Chandubi Lake, a natural wonder where striking landscapes meet deep scientific importance (Photo: Incredible India)
For travellers eager to discover places off the usual tourist trail, Chandubi Lake in Assam stands out as a destination of geological, ecological and cultural interest. Situated about 60 km south of Guwahati, Chandubi is not just a scenic body of water, it is a living landscape shaped by one of the region’s most dramatic natural events and sustained by communities whose lives are intertwined with its rhythms.
Chandubi Lake was formed during the 1897 Assam earthquake, when seismic shifts caused the land here to sink and fill with water, creating the broad, calm lake that exists today.
Unlike many lakes shaped by glacial or river action, Chandubi’s birth was sudden and powerful, and its continued presence is a reminder of the dynamic forces that shape our planet. The lake nestles amidst forests and rolling land, providing a unique window into both geological history and present-day life in rural Assam.
What makes Chandubi particularly special is how it functions as a working ecosystem. With no large resorts or heavy commercial development, tourism here remains deliberately low-key and rooted in the natural environment.
The lake supports a rich and balanced ecosystem. Its calm, freshwater sustain a variety of fish species that local communities depend on for their livelihoods.
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Seasonal fluctuations in water level create wetland habitats that attract numerous resident and migratory birds, making Chandubi a hotspot for birdwatching, turning the quiet wetlands into a lively haven of wings and song.
Dense forests and grasslands around the lake provide shelter to wildlife such as deer, wild boar and smaller mammals, while reptiles and amphibians thrive along its banks. The combination of forest, wetland and open water creates a dynamic ecosystem that is largely undisturbed due to low tourist activity.
Beyond boat rides and birdwatching, Chandubi Lake also offers a taste of Assam’s rich culinary traditions. Simple homestays and eco-friendly lodges around the lake allow visitors to experience village life firsthand.
A fine picnic spot with eco-friendly homestays (Photo: Government of Assam)
Meals often feature freshly caught fish from the lake, prepared with local herbs and spices in traditional Assamese styles such as masor tenga, a tangy fish curry, or pitika, mashed vegetables or fish with mustard oil and spices.
Seasonal vegetables, bamboo shoots and aromatic rice form the backbone of most meals, accompanied by local chutneys and pickles. Sweets made from jaggery and milk are also popular treats.
Dining here is not just about food, it is a window into the daily life of communities whose routines revolve around the lake and surrounding forests, giving visitors a full sensory experience of Chandubi’s living ecosystem.
Also Read: Lakes of grace: India’s quiet natural retreats
Places to explore around Chandubi
Soloka Dare Waterfall
A short distance from Chandubi Lake, Soloka Dare is a scenic waterfall tucked into the forested hills. It is a refreshing stop for visitors looking to combine the serenity of the lake with a touch of adventure and a chance to cool off in natural pools.
Barduar Tea Gardens
Rolling gently across the surrounding landscape, the Barduar Tea Gardens offer a classic Assam experience. These estates are ideal for leisurely walks among neatly trimmed bushes, encounters with workers who tend the leaves and quiet moments with a cup of freshly brewed local tea.