Haflong

Tucked among the rolling blue hills of southern Assam, Haflong stands as a tranquil surprise — the only hill station in Assam, a world apart from the plains below. With its gentle altitude of around 680 meters, the town is small, friendly, and refreshingly untouched by crowds.

Located in the Dima Hasao (North Cachar Hills) district, Haflong is often called the “Switzerland of the Northeast” for its undulating valleys, deep forests, and shimmering lakes. It is a place where pineapple groves, orange orchards, orchids, and birds coexist in harmony — offering both serenity and adventure.

For those who crave the charm of the hills without the bustle of overdeveloped resorts, Haflong is pure bliss.

Getting to Haflong – A Scenic Journey through the Hills

Haflong lies about 355 km from Guwahati and 84 km from Silchar, making it accessible from both the Brahmaputra Valley and the Barak Valley. The town has its own railway station, located just 3 km from the centre. The Lumding Junction, 60 km away, connects Haflong to the rest of India by broad-gauge rail.

The road journey to Haflong — especially from Guwahati via Nagaon and Lumding — is scenic, winding through thick forests and rolling hills. Travellers coming from Silchar can also reach Haflong easily via National Highway 54.

For visitors arriving by air, the nearest airports are Silchar Airport (84 km) and Guwahati’s LGBI Airport (355 km).

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. arranges private transfers, guided road trips, and rail-based tours for travellers who wish to explore the Northeast at their own pace. Call +91 9733300696 / +91 9733000593 to plan your journey to Haflong and beyond.

The Essence of Haflong – Nature, Orchids, and Culture

Haflong’s beauty lies in its simplicity. Hills carpeted with green forests, orange-laden slopes, and flower-decked valleys surround the town. The climate is pleasantly cool throughout the year, and the slow rhythm of life here feels like a welcome pause.

The region is also a paradise for birdwatchers. From tiny sunbirds to rare hill mynas, more than a hundred species have been recorded in the surrounding forests. The Haflong Orchid Garden is a must-visit, showcasing Assam’s floral wealth, including the stunning Blue Vanda Orchid, which blooms vividly against the emerald hills.

The town’s population is a colourful mix of tribal and non-tribal communities, each preserving its traditions through food, festivals, and crafts. The main tribes include Dimasa, Hmar, Kuki, Hrangkhol, Mizo, Baite, Vaiphei, and Naga. The Dimasa language is widely spoken, but Hindi, English, Assamese, and Mizo are also common, making it easy for visitors to communicate.

In Haflong, every village has a story — and every home welcomes visitors with warmth and curiosity.

Things to See and Experience in Haflong

Jatinga – The Mystery of the Birds

Just 9 km from Haflong, the small village of Jatinga has intrigued travellers and scientists alike for decades. This tranquil settlement becomes world-famous every year from September to November, when birds mysteriously descend toward lights on foggy, moonless nights — an unexplained phenomenon often described as “bird suicide.”

Scientists believe the birds get disoriented by weather and light patterns, but for visitors, the phenomenon adds a layer of eerie wonder to the area. Over 40 species have been recorded in this strange behaviour.

A watchtower has been built for safe bird observation, and every year, the Jatinga Rock Fest is held to raise awareness about bird conservation. It’s an excellent time to mingle with locals, enjoy local music, and witness this fascinating blend of folklore and nature.

Haflong Lake – The Heart of the Town

At the centre of the town lies Haflong Lake, one of Assam’s largest natural water bodies. Surrounded by rolling hills and cottages, the lake is the social and recreational heart of the area. Visitors can enjoy boating, photography, and leisurely walks along the lakeside. The calm water reflects the changing colours of the sky — making it a favourite spot for both locals and travellers.

Maibang – Relics of the Dimasa Kingdom

Located 53 km from Haflong, Maibang was once the capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. Here, ruins of ancient stone structures, a Stone House, and the Ramchandi Temple still stand as silent witnesses of a bygone era. The Mahur River flows gently beside the town, and the surrounding countryside offers serene landscapes for those interested in heritage travel and soft adventure.

Umrangso and Garampani – The Power and the Springs

About 112 km from Haflong, Umrangso is known for the Kopili Hydel Power Plant, a remarkable example of engineering set amidst scenic hills. Nearby lies Garampani, a natural hot spring whose waters are believed to have healing properties. The journey to Umrangso itself — with winding mountain roads and forested valleys — is worth the trip.

Panimoor Waterfall – The Kopili in Fury

Around 120 km from Haflong, the Panimoor Falls mark the place where the Kopili River bursts through rocky cliffs to form a dramatic cascade. During the monsoon, the waterfall roars in full force, creating a natural amphitheatre of mist and sound. It’s a perfect picnic spot for travellers looking for a wild, scenic backdrop.

Muolhoi – Village of Peace

Just a few kilometres from Haflong lies Muolhoi, a peaceful Christian village inhabited mostly by the Hmar community. The village is known for its beautiful churches, warm hospitality, and the World Peace Centre for the Northeast Region of India. Muolhoi captures the spiritual calm of the hills, where life flows in harmony with nature.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities in Haflong

Haflong’s surrounding hills are part of the Borail Range, offering fantastic opportunities for trekking, camping, and paragliding. Trails wind through pine forests, orange orchards, and tribal villages — making it ideal for soft adventure enthusiasts who want to experience authentic Northeast landscapes without extreme difficulty.

Birding walks, sunrise treks to Jatinga Ridge, and offbeat drives toward Maibang or Panimoor are all experiences best curated with the help of local experts.

Culture, Food, and Local Life

Haflong’s tribal diversity makes its cuisine truly fascinating. Try smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry, local rice beer, and sticky rice cakes, prepared with age-old techniques. Local markets are colourful, selling handmade baskets, hill spices, and traditional jewellery.

Festivals here are community affairs — vibrant, musical, and open-hearted. Visitors are often invited to join in, especially during harvest festivals or Christmas celebrations in the Hmar villages.

Plan Your Haflong Trip with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.

A trip to Haflong is not just about visiting a hill station — it’s about experiencing Assam’s hidden highlands, where every turn reveals new landscapes and cultures.

With over two decades of expertise, NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. curates customised Haflong and Jatinga tour packages, birdwatching trips, village stays, and Assam–Meghalaya circuit tours. Whether you’re arriving from Guwahati or Silchar, we make your travel seamless and memorable.

Call or WhatsApp: +91 9733300696 / +91 9733000593
Let NBTT Travel Solution help you explore the quiet charm and natural allure of Haflong — Assam’s only hill station.