Haflong is the only hill station in Assam and is also known as the Scotland of Assam. Haflong is located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. Before we talk about the tourist places of Haflong, we need some background knowledge of Haflong.
Introduction of Haflong
Often hailed as the “land of blue hills,” Haflong’s nomenclature have diverse interpretations. Some believe it originated from the term “HANGKLONG,” signifying enriched land, while others attribute it to the Dimasa word “HAFLAU,” meaning ant-hill. Nestled at an elevation of 2,300 feet above sea level and with a total area of 12.79 sq. km, this undulating terrain stands as a veritable haven of nature’s wonders. The population of Haflong is 43,756 according to 2011 census. Four major languages spoken in Haflong are Bengali, Dimasa, Hindi and Assamese.
Tourist Places of Haflong : Why should you visit?
The whole of Dima Hasao district of Assam is blessed with beautiful landscapes. Haflong being the headquarter of Dima Hasao district act as central point if you are to explore all the important places of Dima Hasao. Further, Haflong has the best accomodation and transportation facility to make your vacation easy and eventful.
In this blog, we would divide the important tourist places of Haflong into two parts: tourist places near Haflong town which can be visited within a day and tourist places far away from Haflong town which requires longer travel time and night stay.
Nearby Tourist Places of Haflong
Haflong Lake
Situated at the center of Haflong city, Haflong Lake is a prominent attraction, with its main highlight being the Hanging Bridge within the lake. The lake’s pristine water reflects the azure skies and the encircling hills, creating a tranquil and positive atmosphere. Boating is a popular activity on Haflong Lake, and the best part is there’s no need for ticket purchases. Additionally, the lake features a restaurant offering delightful cuisine, and an open auditorium where locals mention that shows are organized every Saturday.
Haflong Viewpoint / Abraham Viewpoint
ust a short 13-minute drive, covering 5.4 kilometers via NH627 from Haflong town, this viewpoint is easily accessible and promises a journey through picturesque landscapes. The vantage point provides an awe-inspiring vista. There are restaurant facility near the viewpoint. The best time to visit this place is afternoon hours for a toast and chai.
Jatinga- The Mysterious Village
Haflong to Jatinga is 12 min (5.4 km) road journey via NH 627. Jatinga is famous for the phenomenon of birds ‘committing suicide’. This peculiar event of mass suicide of birds occurs at the conclusion of the monsoon season, typically in September and October, during moonless, foggy, and dark nights between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Many ornithologists and bird lovers visit this place to eyewitness this mystery. Besides, Tongham waterfall, situated 13.8 km away from Jatinga, is one of the most beautiful waterfall of Dima Hasao and . Jatinga View Point and Jatinga Bird Watching Tower are perfect spots for visitors to soak in the beauty of Jatinga Valley. Another waterfall named Changsu Punji is also nearby the area and is 6.3 km from Jatinga. The best time to visit Jatinga is during Jatinga Festival which is organised in the month of October.
Read more about Jatinga : The mysterious place of Haflong
Samparidisa Village and Bendao Baglai waterfall
This beautiful Dimasa tribal village called Samparidia is located about 13 km (1 hr drive) from Haflong. It is one of the cleanest village of Assam. Bendao Baglai Waterfalls is located around 3 km from Samparidisa village. The area surrounding the village is home to three magnificent waterfalls nestled amid the lush green forests. The trek is a little difficult. The path is almost covered by forest shrubs as it is less travelled. You will need a local guide to explore all the places around Samparidia village.
Harangajao Village and Nearby Waterfalls
Harangajao is 36.5 km (one and an half hour drive) away from Haflong. The village offers eco-tourism and trekking opportunity. There are three waterfalls near village Harangajao – Borolokha waterfall, Hmunthazau Waterfall and Lower Buolsuol Waterfall. On the way from Haflong to Harangajao, there are two waterfalls Banglaima Daogah Waterfall and Changsu Punji Waterfall. Truly, Haflong is a land of waterfalls. As a traveller, one would wish to have more time while visiting Haflong.
Maibang Town
Maibang was the capital of the erstwhile Dimasa kingdom. Now a beautiful town, it is 42 km from Haflong. Maibang is renowned for several attractions, with one of the most prominent being the “Stone House,” known as “Longthai ni Noh” in the Dimasa language. This historical edifice is situated along the southern bank of the Mahur River in Maibang is one of the remnants of ancient Dimasa kingdom.
Hajong Tortoise Lake
Hajong Lake, located 25 km from Maibang, is situated within the Langting Mupa Reserve Forest in Dima Hasao district. Covering a total area of 526.78 hectares, including its surroundings, the lake is a habitat for freshwater turtles in Assam. It is home to critically endangered species such as the Black Softshell turtle and endangered species like the Indian Peacock Softshell turtle. Recently, the Assam government declared Hajong Tortoise Lake in Dima Hasao district and the Borjuli Wild Rice site in Sonitpur district as Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS).
To reach the lake, one must walk through dense forest. It’s advisable to wear high-ankle shoes, as leeches are abundant along the route. Carrying a stick can also be useful for navigating through the forest.
If you are done exploring all the tourist places of haflong that are nearby (read within 50 km radius), then you should and must visit Umrangso. Yes, we insist. Because, your trip to Haflong will always be incomplete without visiting Umrangso.
Umrangso and its Nearby Tourist Places
Umrangso is situated on the Assam-Meghalaya border, approximately 112 km from Haflong, the district headquarters of Dima Hasao district in Assam. Its name, “Umrongso,” is rooted in the Khasi language, signifying ‘Red colour water’ (Um for water, Rongso for red colour). The environs of Umrangso boast picturesque lakes, two stunning dams, and numerous undiscovered waterfalls. If you are travelling from Haflong to Umrangso, then you must stay for one day or two to explore this place. There are numerous resorts and guest houses, so accommodation is not an issue in Umrangso.
Kopili Reservoir and Khandong Dam
Koipil river is the lifeline of Dima Hasao district. Kopili river originates in Meghalaya plateau, flows through Dima Hasao district and finally joins the Brahamaputra river. Kopili river has been dammed and a reservoir created for hydropower generation. The reservoir is one of the most beautiful places near Haflong. It is 22.4 km from Umrangso. These are many premium resorts near the Kopili reservoir. Kopili River Bridge & Dam view point is must-go destination.
Umrong Reservoir and Umrong Dam
Umrong river has been dammed to create Umrong reservoir. The name Umrangso originates from this river. Both Kopili reservoir and Umrong reservoir is adjacent. You can explore both places in a single day. There are islands inside the reservoir and one can enjoy boating facility there. The annual Falcon Festival is celebrated near the the reservoir at place named Golf field.
Miyungma Daogah Waterfall
Miyungma Daogah waterfall is situated near 29 kilo in Dima Hasao. It can be reached via NH 627 and it is 23 km from Umrangso and 128 km from Haflong. It provides the best view during monsoon. However, during winter season, it dries up. It is 5 km far from main road (NH 627). Besides the waterfall, you can get watch the best view of Kopili river from this place as the river is flowing nearby this place. Boating services is also available near the riverview point.
Panimur Waterfall : The Best Tourist Places of Haflong
Panimur waterfall is 122 km from Haflong and 32.7 km from Umrangso (another small town in Dima Hasao) and is mainly a great attraction for tourists. This offbeat tourist destination is called the Niagara of Assam and the resemblance cannot be overlooked. Famed for its gushing milky white waterfall, Panimur unravels the breathtaking beauty and magnificent of Kopili river flowing through rock-strewn terrains of North Cachar Hills. Actually it’s not a waterfall, but a rapid. Though the riverfront is bereft of any modern amenities, you can enjoy this scenic place in a rustic way. People can enjoy picnic, riverboat ride, rafting etc. The location is treated by Dimasa tribe of Karbi Anglong as pilgrimage site.
Festivals of Haflong To Explore During Your Trip
Jatinga Festival
Jatinga Bird Festival is one of the iconic festivals of the Dima Hasao district of Assam. This annual gathering is organized with the dual purpose of raising awareness for the protection of migratory birds that flock to the Borail Range during winter and promoting tourism in the district. Jatinga Bird Festival is organised every year during the month of October. The venue of the Jatinga Bird Festival 2023 is Natun Leikul Village which is 24 km from Haflong.
Read more about Jatinga Festival of Dima Hasao in this blog
Falcon Festival
Falcon Festival is an annual event that is held at Umrangso, Dima Hasao district of Assam. This festival aims to create awareness among the people about Amur Falcons alongside promoting tourism in the Dima Hasao district. The festival is generally organised in the month of December. Golf field, New Tumbung Village is chosen for hosting this event. The three-day Falcon Festival offers a diverse array of attractions such as Miss Falcon Beauty Contest, Art Emporium, Music Concert, Hill Climb Bike Racing etc.
Read more about Falcon Festival of Dima Hasao in this blog
Chavang Kut Festival
Chavang Kut festival is celebrated by the Kuki community with special pomp. It is now observed annually on the 1st of November. The Kuki community of Haflong celebrate this festival with feast, dancing and singing. They also organize flag raising, public, cultural meetings, cultural programmes, beauty contests, traditional sports competitions, dance and song competitions etc. The day of celebration is declared as a local holiday.
