ASSAM as Hub to Northeast …..Awesome Assam
‘Asama’ meaning ‘peerles’ itself narrate this land very unique and awesome. It is a universe in itself far flung from the mainland yet form an integral part and has a strong bond with the mainland. Situated between 90-96 degrees east longitude and 24-28 degrees north latitude, Assam is nestled in between other northeastern states and some part of it share the border with mystic Bhutan Kingdom by north and some part share with Bangladesh on her South West. Historically the ancient name of this region was Pragjyotishpura (light of orient) and Kamrupa which were found mentioning in some old epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata. which are related to many mythological derivatives. History of Assam being not only rich in myth and legends, it is also evidenced by the archaeological and anthropological excavations which tells about the volumes of the past glory of ancient Assam. The evidences also comprised the entire present day northeast India, parts of West Bengal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar – is that of confluence of Indo-Aryan, Austro-Asiatic and Tibeto-Burman cultures. Civilisation has been prominent from Poleolithic era till now. But her most constructive edifice to present you were during the 598 years reign of Ahom, which has been recorded Asia’s longest dynasty beginning in 1228 AD rule until the 19th century. During this glorious era, mighty rulers of Ahom left us much grandeur, to name are the Rangghar-the only surviving amphitheatre in Asia and the Talatal Ghar – palace remains of Ahom dynasty at Sivsagar, Jaysagar Tank built during their era is one of the largest manmade tank in the world. Sri Mahapurush Sankardeva profounded Vaishnavism in 16th century AD. Satras (Monasteries) in Majuli Island, the Bordwa Satra and the Barpeta Satra in Upper, Central and Lower Assam respectively, bear the testimony of the Vaishnavite movement. There are over 15 monasteries on Majuli Island, once enlisted as the UNESCO World Heritage being world’s largest fresh water island which is known as the centre of medieval Assamese art and culture. The Kamakhya Temple atop the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati stands out as a unique pilgrimage place being one of the sacred Pithasthan of the mother Goddess Durga or Parvati. Other important sacred shrines within some distant are Umananda Temple parted into mighty Brahmaputra atop the ‘Bhasmasala’ tiny hillock popularly called as the peacock island. Nearby is the Navagraha -the only temple dedicated to nine planets which is known as the ancient seat for astrology as well as astronomy. The archaeological sites date back to 9th -10th century bears the testimony of having the finest art in the world still found in Tezpur and Madan Kamdev. Weaving is a way of life in Assam producing three unique verities of silk, the Golden Muga, the paat or Mulberry silk and the Warm Eri silk. Sualkuchi Village known as the ‘Monchester of the east’ – where almost all the villagers engaged in weaving and designing their traditional Mekhla-Chadar, gamusha, shawls and stols with exquisite silk fabrics in intricate and myriad pattern and motifs.
Assam is comparatively greenery valley in India showered by romantic and prolonged monsoon period and the mighty Brahmaputra that occasionally spread itself submerging many areas along it and baptise the entire land with alluvial blessings. Assam boasts for its rich in flora and fauna. The rainforest of upper Assam, the floodplain grassland of Central Assam and the Sub Himalayan tropical forest of Manas in lower Assam bear the testimony of rich flora and fauna. Declared World Heritage sites, both Kaziranga and Manas National park house some of the rarest wild life species, to name are One Horn Rhino, Asiatic Water Buffalo, Asiatic Elephants, Common Leopards and other smaller cat families, Royal Bengal Tiger, Hoolock Gibbon, Golden Langur, globally threaten Pigmy Hog, Giant Squirrel and many other endangered avian species like White Winged Wood Duck, Greater Adjutant Stork, Bengal Florican etc.
Adding glory to the spirit of Awesome Assam is the lush green carpet like Tea Gardens in Assam covering vast areas of upper Assam where you can experience your stay in majestic bungalows in the midst of it, stroll through it, know it and taste the flavour out of a cup of tea for your unforgettable moments.
Climate
In Assam, there are mainly four seasons :
Summer : From May to July with temperature ranges from 320C to 360C. Humidity over 70%.
Monsoon: Variable duration but mostly in July to September with average rainfall of 1500 mm annually.
Winter: November to February with temperature ranging from minimum of 40C to 190C and maximum of 120C to 280C. Peak cold duration is 15th December to 30th January.
Spring: March and April with temperature ranges 250C to 320C. It usually windy.
Special Interests Tour of Assam :
Nature and Wildlife Calling:
KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK.
Kaziranga National Park, the oldest in Assam shares its regions in Golaghat District and Nagaon District and Karbi Anglong of Assam. It covers an area of 440 sq. kms. with four main ranges Eastern, Central, Western and Burapahar (Far western) range. Bounded by Brahmaputra river by north and highlander hils of Karbi Anglon by South is of sheer forest, tall elephant grass, rugged reeds, marshes and shallow pools. Kaziranga has been declared as a national Park in 1974. It is also a World Heritage Site.
Rhinoceros, Elephant, Indian Bison, Buffalo, Swam Deer Samber, Hog Deer, Sloth Bear, Tiger, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hog Badger, Capped Langur, Hoolock Gibbon, Ibis, Cormorants, Egret, Heron, Fishing Eagle etc. during winter a large number of migratory birds are seen here.
How to reach Guwahati to Kaziranga 220 kms. Jorhat to Kaziranga 96 kms. The nearest Airport is Rowriah (Jorhat). The nearest rail head is Furkating.
Best season: November to April.
MANAS NATIONAL PARK
Situated at the foot hills of the Himalayas, It is well known as one of the World Heritage Sites having its unique combination of scenic beauty and rear wealth of wild life. It covers an area of 500 sq. km. The core area is 360 km. The rare species of Manas are Hispid hare, Pigmy Hog and Golden Langur, Rhinoceros(translocated), Wild Buffalo, Tiger etc. Other common animals are Elephant, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Wild Boar, Sambar, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer etc. Hundred of avian species migrate to the friendly climate of Manas during Winter. Among them are White Capped Redstart, Forktails, Cormorants and various types of ducks including the Ruddy Shelduck. The wood land birds are no less charming and including the Great Indian Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill and the Oriental Pied Hornbill.
How to get there: The nearest airport is Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi Airport, Guwahati at 170kms /3hrs. The nearest railway head is Barpeta road which is 136 kms. from Guwahati. Manas is about 20 kms. from Barpeta road.
NAMERI NATIONAL PARK
Situated at the foot hills of the eastern Himalayas, Nameri National Park covers an area of about 200 sq. km. Hills, deciduous forest and the river Jai Bhoroli have added a unique charm to it. It is about 35 kms. from Tezpur Town which is 181 km. from Guwahati. Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Indian Bison, White Winged Wood Duck, SAmber Sloth Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Pangolin, Jackle, Indian Wild Dog, Civet Cat, Capped Langur etc. various birds including four species of Hornbill and reptiles are also found in this National Park. There is an Eco- Camp at Potasali which provides comfortable accommodation offering tented and ethnic cottage stays. Home-stay are also avaible. Far comfortable and Luxuries stay can also be availed in a tea plantation called Wild Mahseer Bungalow which recently brought under the Eastern Botanic Ark showcasing the biodiversity of the region. The Tourism Department has a tourist lodge at Bhalukpung which is about 21 kms. from the park.
Best Season: November to March.
DIBRU – SAIKHOWA NATIONAL PARK
Dibru – Saikhowa National Park, the new of its kind lies partly in Dibrugarh District and partly in Tinsukia District. It is 13 kms. From Tinsukia Town which is 483 km. from Guwahati. It covers an area of about 340 sq. km. Of the seven parts of the park one part is wet land and the rest is mainly grassland and dense forest The main attraction of this National Park are its semi – wild horse and white winged Wood Duck. Other animals are Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Elephant Samber, Slow Loris, Indian Wild Water Buffalo, Capped Langur, Gangetic River Dolphin, Indian Wild Dog etc. More than 350 varieties of local and migratory birds are also found in this Park.
Maguribeel- an IBA hotspot offer a wetland birdwatching place during winter from November to February. The locals arrange canoe boats for the visitors to take around the beel (lake) to watch the rare exotic birds in close range. Nearby is the grassland for you to extent your birding with some rare species like Jardon’s Marsh Babbler etc.
Accommodation: There are some basic eco-camp ideally located at the banks of river Dibru. Houseboats are also available. The best place to stay out is Wathai Heritage Tea Bungalow in the midst of lush tea garden. Hotels are also available at Tinsukia at 12 kms away.
Best Season: November to March.
Pabitora Wildlife Sanctauary :
If you are looking for a short excursion staying at Guwahati, You will have a glimpse of Assam lowland forest having wild habitat of one horned Indian Rhinocerous found in highest concentratin. It is only 35 kms / 1 hrs from the Guwahati city with an area of 39 sq kilometre. Pobitora is also home to other animals like the Asiatic Buffalo, Wild Boars, Chinese Pangolin, Civet Cats etc. Neaby is the Rajamayong hills which constitute a part of this Sanctuary , also harbours various species of animals like Leopard, Lesser cats, Barking deers etc. Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari are the activities with which one can explore the marvels of the Pobitora.
Best season: November to March
Chakrachila WS —-link to Bodoland Tourism
Bornadi WS — like Bodoland Tourism
Pilgrimage of Assam
Majuli Island: Majuli Island is located in the Brahmaputra River Valley that covers an area of 417 sq. miles, making it the largest inhabited riverine island in the world. ‘Ma’ & ‘juli’ that means store house of wealth -the Laxmi that signifies the fountainhead of the assamese art and culture. The island has long served as a monastic retreat to the Vaishnavite community and is noted for its beautiful rural setting and the traditional Assamese and Mishing tribal architecture. The Raas Leela, Paalnam are the main festival celebrated in Majuli island very colourfully. The island is accessed by the river crossing by regular ferry services. Now a days direct road connection lead to the island from Lakhimpur and Dhakuakha -the northern periphery of the island. Best time to visit : October to April.
Mahabhairab Temple, Tezpur :
The Mahabhairab Temple is situated in the heart of Tezpur- a city of eternal love which was once ruled by King Bana from Asura Dynasty date back to 4th century. This temple is believed to have been built by Banasur originally of stone and posses the largest Siba lingam in the world founded on a small hill top in the northern part of Tezpur. The current structure of this temple was built by Nag Baba while later it was developed by Mahadeo Bharati and his devotees. The original temple was destroyed in 1897 earthquake and the present temple was constructed in the early period of 20th century.
It is a beautiful this temple, entrance of which have the idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman in the form of Dwarpals. This gateway also has elaborated embellishments that have been intricately carved out. The instances of the original temple are seen on the huge pillars of this temple. Popular festivals held at this temple include Shivratri, which is celebrated twice every year.
Kamakhya Temple : Situated atop the Nilachal Hills, the foremost shrine of Assam, Kamakhya Temple dominates the life of Guwahati, as much as the great Brahmaputra River. Kamakhya is an ancient seat of tantric and shakti cults of Hinduism. Visit to Guwahati remain absolutely incomplete without the visit of this mighty Kamakhya. It is one of the utmost peethasthan out of 51 peethasthan spread all over India. It is believed that the yoni -the reproductive organ of goddess Kamakhya fell into this hillock which consequently turn blue (Nil-mgeans blue and achal-means hill). Therefore the worship offering to this shrine lead beginning of life and get life’s fertility quenched. A rush of devotees throng the Temple during the Ambubachi Puja (June). Location : 8 kms from the heart of Guwahati City and 20 kms from the Guwahati Airport and few kilometers from Maligaon Kamakhya Railway Station.
Surya Pahar: The melting pot of Faith for Hindus, Buddhists & Jains popularly known as the second Kashi or “Dushri Kashi” is a place of confluence of three religions evidenced from the numerous sculptures and relics belonging to their respective three religions found here. Beautifull hill terrain dotted with rock cuts and stone deities pantheons. It is believed that there are 99999 shiva lingams engraved here in order to make it a another Kashi. It is also believed that “Gandhamadan Parbat” where Lord Hanuman retrieved the “Sanjeevani Herb” to treat the wounded Laxmana (from epic of Ramayana), is located here. The presence of as many as 25 votive stupas of different shapes and sizes cut of granite boulders in the Surya Pahar revealed the Buddhist influence.
Location : 12 kms from Goalpara Town which is 132 kms from Guwahati being its nearest Airport. Best time to visit: October to May
Hajo: It is an important pilgrimage centre for three religions: Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. For some Hajo word is derived from Bodo word ‘Hajw’ which means Hill. For other Hajo is derived from the word Haj (pilgrimage of Muslim). It lies on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, 35 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 Vaisnavite temple of Hajo. This same Hindu temple is also visited by Budhist lamas from Bhutan and Tibetan which they believe the place as the enlightenment place by Lord Buddha. Hajo is also famous for Powa Mecca which is the holy destination of Muslim community. The Town around the Hajo are inhabited by both Muslim and Assamese community who has been living harmoniously for centuries. Majority of this community live on by cottage industry of Bell / brass metal producing many utensils and domestic tools and equipments.