experience the open-air cinema magic at Brahmaputra Carnival Tent City. 

A Retreat on the River

Currently being held on the Lachit Ghat, the carnival pulsates with energy, yet maintains a serene undercurrent. The Brahmaputra, ever unpredictable, adds a touch of wildness to the festivities, reminding us of the raw power of nature. It's a retreat for the soul, where the peace of the river's embrace melds perfectly with the excitement of adventure.

The Traditional Taste

At the Carnival you can indulge in local delicacies that savour the flavours of authentic Assamese cuisine. The carnival has food stalls with authentic Assamese touch. You would see chicken momos, chicken vodka momos, prawns, silkworms and so much more that would satisfy your mouth watery taste buds.  

Adventures on the Brahmaputra

For the adrenaline junkies, the Brahmaputra is an irresistible playground. At the Sandbar Island you would experience the speedboat rides, kayaking and jet skiing for a more intimate encounter with the river currents. For those seeking a true test of courage, bungee jumping, hot air balloon rides and ATV rides are there for more fun.

At the Lachit Ghat, you would experience archery, river rafting, water roller, speed boat, kayaking, ATV, bungee ejection, mechanical bull ride, bungee trampoline, air gun shooting, zip line, rope course, zorbing and rock climbing wall. All this will keep you hooked to the carnival and not wanting to leave it. Take note that the water activities do not take place after the dark due to safety reasons.

A Cultural Vibe

Beyond the thrills, the carnival is a celebration of Assamese culture. You would see performances of traditional dances like Bihu, Satriya Nritya, Bagurumba showcasing the region's rich heritage.

Apart from the dance culture you could get stalls at the Lachit Ghat to buy the printed Gamcha, Mekhela Chador for women and the dhoti-gamosa for men. 

The Carnival also takes you through the musical ears of Assam as bands perform in the concerts in the evening at the Lachit Ghat. On the 19th February the Carnival will be graced by Rupam Buyan, on 22nd February it will be Harmonized Mantra and 1st March will be rocked by Barnali and more will be there. 

A Journey to Remember

The Brahmaputra Carnival is more than just a festival; it's an invitation to experience the soul of Assam. It's a chance to connect with nature, embrace adventure, and discover the magic of a land where the river dictates the fun of life. So, pack your bags and leave your worries behind to travel to the places that would make you recite stories. 

FACT BOX

Dates: December 15th, 2024 – March 15th, 2025

Dates: Lachit Ghat, Guwahati, Assam

Activities: Cultural performances, traditional dance showcases, local and national cuisine, adventure sports, sightseeing tours (Kamakhya Temple, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Umananda Temple)

Accommodation: Glamping experience with Royal Tents, Premium Tents, and Deluxe Tents