BIHU, ASSAM

Bihu is traditionally a set of three festivals: Rongali celebrated in the middle of April, Kongali celebrated in October, and Bhogali celebrated in January. Rongali Bihu, which means colour and festivity, is celebrated with great spirit and zeal over the course of seven days. It is also known as Bohag Bihu and is the most important of the three, signifying the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. The joyful atmosphere and people clad in traditional dresses dancing to the bright tunes of the gogona and toka (Assamese musical instruments) reel you in, while the community feasts and commemorative fairs offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the rich culture of the state. Assam’s largest city, Guwahati is a great place catch all the action.

GETTING THERE: Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is well connected to major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Dispur, the state’s capital, is located just seven km from Guwahati.

STAY: Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati is the epitome of luxury, and is situated close to attractions such as the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary and Assam State Museum ( starts from ` 5,440/USD72; radissonhotels.com).