Things To Do
in Howli
Howli is a small town in Assam, in northeastern India, known for its quiet residential neighborhoods and proximity to the agricultural plains and riverine landscapes of the Brahmaputra valley. The town offers a glimpse of rural Assamese life with local markets, tea shops, and temples dotting its lanes. Its location makes it a convenient base for visiting nearby nature reserves, traditional villages, and larger cities such as Guwahati.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and easy access to regional food specialties and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Kamakhya Temple, an important pilgrimage site. As the sun rises, the temple's intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance create a serene atmosphere. Spend time observing the rituals and offerings made by devotees, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Enjoy a traditional Assamese lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local delicacies like fish tenga and pitha. Post-lunch, stroll through the lush green surroundings of the Nilachal Hills, where the temple is located, and take in the breathtaking views of the Brahmaputra River. Visit the nearby Ugratara Temple, known for its unique architecture and vibrant energy.
As the day winds down, return to the Kamakhya Temple to witness the evening aarti, a mesmerizing ritual filled with chants and flickering lamps. The atmosphere is electrifying, with the sound of bells and the fragrance of incense filling the air. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the riverbank, reflecting on the day’s spiritual experiences.
Begin your day with an early morning drive to a nearby village, where you’ll get an authentic glimpse of rural life in Assam. Engage with local families as they prepare their morning meals and participate in traditional activities like weaving and rice cultivation. This immersive experience offers a rare insight into the customs and lifestyle of the Assamese people.
Savor a homemade lunch prepared by your host family, featuring fresh vegetables and locally sourced ingredients. After lunch, join a village elder for a storytelling session, where you’ll learn about the history and folklore of the region. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting local craftspeople and artisans to appreciate their skills.
As the sun sets, gather with villagers for a traditional dance performance showcasing Assamese folk dances. Join in the festivities and learn a few dance steps, fostering a deeper connection with the local community. End your day with a bonfire under the stars, sharing stories and laughter with your new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Tea/coffee at a stall | $0.30-1 |
| 🚕Local taxi or auto-rickshaw short ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $20-50 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.20-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Assamese experience and friendly local culture
- Close to natural areas and wildlife for birdwatching and nature walks
- Lower cost of travel and living compared to big cities
- Good access to traditional Assamese food and tea
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options locally
- Fewer modern amenities and money-handling services (ATMs, card acceptance)
- Monsoon season can disrupt travel and outdoor plans
- Limited English in some areas—basic local language helps
- "Namaskar / নমস্কাৰ (Namaskar)" - Hello / respectful greeting
- "Dhanyabad / ধন্যবাদ (Dhonyobaad)" - Thank you
- "Kene aase? / কেনে আছে? (Kene ase?)" - How are you?
- "Moi bhaal aasu / মই ভাল আছো (Moi bhal asu)" - I am fine
- "Eta... dibo ne? / এটা... দিব নে? (Eta ... dibo ne?)" - Could you give me ...?
Places to Visit in Howli
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market scenes, early-morning tea stalls and vendors preparing produce make for authentic street photography.
If accessible, the riverbanks near Howli provide calm water reflections, fishing boats, and sunset compositions.
Dense forest trails, birds and forest light create opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography—especially for birders.
Portraits of artisans, handloom weaving, and rural daily life convey cultural textures and colors unique to Assam.
Food in Howli
Howli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy fish curry made with tomatoes or elephant apple; a must-try freshwater fish preparation found in small local restaurants and homes.
Must-Try!
A traditional Assamese alkaline dish made from dried banana peel ash and raw papaya or vegetables; unique to the region and available at traditional eateries.
Rice-based sweet or savory cakes, made in many varieties—seasonal and often sold at markets and during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market where you can try fresh pitha, roasted corn, jhalmuri (spiced puffed rice), and seasonal fruits; vendors offer quick bites and homemade sweets.
A short drive away, these larger markets offer a broader street-food scene—kebabs, momos, thukpa, and more extensive tea stalls serving strong Assamese tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Namaskar' or a slight nod is common. Use polite language and address elders with respect.
Modest dress is appreciated, especially at religious sites. Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful when photographing people—ask permission first.
Participate respectfully during festivals and follow local customs when entering temples or prayer spaces—remove shoes and follow guidance on dress.
If invited into a home, accept small offerings politely and reciprocate with thanks—bringing a small gift is a nice gesture.
Safety
Tipping in Howli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in small towns. For restaurant service, rounding up or 5–10% is fine; for guides, drivers or porters a small tip (100–300 INR) is customary depending on service.
Cash (Indian Rupees) is king in Howli—carry enough for markets, transport and small shops. Mobile payments (UPI) are growing but may not work everywhere; ATMs may be limited, so withdraw in nearby larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to June brings warm to hot temperatures (mid-20s to mid-30s °C). It's a good time for river views and markets, but afternoons can be humid—carry water and light clothing.
June to September sees heavy rainfall; travel can be disrupted by floods or muddy roads. Take waterproof gear, flexible plans, and check local weather before heading to nature areas.
October to November is pleasant with clear skies, moderate temperatures and cultural festivals—ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
December to February is mild to cool (10–20 °C). Early mornings can be chilly; layers are recommended and mornings offer clear, crisp visibility for photography.
Howli at Night
Hiking in Howli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Close to Guwahati, these forested areas offer short hikes, birdwatching opportunities and a chance to experience semi-wild forest near town.
Famous for one-horned rhinos and wetlands; guided walks and short treks around the sanctuary can be arranged (vehicle access also common).
A longer drive away but accessible for day trips or overnight stays—offers scenic hill treks, waterfalls and viewpoints in Meghalaya's Khasi hills.
Airports
How to reach Howli by plane.
The main international airport serving Assam (approx. 30–60 km depending on exact location); offers domestic and limited international connections. From the airport you can hire taxis or take bus services to reach Howli and surrounding areas.
A smaller regional airport northwest of Howli; has limited domestic flights and is useful if traveling from that region—ground transport required for final connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority local group, speaking Assamese and practicing diverse cultural traditions, including many Hindus and followers of indigenous faiths.
Present in pockets, contributing to the linguistic and cultural mix of the region.
Northeastern India has many indigenous groups with distinct languages and customs; nearby districts may have significant tribal populations.
An important part of the local social fabric, contributing to cultural life and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely played across Assam at the grassroots level; local matches and school tournaments are common.
Cricket is hugely popular throughout India, with informal street and village games and organized matches in nearby towns.
Traditional games and community sports occur during festivals and local gatherings, reflecting regional cultural practices.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Howli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but less varied than in larger cities. Stick to vegetable curries, dal, rice-based dishes, and seasonal greens; mention 'no onion, no garlic' if needed and carry snacks when exploring remote areas.
Veganism is manageable but requires clear communication—many dishes use ghee or milk; request oil-based preparations and avoid sweets/dishes made with dairy unless confirmed.
Halal meat is commonly available in markets and eateries; if you require halal food, ask locally or choose vegetarian options.
Be explicit about allergies—peanuts and mustard are common in Assamese cooking. Carry medication and a translated allergy card if possible.