Places to visit in Western Assam --Dhubri District

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DHUBRI
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People & Culture

Dhubri posseses a rich Archaeological and Cultural heritage from the ancient time. This region came in contact with the foreign invaders earlier than the rest of Assam. As Dhubri is called the gateway of Assam, people of diverse ethnic identity came to this region with different aims and a major portion of whom settled in this region. As a result of which Dhubri District witnesses the growth of blended culture, particularly in case of language, art and religion due to the continuous process of assimilation of various races, castes and creed of local people , invaders and migrated people.

The main local language of this district isGoalporia, popularly known as "Desi Bhasha". Other than this, Assamese and Benglai language are simultaneously spoken in the urban area.
Regarding dress, Sari is commonly used by both urban and rural women folk. In earlier days the rural women wore a piece of unsewn cloth which was called "Patani". This style of clothing is still seen in some rural areas. Male hindus generally wear Dhuti and Lungi is used by muslims.
The most important ingredient of the cultural built-up of this district is its rich and indigenous folksongs and dances which are very popular from ancient time.The themes of these songs and dances are mainly based on religion and love affairs. Goalporia folk song is the soul of every people of this district.

The material evidences of rich cultural heritage of Dhubri Dist. are marked by the existence of heritage buildings including temples, shrines and some archaeological reins and various crafts which are scattered all over the District :

Sikh Gurudwara

Inthe heart of the Dhubri town,the famous Gurudwara is situated. The Ninth Sikh Guru Tegbahadurji established this Gurudwara during seventeenth century.

Panchpir Dargaha

It is a mazar sharif of five Sufi saints who accompanied Raja Ram Singha during his invasion to Assam in seventeenth century. This shrine is the best example of religious harmony where all section of people irrespective of their religion pay a visit with great respect.

The Mosque of Rangamati

It is the oldest masjid in Assam which is situated at Rangamati near Panbari of DhubriDistrict,errected by HussainShah, Governor of Bengal.This masjid belongs to Pre-Mughal period which can be recognised from its typical architectural design.

Mahamaya Dham

The famous Mahamaya Dham of Bogribari is regarded as the greatest Shaktipith of Western Assam, which is located on a beautiful hillock surrounded by thick jungles.
Ramraikuti SatraIt is situated atIndo-Bangladesh and West Bengal border at Satrasal of Dhubri Dist.It is a holy place where the marriage ceremony of Chilarai and Bhubaneshwari (daughter of Ramrai, cousin of Sri Sankardev) took place.Paramguru Sri Sankardeva established this satra in order to promote propagate the Satriya Culture in this region.A brass made historical RATHA (Chariot) is preserved here.

Terracotta of Asharikandi

This craft is practised among the kumbhakara or Kumara (potter) community of Asharikandi village near Gauripur. Terracotta (means burnt clay)craft was previously confined to their families & neighbourhood areas.But at present it occupies a prominent position through out the country and abroad.

Pith Craft

This is a living folk art of Kuhila practised by the Malakar or Bhuimali communities of Dhubri Dist. residing at Gauripur, Golokganj and Bilasipara area. It is locally known as "Sola" or Kuhila which are available in the marshy land.

Tourist Sites
Dhubri District is bestowed with attractive scenic beauties by the mother nature. Both the banks of river Brahmaputra with its lush green fields, blue hills and hillock is a feast to the eyes of the onlookers. The Chakrasila wild- life sanctuary, the Tegbahadur Gurudwara, the Rangamati Mosque, Mahamaya Dham and the royal palaces attract the people for their unique structures, religious sanctity and mythological importance. Some attractive spots with salient features and pictorial views are depicted below :

Mahamaya Dham

Mahamaya Dham of Bogribari, about 30-35 Km.east from Dhubri town is next to Kamakhya Than (Guwahati) and Madan-Mohan (Cooch Behar) in its attraction to the pilgrims and tourists. Originaly the famous mother Goddess Mahamaya of Parvatjowar was worshipped by the local people like Kacharies, Koches and Nath etc. It was the presiding deity of the Jaminder of Parvatjowar. Now-a-days the mother Mahamaya is worshipped by all Hindus.Rangamati MosqueThe very famous Rangamati Mosque was built during 17th century by Hussain Shah, the Governor of Bengal.This Mosque belongs to pre-Mughal period which can be recognised from its typical architectural design. It is about 25Kms away from Dhubri Town. It may be mentioned that Rangamati area was once a very prosperous during thereign of the Koch rulers.It was also frontier post of the Koch rulers. During Mughal regime Rangamati was a great fort of the invading Mughal Army. This unique Mosque was used as a prayer place by the Mohmmedan Soldiers. There is also a Idgah and a deep Well which were also constructed during the same period. Gurudwara Sri Guru Tegbahadur SahibjiIn the heart of the Dhubri Town and on the bank of the river mighty Brahmaputra, this famous Gurudwara is situated. Sikh Guru Nanaka visited this place in 1505 A.D. & met Sri Sankardeva during Nanaka's way from Dhaka to Assam. Thereafter the 9th Guru Tegbahadur came to this place and established this Gurudwara during 17th century. Sikh devotees from all over India and abroad assembled in this Gurudwara pevery year in the month of December to mark the Martydom of Sri Guru Tegbahadur with due solemnity and ceremony. Sikh devotees called this festival as Sahidee-Guru-Parav.

Panchpeer Dargaha

It is Mazar Sharif of five Sufi Saints who accompanied Raja Ram Singh during his time of invassion to Assam.This Dargaha is the best example of religious harmony where all section of people irrespective of their religion pay visit with great respect.

Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary

In the year 1994, Chakrasila Hill Reserve Forest was declared as Chakrasila Hill Wildlife Sanctuary by the Govt.of India covering an area of 4558.7 hectares of land. The distribution of varities of plant species in Chakrasila provides diverse niches for many Wild Life. The Significant Golden Langur exists in Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary in addition to other mammals plike Leopard, Leopard cat, Porcupine, Pangoline, Flying Squirrel, Civet cat etc.Adjutants Stork, Indian Owl, Myna, Parrakit, Dove, Hornbil, Jungle Fowl, Kingfisher, Harren, Darter, Snipe, Teal etc. are the birds commonly found. Python, Monitor, Crait, Cobra, Turtle, Tead and frog are some reptiles and amphibia that are also found.

On the 14th of July,1994, a unique virgin forest patch of Dhubri District of Assam had been declared as Wildlife Sanctuary by the gazette notification of the assam Government.This Sanctuary has been named as "Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary". This is the youngest sanctuary of the North East India having an area of 11260.00 acres.Chakrasila is unique because of the presence of Golden Langur ( Presbytis geei ) which is nowhere found except along the Assam and Bhutan border.Besides, the virgin forest of Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary is endowed with rare specimens of tress, shrubs, medicinal plants, mammals, reptiles and exquisite birds and insects.
Geographical location of the Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary is in the latitute 26° 15' to 26° 26' N and logitude 90° 15' to 90 ° 20' E. It is in the District of Dhubri, the western most region of Assam. It is 68 Km from the District headquarter Dhubri and 219 Km from the Borjhar Airport of Guwahati City.
There are several small springs for quenching the thirst of the wild animals of this Hilly forest.But the two major perennial springs in the Sanctuary are howhowi Jhora and Bamuni Jhora, which flow over the rocks, sparkling and spattering throughout the year, adding to the scenic beauty of the Sanctuary.
Climatic conditions of Chakrasila Wildlife Sanctuary is like that of temperate zone with dry winder and hot summer followed by heavey rains.Annual rainfall is between 200 to 400 cm.Soil is azonal, forestlike and hilly. temperature throughout the year generally varies between 8° C to 30° C.
The diverse eco-systems of Chakrasila present a model habitat diversity and support various mammlian spicies like Tiger, leopard, Golden Langur, Leopard Cat, Gaur, Mongoose, Porcupine, Pangoline, Flying Squirrel, Civet Cat etc. Along with all these prolific gifts of the nature Chakrasila has a wide variety of avifauna.
It is to be noted that the two internationally recognized wetlands namely Dhir and Deeplai has not been yet taken inside the declared boundary of the Sanctuary. But they are very a part of the Chakrasila eco-system. It is expected that in due course they will be included within the Sanctuary.
Other Significant featuresTwo world famous Wetlands - Dheer Beel and Diplai Beel adjoins Chakrasila W.L. Sanctuary. These two Beels are home of a large number of fishes, turtles, prawn and birds both indigenous and migratory.It is about 70 Km away from Dhubri Town. This sanctuary provides facilities / activities such as : (i) Bird Watching (ii) Forest Trecking (iii) Wildlife & Nature Photography (iv) Local guide available on payment (v) Site for errecting tent (vi) Free of cost accommodation for a group of 15 / 20 person with hygenic dringking water in the camp Tapoban provided by the local NGO, the Natures Beckon.
Florican GardenA newly setup garden cum natural park located at Bilasipara about 50 Km from Dhubri Town. It is a very attractive tourist place.

Other important placesThere are many other important places in this District. There are Matiabag Palace at Gauripur,

Netai Dhubuni Ghat at Dhubri Town,

Chandardinga Hillock and

Dudhnath Mondir at Salkocha,

Ramraikuti at Satrasal,

Airport of IInd World War and

Soreswar beel at Rupshi etc.

Places to visit in Western Assam - Goalpara District

Goalpara

NATURAL BEAUTY

a) Goalpara Town b) Hulukanda Pahar (Hill) c) Dekhdhowa

d) Kumri Beel (Lake) e) Barjharra Chibinang Meghalaya) f) Dudhkhowa Pahar (Hill)

g) Pancharatna & Jogighopa

RELIGIOUS PLACES

a) Sri Sri Surjya Pahar (Hill)

b) Tukreswari Pahar (Hill)

c) Paglartek Mandir (Temple)

d) Buraburi Than Temple)

e) Narashingha Mandir (Temple)

f) Joybhum Kamakhya Temple

g) Nandeswar Devalaya (Temple)

h) Sri Sri Sankar Math

i) Sri Sri Satyanya Gaudiya Math

j) Pir Majhar (in Goalpara Town )

k)Majar-Sharif of Pirsaheb (Jaleswar)

ADVENTURE TOURISM
a) Kumri Beel (Lake)

b) Dhamar Beel (Lake)

c) Urpad Beel (Lake)

d) Raikhyashini Pahar ( rock climbing)

e) Pancharatna (Water sports)

HISTORICAL
a) Captain Baily's tomb

b) Pancharatna & Jogighopa.

TOURIST SPOTS IN THE GOALPARA DISTRICT
Located on the foot hills of Meghalaya and on the Bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra, Goalpara district is endowed with its scenic beauty. The evergreen forests on low hills with its undulating landscape, if harnessed properly, will attract tourists of all hue to this district. Some of the tourist spots are Hulukanda hill, located at the heart of Goalpara town on the bank of the river Brahmaputra, Sri Surya hill situated about 12 kms. East of Goalpara town, Sri Tukreswari hill situated 25 km. away from Goalpara Town, Paglartek Baba at Barbhita, Urpod beel of Agia, Dhamar risen beel of Lakhipur. Various kinds of water birds, indigenous and foreign are found in thousands in the Urpod beel at Agia & Dhamor risen beel at Lakhipur. There are some other water bodies such as Hashila beel, Kumri beel near Goalpara town.
There are also some religious spots like Shamrai Satra, Banabashi Than, Dadan mandir, Narashimabari Than, Buraburi Than and Mazars of Muslim saints which have historical importance.
Tea Gardens :- There are two tea gardens in the district. These are namely Moijonga and Simlitola Tea Estates. The total area of these tea gardens are 1,422-Bigha-2 Katha- 5 Lessa and 2,866 Bigha- 2 Katha- 12 Lessas respectively.


Tea Garden

Festivals:-
Assam is a land of fairs and festival. Most of the festivals celebrated in Assam have their roots in the diverse faith and belief of her inhabitants. They reflect the true spirit, tradition and life style of the people of Assam. The culture of Goalpara district is a rich tapestry woven with multi colour yarns of heritage of all the races that inhabit the diatrict. The perfect fusion of heritage of tribes and sub-tribes have made Goalpara the home of the most colourful festivals which are passionate, compelling and mesmerizing.
The major festival celebrated n Goalpara are Bihu, Baishagu, Baikho, Wangala. However, the people of Goalpara district also celebrate Durga puja, Diwali, Idd, Muharam, the birth and death anniversaries of the Vaishnava saints Sri manta Sankardev and Madhav Dev
Bihu
Bihu is one of the major festivals of the district. Irrespective of caste, creed and religion, Bihu is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety. Rangali Bihu, the spring festival is celebrated during mid April . It is a festival of colour, creativity and joy. It marks the beginning of the agricultural season. The mood of spring is celebrated with bihu dance one of the unique art forms of India, with the accompaniment of lusty wild beats of the drum along with indigenous instruments like buffalo horn . Young boys and girls, clad in golden Muga silk dance to the tune of seductive bihu songs woven around the themes of love and passion. It is a rare experience for people living in other parts of the globe.

Baishagu :
Charming, for its myriad of colour and merriment, Baishagu is generally celebrated by Bodo Kocharis during mid April. It is the most colorful festival of the Bodo tribe. The Bodos also celebrate it as springtime festival at the advent of New Year. The supreme deity ‘Bathou’ or Lord Shiva is worshipped during these days by offering him chicken & rice bear. During the days of festival young boys and girls dance together.

Baikho :
There is another colorful tribe in Assam known as Rabhas, Although the Rabha community does not have any major festival of their own, the different groups celebrated during the spring season in order to appease the goddess of wealth ‘Baikho’.

Dhawa (Rabha) Dance
Some Rabha dances of the district are FARKANTI FUSAKAY, HAMJAR FUSAKAY, GIRKAY FUSAKAY etc. According to legend the origin of the “Farkanti” is like that in olden days the Rabhas for their existence had fight with other groups of people in which, they lost their men and the death of the warriors were remembered in traditional ways and ritualistic manner by a community get together followed by folk music and dance.
The agriculturist Rabhas, in their traditional way of life, begin their works on farm land by celebrating a special community festival known as “Hamjar”
Girkay is a group dance of youths performed on the full moon night in the month of Bahag (mid April) for giving alms and for marry making.


SURYA PAHAR
The site has got the distinction of possessing valuable cultural remains of the three important religions of India, i.e. Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.

The Condition of Surya Pahar - a Neglected Archaeological Site
Situated in the far western corner of Assam is Surya Pahar, a small hill with the potential of becoming a revered and historical site. A few miles from the town of Goalpara lays this site, which archaeologists recently predicted might fundamentally change our understanding of the history of Assam. But unfortunately due to lack of funds, the archeological endeavor stooped early and the excavated structures lie at the mercy of the weather, people and animals.

Historical Significance

Surya Pahar is an interesting archeological site. It represents a confluence of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism as revealed by the statues and engraved figures found at the site. Several granite Shiva lingams are seen in the vicinity of the hill; statues of Buddha and Mahavira also line the hill. To add to all these, legend says there were 100,000 Shiva lingams buries around the hill and once it was one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the region.

The name Sri Surya Pahar means the abode of the Sun God. The small andrelatively modern Sun temple shows that the Sun was worshipped there. In fact, references are available in the Kalika Puran that there were two seats of Sun worship in Assam; Sri Surya Pahar was one of them. Inside the temple, a carved stone slab is still worshipped as Surya. The inner circular carving has been identified as Prajapati. The outer circle includes twelve lotus petals, each seated with a figure of Aditya. The Adityas depict the twelvesolar divinity of Dharti, Mitra, Aryaman, Rudra, Varuna, Surya, Bhaga, Vivashan, Pushan, Savitri,Tvastri and Vishnu. Other figurines like the twelve armed Vishnu, covered with a seven hooded canopy standing erect on a lotus, worshipped as Dasabhuja Durga, Ganesha, Harihara, Shivalingas, and Vshnupadas – point to the historical significance of the place.

Among the identified Jain figures is one of the first Tirthankaras, Adinath, carved in sitting posture with two bulls in the base. In addition, the 25 votive stupas of different sizes show that there was Buddhist influence in Kamarupa and that too, much earlier then the rest of India.
In addition to being a confluence of the three religions, which is evident from the innumerable sculptures, Sri Surya Pahar can also be called a garden of medicinal plants, most of which await identification.

Archaeological Find
Although, the rumors have it that this historically significant hill has a lot of history behind it, there was no initiative from any government organization either to protect it or to fund projects to excavate the past. The only thing that has protected this exposed idols and engraved rocks is the reverence of the local people. The yearly held Surya Pahar Mela, mainly by the locals and priests, who reside in the hill, generate income that help preserve this historically significant place.
A few years ago, due to the initiative of some prominent archaeologists, a project was funded to unearth the history of the hill. The project hit the jackpot within a few days; a few Shiva lingams and a few houses were unearthed. The work continued for a while with great vigor. All findings confirmed the longheld belief that a thriving civilization held sway here some centuries ago. The intricate and scientific designs of the houses that have the same feel as that of the modern houses, with artfully designed bricks led to the conviction that it was a major discovery. The
enthusiastic archaeologists even predicted that this might even change the understanding of the history of Assam. Some scholars even referred to the accounts of Chinese traveler, Huen Tsang and to the unearthed relics to claim that it was Sri Surya Pahar and not Guwahati that was the ancient land of Pragjyotishpur, the capital of the Kingdom of Bhaskarbarman. The finding of the nearby archeological site of Pagletek is cited to strengthen this claim. But surprisingly, within a couple of months everything fizzled. All the excavated findings remain unattended and their significance unpublished!

Buddhist Remains :

The North-East portion of the hill slope has attracted the Buddhist pantheons in the early Christian Era, who have left their creative genius by carving large number of Buddhist votive stupas of different sizes and shapes there.

On the extreme north east corner on a higher altitude , huge fallen granite boulder was selected for carving three giant stupas, carved in one row ,facing the east.
The structural feature of the stupas consist of Vedi, Medhi Anda & Harmika which are distinct but devoid of Chatravali which has now disappeared. The three monolithic stupas are representative of either Dharma, Sangha & Budha or they could b termed as Uddeshika stupa carved in the memory of Lord Buddha.
One votive stupa was discovered in November, 1998. These stupa complexes are provided with a flight of steps alone the slope of the hill, for convenience of the pilgrims and tourists and the courtyard of the complex has also been given appropriate face-lift to keep the surroundings free from the vegetation growth, to keep it neat and tidy. A spring emerges from the upper reaches of the Surya Pahar flowing through the ancient remnants and ultimately kissing the foothills, making it a spectacular spot. Another interesting feature of this stupa complex is that in the 9th-10th century A.D. , when the area was pre-occupied by the followers of Hindu pantheons, attempts were made to carve Siva lingas along with Younipith and channel spout on fallen boulders. Altogether half a dozen Siva lingas exist .
One Elliptical stupa also carved on a smaller boulder and lying within two huge boulders is an interesting piece of Art, as this elliptical shape is very rare in Eastern India as reported from Langudiin, Jaipur District of Orissa and dates back to the 1st A.D.
Initiative has been taken for the face-lift of the and beautification of its surroundings. The discovery of terra-cotta plaques with figure of Buddha in regular excavation and picked up from surface undoubtedly speak volume that Buddhism did flourish in lower Brahmaputra valley, specially in and around Surya pahar during the early part of the Christian Era and continued up to the 10th Century A.D. In Surya Pahar, operational area of the Buddhists was more, compared to that of Hindus & Jains. Buddhist remains are also reported from Pancharatna, Barbhita village and Bhaitbari (now in Meghalaya) in the southern Bank of the lower Brahmaputra valley.

Remains of Brahmanical Hinduism :

In the 9th- century A.D. during the rule of the Palas, Hinduism got royal patronage throughout the length and breath of Brahmaputra Valley (undivided Assam) resulting in large scale artistic activities in the form of Rock-cut sculptures/temples, caves etc.

In the lower region of the fallen boulders of the second spring the activities of the Hindus are reflected in the form of Rock-cut sculptures of Vishnu, Siva, Ganesha , Sivalingas, Harihara Footprints of Vishnu (Vishnupada) Full-blown lotus surrounded by Railing (Chaitya or Altar ) signifying symbolic representation of the Sun God.
One boulder lying in a horizontal fashion in North-South orientation suggest that the Sculptors of by gone days have taken immense pain and meticulous care to carve sculptures of Vishnu and Siva, three of which are comparatively tattered, existing to the left along with six such sculptures to the right.

Jain Heritage of Surya-Pahar :
We have got scanty records regarding the prevalence of Jainism in the past throughout the North East region .
It is a very strange phenomenon in the history of Jainism that due to some unknown reason Jainism could not flourish in the vast stretch of the North-East region. Uptill now large number of monument sites have been reported from North-East region belonging to Buddhist and Bhahamanical faith vis-à-vis of Tribal Monument and Artefacts but except for the solitary example existing inside the natural caves at Surya Pahar in Goalpara District of Assam no other Jain remains are reported so far.
Jainism could not get any remarkable footing in the North-East region throughout its long history.
Thanks to the followers of Rasbhanath who have left their foot prints in the region in the 10th century A.D. by way of carving images of the Tirthankar on the rocks in two separate caves on the south-east corner of the Surya pahar range of hills.
The Excavated Remains at Surya Pahar :
The archaeological Survey of India, Guwahati Circle has undertaken excavation works in the Surya Pahar area. Two potential mounds are there, one in the southern side of the villages and the other on the southern bank of a Tank close to the newly constructed Museum.
During excavation decorative bricks were found with floral, creeper and Geometric patterns and Kirtimukha , stylistic peacock tailed frog, terra-cotta plaque with image of the Buddha, Mahisasurmardini , Alas Kannya etc. Stylistically, the terra-cotta plaques may be datable to the Circa 7th – 10th century A.D.
The discovery of one Sivalinga on the north-west corner and a small head of Vishnu with circular halo amply testify that it is the remains of a Hindu Temple complex . However in 1988 one terra cotta plaque (fragment) of a votive stupa part was found in Surya Pahar which has now found its place in the Assam State Museum speaks that the site was equally popular to the Buddhist at least up to the 10th Century A.D.. In November 1998 few fragments of Terra Cotta votive stupa plaque find was reported from a village called Borbhita, 7 K.M. west of Pancharatna and these have close similarity with those discovered at Surya Pahar .
The conservation work of the excavated complex are going on and expected to be completed within a couple of years.
The excavation conducted in February and March 2000 further brought to light a huge compound wall running all around making the temple complex well guarded.
A few architectural fragments are also found in the excavation from the temple complex viz, Kirtimukha, decorative stone pillars etc.

DADAN HILLOCK
Dadan hill having a Shiva Temple on its top, was established by DADAN, one of the General of King Bana of Sonitpur. There are some mythological stories reflecting various events on the foot hills of Dadan hill on the bank of river Dariduri.
It is believed that the General, a devotee of Lord Shiva, killed a wild elephant with his sword on this spot which came often and disturbed him in his meditation, now may be witnessed in the form of a stone (resembling an elephant) which is lying on the bank of river Dariduri. Thousands of people specially from the tribal, Rabha community gather on the above mentioned spot to worship Lord Shiva , once a year specially in the month of February. The area is thickly forested with rivers & waterfalls inhabited by people of the Rabha community. Besides the religious aspect the entire area is enriched with enjoyable scenic beauty.

Adventure:-
The turbulent rivers, the mystic blue hills, the savage terrains and serene countryside beckon the adventures. Come and conquer it. Take the challenge of the Brahmaputra, one of the four largest rivers in the world and raft down the mystic river. River rafting at river Krishnai originating at Ronjeng, Dudhnoi river originating at Owakari and on Jinari river certainly will give the adventurer a thrilling experience.

Rock climbing at Rakhashini Hill

Goalpara invites you to enjoy all these high spirited activities right from rafting to jungle Safari. The bird mystery of Urpad Beel is no less thrilling than others.

Rock climbing at Tukreswari Rock climbing spot at Surya Pahar

The hills of Goalpara district particularly Rakhyashini, Tukreswary are inviting with open arms to receive tourist for Trekking and rock climbing. These hills are unique in structure to provide matchless idea and experience to the learners of rock climbing. Society for Youth and Development in association with ‘PENGUIN’ Guwahati and other adventure sports organisations has already initiated rock climbing and trekking camps at these spots.

Rock climbing at Sri Surya Pahar

MAJAR - SHARIF OF PIR SAHEB
The MAJAR - SHARIF of Sufi Saint Shah Sayed Nasiruddin Kaderi, commonly known as "BAGDADI" is situated at Jaleswar-Katarihara , 60 km away from Goalpara Town by road. The saint is said to have come from Bagdad, capital of Iraq and therefore he was called Bagdadi.

On the 8th day of Assamese calendar month "Magh" coinciding with 21st January, each year, thousands of people cutting across religious faiths from different parts of Assam and West Bengal congregate at this Majar sharif to participate in the "UROS MUBARAK" - death anniversary of the spiritual leader and seek his blessing.
The "MAJAR SHARIF" with its serene surrounding is a spot .worth visiting. The tomb on the grave of the Sufi Saint is a unique imitation of Mughal architecture built in the style of the Tajmahal, inside of which is beautifully decorated by Arabic Calligraphy.
The Saint Shah Nasiruddin Kaderi came to Jaleswar in around 1905 -1906 and settled here by occuping nearly 7000 Bighas of land from the Zamindar. He was a leader of Sufi movement like the "BHAKTI MOVEMENT" in India.
Many people of Goalpara and other places, both Hindus and Muslims received generous help from the Saint for their educational pursuit.

PIR MAJHAR
The "MAJHAR" (tomb) of Hazarat Sayed Abul Kasem Kharasani, situated at the heart of Goalpara town, is a place much revered by the people of all religious faiths. The Muslim grave-yard grew around the "MAJHAR”. It being situated by the side of the main road of the town, there would be few to pass through without saluting the Holy soul. It is the practice of both Muslims and Hindus of Goalpara to offer money and candle and pray for fulfillment of desire and seek blessing from the Pir Saheb. Every year the "UROS-MUBARAK" - death anniversary of the Pir is observed at the "MAJHAR-SARIF" on the 21st day of lunar calendar month of "Safar". People coming across of all religious belief throng in thousands to participate in the "UROS". The saint Sayed Abul Kasem was a resident of Kherasan at a place called Fatima Killa his birth place. From there he took off for his spiritual journey to India and in course of time reached Rangpur now in Bangladesh. From there he used to visit Goalpara frequently to spread his spiritual teaching. Later on he decided to stay permanently at Goalpara and stayed at a place near the present Boys' M. E. Madrasa.
It is said that he lived a long life of about 150 years and died at Goalpara in the year 1896 AD.

SRI SRI SHYAMRAI SATRA

The Shyamrai Satra the center of Vaishnavite culture and religion has been established in the center of the town, Goalpara about 366 years ago. In the preliminary stage the Satra was managed by two brothers namely Late Raghu Medhi and Late Kush Medhi. Subsequently the people of Goalpara assembled there and took a decision to establish the Satra on a permanent footing. Accordingly they approached the Meshpara Estate Zamindar who in turn allotted 8 bighas of land in the center of the town for establishment of this Satra.
Since then, the Satra is continuing smoothly observing all formalities and aspect of vashnavite culture. Regular “NAM PRASANGA” etc. are being held systematically with the observance of the religious festivals every year.
One of the very important aspect of the Satra is that the Satra authority has preserved the “ASTHI” (Lucky bone of the forehead) of Sri Manta Sankardeva which is being exhibited in the Satra campus during Sankar Jayanti period i.e., in the month of Sukla Dasami (during September- October)

SRI SRI CHAITANYA GAUDIYA MATH
Sri Sri Chaitanya Gaudiya Math has been established at Goalpara in the year 1969 in order to protect, preserved and expand Sri Krishna Chaitanya culture in the area on a donated plot of land at the center of the town. Regular puja Sangkirtan etc. are being held in the Math regularly, besides observance of the religious festival as per Sri Chaitanya Calendar. A large numbers of devotees from different parts of the areas are visiting the Math regularly. During some important annual festival devotees from different part of the country including foreigners attend the Math.

BURABURI THAN, MOTHERTOLA
BuraBuri Than located on the bank of the River Brahmaputra near Jaleswar is a prominent religious spot. The than, which stands as a symbol of National Integration since people from all groups i.e., Hindu, Muslim etc. participated in the religious function as it is learnt. Long Long years ago the “RAKHAL” (Cow boys) used to take “PAYAS” (Milk made rice) as “PRASAD” regularly which was offered to them by Bura Buri (an Old man and an Old Woman) subsequently while witnessing the Scene by the local people the Bura Buri converted to a Giant Stone and since then it was worshipped by local people of the locality.

SRI SRI JOYBHUM KAMAKHYA

Out of 51 “SAKTI STHAL” of Hinduism covering India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Srilanka and Nepal Sri Sri Joybhum Kamakhya is one of the Saktisthal in Goalpara district on the bank of the river Brahmaputra located at a distance of about 50 Km from Goalpara Town. Originally the area was predominated by tribal populated area and regular Puja (Worship) on tribal custom where puja was offered to the Goddess regularly. Devastating earthquake in 17th century caused great damaged to the temple but the Zamindar of Meshpara reconstructed the temple with introduction of regular puja system. As per available record the temple has Debottor Land covering more than 28 bighas of land.
The temple is located in the top of the hillock and its natural scenery of the spot as a whole is really matchless. There is a Shiva temple also by the side of the Joybhum Kamakhya Temple. Devotees from different of the India assembled in the temple during the festival in the month of October every year for offering puja to the Goddess of Power.

NANDESWAR DEVALAYA
Nandeswar Devalaya is one of the oldest devalaya (Shiva Temple) established on the hill top of Nandeswar hill stands by the side of river Dudhnoi. This is a Shiva Temple and the mythological stories as it learnt locally established full faith of the people on this temple. There is reason to belief that the temple has been established in 10th or 11th century AD. The festival Shivaratri, Durga Puja and Dol jatra are being observed in the temple in presence of crowded local people. As per the rites and rituals of Hinduism.

TUKRESWARI
Tukreswari Temple is also a famous religious spot located by the side of National Highways 37 at Tukura about 15th KM from Goalpara Town. As per religious faith a portion of (TUKURA) the Goddess Sati falls in this place and therefore the temple is known as Tukreswari. The temple has been established on top of the Tukreswari hill and a Shiva Temple has also been established on the top of the hill along with the Temple of JOYA- VIJOYA. Having known about the unseen power of Goddess Tukura and the Shiva Temple which were in infancy stage the Zamindar Of Bijni Estate constructed the Temple and donated a sizable plot of land for the same.
The Monkey population of the temple is very high and they have got their King and Queen which is a remarkable aspect of the temple.

Places to visit in Western Assam -- Bongaigaon District

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BONGAIGAON

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1. Jogighopa

Jogighopa is a historical site situated on the Northern Bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra, 30 KMs away from historical town Abhayapuri, the Royal Kingdom of the Koch-Rajbongshi dynasty. The Eco-Restoration Projects is intended due to its historical importance and quite natural beauty. Every year thousand of visitors pay visit to this important historical site, particularly on the day of Ashok-Ashtomi. The number of visitors swell up to half a lakh of people. The area holds potential for Eco-Tourism Development. Further Eco-Restoration programme by large scale afforestation along bank of the river Brahmaputra will prevent erosion of river bank and thus facilitate protecting the site from further erosion.

2. The Bageswari Hill

The Bageswari Hill situated hardly 1 K.M. away from Bongaigaon town and surrounded by the only Tea Garden namely Birjhora Tea Estate. The hill presents a natural watch tower where from entire town and its surrounding can be viewed. The hill houses ancient Siva Temple inside a stone cave flanked by either side two other temples namely Bageswari and Baba Taraknath. Due to heavy biotic interference, the hill becomes completely barren. Every year more than 20,000 devotees pay visit to the Siva Temple on the day of Sivaratri. Presently there is no road leading to the templeand it has been the demand of the local population for construction of a parmanent road to the hill top which is approximately 500 meters in length.

a) To preserve and protect the bird species and to increase their population

b) To increase healthy atmosphare around the lake site to attract tourist and to make it a suitable tourist spot.

c) To preserve the mementoes in and around the Beel area for entertainment of the visitors while coming to visit the Project site.

d) To uplift the poor economic condition of the people of the locality by making tourism an alternative means of earning.

1.Jogighopa Historical Site and Beach Phase -I:
Five historical caves located near the banks of the Brahmaputra near Naranarayan Bridge is a protected site under Archaeological Survey of India.The Eco-Restoration Project has been intended for implementation due to its historical importance and quiet natural beauty. Every year thousands of visitors pay visit to this historical site specially on th e day of Ashoka Astami. Further, afforestation along the bank of river Brahmaputra has been undertaken with an aim to conserve land mass from erosion.Under first phase of the project a Nursery of 0.5 Ha, planting of Casurina Equestifolia and under species(5 Ha), construction of iron and stone mesh for raising flower beds (10 No.), 3 water tanks and layout of garden has been completed. Total outlay of first phase of the project is Rs. 3,01,989/- which has been completed during 2002-2003 and site is being maintained during 2003-04.

2. Bamungaon as Eco-Conservation and Tourism Site Phase -I
A site of natural perrenial stream in Bamangaon Reserve Forest under Abhayapuri Forest Range was selected to take up afforestation and beautification works in the Phase -I (April'02 to Feb'03). A 0.5 ha of Nursery has been raised, afforestation of 20 Ha plantation constructions of stop dam and natures trail has been completed. The total outlay of the first phase of the project is Rs. 6,46,800/-, which has been completed. Bamungaon JFMC has been handed over the responsibility of collection of entry fee and maintenance. The committee has collected more than Rs. 10,000/- during 2002-2003 from different sources.

3.Tamranga Vihang Vihaar. Phase -I:
Tamranga a natural lake under Boitamari Block of N.Salmara Sub-Division is a beautifull location and destination of migratory birds during winters. fed by the floodwater of the Brahmaputra, it is a combination of two lakes Tamranga(larger lake) and Kanara(smaller lake). In the phase-I, Kanara is being developed. The works completed include raising of 1 Ha nursery, planting of 350 single plants, the layout of the garden on the banks of the lake and repairing of abandoned fisheries building as Tourist Rest House. Total outlay of Phase-I was of Rs. 5,18,090/-, which has been achived during 2002-03 and now the site is being handed over to the local Joint Forest Managament Committee.

4.Bagheswari Temple Hill Site. Phase- I:
Bageswari Temple on the top of in the middle of Bongaigaon town is proposed to be developed as afforested hillock with a garden and a small artificial lake fed by a perennial stream This would improve the water catchment area of the town and the surrounding environment.The Bhageswari Hill houses acients Shiva temple inside a stone cave flanked either side by another 2 temples mainly temple of Bhageswari and Baba Tarak Nath. Every year 15 to 20 thousand devotees visit to the Bhageswari hill top.In order to develop this beutiful site into a viable Eco-Tourism and recreational spot, the following schemes were taken up and implemented during 2001-2003(31st March'2003).Entire allocation for implementing the project has been made out of funds from EAS 2001-2002 stream.

Birjhora Herbal Garden cum Orchidorioum and Butterfly rearing House:
The Project was taken up under EAS, 2001-2002 with an estimated cost of Rs. 7,79,500.00 with the objective to uplift Birjhora Science College to a prime centre of Research and Training and to create awareness for preservation and Economic use of Bio Diversity covering the following components a) One Medicinal Herbal Garden.b) An Orchidarium.c) A Butterfly rearing house.d) A Mushroom Cultivation cum Demonstration Center.e) Patchouli Cultivation.f) One Ornamental Flower Garden with a Patch of Fern.g) Necessary facilities such as Nursery, Boundary wall, Water supply, Internal path, Garden implements etc.. Traditional medicinal plant have been collected and cultivated. Butterfly
Rearing (variety) Centre has already been constructed and successfully habitated. Orchidorium house along with Mushroom demonstration centre have already been constructed and put to use.
D) Sericulture Sector,

1.Extention of Som Plantation and Raising of Som Seeding Nursery at Nayagaon Muga V.G.R. :3 hect. extension of som plantation along with raising of 40000 nos of seedling Nursery has been completed at Nayagaon Muga V.G.R.

2.Extension of Mulberry Plantation: Introducing of Som plantation along with raising of Som and Mulberry Nursery at North Boitamari (Dewangaon) C.M.G. :- 1.5 hect. of Som plantation is completed along with 40000 nos of S1 and M5 variety of Mulberry Nursery in the C.M.G. 15 hect. Mulberry plantation (S1 & M5 variety) and 40000 nos of som Seeding Nursery is created in the North Boitamari CMG .

3.Creation of Mulberry Nursery at Khagarpur CMG: 40000 nos of S1 & M5 variety of Mulberry sapling Nursery has been created at Khagarpur CMG and distribution of seedlings to beneficiaries is continuing.

4.Creation of Kesseru Nursery at Ulubari ECC : 30000 nos of Kesseru Seeding Nursery has been raised at Ulubari Eri Concentration Centre.

5.Creation of Kesseru Nursery at Ballamguri ECC: 30000 nos of Kesseru Nursery has been raised at Ballamguri Eri Concentration Centreand distribution to rearers are going on.

6.Group Plantation and Creation of Mulberry Garden for Unemployed : 18 bighas of land has been covered by high yeilding variety of Mulberry Plants under group plantation scheme by unemployed youths as a source of their livelihood at Jelkajhar.
The different schemes as mentioned above is meant for rearers of Bongaigaon district which will directly cover more than 500 nos of Eri/Muga and Mulberry rearers for seeding and sapling distribution and engage a good numbers of local rearers who will undertake Eri/Muga and Mulberry rearing, utilising the silkworm food plants of the centres and is expected to reduce the poverty among the poor people.

Emergency medical care to save lives require blood transfusion very often. Large number of surgical, obstetics and accident cases are treated in different govt. and private medical institutions daily. Life saving emergency medical services are severly handicaped due to non availibility of blood transfusion facility. The requirment of transfusion of blood is estimated to be about 250 – 300 units per month.

DRDA, Bongaigaon has taken up a project to construct a blood bank attached to Bongaigaon CHC at an estimated cost of Rs. 4.5 Lakhs.. The Blood Bank building has already been constructed as per specification given by Govt. of India with provisions for separate rooms for blood collection, donor’s examination, laboratory, refreshment, storage, record room and a laboratory.

Kakaijana Proposed Wildlife Sanctuary

(26o22' North-20o21' North and 90o33' East - 90o34' East )
cover an area of 15,000 bigha land situated on the bank of Aie river, declared Reserved Forest on 29th April 1966, 15 km away from Bongaigaon town in eastern direction. It has been proposed to be upgraded into a wildlife sanctuary since 1st April 1999, under the Aie Valley Forest Division ( Letter No. A/24/5/Kakoijana/31/317-20 dated 1/4/99).

Golden Langur which is found here is rare in the world and only in this area of North Eastern region. In addition to Golden Langur differnt types of Birds and differnt types of valuable Climber's, Shrub, Herb , Sapling plants are also availble . There is one hill spring called "Kalikapat" which flows through the forest and drains to the paddy field. There is also an ancient "Shiva" temple on one of the hills. All these Animals and Sceneries are beautiful and tourist attractive.

Famous For:
Animals
Golden Langur
Birds
Pied Harrier, Lesser Kestrel, Red Vented Bulbul, Black Headed Oriole, Drongo, Ashi Swallo Shrike, Pied Myna, Jungle Leubbler, Little egret, Large egret, Pond Heron, Open Bell Stork, Lesser Adjatent Stork, Recket Tailed Drongo, Grey Headed Myna, Greater Recket Tailed Drango, Black Crested Bulbul Shama, Ruphoas Shrike, Green Heron, Open Bill Stork, Magpic Robin etc.
Others
Binturong, Jungle fowl, Barking deer, Pangolin, Flying Squirrel.
Plant
Around Orchid, Sal Patches, Scattered Bamboo Grooves and saplings of miscellaneous tree species.
Golden Langur

LALMATI-DURAMARI GANESH TEMPLE
The Lalmati-Duramari Ganesh Temple near Abhayapuri town under North Salmara Sub-Division, is one of the oldest temples of the state.
The historicity of the images are yet to be ascertained. But after a study of the stone carving and modes related to the carved idols, archeologists opine that the temple and images belong to 8th to 10th centuries AD
There are three views advanced as the reason for destrcution of the temple .The first view has it that eartquakes during the 8th and 10th centuries destroyed the temple and its images, while according to tyhe second view, Kalapahar who revolted against worshipers and priests, destroyed the temple along with other temples and images in the North-East. The third view has it that Burmese(Maan) invaders who camped at Malegarh(Manegarh) hills destroyed the temple along with the idols. But it seems that eartquake has been the prime cause of the destruction of the temple.


A part of the Old Lalmati Ganesh Mandir
The existance of ruins in Lalmati-Durgamari area along with temples and images was brought to the notice of the Historical & Antiquarian Department of the Govt. of Assam in 1974. The department undertook excacation work which resulted the discovery of the temples, images and idols of the Gods and Godesses.
The site of temples is teemed with natural beauty and the Govt. can upgrade the place to a major tourist attraction.
Development work in the temple was undertaken partly by Bongaigaon district administration and the State Govvement.
People have already demanded the Govt. to include the place in the tourist mape of the state and construct a tourist lodge here.
A community hall and an office building have already been constructed. Work on a water supply scheme is being done at present.
The temple managing committee and local people urged the Govt. to blacktop the road from Naldaba to the temple site and take steps to beautify the area.

Rock Cut Caves
The best speciments of the architecture of the Salasthambha period are the remains of the five rock-cut caves at Jogighopa on the bank of the Brahmaputra in the district of Bongaigaon. These are the unique examples of rock-cut architecture in Assam. Though these rock-cut caves are not of such architectural interest as those in Western India, but these remains at Jogighopa are the clear evidence of the fact that Assam was not outside the movement of this particular type of art developed in India as it will be seen from description of the best preservedcave noticed at Jogighopa.

This Cave measures 2.60 m breadth ,1.8 metre in depth and 1.90 metre in height and also a roughly rounded ceiling and in front a verandah 75 cm long by 35 cm broad. A platform of brick and mud masonry is found inside which is obviously a later addition. A chase running across the entire breath of the cave on the top serves to drain away rain water from the facade. Flights of steps have been cut into the rock on either side and ledge on the top diverts the rain water from the facade. The cave bears no sculptural designs. The other caves at the site have no flights and verandah and smaller in size than the best preserved one.

This architectural site has been taken up by the Archaelogical survey of India for preservation

Places to visit in Western Assam -- Barpeta District

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BARPETA

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Barpeta during the pre-Shankardev era enriched by the aphorism of Dak-Purusha, the first Assamese poet, Kavyas and Verses of Kaviratna Saraswati; Pitambar Kavi, and contribution of Purusottam Vidyabagisha etc. Barpeta’s glory reached its zenith at the dawn of 16th Century A.D. and Barpeta became a nerve center (Boikuntha Doloi) of Vaishnavite culture with the divine presence and touch of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva-Madhabdeva-Harideva, Damodardeva and their disciples. These Baishnave preachers and social reformers lived for long tenure here and transformed Barpeta into most elite and sacred spiritual place.
Sankardeva (1449-1568) lived for six months at Kapla, one year at Chinpora (Chinpura) three months at Ganakkuchi and eighteen years six months at Patbaushi. His chief disciple Madhabdeva (1489-1596) also lived for three years at Baradi, nineteen years at Ganakkuchi, fouteen years six months at Sundardia and seven years six months at Barpeta. Harideva (1426-1566) lived at Bahari Satra. And established there a Satra in1453, he was the first vaishnava preacher to nominate a woman, his daughter Bhubaneswari, as the Satrdhikar of Bahari Satra. Mahapurush Damodardeva (1489-1598) established his Satra at Patbaushi, and lived there for long years. These Vaishnava preachers brought a wave of renaissance to the Assamese society. Satra (Vaishnavite monastery) an unique institutions, was the gift of Gurus to us. Although in the beginning satra were established for propagation of Vaishnavite faith, but with the passage of time such institutions gradually transformed into open Universities and became all-embracing socio-cultural centers covering education, music, dance, sculpture, drama and Fine-art. Barpeta in its present context also, can be termed as the ‘land of satra’ and there are more than 40 such satras situated at various places in the district.
Barpeta is famous for ‘Douljatra’ or ‘Holi’ festival. Although it is primarily a religious festival centering around satriya tradition, it can also be considered a spring festival. People belonging to different walk of life participate in this in this festival of colours . Holi songs are sung on the occasion .
Besides Satriya dances ,another beautiful dance –form of Barpeta is the famous, Bhartal “ dance. This dance –form is an adapted improvised dance-form developed from both the satriya and traditional dance .”Bhortal dance is discovered and initiated by one great satriya artist Late Mahananda Sutradhar , which was first performed in the stage among the people by another great artist Late Narahari Burabhakat of Barpeta also made some refinement of this dance form .
Devadasi , another dance form ,originally performed by the female temple dancers at Dubi Devalaya for amusement of the temple deities. Due to some social reasons this dance form lost its patronages and become extinct.
Barpeta is also famous for Dashavatar (ten incarnation of Vishnu) dance Satriya Ojapali dance and Borgeet ( devotional songs),which are performed in various socio-cultural occasion.
Barpeta is also a treasure house of folk songs and dances which includes-Mahoho-Geet,(song sung to driven out mosquito ), Biya-Nam (wedding song), Dehbicharar Geet, Loka-Geet, Thiya-Nam (songs of Prayer sung standing and Dancing in Group), Nao-Khelar geet (song sung on boat races) etc.
Barpeta’s heritage also includes, traditionally made art-objects, handicrafts, Ivory-wood-Bamboo-Cane-Iron objects, brass and bell –metallic objects, textile, ornaments. Pottery, Puppetry, Fire-crackers and Mobile-theatres.

The erstwhile Barpeta Sub-Division got such elite administrators like Late Anandaram Dhekial Phukan, Dinanath Bezbaruah, Madhab Ch. Bardaloi, Rajani Kanta Bardoloi, Kanak Lal Baruah and Sailadhar Rajkhowa, Dhekiya Phukan was Sadar-Muncif (SDO) in 1852, who wrote his famous report (“A few remarks on Assamese language for the vernacular education in Assam) to the then Commissioner, his superior Sir George Andrew Mofatmills, illustrating the distinctive characters of Assamese language and thus helped in restoring the dignity of Assamese language in the courts and schools of Assam. Late Dinanath Bezbaruah (father of Sahityarathi Late Lakhinath Bezbaruah) was Sadar Muncif on 1864, who also added some literary contributions while serving at Barpeta. Late Madhab Ch. Bardalai (Father of Kamaveer Late Nabin Ch. Bardalai) was Sadar Muncif in 1895, who edited and published Madhab Kandali’s Ramayana and Purushottam Gajapali’s Deepika Chanda’. Late Rajani Kanta Bardoloi was SDC during 1894 to 1897 at Barpeta , he published his first novel “Mirijioree” here and wrote his another famous novel “Manomati” taking Barpeta in its one of the bases,. Bardoloi was designated by the critics as “Uppoinach Samrat” ( emperior of Novel) for his valuable contributions towards Assamese literature. Sailadhar Rajkhowa was S.D.C. at Barpeta, he was also a poet genius, his two famous poems ‘Barpeta’ and Pashan Pratima” based on the glorification of Barpeta’s rich culture and historic past are considered as monumental contributions towards Assamese literature. Late Kanaklal Barua the author of ‘ Early History of Kamrupa” was also Sadar Muncif since 1909 to 1917, he borned at Barpeta in 1872, while his father late Lakhmilal Baruah was also Sadar Muncif. Late Kanaklal Baruah also received his school education at Barpeta itself since 1878 and during his school days he contributed poems in ‘ASSAM-BANDHU’, ‘MOU’ etc, magazines and news papers of this period. While he was serving at Barpeta he wrote one of his famous articles ‘Mahapurushia Sampradayar Dharmamat’ ( Religious belief of Vashnvaite Community) in ‘ Bahi’ edited by Lakhsminath Bezbaruah, philosofer- writer late Rdhanath Phukan and poet late Durgeswar Sharma also served as Government Servant at Barpeta for many years.
Padmabati Devi Phukanani, the first Assamese lady novelist and daughter of late Anandaram Dhekial Phukan, borned at Barpeta in 1853. poet Nalinibala Devi daughter of late Nabin Ch. Bardoloi was also borned at Barpeta in 1897, while her grandfather late Madhab Ch Bardoloi was a Sadar Muncif at Barpeta. Barpeta was also a working place for Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha and Natasurya Phani Sharma late Satyen Barkakati ex- chairman , APSC also served at Barpeta as S.D.O. late Deakanta Baruah received his school education at Barpeta, Sahityacharya late Atul Ch Hazarika, Ex-Prsident, Asom Sahitya Sabha, also served as teacher at Barpeta.
Barpeta produced her great sons and daughters such as Aai Padmapriya, the first Assamese lady poet (daughter of Sri Gopaldev Ata); Pushpa ram Kahar, leader of famous agrarian revolt (‘ Raij-Mel”) fame held against the British policy of exploitations , Kohiram Das, the Assamese Grammarians , Bakul Kayastha, the Assamese Mathematicians; Padmashree Chandraprava Saikiani, the famous and pioneer lady revolutionary social reformer and freedom fighter ; Braja Sharma, the revolutionary dramatic, who was pioneer in launching female artists first time in Assamese theatre, who was also the leader of the freedom-fighter groups who burnt down the British Airport at Barnagar during the freedom struggle; Asom Keshari Ambikagiri Roy Chaudhuri, the nationalist, poet and freedom-fighter Prasanna Lal Chaudhury the revolutionary poet; Dr. Banikanta Kakati, the great academician and linguistic researcher of high merit, his monumental work “Assamese-its Formation and Development’ helped in establishing Assamese language in distinctive position.
The district also produced Holiram Deka, the first Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court; Dharmananda Das, the first Chief Secretary, Govt. of Assam; Mohendra Pathak and Damba rudhar Pathak, both of them remained Chief Justices of Asssm; Kameswar Das, freedom fighter and great academician; and the first Chairman APSC Hitesh Deka, ex-president, Asom Sahitya Sabha; Sri Harekrishna Deka, Director-General of Police, Assam; Dr. Robin Dev Choudhury, Director-General of National Museum, New Delhi: Dr. Tara Prasad Das, Ex-Chairman, Assam Public Service Commission, and Sri Gajendra Nath Talukdar, Vice-Chancellor, Guwahati University. The district also produced two great martyrs of 1942’s freedom struggle, Swahid Madan and Raota and also Uddhab Das, great martyr of Kargil War. The inventor of Railway train’s vacuum brakes, Col. Guru Prasad Das was also a son of Barpeta.
Barpeta district also produced such politician luminaries like Late Fakaruddin Ali Ahmed, the Fifth President of Indian Union; Late Mohendra Mohan Choudhury, Ex-Chief Minister of Assam and Ex- Governor of Punjab; Late Akhsai Kumar Das reputed political leader etc.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST

With the advent of Shrimanta Sankardeva Barpeta region turned into a place of great religious importance. Large number of Satras were established by the disciples of this great Vaishnava saint. Since time immemorial these Satras attracts large number of devotees from all over the state, particularly during festivals and anniversaries. Among the Satras that are regularly visited by outsiders are Barpeta, Patbaushi,Sundaridiya,Sunpura,GanakKuchi,Satra Kanara and Jania.

The town of Barpeta is uniquely divided into 22 Hattis that are inhabited by the devoted followers and families of the Gurus, that are administered by the Satra administration. This unique feature is not found in any other place in Assam.

The traditional handicrafts of Barpeta including ivory carving are popular all over Assam. The indigenous fire cracker industry is also well known in Assam. Brass metal industry of Sarthebari is known all over the world .

Communication

Barpeta can be reached by Bus & Railways. The nearest Railway Station being Barpeta Road which lies at a distance of 21 K.M. from Barpeta Town. Barpeta Road is connected to all over Assam by National Highway No.31, North of the District Head quarter Town of Barpeta. Howly connects Barpeta with the National Highway which lies about 16 K.M. There are regular bus services between Barpeta and Guwahati.

Some of the important places of tourist attractions are:

Barpeta Satra, Barpeta	Pari Hareswar Devalaya, Dubi
Chinpara Vithi, Barpeta	Dargah of Syed Shahnur Dewan, Bhella
Sundaridiya Satra, Barpeta	Gorokhia Gosair Than, Niz Sariha(Sorbhog)
Patbaushi Satra,Patbaushi	Manas National Park, North Barpeta
Ganakkuchi Satra, Barpeta	Brass-metal industry of Sarthebari
Baradi Satra, Baradi	River side views

The heritage and culture of Barpeta District is predominated by the remarkable work of the great Assamese renaissance figure and reformer Mahapurush Shrimanta Sankardeva who laid the foundation of Assamese culture and heritage in and around the district. Subsequently the great saints disciples namely Madhabdev, Haridev, Damodardev and their devotees followed the good-works of the great figure.

SATRAS:

A good number of Satras was founded by these great saints that are considered regio-cultural institutions or monastries that created deep impact in the Society, polity, economy etc.in the region. Although the Satra institutions were established for the propagation of Vaishnavite faith but with passage of time these institutions gradually transformed into open universities to become all-embracing socio-cultural centres covering numerous subject including education, music,dance, sculpture ,drama, fine-art, Ivory-works etc. Some of the important satras are-

Patbaushi

Ganakkuchi

Jania

Sundaridia

Barpeta

Baradi

Kanara

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PATBAUSHI SATRA:

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The Satra at Patbaushi was established by Shrimanta Sankardeva. His Vaishnava faith was spread by the guru's able disciples Shri Madhav Deva, Shri Damodar Deva and Shri Hari Deva. It was from this satra that Srimanta Sankardeva spread his faith, literature, music art-forms, culture and work-culture to its fullest form. Here the guru spent 18 years of his life with remarkable achievement including completion of the 'Kirtan Ghosa' and composition of 240 number of invaluable Borgeets. Some of the items used by these Gurus and Sachipat puthis are well-preserved here. Shrimanta Sankardeva composed 240 Bargeets, Shastra (literary religio- cultural text) and Ankiya nat (Dramas). The scripts are carefully preserved here. Of late the Govt. has taken steps for preservation of this treasures of Assamese heritage and planning to setup a Shrimanta Sankardeva Museum at the premises of the Satra. The Damodar deva Satra is also located in the same premises. Ahom Ruler Paramatta Singha constructed a Math in memory of the saint. This Satra is located at a distance of about 2 K.M. from Barpeta town.The Satra is located about 2 K.Ms North of the Barpeta town.

linked to it is the Patbaushi Damodar Satra. This Satra was founded by Damodardeva and is situated just near Patbaushi Sankardeva Satra. The Satra got royal patronage from the Ahom King Pramttwa Shingha. Bhattadeve, the chief disciple of Damodardeva, wrote Bhagawat scripture in prose from at this Satra. Besides ‘Katha-Bhagawat’, Guru-Lila, Dron-parva, of Mahabharata in manuscript forms are preserved in this Satra.

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· GANAKKUCHI SATRA:

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This satra was founded by Sri Madhab Deva for which the land was purchased by Shrimanta Sankardeva for 1 Tola (about 10gm) Gold and nominated his close disciple Shri Madhab Deva as the satradhikar to stay here to spread his faith and he went on to stay here for 18 long years. The vithis of Shri Ram Ata and Shri Ram Atoi are also preserved here. A number of Sachipat Puthis composed by Shrimanta Sankardeva is preserved here. This Satra is located within the radius of Barpeta Municipality.Some of the items used by the guru and Sachipat puthis are well-preserved here. The Satra is located within the Barpeta town area.

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· JANIA SATRA:

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This Satra was established by Sankardeva's disciple Shri Narayan Das Thakur Ata. He composed a large number of devotional songs here. This Satras located at a distance of 8 K.M. from Barpeta in Barpeta Jania Road,

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· SUNDARIDIYA SATRA:

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The Satra was established by Shri Madhab Deva after leaving Ganakkuchi Satra. The first satradhikar of Barpeta Satra Sri Mathura Das Burha Ata initially come to this Satra and became a disciple of Shri Madhab Deva. It was here that Paal Nam and Beer Nam or Thiya Nam was created by sri Madhab Deva. Shri Madhabdeva composed the "Bhakti Ratnakar" and "Namghosa" here in the original Vithi of the Satra.The great saint during his sojourn here dug a Well preserved till today and water of the well is considered holy.Three Guru Asanas are placed in the name of Shri Sankardeva,Shri Madhavdeva and Shri Badula Ata.
A large number of items used by the guru including Sachipat-puthis are preserved here.

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BARPETA SATRA:

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Sri Madhab Deva founded the Barpeta Satra and stayed here for 8 long years. Here he appointed Sri Mathura Das Burha Ata as the first Satradhikar of the Satra. It was Burha Ata who systematised the administration of the Satra leading to development of the institution and the region of Barpeta. A democratic system was introduced which is effective till today. Large number of followers came to Barpeta & accepted the Vaishnava faith irrespective of their caste high or low that created an egalitarian Society. A new work culture developed among the followers. The Satra has several buildings. The front gate is called 'Batsora'. The main 'Kirtanghar' is where prayers or 'Nam Kirtan' are performed is an architectural splendour. Earlier built as a Kutcha house was concretised with big-pillars in 1952 with decorative wall paintings. All the 'bhakats' or 'devotees' discussed all kinds of problems in the Jagmohan Ghar. In the 'Bhajghar' a lamp is continously burning for more than 400 years that is called 'Akhay Banti'. Sri Krishna Doul festival is organised at the premises of Doul ghar. There is a small zoo and small 'rangial' garden. Within the premises a cultural school, Keli kadam tree,Shri Shri Mathura Das Burha Ata Library, study-room, office and kitchen are also located. The buildings within the Satra premise are architectural achievements in its own right.The Kirtan Ghar is considered to be the largest in Assam. The Three Guru Asanas are placed in this buildings in honour of Shrimanta Sankardeva, Shri Madhavdeva and Shri Badula Ata. The two Satradhikars sit behind the Asanas to hold Nam-Prasangas regularly. Numerous buildings are located within the premise covering an area of 20 Bighas. Constitution formulated by Sri Mathura Das Ata is still in vogue. The Satra located at the heart of the City attracts devotees from all over the State particularly during Holi when Doul festival is organised and annivarsaries of various Vaishnava Gurus. BARADI SATA:
This satra was also established by Sri Madhab Deva and stayed here for a very short period.The Sankarite culture spread far and wide from Baradi making it a centre for learning. The place is located about 2.K.M. east of Barpeta town.

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BARADI SATRA

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This Satra was established by Shri Madhabdeva. The common people were greatly influenced by the preachings of this great scholar. This Satra became an important centre of learning.

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SATRA KANARA:

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Established by Sri Sri Narayan Das Thakur Ata. This Satra is damaged by natural calamaties. Floods creates problem for running the Satra. As a result the original habitants of this place shifted to Gajia and Ganakkuchi in Barpeta. The Satra is located at a distance of 16 K.M. from Barpeta.

other satras are:

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Akaya Satra:

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Akaya Satra is the big satra in Bajali Sub-Division, Situated at Akaya village at a distance of 6 K.M. towards north from Patacharkuchi.

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Guwagacha Satra:

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Ramcharan Thakur founded this Satra, the Satra is situated at a distance of 8 K.M. towards north from Simlaguri.

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Gomura Satra:

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This Satra was founded by Madhabdeva and is situated at a distance of 27 K.M. towards east from Barpeta Town near Sarthebari.

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Bhawanipur Satra:

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This Satra is founded by Gopaldev Ata at old Bhawanipur and is situated at a distance of 26 K.M. towards north from Barpeta town.

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CHINPARA-VITHI:

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Chinpara-Vithi is the place where Srimanta Sankardeva landed from his boat at Barpeta on banks of Palangdi Bori; which is presently called Palangdihati. The Saint stayed here for six months to propogate his faith. This place is located about 1/2 K.M. North of Barpeta Satra. The Namghar established by the Guru still exist.

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PARI HARESWAR DEVALAYA, DUBI:

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This Shiva Temple was founded back in the ancient period.Located at Dubi near Pathsala of Bajali Sub-Division Ahom King Shiva Singha made land grants measuring about 760 Puras recorded in Copper-Plate inscriptions and donated an image of Goddesses Durga. There is a legend that Queen Fuleswari, wife of Shiva Singha, was instrumental in bringing "Devadasis" or Temple dancers from Upper Assam to perform dances for amusement of the deities of this Temple. The famous dance form "Devadasi-Nritya" is said to have originated in this Temple.

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Dokreswar Devalaya:

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It is an also ancient Shiva Temple situated at Dokreswar Model village under Gomaphulbari Dev. Block, at a distance of 4 K.M. towards south from Bhella. This Develaya also received royal patronage from the Ahom King Shiva Shingh in the form of land-grants.

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Bhogeswar Devalaya:

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Although there is no record of concrete historic origin about this temple (also known as ‘Than’), the Bhogeswar develaya at Ulua village, situated on the western river bank of Kaldia river about 8 K.M. towards north from Patacharkuchi, was established by Vaishnava devotees which was more than 500 years old.

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DARGAH OF SYED SHAHNUR DEWAN, BHELLA:

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A disciple of Muslim Sufi-Saint Ajan Fakir of Upper Assam Syed Shahnur Dewan came and stayed at Bhella region to spread the Sufi Philosophy of Islamic brotherhood back in the medeival period. This mystic is said to have divine healing power and cured a maternity problem of Queen Fuleswari, wife of Ahom King Shiva Singha. On curing the Queen, the King issued land grants and other patronages to the Fakir. Ahom King Chandra Kanta Singha also offered land through issue of Copper-Plate inscriptions which has been lost during the Burmese invasions of 1824.

GOROKHIA GOSAIR THAN,NIZ SARIHA(SORBHOG):

Shri Narayan Das Thakur Ata, a disciple of Shrimanta Sankardeva came to offer his devotion that was said to be founded by some cow herds (Gorokhia). The building of this Than has a close resemblance of the Kirtanghar of Barpeta Satra. The Than covers an area of 25 Bighas where Doul festival is organised annually with great pomp and splendour.

MANAS NATIONAL PARK :

Declared as a national park in 1990 Manas National park is located at Himalayan foothills where its having an unique bio diversity and scenic landscapes. It is one of the first reserves included in the tiger reserve network under project tiger in 1973. Covering an area of 2837 Sq.KM. Manas river flows through the park with unique blending of dense jungles and grass-land, harbours the largest number of protected species of India including tiger, leopard, civet, elephants, buffalo, pygmy hog, golden langoor, Assam roof turtle, and the Bengal florican. This park is included as a site of international importance under UNESCO's world heritage convention in 1988 as well as Biosphere Reserve in 1989. There are as many as 60 species of mammals,312 birds, 42 reptiles,7 amphibia,54 fishes and more than 100 species of insects The place can be reached by road from Barpeta Road(20KM) connecting National highway No-31 that connects rest of India. The railways connects Barpeta Road with rest of the country and Gopinath Bordoloi airport at Guwahati is nearly 160 KM from Barpeta Road town. The forest lodges are situated inside the park at Mathanguri which lies at a distance of40 K.Ms from Barpeta Road. Visitors are to obtain necessary permission for entry into park at the office of Field Director Manas Tiger Reserve, Barpeta Road.

BRASS METAL INDUSTRY OF SARTHEBARI :

Sarthebari town is located in the easternmost corner of the district famous for the household brass metal industry. Large number households carry out this industry that expertises in making Sarais, Bota, Ban-Batis,Thals,glasses etc. that are traditionally used by the Assamese people. These utensils are unique contribution towards Assamese tradition and culture carried for long period of time. Due to increasing cost of raw materials that is to be imported from other state, the artisans are finding it economically difficult to continue the industry.

(12) RIVER SIDE VIEW :

The main rivers of Barpeta namely Manas, Beki and Brahmaputra present scenic beauty that would bring appreciation from environmentalists and tourists alike. View from the bridges on National highway No-31 over Beki and Manas provide panoramic view of natural beauty. A visit to Baghbar hills also provide a scenic overview of the mighty Brahmaputra. But infrastructural facilities has to be developed to attract tourists.

DISTANCE OF VARIOUS SATRAS FROM BARPETA

SATRA	ESTABLISHED BY	DISTANCE (in K.M.)
Barpeta	Shri Madhab Deva	0
Sinpara	Shri Sankar Deva	1
Kamarkuchi Than	Shri Sankar Deva	1.5
Patbaushi	Shri Sankar Deva	2
Ganak kuchi	Shri Madhab Deva	0.75
Sundaridiya	Shri Madhab Deva	2
Baradi	Shri Madhab Deva	2
Kapla	Shri Madhab Deva	20
Gumura	Shri Madhab Deva	24
Guagacha	Shri Madhab Deva	21
Bhabanipur	Shri Gopal Ata	28
Kanara	Narayan Das Ata	8
Bhatkuchi	Keshav Charan Ata	2

TOURIST LODGE AND INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist lodge with information centre is located at Barpeta Road. The deptt. of tourism have a forest lodge also. The directorate of tourism organises conduct tours to the Manas National park. The best time to visit the park is between November and April.

DISTANCES OF PLACES FROM BARPETA TOWN

PLACE	DISTANCE(KM)
Howly	12
Barpeta Road	21
Manas Ntl. Park	52
Sorbhog	27
Bongaigaon	69
Cooch Bihar	259
Siliguri	432
Guwahati	140
Bhella	8
Nagaon	13
Sarthebari	27

CULTURAL ART FORMS:

The Barpeta District is rich in cultural art from both ethnic and non-ethnic. The great cultural ambassador Srimanta Sankardeva contributed a great deal in creating different art forms that became integral part of Assamese culture.

BORGEET:

Devotional songs composed by Shrimanta Sankardeva are still popular in this region.

ANKIYA GEET:

Shrimanta Sankardeva composed ankiyageet for ankiya-nats or plays. These are sung on special occessions like Doul festival,anniverseries of the two gurus and other festivals.

HOLI GEET:

Holigeet are the unique form of chorus songs that originated in Barpeta satra and spread throughout the state. These are sung during the Doul festival.

LOKA GEET:

Kamrupi Loka geet is popular form of folk music that expresses thoughts and emotion of the common people. These songs are sung from time immemorial by various people of earstwhile undivided Kamrup district. Beside this various forms of songs linking the day to day activites are also popular like biya(marriage) geet,now khelor(boat race) geet, maha-kheda (mosquito driveout)geet, lora-dhemalir(child's play)geet, boroshibowa (fishing) geet, nisukoni (lallabye)geet and various forms of bihu geet.

DANCES:

Devadasi nritya was performed at Pari Hareswar Devalaya in Bajali. Deodhani nritya is another form that was popular during middle ages. Shrimanta Sankdardeva popularised the Satriya nritya among the common people. Other dance form that the guru popularised are Krishna nritya, Kalidaman nritya, Dasavatara nritya, Jhumura nritya, Sali nritya, Sutradhari nritya, Gopi nritya Raja Nritya, Rani nritya etc. which were performed in the Satras. Ojapali is a popular dance form among the people.

DRAMA & THEATRE:

Sankardeva popularised 'Bhaona' or mythological plays that became centre of attraction from the common masses. Colourful dresses were worn on the occassion by the participants. The modern dance form became popular with spreading of dramas. These dramas resulted in formation of professional theatre groups in and around Pathsala region leaving behind an unique cultural legacy. Large number of professional theatre group enjoy popularity among the people in every hook & corner of Assam. Theatre groups like Nataraj, Kohinoor, Abahan, and Aradhana from Pathsala has not only carved out a niche but also revolutionised this medium despite challange from Cinema Halls.

Places to visit in towns:

Barpeta:

Barpeta, originally also known as ‘Tantikuchi’ and Barpat, is the district headquarter town of Barpeta district. Barpeta town has 12 wards under more than 100 years old Municipal Board. Besides, Satriya heritage, Barpeta was famous for ivory-works, fire-crackers works, Doul Festival, Rowing of Boat competition, Satrya dance, Bhortal Dance, traditional folk-culture etc. Growth of transport business is the prominent economic character. Mathuradas Bura Ata established an unique ;Hati-system to arrange the human habitants centering around Barpeta Satra and placed the inhabitants into four row of villages or hati’s. At present there are 22 hati’s. Bura Ata also developed village banking system to help the poor businessman and the needy people by extending marginal loan in nominal or without interest.

SARTHEBARI
Sarthebari is a small town situated at a distance of 27 K.M. towards east-north from Barpeta Town, is famous for its brass and bell-metallic utensils and art-objects manufacturing industries build up on cottage and corporate sector. The use of Bell-metallic art objects and utensils have been reported from Sarthebari since 7th Century A.D., when Kamrupa king Kumar Bhaskar Varman offered bell-metallic utensils made in Sarthebari to his ally King Harshavardhana of Kanouj (Northern India) as a token of friendship between the two kingdoms. Ahom king Shiva Shingha also honoured Jewadhan Kahar of Sarthebari for his skill and craftsmanship in bell-metallic works. Sarthebari also became famous during agrarian revolt in 1869, when the peasants in large number revolted against the then British Government’s policy of sudden increase of land revenue. People gathered in large number and revolted in their open meeting (‘Raij-Mel’) not to pay revenue to the Government. Sarthebari is now a township with four wards.

PATHSALA
Pathsala, often describes as the Hollywood of Assam for its big mobile theatre groups and regular performances of drama and other cultural activities round the year, is a sadar town of Bajali Sub-Division. Pathsala is situated at a distance of 37 K.M. towards north-east from Barpeta Town. Pathsala and its surrounding places became famous during the Freedom-Struggle, when people from those places had joined in the movement. And Bajali sub-division produced two great martyrs of 1942, Swahid Raota and Madan and also the martyr of Kargil war of 1999, Uddhab Das.

BARPETA ROAD
Barpeta Road is a busy industrial market town in the district, situated at a distance of 23 K.M. towards west from Barpeta Town. Barpeta Road is connected to all over Assam by National Highway No. 31. A railway station is also situated at Barpeta Road. This municipal town of ten wards houses some important Government Offices, including the Field Director’s Office of Manas Tiger Project.

BAGHBAR
Baghbar is situated at a distance of 20 K.M. towards south from Barpeta town. Baghbar hill believed to be volcanic origin houses a satra (Boithaputa Ghat) founded by Madhabdeva, and Bagheswari Than. Baghbar has a mixed population comprising of the caste Hindu, the Bodos, Bengali Hindus and Muslims. The birth place of legendary ‘Dak Purusha’ of 8th century fame “lehidongora’ and the battle ground of the last battle between the Ahom and the Burmese soldiers in 1822 (‘Hardira Chowk’) are situated near Baghbar.

OTHER PLACES:

Besides, Bahari, and Howly are big market places. Bahari is situated near the northern bank of the Brahmaputra, a somewhat sleepy village waiting to receive town status in the near future, also houses an old satra founded by Harideva. Howly is also a notified town comprising of 4 wards, is connected with NH 31, thus receives opportunities for exposure. Sarbhog is a railway station and a command area of agricultural produces. Sarupeta is another railway station and also an agricultural area. Patacharkuchi a growing small township although waiting for attaining notified town status, can claimed to be heart of Bajali Sub-Division also forward in academic exposure. Kalgachia is the block headquarter and Rupshi is a mafasal town inhabited mostly by Muslim people. Same is the case with Mandia, the block headquarter of Mandia Dev. Block and a market place of local produces. Bhawanipur, that houses an old satra founded by Gopaldeva Ata is situated almost at the middle of Barpeta, Barpeta Road, Sarupeta, Pathsala near the N.H. 31.