Every March, Dibrugarh transforms into a vibrant arena for bird enthusiasts as it hosts the Assam State Bird Festival, a unique celebration spotlighting the region's rich avian diversity. Set against the lush backdrop of Assam’s tea gardens and riverbanks, the festival offers more than a birdwatching event—it’s an expedition that invites visitors to engage closely with wildlife and conservation efforts. The region’s humid subtropical climate shapes the experience, with early mornings and late afternoons delivering the most activity among birds.

The festival grounds stretch across several forested areas and open fields, providing a patchwork of habitats where residents and migratory birds gather. Walks and guided treks cover distances typically between 3 to 7 kilometers, following gentle to moderately uneven terrain rising to 200 meters in elevation at certain viewpoints. Paths wind through dense foliage where chirping bulbuls and fluttering babblers actively patrol their territories, while nearby rivers dare you to pause and listen to the urgent call of the river lapwings skimming the water’s surface.

Apart from the casual wanderer, seasoned birders find rewards in identifying elusive species like the greater adjutant stork and several species of orioles. With binoculars in hand and a field guide ready, one learns quickly to read the language of wings, beaks, and calls as the forest becomes fiercely itself, alive and dynamic.

Planning your visit? Early spring weather in Dibrugarh, when the festival takes place, offers pleasant temperatures and manageable humidity levels. Hydration is key; the tropical climate pushes you to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your forest excursions. Footwear should be sturdy with good grip to handle muddy patches or sloping ground.

Most activities begin just after sunrise to catch the birds at their active best, then taper off by mid-afternoon to avoid the heat spike. Local guides are invaluable—they know where the shy species rest and can teach you how to move with minimal disturbance. Attend the workshops and talks held alongside the festival to gain insight into Assam’s unique birdlife and ongoing conservation work.

In short, the Assam State Bird Festival is as much an adventurous hike as it is an educational experience. It asks for respect to the environment and patience for the unpredictable rhythms of bird behavior. But its rewards—a firsthand view of Assam’s living winged heritage—are unmatched.