Things To Do
in Digboi
Digboi, in eastern Assam, is renowned for Asia’s oldest operating oil refinery established in 1901, which anchors its industrial heritage. The town sits amid lush tea gardens and colonial-era architecture, offering a calm, small-town atmosphere with surprising historical depth. Notable sites include the Digboi War Cemetery and the refinery precinct, which together tell stories of war, industry, and resilience.
Surrounding landscapes of green hills and interwoven tea estates make Digboi a pleasant base for short explorations and photography.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Digboi Oil Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of oil extraction in the region. The museum's exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the technological advancements and the socio-economic impact of oil in Assam. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the colonial-era architecture that reflects its oil boom heritage.
Head to the nearby Digboi Lake, where you can enjoy a serene lunch by the water's edge. Engage in some birdwatching or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings while savoring local Assamese cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Digboi Golf Course, one of the oldest in India, and take a few swings or enjoy the lush green views.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local eatery to sample authentic Assamese dishes, such as fish tenga and pitha. The atmosphere is vibrant, with locals sharing stories and laughter over their meals. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town center, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Digboi at night.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the nearby tea gardens. Explore the sprawling plantations, where you can learn about the tea-making process and the significance of tea in Assamese culture. Enjoy a guided tour and perhaps even participate in a tea tasting session to appreciate the delicate flavors.
After the tea experience, visit the nearby Jorhat district to explore the lush landscapes and stunning views from various vantage points. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the greenery, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the plantations, taking in the beauty of the rolling hills.
Return to Digboi and unwind at a local café, sipping on freshly brewed tea while reflecting on your day's adventures. As evening falls, visit a nearby viewpoint to catch a breathtaking sunset over the tea gardens. End your day with a delightful dinner featuring traditional Assamese flavors at a cozy restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 📝Local SIM card (data) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic oil-town charm and scenic tea-estate landscapes
- Affordability and friendly local hospitality
- Limited nightlife and upscale dining options
- Longer travel times to major cities for certain services
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Apuni kene aase?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Moi [name] holu" - My name is [name]
- "Kothat paai jabo?" - Where can I find this?
Places to Visit in Digboi
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic refinery complex with colonial-era architecture; best captured in the soft morning light.
Peaceful memorial with well-kept lawns and mature trees—excellent for reflective, composition-driven shots.
Old rail structures with vintage signage and teak interiors, offering nostalgic railway photography.
Rolling green tea gardens around Digboi provide misty morning or golden-hour photo opportunities.
Food in Digboi
Digboi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy fish curry with tomatoes and lemon, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Mashed potatoes lightly spiced with onions, green chilies, and mustard oil.
A traditional alkaline curry made with plant-based ingredients, typically served with rice.
Leafy greens cooked with seasonal vegetables and mustard seeds.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market offering fresh produce, quick snacks, and regional specialties; a great place to sample everyday Assamese fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or a smile; dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
Ask before photographing people or private spaces.
Keep noise levels reasonable in markets and public spaces; be patient and friendly with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Digboi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, a 5–10% tip is appreciated; many places round up the bill or add a small service charge.
Cash is widely accepted; cards and mobile wallets are increasingly available in larger shops and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with temperatures often above 30°C. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Heavy rainfall and potential flooding in low-lying areas. Expect slippery trails and leeches in rural spots; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear.
Cool to mild temperatures (roughly 10–20°C). Layering is key and mornings can be crisp; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Digboi at Night
Hiking in Digboi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle walking trails around a nearby tea estate with scenic views.
For longer day trips, drive to the park for marshland, forest trails, and birding opportunities (best in dry seasons).
Airports
How to reach Digboi by plane.
Major regional hub with connections to several Indian cities; transfer to Digboi typically by road and may take a couple of hours.
Regional airport offering limited domestic flights; longer road transfer to Digboi.
Smaller airport with occasional services; further from Digboi but an option for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnicity in the region; Assamese is widely used here.
Significant presence around markets and tea estates; bilingual in Assamese and Bengali or Hindi in some areas.
Common among traders, travelers, and workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across schools and local clubs.
Common on community fields and informal leagues.
Popular in homes and local clubs; easy to pick up for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Digboi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on dal, aloo pitika (mashed potatoes with mustard oil), bhaji (greens), and rice. Request no fish or meat and ask for mustard oil on the side if needed.