Tourism of Assam | Assam

Assam About this sound pronunciation is a northeastern state of India with its capital at Dispur in the city of Guwahati. Located south of the eastern Himalayas, Assam comprises the Brahmaputra and the Barak river valleys along with the Karbi Anglong and the North Cachar Hills with an area of 30,285 square miles (78,438 km²). Assam is surrounded by six of the other Seven Sister States: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya. Popularly the Northeatern part of India is also called"The Unexplored Paradise". These states are connected to the rest of India via a narrow strip in West Bengal called the Siliguri Corridor or "Chicken's Neck". Assam also shares international borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh; and cultures, peoples and climate with South-East Asia – important elements in India’s Look East policy.

Assam became a part of India after the British occupied the region following the First Anglo-Burmese War of 1824-1826. It is known for Assam tea, large and old petroleum resources, Assam silk and for its rich biodiversity. Assam has successfully conserved the one-horned Indian rhinoceros from near extinction, along with the tiger and numerous species of birds, and it provides one of the last wild habitats for the Asian elephant. It is becoming an increasingly popular destination for wildlife tourism, and Kaziranga and Manas are both World Heritage Sites. Assam was also known for its Sal tree forests and forest products, much depleted now. A land of high rainfall, Assam is endowed with lush greenery and the mighty river Brahmaputra, whose tributaries and oxbow lakes provide the region with a unique hydro-geomorphic and aesthetic environment.

How to reach at Assam:

Air:

The Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport of Guwahati is well connected by air to most of the metros in the country. There are regular flights to Guwahati running all year long on daily basis. All the major carriers of the country like Air India, Jet Airways, Kingfisher Red, SpiceJet, Go Air Business, JetLite and IndiGo airlines connect Guwahati to most of the major cities of India.

Most of the carriers also operate flights connecting the other towns of Assam like Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, North Lakhimpur and Silchar to Guwahati and to the other major cities in India.

Rail:

A convenient Indian Railways network runs throughout the state connecting major Indian cities with Assam. There are train services connecting Assam to all corners of the country such as Kolkata, New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin and Trivandrum.

Road:

Guwahati, the largest city in Northeast India, is the hub of the road network to the north eastern region. A good network of National Highways and other roads connect Assam to all the prime cities of India.

Travel within Assam:

Assam State Transport Corporation and other tourist bus services run by private operators offer a good network of bus routes throughout the state covering all the cities and towns of Assam. These buses also ply to the capital cities of the neighboring northeastern states.

The Indian Railways network also connects the major towns of Assam to Guwahati and to the rest of India. There are several new and fast trains operating effectively these days.

Assam Tourism department has a fleet of luxury buses and cars, which are available for hire at reasonable prices. Private taxis and auto rickshaws are perfect for covering short distances within the towns.

Road Distance from Guwahati Assam (KM):

Agartala	-	579
Aizawl	-	538
Along	-	595
Badarpur	-	308
Bongaigaon	-	190
Bhalukpung	-	205
Bagdogra	-	523
Bhairabkunda	-	137
Bomdila	-	345
Mumbari	-	3014
Chandubi	-	54
Cherrapunjee	-	154
Kolkata	-	1182
Dimapur	-	280
Dhubri	-	287
Dibrugarh	-	445
Digboi	-	501
Diphu	-	269
Duliajan	-	503
Daranga	-	100
Darjeeling	-	587
Delhi	-	2160
Gauripur	-	227
Golaghat	-	307
Ghoom	-	580
Gangtok	-	624
Haflong	-	355
Hajo	-	32
Itanagar	-	420
Imphal	-	487
Jatinga	-	364
Jorhat	-	314
Kaziranga	-	217
Kokrajhar	-	276
Kohima	-	342
Kalimpong	-	582
Lanka	-	184
Lawkhowa	-	152
Ledo	-	540
Lumding	-	221
Madan Kamdev	-	35
Majuli	-	237
Manas	-	176
Mangaldoi	-	70
Margherita	-	532
Mokokcheleng	-	475
Naharatia	-	576
Namrup	-	543
N. Lakhimpur	-	415
Nagaon	-	120
Nazira	-	387
Nameri	-	237
North Guwahati	-	14
Orang	-	140
Phunchilling	-	374
Parasuramunda	-	613
Pasighat	-	515
Pabitora	-	32
Sivasagar	-	369
Silghat	-	180
Silchar	-	398
Shillong	-	100
Silliguri	-	513
Sualkuchi	-	32
Tinsukia	-	483
Tura	-	284
Tezpur	-	181
Thimphu	-	549
Tawang	-	532
Zero	-	480

Popular Tourist Circuits at Assam:

Guwahati-Shillong-Guwahati
Guwahati-Kaziranga-Guwahati
Guwahati-Tezpur-Bhalukpong-Nameri National Park-Guwahati
Guwahati-Bomdila-Tawang(Arunachal Pradesh)-Tezpur-Guwahati
Guwahati-Sibsagar-Jorhat-Majuli-Guwahati
Guwahati-Hajo-Barpeta-Guwahati
Guwahati-Manas-Guwahati
Guwahati City Tour
River cruise on Brahmaputra
Brahmaputra by Steam- a steam locomotive driven nostalgia trip(operated by the North East Frontier Railway).
Jatinga Steam Safari across the enchanting North Cachar Hills(operated by the North East Frontier Railway).

Tourism of Assam:

Assam is the central state in the North-East Region of India and serves as the gateway to the rest of the Seven Sister States. For the purposes of tourism there are wildlife preserves like the Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Burasapori Wildlife Sanctuary, Bornodi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonai-rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary, Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, Joydihing Rainforest, Podumani Bherjan Borajan Wildlife Sanctuary, Panidihing Bird Sanctuary, Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary etc. The climate is sub-tropical. Assam experiences the Indian monsoon and has one of the highest forest densities in India. The winter months are the best time to visit.

It has a rich cultural heritage going back to the Ahom Dynasty which governed the region for many centuries before the British occupation.

Main Destinations in Assam:

Brahmaputra: The only male river in India, this is both a source of sorrow and sustenance for the people of Assam.There is cruise facility to enjoy the beauty of the river.

Guwahati:

One of the key urban centres of Assam and the biggest city in North-East India, this serves as the major gateway to the whole region. This is the primary hopping point for accessing Shillong, the hill station.

Majuli:

The largest freshwater island in South Asia on the Brahmaputra River.

Kaziranga National Park:

This is one of the few places covered as a World Heritage Site and the main habitat of the Great Indian One-horned Rhinoceros. Also check out Orang National Park and Nameri National Park.

Jatinga:

The mystery of the bird suicides in Jatinga in the North Cachar Hills.

Tezpur:

Small town steeped in history and culture. Check out Usha Pahar, Agnigarh, Mahabhairav Temple, etc...

Sivasagar:

Seat of the Ahom Kingdom. Check out Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Sivadol, Kareng Ghar of Garhgaon etc...

Hajo:

Hajo is a small township situated to the northwest of Guwahati across the river Brahmaputra.Hajo is a remarkable example of communal harmony .This is an ancient pilgrimage centre for three religions Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism.

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park:

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a beautiful National Park situated in Tinsukia district. There are few Eco lodges situated here to enjoy the beauty of this park.

Goalpara:

Goalpara is also a major tourist spot in Assam.It has a numerous tourist spots and temples like Sri Surya Pahar,Tekreshwari Pahar,Paglartek in Pancharatna,Pir Babas Mazar in Joleshwar,Naranarayan Setu (Bridge) connecting northern Assam districts like Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Dhubri etc. to Goalpara, Guwahati and major part of Meghalaya.

Dibrugarh:

Business hub in upper Assam. Serves as gateway to Nagaland. Naharkatiya is a place here which is famous for a Buddhist monastery. There are numerous temples, ruins of palaces, etc.

Attractive destinations / Tourism of Assam:

Assam has several attractive destinations; majority of these are National Parks, Wildlife and Bird Sanctuaries, areas with archaeological interests and areas with unique cultural heritage. Moreover, as a whole, the region is covered by beautiful natural landscapes.

Kaziranga National Park:

Kaziranga National Park is a national park in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam, India. A World Heritage Site, the park hosts two-thirds of the world's Great One-horned Rhinoceroses. Kaziranga boasts the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International for conservation of avifaunal species. Compared to other protected areas in India, Kaziranga has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high species diversity and visibility.

Kaziranga is a vast expanse of tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests, crisscrossed by four major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, and the park includes numerous small bodies of water. Kaziranga has been the theme of several books, songs, and documentaries. The park celebrated its centennial in 2005 after its establishment in 1905 as a reserve forest.

Manas National Park:

Manas National Park or Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a Wildlife Sanctuary, UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, a Project Tiger Reserve, an Elephant Reserve and a Biosphere Reserve in Assam, India. Located in the Himalayan foothills, it is contiguous with the Royal Manas National park in Bhutan. The park is known for its rare and endangered endemic wildlife such as the Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur and Pygmy Hog.

Nameri National Park:

Nameri National Park is a national park located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in the Sonitpur District of Assam, India, about 35 kilometres from Tezpur.

Nameri shares its northern boundary with the Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary of Arunachal.Together they constitute an area of over 1000 km2 of semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests with cane and bamboo brakes and narrow strips of open grassland along rivers. This is excellent elephant country and ideal habitat for a host of other animals including the tiger. Nameri beheimatet ausserdem Leoparden, Bisons, Sambars, It is also home to the Leopard, Bison, Sambar, dhole (the Asiatic wild dog), Hog Deer, Muntjac, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Capped Langur, Indian Giant Squirrel etc., Nameri is a birder's paradise with over 300 species of birds - including the white winged wood duck, four distinct species of the Hornbill, Blue-bearded Bee-eaters, Babblers, Plovers etc.

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park:

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a national wildlife park in Tinsukia, Assam, India.

Covering 650 km2 this is one of the largest parks in Assam. It is one of nineteen biodiversity hotspots around the world.

Originally created to help conserve the habitat of the rare White-winged wood duck, the park is also home to other rare creatures such as water buffalo, wild horse, the tiger and Capped Langur. The park also has some Eco lodges.

Orang National Park:

The Orang National Park, located on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River in the Darrang and Sonitpur districts of Assam, India, covers an area of 78.81 square kilometres (30.43 sq mi). It was established as a sanctuary in 1985 and declared a National Park on 13 April 1999. It is also known as the mini Kaziranga National Park (IUCN site) since the two parks have a similar landscape made up of marshes, streams and grasslands and are inhabited by the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros. The park has a rich flora and fauna, including Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, pigmy hog, elephants, wild buffalo and tigers.

It is the only stronghold of rhinoceros on the north bank of the Brahmaputra river.

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife preserve in the Marigaon district of the state of Assam in India. It is located about 60km east of Guwahati. It is hardly 2 hours drive through a beautiful semi hilly road passing by River Brahmaputa, and a small portion of the famous Magical village of Mayong. It is supposed to be the major wildlife stock, situated in a covering area of 38.8 Sq. km. The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is about 50 km from Guwahati. Though, the total notified area of the park is about 38.80 square kilometre but the remaining area is jagged with hillocks. Pobitora was declared a reserve forest in 1971 and a wildlife sanctuary ten years later.

Biodiversity in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:

Pobitora is mainly famous for its great Indian one horned Rhinoceros. Besides Rhinoceros the other animals are Asiatic Buffalo, Leopard, Wild bear, civet cat etc. Assam’s Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to more than 2000 migratory birds and various reptiles. In Pobitora wildlife sanctuary, there are now 81 animals, a ten per cent increase over the last six years. These 81 rhinos are surviving on merely 16 square kilometre area of the park. Pobitora has exceeded its rhino-bearing capacity and is overpopulated. The animals have begun moving outside the sanctuary in search of food, and chances of serious man-animal conflict are quite rife. Besides, the straying animals have the risk of contracting diseases that afflict domestic animals.

Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, formerly known as the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary or Hollongapar Reserve Forest, is an isolated protected area of evergreen forest located in Assam, India. The sanctuary was officially constituted and renamed in 1997. Set aside initially in 1881, its forests used to extend to the foothills of the Patkai mountain range. Since then, the forest has been fragmented and surrounded by tea gardens and small villages. In the early 1900s, artificial regeneration was used to a develop well-stocked forest, resulting in the site's rich biodiversity. The Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary contains India's only gibbons, the hoolock gibbons and Northeastern India's only nocturnal primate, the Bengal Slow Loris. The upper canopy of the forest is dominated by the Hollong tree (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), while the Nahar (Mesua ferrea) dominates the middle canopy. The lower canopy consists of evergreen shrubs and herbs. The habitat is threatened by illegal logging, encroachment of human settlements, and habitat fragmentation.

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary:

Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Karbi Anglong district, Assam, India. It is 25 km from Golaghat.

The sanctuary is home to hoolock gibbons and golden langurs.

Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary:

Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary falling under Dhubri and Kokrajhar districts of Assam, India. It is famous for the Golden Langur and is the second protected habitat for Golden Langur in India. Chakrashila Hill was first declared as reserve forest in 1966 and on July 14, 1994 it was recognized with the status of sanctuary by the Government of Assam. It covers an area of 45.568 km2 (4556.8 hectares). It is around 6 km from Kokrajhar town, 68 km from Dhubri town and 219 km from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati.

Majuli:

Just 32 kms from Guwahati is Sualkuchi, 'The Manchester of the east'. It is famous for Assam silk - the unique golden Muga, Pat, and Eri fabrics. Dress materials from here are much sought after by cloth connoisseurs from around the world.

Majuli which is the largest river island in the world and proposed 21st UNESCO World Heritage Site is located at a distance of 300 kms from Guwahati and 12 km from Jorhat town. Several important Vaishnavites sattras or monasteries exist here. The island is famous for Salmara pottery, migratory ducks and other rare avian life.

Located at a distance of 269 km from Guwahati lies Diphu, a hilly town, which is the headquarters of Karbi-Anglong district. It is a centre of Karbi art and culture.

The coal town of Margherita in upper Assam is just 20 kms or 45 minutes drive from Digboi, the oil township, and here one can visit the Singpho village to sip the world famous Singpho organic tea.

Sualkuchi:

Sualkuchi also known as Soalkuchi, is a census town in Kamrup district in the Indian state of Assam. It is situated on the north bank of the river Brahmaputra, about 35 km from Guwahati, Sualkuchi is a block of Kamrup District. There are large number of cottage handloom industries for which it is also known as the "Manchester of Assam".

Sarthebari:

Sarthebari is a town and a town area committee in Barpeta district in the Indian state of Assam.

Bogamati:

Digboi oil town:

Digboi is a town and a town area committee in Tinsukia district in the north-eastern part of the state of Assam, India Crude oil was discovered here in late 19th century, in a span of ten years when the discovery of Oil took place in first Oil drilling in the world. Digboi oilfield has the oldest running oil well in the world.

With a significant number of British professionals working for Assam Oil Company until the decade following independence of India, Digboi had a well developed infrastructure and a number of bungalows unique to the town. It has eighteen holes golf course as part of the Digboi Club. It has guest houses and tourist residential apartments laid on Italian architectural plan to promote tourism in upper Assam.

Ledo and Stilwell Road:

Ledo is a small town in Tinsukia district, Assam, India. It is the starting point for the Ledo Road, also known as Stillwel Road in British era and 2nd world war.This road was used by British for military supply to China through Burma(Myanmar) (NH 38 and the NH 153). The Ledo Road (from Ledo, Assam, India to Kunming, Yunnan, China) was built during World War II so that the Western Allies could supply the Chinese as an alternative to the Burma Road which had been cut by the Japanese in 1942. It was renamed the Stilwell Road (named after General Vinegar Joe Stilwell of the U.S. Army) in early 1945 at the suggestion of Chiang Kai-shek. It passes through Burma towns of shingbwiyang, Myitkyina and Bhamo in Kachin state.

Haflong, Maibong and Jatinga:

Haflong is a town and a town area committee and headquarters of North Cachar Hills district in the Indian state of Assam. It is adoringly known as the 'Switzerland of the East'. Haflong is a quaint hill station breath takingly beautiful. It is garlanded by the hills and is an unending saga of gently flowing streams and waterfalls. The hills are hidden by rolling mists and clouds float within your fingertips.

Maibong, also spelt as Maibang, is a town and a town area committee in North Cachar Hills district in the Indian state of Assam.

Jatinga , a village on a ridge, is located in the North Cachar Hills district, Assam State in India. It is 330 km south of Guwahati. It is most famous for the phenomenon of birds “committing suicide”. The village is inhabited by about 2,500 Jaintia tribal people.

Bongaigaon:

Bongaigaon is the district headquarters of Bongaigaon District, Assam, India. The city is situated 180 kilometres (112 mi) north west of Guwahati. It has two parts - Old Bongaigaon and New Bongaigaon. Bongaigaon is predominantly inhabited by the Koch Rajbongshi Community which is a part of "Bijni Kingdom" ruled by the Rajbongshi Kings. Recently it was divided and a new district Chirang was formed, to meet the demands of Bodos of Assam. It has a major petrochemical industry, the Bongaigaon Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (BRPL).

Umrangshu hotwater spring:

Guwahati:

Guwahati is a major city in eastern India, with a population of 818,809 (2001 census). It is the largest city in the North-East Region of India. It is also considered as one of the largest cities of eastern India. It is said to be the "Gateway" of the North-east Region. Dispur, the capital of the Indian state of Assam, is located within the city. Guwahati is one of the most rapidly growing cities in India; during the past few decades it has experienced expansion and also a steep rise in population. According to a survey done by a UK media outlet, Guwahati is among the 100 fastest growing cities of the world, and is the 5th fastest growing among Indian cities.

The city is situated between the southern bank of the Brahmaputra river and the foothills of the Shillong plateau, with LGB International Airport to the west, and the town of Narengi to the east. The city is gradually being expanded as North Guwahati to the northern bank of the Brahmaputra. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation, the city's local government, administers an area of 216 km², while the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority, the planning and development administers an area of 340 km².

Guwahati is a major commercial and educational center of North-East India and is home to world class institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. The city is also a major center for cultural activities and sports in the North Eastern region and for the administrative and political activities of Assam. The city is also an important hub for transportation in the North East Region.

Hajo archaeological region:

Hajo is an ancient pilgrimage centre for three religions: Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. It lies on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, 24 km from the city of Guwahati in the Kamrup district of Assam, India. The area is dotted with a number of ancient temples as well as other sacred artifacts. The Hayagriva Madhava Mandir is the most famous temple of Hajo. Lesser known temples of Hajo like that of Ganesha was constructed during the reign of Ahom King Pramatta Singha in 1744 AD. The Kedareswara Temple, a Shiva temple, has inscription on the temple showing that it is of Rajeswar Singha period.

Hayagriva Madhava Mandir is situated on the Monikut hill. The present temple structure was constructed by the King Raghudeva Narayan in 1583. According to some historians the King of Pala dynasty constructed it in 6th century. It is a stone temple and it enshrines an image of Hayagriva Madhava. Some Buddhists believe that the Hayagriva Mahhava temple, best known in the group of Hindu temples, is where the Buddha attained Nirvana. At this imposing temple, the presiding deity is worshipped as the Man Lion incarnation of Vishnu by the Hindus. Sayani, the first wife of Kalia Bhomora Barphukan donated a family of paiks and also a plot of land for their maintenance to the Hayagriva Madhava temple during the days of Purnananda
Burhagohain.

Hajo is also a Muslim pilgrimage centre since the mosque known as the Poa Mecca is thought to have some of the sanctity of Mecca.

Sibsagar archaeological region:

Sivasagar (previously spelled Sibsagar) is a city in the Sibsagar district in the state of Assam in India, about 360 kilometres (224 mi) north east of Guwahati. . It is the district headquarters of the Sivasagar district. Sivasagar is a heritage place in Assam famous for the monuments of Ahom kingdom. Now it is a multi-cultural town.

Charaideo:

Charaideo was the first capital of the Ahom kingdom established by the first Ahom king Chao Lung Siu-Ka-Pha in 1253. It is about 30 km from Sibsagar town off the Sibsagar-Simaluguri road.

Though the capital of the Ahom kingdom moved many times, Charaideo remained the symbolic center. It contains sacred burial grounds of Ahom kings and queens and is also the place of ancestral Gods of the Ahoms. The tombs (Maidams) of Ahom kings and queens at Charaideo hillocks are comparable to the Pyramids of Egypt and are objects of wonder revealing the excellent architecture and skill of the sculptors and masons of Assam of the medieval days.

The actual number of Maidam has exceeded 150 but only 30 Maidams are protected by the Archeological Survey of India and Assam State Archeology Department, and the remaining Maidams are unprotected. Most of these unprotected Maidams are encroached by people and so going to be damaged. The biggest unprotected Maidam is the Bali Maidam near Nimonagarh. This Maidam is called Bali Maidam, because while British plundered it, they got obstruction from excess sands (Bali) in the surrounding of the Maidam.

The site has had some archeological works but also has suffered from robbers. There have been calls for the site to be UNESCO World Heritage listed.

Surya Pahar Goalpara archaeological region:

Just one and a half hour drive from Guwahati is Goalpara district and seven kilometers from Goalpara town lies the Sri Surya Pahar ruins. These ruins signify the religious and artistic history of Assam. It is a place where one will find the amalgamation of three sects- Hindus, Saivism, Vaisnavism and Saktism. Numerous Shiva Lingas made of granite stones lie at the foot of the hill. Local legends say that there are about 99,999 Lingas here.

Tezpur archaeological region:

Tezpur is situated on the northern bank of river Brahmaputra and is also known as Sonitpur meaning 'City of Blood'. There are many myths and legends associated with Tezpur. It is here where Lord Krishna fought the famous 'Hari Har Yudh' against Lord Shiva (Krishna is addressed as Hari and Shiva as Har).

It was in Tezpur where the Indian National Flag was first hoisted under British rule in 1942. The Bamuni hill ruins in Cole Park are known for its rich artistic beauty and tranquil environment. Some other notable historical places in Tezpur are-

Da-Parbatia:

It is located just a few kilometers from the town and is known for the ruins of the temple doorframe. The carvings look similar to the ones made by early Gupta School of sculpture.

Agnigarh:

This fort of fire, as it is so called, is one of the most beautiful tourist spots of this town. Legends say that the great asura king Bana imprisoned his daughter Princess Usha in this fort to prevent her from running away with Anirudha, the grandson of Lord Krishna.

Bhomoraguri or Kolia Bhomora Bridge:

This 3.05 km bridge made over the Brahmaputra was opened to traffic on April 3 1987. It commemorates the wish of Kolia Bhomora Phukan, an Ahom general, made two centuries ago. A mammoth stone inscription made by him at this place bears testimony to this fact.

Sivasagar:

Sivasagar is an ancient town of upper Assam. It was from here that the Ahom Dynasty ruled Assam for more than 600 years. Some of the historical artifacts that have been able to stand the vagaries of time include the magnificent man made artificial lakes dug up by Queen Madambika in 1734, Shiva-Doul (the tallest Shiva temple of the North East), palaces like Kareng Ghar and Talatal Ghar (underground palace), Ranghar (the royal amphitheatre) etc.

Located at a distance of 30 kms from Sivasagar town is the Charaideo Maidan (burial ground of Ahom rulers) whose hillocks can be compared to the Egyptian Pyramids.

The Ajan Pir Dargah (tomb) located at Saraguri on the south bank of Brahmaputra is the final resting place of the legendary Muslim Saint Shah Milan who was popularly known as Ajan Pir. This holy place is a revered destination for both Hindus and Muslims.

Dhubri:

This small town is very popular with Sikhs because it is here where their ninth guru Sri Guru Teg Bahadur built a Gurudwara. This famous Gurudwara is held in high veneration by Sikhs from all over the country.

Kamakhya temple:

This temple which is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya is located on the Nilachal Hills at a distance of 8 kms from the city.

This temple was built in the 10th century by Naranarayan, the Koch king and is considered as one of the 108 Shakti Peeths of Goddess Durga. The annual Ambubachi Mela is held in the temple premises and pilgrims converge here from all over the country.

Nabagraha (nine planets) temple:

This temple of the nine planets (grahas) is located atop the Chitra Chal hill. The Nabagraha temple is considered as an ancient seat of astrology and astronomy. The structure is a red beehive-shaped dome and the nine planets which are represented by nine stone lingams are housed within it.

Basistha temple:

This temple which is set amidst picturesque surroundings was actually the ashram of sage Basistha in ancient times. The numerous waterfalls and springs have transformed this into an attractive spot. This temple lies at a distance of 12 kms from the heart of the city and apart from abundant greenery is very popular for its three beautiful streams- Lalita, Kanta and Sandhya.

Umananda temple:

In the middle of the majestic Brahmaputra there is an island known as Peacock Island and here one can see the Umananda temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. To visit this temple one has to cross the river. There are numerous country boats plying from Kachari ghat on the north bank of the Brahmaputra. According to legend the great Pandava warrior Arjuna watered his horse at this place.

Poa-Mecca (Hajo):

Hajo is situated just a short distance from Guwahati and here one will find the Poa-Mecca mosque which was built by Pir Giasuddin Aulia. This mosque is quite popular with devouts as well as tourists because people say that by praying here one can get one-fourth (Poa) sanctity of Mecca, thus the name Poa-Mecca.

The Haigrib Madhav temple:

Another popular temple at Hajo is the Haigrib Madhav temple which was re-built in 1543 by Koch king Raghudev when the original temple was razed to the ground by Muslim invaders. The deity of Lord Krishna inside the temple looks similar to that of Lord Jagannath of Puri. There is a pond here where one can see a giant turtle which people say is a few hundred years old.

Mahabhairab Temple:

This is an ancient temple located at Tezpur town and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The great asura King Bana used to worship the incarnation of Lord Shiva known as Mahabhairab in this temple.

Karbi Anglong:

Karbi Anglong district is the largest amongst the 27 administrative districts of Assam state in north-eastern India. The district is bounded by Golaghat district on the east, Meghalaya state and Marigaon district on the west, Nagaon and Golaghat districts on the north and North Cachar Hills district and Nagaland state on the south. The district is located between 25º33' - 26º35' North Latitudes and 92º10' - 93º50' East Longitudes. Diphu town is the administrative headquarters of the district. The district occupies an area of 10,434 km².

Mayong:

Mayong, also known as the Land of Black Magic, is situated in Marigaon district of Assam, on the bank of the river Brahmaputra. Situated at 40 km from Guwahati and once considered the cradle of black magic in the country, Mayong is today a place of tourist attraction because of its history. During the medieval period in ancient India, Mayong is said to remain the Indian Capital of Black Magic and Witchcraft.

Bordua
Chapanalla Waterfall
Kapili Valley archaeological region
Dhansiri/Dhonxiri Valley archaeological region

Adventure at Assam:

One of the world's largest rivers, the Brahmaputra and it's tributaries flow through the state offering a wide network of rivers for various water sports.

Angling:

The river Jia Bhoroli, Kapili and Manas are the best places for angling. The Jia Bhoroli river is home to the fierce game fish, the Golden Mahseer, or tiger of the Himalayan rivers.

An annual Angling competition is regularly held at Jia Bhoroli where a number of anglers both from outside the state as well as abroad participate every year. Angling is so popular a sport here that there is an organised body by the name 'Assam Bhoroli Anglers Association' which organises this sport in the month of November every year in collaboration with the State Forest Department.

Eco Camp situated at the fringes of the Nameri National Park is an avid camper's ideal getaway.

River Cruise:

The turbulent rivers, the mystic blue hills, the savage terrains and serene countryside beckon the adventurers to Assam.

Challenge the Brahmaputra, one of the four largest rivers in the world and cruise down the mystic river from Ninging to Dhubri.

Boat Racing:

Boat racing is a very popular sport of the state. People very often organise boat racing during festive occasions at places like Hajo, Saulkuchi, Barpeta, Guwahati etc. The involvement of the masses in this sport can be compared with the snake-boat racing in Kerala.

River Rafting:

The mighty river Brahmaputra and its turbulent tributaries like Manas, Jia Bhoroli and Kapili offer immense scope for River Rafting. The fiery rapids in these rivers fuel the spirit of adventure in you.

Golf:

Most of the tea gardens of Assam have golf courses attached to them. All of them are 9 hole golf courses except for Digboi which is an eighteen hole course.

Mountaineering & Trekking in Assam:

Assam's topography makes her an ideal destination for trekkers, mountaineers and rock climbers. The hills, in particular, the North Cachar Hills and Karbi Hills are ready to receive tourists for trekking and mountaineering.There is a recognized trekking route in both the districts.

There is also a rock hill in Morigaon District known as "Elephant Rocks" which offer ample scope for Rock Climbing. The Simhasana Hill of Karbi Anglong is also famous for rock climbing. The main city of Assam, Guwahati, is surrounded on three sides with beautiful hills.

Mountain Biking:

The hilly terrain offers a very good challenge to Mountains Bikers. The Assam Tourism Department in collaboration with The Assam Tourism Development Corporation and other adventure organizations have organized several bicycle and motorbike rallies in and outside the state. Several foreign groups including individual tourists have visited the state for the same.

Para Sailing:

A totally new sport, Para-sailing, has been introduced by Assam Tourist Development Corporation to attract domestic and foreign tourists. The ideal place for Para-sailing near Guwahati is North Guwahati.

Hang Gliding:

Hang Gliding also has potential here. The ideal place for Hang Gliding are Kamakhya Hills and hills around Kaziranga.

Asam tea:

Assam is a black tea named after the region of its production, Assam, in India. Assam tea is manufactured specifically from the plant Camellia sinensis var. assamica (Masters). This tea, most of which is grown at or near sea level, is known for its body, briskness, malty flavor, and strong, bright color. Assam teas, or blends containing Assam, are often sold as "breakfast" teas. English Breakfast tea, Irish Breakfast tea, and Scottish Breakfast Tea are common generic names.The state of Assam is the world's largest tea-growing region, lying on either side of the Brahmaputra River, and bordering Bangladesh and Burma (Myanmar). This part of India experiences high precipitation; during the monsoon period, as much as 10 to 12 inches (250-300 mm) of rain per day. The daytime temperature rises to about 103F (40 °C), creating greenhouse-like conditions of extreme humidity and heat. This tropical climate contributes to Assam's unique malty taste, a feature for which this tea is well known.

Though "Assam" generally denotes the distinctive black teas from Assam, the region produces smaller quantities of green and white teas as well with their own distinctive characteristics.

Historically, Assam has been the second commercial tea production region after southern China. Southern China and Assam are the only two regions in the world with native tea plants. Assam tea revolutionized tea drinking habits in the 19th century since the tea, produced from a different variety of the tea plant, yielded a different kind of tea.

Geography of Assam Tea:

The tea plant (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) is grown in the lowlands of Assam, unlike Darjeelings and Nilgiris which are grown in the highlands. The Assam tea bush grows in a lowland region, in the valley of the Brahmaputra River, an area of clay soil rich with the nutrients of the floodplain. The climate varies between a cool, arid winter and a hot, humid rainy season—conditions ideal for it. Because of its lengthy growing season and generous rainfall, Assam is one of the most prolific tea-producing regions in the world. Each year, the tea estates of Assam collectively yield approximately 1.5 million pounds (680,400 kg) of tea.

Assam tea is generally harvested twice, in a “first flush” and a “second flush.” The first flush is picked during late March.

The second flush, harvested later, is the more prized “tippy tea,” named thus for the gold tips that appear on the leaves.

This second flush, tippy tea, is sweeter and more full-bodied and is generally considered superior to the first flush tea.

The leaves of the Assam tea bush are dark green and glossy and fairly wide compared to those of the Chinese tea plant. The bush produces delicate white blossoms.

Origin:

Assam Valley near the Brahmaputra River. The Assam Valley is the largest tea growing area in the world with over 600 tea estates.

Taste Features - Rich, strong and full-bodied with a distinctive malty taste.

Serving Suggestions - Best served with milk. The ideal breakfast tea.

Savour the Flavour of Assam with the Assam Tea

Assam in India is located in northeastern part of India. Assam - the home of the tiger and the one-horned rhino is the world’s single largest tea-growing region, producing more than 1,500,000 pounds of tea yearly. This land of wide spread tea gardens and tea estates, produces some absolutely stunning, high quality (and very expensive) teas. The tea of Assam is mostly of commercial grade.

The Exclusive Assam Tea:

The quality of Assam tea is excellent. Assam, as with Darjeeling, has a first flush and a second flush tea. The first flush has a rich and refreshing aroma; the second flush produces the famous "tippy teas." It is this feature of the teas of the second flush which makes them more preferred. (Tippy refers to black tea with gold tips or what appears to be golden-coloured leaf). The amount of tip varies, depending upon where in Assam the tea estate from which the tea comes is located.

Additionally, not all tea estates have the ability or capacity to generate "tippy teas." The golden tip present in Assam tea, tends to lessen the bitter characteristic of the tea and make it sweet and smooth.

Therefore, Assam tea can be malty, sweet and smooth, which are qualities enjoyed by all tea drinkers.

The Production of Assam Tea:

Assam is a full bodied tea with good malty flavour, which is good all day. The Assam valley in Indian is dominated by the Brahmaputra River - a large slowly meandering river which over millennia of spring and fall flooding has deposited a rich loam over the valley. The soil is a deep and sandy and the region suffers a very hot and steamy monsoon season, but equally important a relatively dry and cool winter. Perfect conditions for the Assam tea bush.

The production of black tea, of which Assam is only one, can be divided into two categories:

Orthodox
CTC (Crush, Tear and Curl)

The Orthodox Tea of Assam:

Tea produced using the Orthodox method is valued most by the international market. About 80% of the Assams I feature are produced using this Orthodox method. The remainder is tea I use in blends.

The CTC Tea of Assam:

CTC teas are, for the most part, consumed in the India domestic market primarily because making tea in the India method is done by boiling leaves in a mixture of milk, water and sugar and some spices (producing a Chai or Masala) and the CTC teas produce a rich red color when they are boiled, thus adding a beautiful color which comes through the white of the milk but yet does not produce a bitterness (in that preparation).

Education in Assam:

Assam boasts of the most wide-ranging networks of higher educational institutions in the whole of North-Eastern region of India. Assam has developed into a top educational destination at the state as well as at the national level. To enhance the status of Assam education, the state government has introduced many innovative education polices. It’s capital city; Guwahati is a key destination for higher education for students of the whole of north-eastern region. This article offers an understanding of Assam Education system. Assam has several institutions for tertiary education and research. The major institutions are:

Universities in Assam

Gauhati University
Dibrugarh University
Tezpur University
Assam University, Silchar
Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat

Medical Colleges in Assam

Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh
Gauhati Medical College and Hospital,Guwahati
Silchar Medical College, Silchar
Jorhat Medical College, Jorhat
Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College, Barpeta

Colleges of Technology and Engineering in Assam:

Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati
National Institute of Technology, Silchar
Assam Engineering College, Guwahati
Jorhat Engineering College, Jorhat

Cities and towns of Assam:

History of urban development goes back to almost two thousand years in the region. Existence of ancient urban areas such as Pragjyotishapura (Guwahati), Hatapesvara (Tezpur), Durjaya, etc. and medieval towns such as Charaideu, Garhgaon, Rongpur, Jorhat, Khaspur, Guwahati, etc. are well recorded.

Guwahati is the largest urban centre and a million plus city in Assam. The city has experienced multifold growth during past three decades to grow as the primate city in the region; the city's population was approximately 900,000 (considering GMDA area) during the census of 2001.Population-wise and area-wise Silchar is the second largest and important city in the state.

It is the economic gateway to the state of Mizoram, Manipur and Tripura. The town of Silchar has tremendous commercial importance. It consequently, witnesses the settlement of a sizeable population of traders from distant parts of India. The other important urban areas are Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Golaghat, Tinsukia (Tinicukiya), Sibsagar (Sivasagar), Tezpur, Nagaon, North Lakhimpur, Bongaigaon, etc. Nalbari, Rangia, Mangaldoi, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Barpeta, Kokrajhar, Goalpara, Diphu, Dhubri (Dhubury), Haflong etc. are other towns and district head quarters. On the other hand Duliajan, Digboi, Namrup, Moran, Bongaigaon, Numaligarh, Jogighopa, Rangia, etc. are major industrial towns. Currently, there are around 125 total urban centres in the state.

Festivals of Assam:

Assam is a land of fairs and festivals. Most of the festivals celebrated in Assam have their roots in the diverse faith and belief of her inhabitants, but a spirit ofaccommodation and togetherness characterizes the celebration of all festivals.

The perfect fusion of heritage of her numerous races has made Assam the home of the most colorful festivals which are passionate, compelling and mesmerizing reflecting the true spirit, tradition and lifestlye of the people of Assam.

The major festivals celebrated in Assam are Bihu, Baishagu, Ali-Ai-Ligang, Baikho, Rongker, Rajini Gabra Harni Gabra, Bohaggiyo Bishu, Ambubashi Mela and Jonbill Mela and so on.

BIHU:

Bihu is an ancient national festival of Assam celebrated thrice a year in different months for different reasons. in the months of Bohaag (Baisakh, the middle of April), Maagh (the middle of January), and Kaati (Kartik, the middle of October).

Each bihu is in conformity to the harvest calendar. The folk songs and folk dance add charm to the celebrations of Bihu. People clad in vibrant outfits gleefully merry.

TEA FESTIVAL:

In the month of November Assam Tourism organizes this festival combining visits to tea gardens, Golf cruises, River cruises.

If you are there in the month of November when this festival is celebrated, don't miss to visit the “guwahati Tea Auction Center”

AMBUBASI MELA:

Organized in the premises of Kamakhaya Devi temple in Guwahati, this festival is celebrated in monsoon. This festival has affiliation to the tantrik rituals and remains closed for three days with a legend which states that it is the menstrual time of goddess Kamakhaya.

JONBEEL MELA:

A fair where barter sysytem is still persists, this fair is most magnificent and celebrated in winters. The tribal communities like Tiwa, Karbi, Khasi and Jaintia observe this fair happily.

BAISHAGU:

This festival is celebrated in the month of April. Commencing with worshiping the cows, this festival is a myriad of varied hues.

Bihu Festival RAJINI GABRA AND HARINI GABRA:

This festival, significantly a religious practice to start a new civilization, starts with the village head.

DOSA THOI ! LONG NAI:

A very important religious dance to worship Lord Shiva.

ALI-AI- LIGANG:

This is colorful spring festival of Mising tribe organized in the month of February- March.

RONGKER AND CHOMANGKAN:

A spring festival to seek blessings from God and Goddesses for the welfare of the village. Chomangkan is an elaborate death ceremony.

Arts and Crafts of Assam:

The people of Assam have traditionally been craftsmen from time immemorial. Though Assam is mostly known for its exquisite silks and the bamboo and caneproducts, several other crafts are also made here. Different regions of Assam are known for their different forms of art and handicrafts.