Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Places to visit in North Assam -- Sonitpur District




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SONITPUR
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Kolia Bhomora Bridge - It is the bridge over river Brahmaputra that connects Sonitpur district on the north bank with Nagaon District on the south bank.It is not only an engineering master piece of 3.015 kms length but also a sight to watch.


welcome to Sonitpur- a land of natural beauty, ancient monuments and rich culturalheritage.Tezpur is an important tourist destination with beautiful parks, temples and ancient monuments .

Tezpur - 'City of Eternal Romance'

Situated on the northern bank of the mighty Brahmaputra, Tezpur also known in the ancient days as Sonitpur- is a serene quite town, famous for its beautiful parks , ancient Hindu temples and archaeological ruins steeped in mythology, legend and folklore.
One can either avail the package tours provided by private tour operators or can contact the Tourist Information Officer , Tezpur, Tourist Lodge .(phone- 91-03712-21016)
Tourist Spots in Tezpur Town

Chitralekha Udyan (Cole Park)

It is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful places in Tezpur.
Established by a British Deputy Commissioner,
Mr. Cole in 1906, the park has two massive
ornamented stone pillars, and other sculptural remnants .
It was recently renovated and revitalized in 1996 under
the stewardship of the then Deputy Commissioner,
Mr. M.G.V.K.Bhanu, IAS.
It has water sports facility, walk ways,
restaurant and open air stage.

Agnigarh
This hillock on bank of river Brahmaputra is the site of legendary romance of princess Usha (the only daughter of king Bana) and Anirudha, grand son of lord Krishna. Usha was kept on
this hillock which was surrounded by fire,hence the name of Agnigarh. Agnigarh provides a panoramic view of the great river and Tezpur. Recently Agnigarh has been developed as a beautiful park by district administration. It has a series of sculptures depicting the mythology ,open air stage, giant mushrooms and huge water fall .

Padum Pukhuri
This is a beautiful lake with an island. The island has been developed into a beautiful park with a musical fountain. There is an iron bridge to take you to the island. On the lake one can boat.

District Museum at Dak Bungalow
Dak Bungalow is an old and beautiful British era building in heart of the town. Recently it has been renovated and now houses the District Museum.

Ouguri hill
Ouguri hill on bank of Brahmaputra river provides breath taking view of
the mighty river and Tezpur town. There are huge rocks on the top of the hill which add to the beauty of the hill. These rocks provide facility for rock climbing. There is a giant statue of Kanaklata, legendary martyr of Quit India movement of 1942,on the top of the hill. Recently district administration started developing the hill in to a beautiful park.

Trimurty Udyan

This is a park along Borpukhuri. This has been named after the three jewels of Assamese culture: Rupkowar Jyoti Prasad Agarwalla, Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha and Natasurjya Phani Sarmah.

The Hazara Pukhuri

It is a large tank in name of Harjar Varman in Tezpur. It was excavated in the early part of the 9th century.

Bamuni Hills

The ruins of Bamuni Hills are famous for their exemplary artistic finesse. The sculptural remains date back to the ninth and tenth century A.D.

Da Parbatia

Ruins of the door frame of Da Parbatia temple, a few kilometres away from Tezpur, is perhaps the finest and oldest specimen of sculptural art in Assam. Its carving is characteristic of the early Gupta school of sculpture.

Mahabhairab Temple

The ancient temple of Mahabhairab stands to the north of Tezpur town. This temple is believed to have been established by king Bana with a Siva lingam. Formerly, this temple was built of stone but the present one is built of concrete. During the later years, the Ahom kings donated
devottar land for the Temple and Pujaris and Paiks were appointed to look after the temple. The responsibility of management was in the hands of a Bordoloi or Borthakur .But now the affairs of the temple is managed by the Government through a managing committee headed by Deputy Commissioner. Sivaratri is celebrated in the Temple in a big manner.

Haleswar
It is 10 km to the north of Tezpur, near Tezpur- Balipara main road. A linga was found by a cultivator ( Hallowa) while he was ploughing in the field. A temple was constructed initially on this linga. Later , the Ahom King Rudra Singha constructed the temple in 1705 AD.

Rudrapada Temple
To the east of Tezpur town, on the bank of river Brahmaputra the Rudrapada temple is situated. It is believed that Rudra ( Lord Shiva ) had left the print of his left foot (pada) on a stone found in the temple. It is believed that Mahadeva showed his real self to king Bana here. Rudrapada temple was later built by Siva Singha in the year 1730 A.D. The main temple was destroyed, due to erosion of river Brahmaputra.

Nine lines Inscription of Harjjar Varma

About 2 kms away from the heart of the town, close to the Rudrapada temple on the bank of river Brahmaputra the famous nine line inscription of Harjjar Varma (approximately – 815 – 834 AD) is seen. This inscription is of 829-30 A.D. This is found engraved on a stone. This inscription is archaeologically important.

Bhairabi Devalaya

Bhairabi temple is situated on a small hillock on the bank of river Brahmaputra. It is in the eastern side of Tezpur. Tradition has it that "Usha" the daughter of King Banasur, used to offer puja to the Goddess Bhairabi regularly. Bhairabi is another form of Durga.. The temple we see here now, is newly built. There is no sign of the old temple. It is believed to be destroyed by various natural calamities. Ruins of old temple are lying scattered around the temple.

Bhomoraguri

It is a mammoth stone inscription made by the Ahom General Kalia Bhomora Borphukan, who planned to construct a bridge over Brahmaputra. Almost two centuries later, a bridge at the same site now stands completed. The 3.015 km bridge, named after the great Ahom general, connects Silghat of Nagaon district with Tezpur.



Wild Life Trail
Nameri National Park :
Some 40 km away from Tezpur, the 212 sq km sprawling Nameri National Park opens up. It is famous for Tiger,Elephant, rare species of birds and rare species of fish in Jia Bharali river.

Nameri provides a diverse flora and fauna. The most famous white winged wood-duck ( Deo Hanh ) is found here. Besides these other animals found here are Black Bear, many types of deer’s, butterflies, fishes, elephants etc.

River Jiyabharali flows down through the Nameri National Park which provides wide vistas for adventure water sports like rafting and angling .


Eco-camp :

Near Bhalukpung and in close vicinity of Nameri National Park is the Eco-camp set-up and run by an NGO. The camp provides accommodation, food, elephant rides, angling and rafting in Jiabharali at a reasonable price.
Bura Chapori Wild Life Sanctuary :

Bura Chapari -an old sandbank turned permanent, faces the mighty river Brahmaputra and like the famousKaziranga National Park housed mammals, reptiles and birds and plays host to a host of migrants who can feed and move around here. Declared a reserved forest in 1974 it became a sanctuary in 1995 with all the protective and developing measures which follow in their wake. It is 40 km away from Tezpur Town.
It has an area of 44.6 sq. km. and forest type is of alluvial flood plains. Major part of the sanctuary is covered by grassland with patches of water bodies and woodland, strip of plantations created during the past has helped to create- barriers around the sanctuary. The mammalian species it harbours are Tiger, Elephant, Wild Buffalos, Hog Deer, Wild Boar besides bird species like Bengal Florican, Black Necked Stork, Open Billed Stork, White eyed Pochard, Millard, Spot Bill, Large Whistling Teal and many others
What you can see in Winter

1. Mallard 2. Black Naked Stork
3. White Eye Pochard 4. Open Billed Stork
5. Pintail 6. Brahmini Duck
7. Large Whistling Teal 8. Shovller
9. Common Teal, Darter, Cormorant.

Sonai Rupai Sanctuary :

In this Sanctuary one can find a huge variety of animals and wild lives. One can see following animals in this Sanctuary -
Widely distributed

1. Elephant and Python
Fairly distributed

1. Tiger 2. Leopard
3. Bison 4. Bengal Florican(bird)
5. Hornbill(bird) 6. Hispid Hare
7. WhiteWinged Wood Duck


Outside Tezpur Town
Biswanath Ghat :

Beyond Biswanath Chariali at Biswanath Ghat, Biswanath temple popularly known as "Gupta Kashi is located at the confluence of Bridhaganga (Burigonga) river with Brahmaputra. The ghat has a cluster of temples of different gods. From the stone posts, beams and other ruins found there it is believed that once there was a stone temple. During the summer the temple remains under water. Only in winter worship is done by constructing temporary shed which draws lot of tourists. On the third day of Assamese Bihu festival a mela is held there. One can visit from here the island of Umatumuni, an archaeologically famous place.
For people visiting other archaeological sites of Biswanath and Gohpur area, Biswanath Chariali town provides the base.

It is around 80 km away from Tezpur town.
Tourist Taxis are available here . Accommodation, either in Govt. Circuit House, Tourist Lodge or in Hotels is also available. A tourist lodge at Biswanath Ghat is under construction .

Singri Temple:
The Singri Temple is towards west of Tezpur town and is located on the bank of river Brahmaputra, within a distance of about 45 km .This temple has been mentioned in the Kalikapuran as Shringatak.. It is said that one can attain penance worshipping it. As the Shiva Linga of this temple revered as God remains under water, the temple is also known as Gupteshwar. Derived from the word "Gupta" which means hidden and "Eshwar" denotes God.
A big mela organised on Sivaratri in the Temple draws number of devotees to Singri.

Nag-Sankar :
It is situated towards East of Tezpur in a place called Jamuguri . This Devalaya is said to be built by King Narasankar of Nagakha in the 4th century with Pratapgarh as its capital. This is a renowned place of pilgrimage.
The temple has a pond nearby where hundreds of the rare variety of Gangetic soft-shell turtle and peacock are found. Some of the turtles are even hundreds of years old. A rest house with modern amenities has recently been constructed by DRDA .

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Sonitpur district is located on north bank of Brahmaputra .It is bounded by Arunachal Pradesh in north, Lakhimpur district in east and Darrang district in west . Tezpur , the head quarter of Sonitpur district is located on way to Bomdila, Tawang, and Itanagar of Arunachal Pradesh and very near to the world f amous Kaziranga National Park , Rajiv Gandhi Wild Life Sanctuary at Orang in Darrang district and Nameri Sanctuary within Sonitpur district. Tezpur is a historic town , having a number of archeological relics . Tezpur has a number of beautiful hillocks and ponds .Bhalukpung , Eco camp in Namery sanctuary , Biswanath Ghat and Singri temple are important tourist attractions .
Thousands of tourists come to Tezpur every year. They are impressed by natural beauty of the town, Chitralekha Udyan, Padum Pukhuri etc. They visit Bhalukpung and Eco Camp in Nameri sanctuary. Tourism provides employment to thousands of people directly and indirectly.
Development of tourism in t he district will provide employment to thousands of unemployed youths. Tourism is one important sector which has immense growth potential in Sonitpur district because of following reasons .
(a) Tezpur is well connected to rest of the country by road and air.
(b) Tezpur is on route to Bomdila, Tawang and Itanagar.
(c) Tezpur is close to Guwahati and world famous Kaziranga National park .
(d) There are number of spots in Tezpur and other parts of the district which can be developed to attract tourists.
Mid Term Plan :
The following schemes are planned to be executed within next three years.
1) Preservation of Dak Bungalow as a heritage building and shifting of
existing museum to Dak Bungalow.
2) Provision of Light and Sound show at Chitralekha Udyan, Tezpur.
3) Development of water sports near Bhomoraguri Bridge.
4) Repair of road to Singri Temple.
5) Renovation of Biswanath Temple.
6) Renovation of Ouguri Pahar.
7) Promoting Eco- tourism at Bhalukpung.
8) Development Jahajghat near Circuit house.
9) Renovation and protection of Bhairabi Devalaya.
10) Installation of “TOY TRAIN” at Padum Pukhuri park.

Long Term Plan :
The following schemes are planned to be executed within next five years.

1. Construction of hanging bridge from Biswanathghat to Umatumoni over river
Burigang.
2. Construction of Watch Tower at Umatumoni from where tourists can see wild
animals of Kaziranga National Park.
3. Development of Dologuri (Kamdewal) for Historical Open Bihu.
4. Development of Eco tourism on the upper stream of River Buroi.
5. Construction of Orchid house near Agnigarh hill.
6. Construction of black topped road from Bhairabi Devalaya to Mara Bharali.
7. Development of Da-parbatia as heritage village.
8. Renovation of Rudra pada and provision of road.




(i) Bird watching : The area is rich in avifauna. More than three hundred species have been identified in the adjoining Nameri National Park. Most notable birds in the area are white winged wood duck, Cormorants,Herons,eagles, storks,pelicans , egrets , hornbills, Hillmans,duck ,pheasant ,partridges, wood peckers, floricans etc. Most of these bird species fly to proposed ecotourism Zone which can be sighted by ecotourist under the guidance of an experienced bird watcher. The identification of different bird species, their behavioural patterns etc. will be interesting activity in Ecotourism Zone. Further the nesting, feeding and resting site of residential as well as migratory birds will provide great pleasure to ecotourists. Such activities will definitely help in controlling habitat destruction, fragmentation, hunting and illegal trade of birds.
(ii) Watching of other wild life across the river Jia Bharali : Nameri National park harbours a variety of diverse faunal species which include tiger, leopard, small cats, elephant, bison, sloth bear, black bears, wild dogs and many primates etc. Many of these animals roam in the proposed Eco tourism Zone as well since the area is an integral part of the Nameri Wild Life habitat.
(iii) Trekking in identified nature trail : Natural trail will extend in entire 200 hac area of the Eco tourism Zone. The eco travelers will experience real thrill, while trekking through the forests, watching wild life birds, varieties of butterflies and other fauna. Trails are very important in Ecotourism Zone. Therfore, proper trail route selection and design will be marked in the field by the D. F. O. , Sonitpur West with technical experts.
(iv) Rafting in Jia Bharali River : Jia Bharali river originates from snow capped mountain of Arunachal Pradesh flows along the Western boundary of Nameri National Park and finally meets in the Brahmaputra river in Tezpur town. The Jia Bharali river is unique ideal site for rafting because it has a beautiful gradient, clear water which has tremendous potential for introducing rafting and other such adventurous sports. Rafting activities is identified as one of the most fascinating and thrilling activities in proposed ecotourism zone. The ecotourist by this activity can enter into the Nameri National Park and can also go for regulated angling. By rafting activity an ecotraveller can also view varieties of flora and fauna.
(v) Regulated Angling : Due to fast increasing urbanization there is always a search for outdoor recreation and so the angling has become a source of family recreation for the people of all ages. At present the D.F.O. , Western Assam Wild Life Division, Tezpur regulates angling in Jia Bharali river by providing licenses to limited anglers. The hooked fishes later on released back to the water after taking measurement, weight and other data and this feedback is submitted to the D.F.O. , Western Assam Wild Life Division for analysis of habitat, population growth and diseases etc. Regulated angling can also be carried out in proposed ecotourism zone. Such activities will attract lakhs of ecotourist both from home and abroad and will also help in monitoring of the river ecosystem.
(vi) Elephant Riding : Elephant riding will be arranged by local N.G.O. /trained forest guides and they will take the ecotravellers to different area of ecotourism zone. It will also help the ecotourist to see the wild animals more closely.
(vii) Tree planting with local indigenous species : Depletion of forest cover in Balipara Reserve Forest has taken place in last several years mainly by encroachers. The ecological impact is highly serious and alarming. The ecosystem that thrived and flourished for ages have been disturbed almost beyond repair. Therefore, it has became necessary to go for tree planting by indigenous species for maintaining ecological balance and preventing environmental degradation. Forest department will take up plantation programmes with the help of N.G.O. and ecotourists.
(viii) Eco Development Works : The most important objective of ecotourism is environmental conservation which is the need of the hour. It is most essential to conserve and protect the natural heritage of the Bhalukpung area and the Division as a whole by preserving the remaining natural forest with the vast variety of flora and fauna.
Such activity is basically to motivate the local people in the vicinity of Bhalukpung Ecotourism Zone in order to check further illegal felling and encroachment. To achieve this goal following eco development works are suggested :
(a) Forest protection and conservation committee should be constituted under Presidentship of local village headman or local leader or Elite person of the locality and membership is to be given to rightholders, students, N.G.O’s, mahila samiti or other recognised organisations etc. Regular meeting be organised by forest official of these committees.
(b) By celebrating programme of environment awareness which falls every year at a particular time. These are : Seuji Saptah (1st week of May ). World Environment day (5th June), Van Mahotsava (1st week of July) and Wild Life week (1st week of October) etc. These programme will be celebrated by forest department in Ecotourism Zone with the help of local N.G.O’s, students, teachers and ecotourists etc. Such programme will create proper awareness and interest among the masses for conservation and development of our forest. This will also help in motivating the people for extending their co-operation towards implementation of various eco development schemes.
(c) Professionals like biologists, anthropologists and site researchers be involved in conservation.
(d) Extension of medical facilities. To arrange medical camp both human and veterinary for the nearby people.
(e) To provide knowledge of preservation f nature and natural resources to the people reside in the vicinity of ecotourism zone by organising seminars as well as film show on environment.
(f) To create drinking water and education facilities for the people living in the vicinity of ecotourism zone.
(g) To create job opportunities to the local people more particularly among unemployed youth by engaging them as local guides and also for other ecotourism activities. Active participation of local community into plan process and in operation management is essential in order to achieve the conservation and sustainable development goals of ecotourism.
(h) By setting up Ecotourism Library : A library can be set up for study of books/materials related to conservation, environmental protection, wild life and other related subject like biodiversity etc.
(C ) Proposed Guidelines for Ecotourism Project in and around Bhalukpung area of Balipara Reserve Forest.
Ecotourism will be a successful industry only if natural resources are protected and the natural resources will be best protected if there is an ecotourism management strategy/guidelines in a place. Guidelines/Rules are the most basic component of a complete excotourism management scheme. These may be as follows :
(1) For entry into ecotourism zone, prior permission will be required as per provision of Assam Forest Regulation 1891 and as amended in 1995. The permission may be obtained from nearest forests office.

(2) Following acts will be prohibited in Ecotourism Zone :
(a) any fresh clearing.
(b) Setting fire.
(c) Kindling, keeping or carrying any fire except at such reasons and in such manner as a forest officer specially empowered in this behalf may from time to time notify.
(d) Felling, cutting, girdling, marking, lopping, tapping or injuring by fire or otherwise.
(e) Quarrying stone, burning lime or charcoal or removing any forest produce.
(f) Clearing or breaking of any land for cultivation or any other purpose.
(g) Poisoning water or in contravention of any rules made by the state govt. hunting, shooting, fishing etc. violation of this order will attract provision of Assam Forest Regulation, 1891 and Wild Life Protection Act. 1972.




Satra

The important Satras of Sonitpur are :
NIKAMUL,
SIPAHA
MADAR GURI
BALIPUKHURI
KUNDARBARI
BARALIMARA
NALESWAR THAN
DAKSHINPAT
SOUDKUCHI SATRA..

Bare Shaharia Bhaona

Generally the term Bhaona in Assamese means a cultural activity involving dramas, depicting the various stories taken from the epics. These dramas were mostly written by Sankardeva and Madhabdeva.
Bare Shaharia Bhaona of Jamuguri (50 kms from Tezpur) is a unique form of Bhaona. Twelve or more Bhaonas are performed simultaneously in different stages built on a single platform.

Sivaratri Fair

It is held at Mahabhairab Temple (Tezpur), Halleswar Temple (Halleswar), Singri Temple (Dhekiajuli), Biswanath Temple (Biswanath Ghat), Kalyani Temple (Gohpur).

Balichar Festival

The festival is organised by the District Administration at a river island on the Brahmaputra River in the month of November. It is observed for five months from November to March. Food festivals and cultural programmes are its unique features.
Tourist Spots in Tezpur Town




Tezpur Festival


(Annual Tourism Festival)


HORSE SHOW

FASHION SHOW

RIVER RAFTING

AGNIGARH

DA PARBATIA

CHITRALEKHA UDYAN
GOLF

ANGLING

ARCHERY

TREKKING

PADUM PUKHURI

AUGURI HILL

MAHABHAIRAB MANDIR
VINTAGE CAR RALLY

FLOWER SHOW

POKI

BAMUNI HILL


HALLESWAR
CRAFTS MELA

FOOD FESTIVAL

CULTURAL SHOWS

ECO CAMP



BHALUKPUNG

Situated on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, Tezpur is a beautiful and multifaceted city steeped in mythology and history.The city abounds in archaeological sites, hills, lakes and gardens.

The doorframe of Da – Parbatia is the finest and oldest specimen of sculptural art in Assam and its carving is characteristic of the style of the Gupta school of Art. It dates back to 600 A.D. The figurines of goddesses Ganga and Yamuna on the Jambs of the door frame are enchanting.
The sculptural remains of Bamuni hills date back to 9th Century A.D. A cross- shaped bracket lintel ornamented with horned Kirtimukha panels contains the figures of 10 incarnations of Vishnu.
The Bhomoraguri stone inscription of the Ahom general Kalia Bhomara Barphukan and Harjjar Varman’s 9 line inscription are located near Tezpur .
The picturesque stone inscription of yore is endowed with hillocks, gardens and lakes. The Chitralekha Udyan, the most beautiful garden of Tezpur has impressive ornamental stone pillars, sculptural relics, water sports facility, lush green walkways and a small amphitheatre too. Here, the ancient and the modern co-exist in harmony.

Agnigarh hill is the site of the legendary romance of Princess Usha , the daughter of King Bana and Aniruddha , the grandson of Krishna . King Bana kept Usha on this hillock surrounded by fire. A landscape garden with exquisite sculptures, soft illumination and a cascanding waterfall welcome thousands of tourists to this memorial of eternal romance. The hill top provides a spectacular view of the Brahmaputra and the Kalia Bhomora bridge.
The Ouguri Hill houses giant monoliths which are any rock climber’s delight. The hill top provides a panoramic view of Tezpur on one side and the Brahmaputra on the other.
The Padum Pukhuri, literally meaning lotus pond, has a lovely central island. A musical fountain and a toy train are other attraction in the Padum Pukhuri Park.

Tezpur, the cultural capital of the state, is home to the three doyens of Assamese culture …… Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala,Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rava and Nata Surya Phani Sharma . In this year of the birth centenary of Jyoti Prasad Agarwala , his ancestral home in Tezpur , ‘POKI’ has been renovated and houses a collection of Rupkonwar’s memorabilia. During the freedom struggle Mahatma Gandhi and many other national leaders stayed at Poki.
Nameri national Park, 40 kms from Tezpur is home to whitewinged wood duck(Deo Hanh ) apart from the black bear, deer and elephants. The Eco camp provides tent accommodation , rafting and angling facilities in the Jiyabharali a must visit for outdoor enthusiasts.


The Mahabhairab Temple believed to have been built by King Bana, has one of the biggest and oldest Shivalingas of the world. It attracts thousands of devotees especially during Shiv Ratri festival. Other historic temples in the vicinity of Tezpur include Holleshwar , Bhairavi and Rudrapada temple.
Sonitpur district has 73 tea gardens including Asia’s biggest tea garden, Monabari . A visit to a tea garden provides insight not only into tea making and the unique culture associated with it but also gives the flavour of bygone era of the Raj.
The Kolia Bhomora Bridge is a 3- km bridge over the Brahmaputra River that connects Tezpur on the north bank with Nagaon on the south bank. It is one of the longest bridge in India and stands unrivalled in its grandeur.

The Tezpur festival provides a great opportunity to see and feel all that Tezpur and Assam has to offer………..
Performances by renowned artists in the amphitheatres of Agnigarh and Chitralekha Udyan will be a memorable experience. The whole repertoire of the dances of assam : Sattriya,Bihu,Jhumur and Bagrumba will dazzle you. One will surely carry home the fragrance of the culture of Assam.

The festival promises to be a connoisseur’s dream come true. The choicest traditional Assamese dishes will be on offer alongwith an entire range of other culinary delights.
Sport lovers can participate in a wide range of sporting activities from Golf ,Archery and Marathon to the traditional Dhop .

Destination Adventure --- The Eco Camp at Potasali on the banks of the sparkling Jiya Bhoroli. Angling, rafting, trekking – take your pick from outdoor recreation in one of the most scenic sites.For more information contact : DFO (Wildlife) : 03712-220854
Eco Camp : 03712-234246
The handloom wealth of this region will be displayed through a unique Fashion Show to be choreographed and presented by the best talents of North East.
A Crafts Exhibition will help you pick up gifts for your near and dear ones. Choose from bamboo work, metalcraft, wood sculpture, silks and handlooms of Assam.

A Vintage Car rally is being organized for enthusiasts and antiquarians who want to drive their beauties around this historical town. To drive or to watch ………the pleasure is all yours.



Getting here …………………..

Tezpur is well connected by air,road and rail
AIR LINKS :
Direct Alliance Air flights to Tezpur from Kolkata are available on Thursdays and Sundays.
Daily flights to Guwahati from Kolkata and New Delhi.
RAILWAYS:
Tezpur is connected by metre gauge line to Rangia Junction via Rangapara Junction.
ROAD ROUTES: Guwahati to Tezpur.
National Highway No. 52 via Baihata Chariali and Dhekiajuli
Distance : 181 kms
National Highway No. 37 via Nagaon upto Kaliabor Tiniali and 52A from Kaliabor Tiniali via Kolia Bhomora bridge .
Distance : 198 kms.
There regular bus services from Guwahati. Besides taxis are available at Guwahati to bring you to Tezpur .Direct Bus services from Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sibsagar, Jorhat, Itanagar, Dimapur and Siliguri to Tezpur also exist.




Where to stay ……………
Name of hotel Phone No. ( STD Code - 03712)
Tourist Lodge 221016
Circuit House 220100
Arunachal Guest House 220241
Hotel Basant 224941,230831
Hotel Durba 224276
Hotel Luit 222083,222084
Parijat Hotel 220656
Hotel Indralaya 232819
Bhairabi Boarding 220556
Blue Star Hotel 220682
Central Lodge 221171
Chaliha Inn 221692
Himalaya Hotel 220133
Hotel International 220965
Hotel Mehgdoot 220714
Hotel Swad 221413
Kanyapur Hotel 220261
Madhuban Hotel 223156
Punjab Hotel 230590
You can feel free to call ………… if you need information or help
1. Deputy Commissioner , Sonitpur : 03712-220011/220005
2. District Information and Public Relations Officer : -03712-220184
3. Circuit house , Tezpur : 03712-220100
4. Superintendent of Police ,Sonitpur.Offiice : 03712-230593/230581
5. Civil hospital , Tezpur : 03712-220033
6. Airport, Salonibari : 03712-258353
7. Tourist Information officer and Tourist Lodge, Tezpur: 03712-221016
8. Railway Station ( Enquiry Office) : 03712-220131
9. D F O ( Wildlife), Sonitpur Office : 03712-220803/220854

Roadways :-
Tezpur the head quarter of Sonitpur district is very well connected by roads, air and rail and is very easy accessible .It is very easy and quite simple to come Tezpur. There are two routes from Guwahati to Tezpur.
National Highway No. 52 ( via Baihata Chariali , Mangaldoi, Kharupetia, Dalgaon, Rowta, Orang, and Dhekiajuli )
Distance : 181 kms.

National Highway No. 37 (via Jorabat, Jagiroad, Roha, Nagaon upto Kaliabor Tiniali ) and 37A (from Kaliabor Tiniali via Kolia Bhomora bridge).
Distance : 198 kms.

Places to visit in North Assam -- Lakhimpur district


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LAKHIMPUR
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North Lakhimpur :


It is the district headquarter of Lakhimpur district and is one of the fastest growing commercial centre of Assam. It is also the major ommercial hub for the people of the various districts of Arunachal Pradesh including papumpari district (which include the state capital, Itanagar).
Area : 2,277 sq. km.
Population :7,51,517.
Distance from Guwahati : 396 km.
Places to visit : Shiva temple located near the National Highway, Padumoni temple on the way to North Lakhimpur from Dhemaji, etc.



Lakhimpur District is situated on the North East corner of Assam . The district lies between 26048’ and 27053’ northern latitude and 93042’ and 94020’ east longitude (approx.). It is bounded on the north by Siang and Papumpare District of Arunachal Pradesh and on the east by Dhemaji District and Subansiri river. Majuli Sub Division of Jorhat District stands on the southern side and Gahpur sub division of Sonitpur District is on the West.
The name Lakhimpur is believed to be originated from the word “Lakshmi”, the goddess of prosperity. The district is mainly dependent upon agriculture and paddy. Paddy is regarded locally as “Lakhimi”. The word “pur” means “full”. Lakhimpur therefore means full of paddy or the place where paddies are grown abundantly. Besides, the soil of the district is alluvial and fertile for which crops flourish without use of any artificial manure or hard labour. Over and above fish, meat, vegetables, milk were abundant in this district. Others say that the word originated from Lakhsmi Devi, the mother of Bhuyan Raja who was the descendent of King Arimatta . As per Lakhimpur District Gazette (1976:4) , the district was notified as Lakhimpur District through a proclamation issued by then Governor General on July, 1839. On 2nd October, 1971 the district was reorganized with two sub divisions viz. Dhemaji and North Lakhimpur . Later it was again reorganized in the year 1980 with two subdivisions viz. Dhakuakhana and North Lakhimpur leaving Dhemaji as a separate district.
The district was earlier regarded as “Koliapani” because there was practically no road communication to this district till 1950. In the year 1954, the temporary aerodrome was started. From 1957 the ASTC buses started plying from Lakhimpur and from 1963 the North East Frontier Railway started train services from this district. The District covers an area of 2977 Sqkm out of which 2957 Sqkm is rural and 20 sqkm is urban.
The district is divided into two sub divisions viz. North Lakhimpur and Dhakuakhana. North Lakhimpur Sub-division consists of 4 Police stations viz. North Lakhimpur, Boginadi, Laluk and Bihpuria,. Dhakuakhana Sub Division consists of two Police stations viz. Dhakuakhana and Ghilamara.


HISTORY
Lakhimpur figures largely in the annals of Assam as the region where successive invaders from the east first reached the Brahmaputra. The Bara Bhuiyas, originally from the western provinces of India, were driven out by the Chutias (a Shan race), and these in their turn gave place to their more powerful brethren, the Ahoms in the 13th century. The Burmese, who had ruined the native kingdoms, at the end of the 18th century were in 1825 expelled by the British, who placed the southern part of the country, together with Sibsagar under the rule of Raja Purandhar Singh; but it was not till 1838 that the whole was taken under direct British administration. The headquarters are at Dibrugarh.
Subdivisons and circles of Lakhimpur district

Sub-Divisions

North Lakhimpur
Dhakuakhana

Circles

Lakhimpur
Dhakuakhana
Kadam
Nauboicha
Bihpuria
Narayanpur
Subansiri (Ghilamara)

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SHRI SHRI BASUDEV THAN:

NARUA SATRA



Collected by – Sri Jyoti moy Dutta Ujani Jalbhari.

Grateful to: Sjt. Birendra Nath Goswami

“Shri Shri Basudev Than: Narua Satra, the well known temple of Assam is situated in the north-East part of the historical place Dhakuakhana. It is one of the ancient Temple of Assam . It impressed many people of Assam for many years. It situated at Subansiri, a small area between Balahi Sampara and Saupara.



Coming from Bijani Rajya, Damodar Aata, the grandson of Sankardeva established this Satra in the middle part of 17th century, when Assam was ruled by the Ahom king Jayadhaj Shingha. The first name of the Narua than was the Laumuri Satra. There are many controversies among people about the name of this Satra. Many people want to say that Damodar Aata came from upper Assam . At first he established the Laumuri Satra. A Brahmin named Bahude devoted the land of the Satra to Damodar Aata as a gift. Before this in 1314, Satyanarayan, the king of Sadhayapur gave the above mentioned area to Narayan Dwij for Bishnupuja. Later, the land transferred to this family from Narayan Dwijs family – for this reason it was called as Na-rua Satra instead of Laumuri Satra. According to under opining in 1323, Sadhayapuriya king Lakhinarayan devoted this land Ravidev Basaspati for Bishnupuja. After him, Haridev Basaspati, a son of this Brahman family gave this land and a statue to Damodar Aata. For this reason this Than became famous as Basudev Than: Narua Satra in later days. After some years the Satra transferred to under place. The land was given by the Ahom king Jayadhaj Shingha. This is the place where the present Satra is situated.

In 1585, Damodar Aata had died and his son Ramakanta Aata became the Adhikar, of the Basudev Than. When Maan attacked Assam he the Adhikar of this Satra. In those days, one Adhikar should see altogether three Satras i.e. Balipara, Bardua and Basudev. It became difficult to him to see the works of those three Satras in the same time. So gradually, Basudev than neglected by the Adhikar and it became as a waste land. The wood was growing and the place became as a forest. In 1683, after his death, Ramdev Ata became the Adhikar of this Satra. In that time the Adhikar was respected by the Ahom kings. In 1707 Ahom King Gourinath Shingha had come to Narua Satra by boat but some reasons he went back. From which part of the river the king had gone back to his Rajya, now called as Uvata Sampara. Knowing this fact, Ramdev Ata felt sorry and he went to the lower Assam and started to stay in Barpeta. But knowing his fault after many days, the king sent Mahidhar Dangharia to Narua Than and bestowed a Bor- kah.

Gradually, the building of the temple started to break and the place became deserted. It changed to a forest. In that time a well known man of Jalbhari Gaon Rangain Aldhara came to the Mandir in the day time and he look cares of Satra. For more than so years he had been doing those for the development of the situation of this temple. After long times, an honest person Achyut Ata came to the Satra from Bardua and he started to stay in Jalbhari. With Rangain Aldhara he established this Satra in that desired place. He also discovered some valuable wealth of the Mandir from a nearest cannel. From that day, even today also, it is known as Dhankhana Pukhuri. Near the old temple he started to build the new Mandir. In Maghi Purnima he has established Basudev Mandir in that new building and celebrated. From that day, men celebrated “Pal naam” in Maghi Purnima every year. In the time of his younger brother Mahesh Ata, a big “Namghar”was made.
Another name of Shri Krishna was Basudev. It is said by the common people that Rukmini had made this statue of Basusdev to find himself as her husband. So it is called that if any were who prayed these and wish the God Basudev will fulfill all their wishes. Like this, the Basudev than impressed many Bhaktas of it for long long times.

Including three slopes and 16 Nos. of highland, the Basudev Than covers about 200 Bighas of land which are full of dense forest. The Ajars, by the side of the entrance road make beautification of the area. Many Vishnu statues and other historical materials are found nearby the villages namely Ghanhibari, Amud Borbari, and Ubhatamukh etc. Such types of statue found in the village Ubhatamukh in 1952 and was deposited to the Than by the villagers. The Ramdhemali Gai festival is being celebrated at the Than by setting such a statue mentioned earlier. Many animals are sacrificed on the occasion and the people who get fruitful result of it leave animals and birds in the Than. It is a significance of the Than that the traditional mixture “salt” is not mixed in the Prasad, instead “sugar” is mixed. Now this tradition is maintained.

Few years ago, the area of the Than was covered with dense forest. The depth of the forest was vividly described by the re-known writer Mr. Homen Borgohain in his story “Bagh” published in the “Prantik”. Some “Orchids” along with the trees available here beatify the whole area. The two rare birds “Bor charai” or “Moukhan” and “Moupia” has still been existing in the few forest it has.

Monday, February 4, 2008

Places to visit in Central Assam - Darrang District



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DARRANG
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DARRANG

How to Reach Darrang (Mangaldai)


To reach here from outside the state, one has to reach Guwahati (Capital of Assam) by Air, Train, or Bus. There are regular public buses plying from Guwahati to Mangaldai. Taxies etc. are also easily available.



Transport System :

The district is well connected by Road, and Water transport system.

NH 52 is the major road link passing through the district in East-west direction connecting the district with neighbouring Kamrup , Udalguri and Sonitpur districts.

In addition, the district is benefited by the water transport due to its northern boundary being covered by river Brahmaputra. There is Steamer service from Upper Kurua to Guwahati. Moreover, there is Passenger Ferry service from Kadamtali, near Kharupetia

The nearest Airport is at Azara,(Guwahati), at 77 kms. from District HQs., Mangaldai. There is another Airport at Saloni (Tezpur), that is at 110 kms. east of Mangaldai.

Places of Interest:

Tourist Places

Gandhi Smriti Park:

Located in the heart of the Mangaldai town & within walking distance from DC's Office, this is a very well maintained & beautiful park.Click Here to see Full View


Patharughat Swaheed Minar:

There is a swaheed minar in a beautiful park in the Jalliwanwalabag of Assam.

Religious Places

Satras are similar to monasteries and unique about Assam. Satras were conceived & founded by Sankardeva and then by his followers. Not only the Bhagawatee Baishnav religion was practiced here, but also many types of art forms were & being nourished, known as the Satriyaa Art - a characteristic stream in Assamese culture.

Thus the Satras can also be defined as State's Cultural Heritage Centers.

There are two satras in Darrang:



Khatara Satra:It is one of the oldest Satras and located at Dipila, 22 kms. from Mangaldai.Click Here to see Full View


Dihing Satra:This satra is located at Kurua, 45 kms. from Mangaldai.

Temples & Devalaya


Kamakshya Devalaya:To the south-west of Kalaigaon, near Lakhimpur village, is this Devalaya. There is a Stone fetish inside the temple with 8 lotus petals on it. Doul Festival - the religious part of the Holy Festival is celebrated here in Spring. It was founded before 12th century AD and favoured by Ahom& Koch Kings.


Thaans are another kind of place of worship. Usually triggered by some fetish e.g., some old tree or stone etc., afterwards often transformed into place of institutional worship.


Mosque

Mosques are the places of worship for Muslims. There are total seven (7) maszids around Mangaldai town viz. Saru Maszid, Sahitya Nagar Maszid, Islampur Maszid etc.



Bar Maszid:Bar Maszid is one of two oldest mosques in the District, and located at the heart of the Mangaldai Town.



Engil Baba's Mazaar:Engil Baba, or Engil Fakeer's Mazaar is located at Kabarstaan (Graveyard). The architecture it is very beautifully constructed. Hindu & Muslim, both unite here for prayer on every Thursday. Also Urus Mubarak is celebrated here on 5th of February every year.


How to Reach


All these above places are well connected by Road, and can be reached within One & half an hour by Car.

Historic Beels & Ponds


In 1615 AD, Koch Kings took over in Darrang from Bhuyans. It was these two periods where most of these ponds were created. Many large ponds were also created during British rule and post independent period.


Batha Beel:A nice opportunity for bird watchers, thousands of migratory birds come to this beel. It is near Hazarikapara (Sipajhar)

How to Reach

Hazarikapara is touched by NH 52.

Accommodation


There is Inspection Bungalow(built by PWD Deptt.) at Hazarikapara. Also there is one Rest House near it.


Pukhuria Beel:
Another choice for Bird watchers. Hundreds of migratory birds come to this beel every year.


Baladev Pukhuri:
Located at Baldevpara, west of Sipajhar, is a beel covering 48 Bighaas was created during the reign of King Dharma Narayana. Today, it is serving as Govt. Fishery.



Jaypal Pukhuri:
A huge Pond, with an area of 20 Bighaas at Barkaliyajhar village known to be created during the reign of King Jaypal. The water of this pond is crystal clear and stays above ground level!



ORANG NATIONAL PARK

Orang Sanctuary, Also termed as a miniature Kaziranga, is located near Silbori, and on the north bank of river Brahmaputra. It covers an area of 78 sq. km.

Attractions


Animals:

One horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, Barking Deer, Elephant, Leopard, Sambar and Hogdeer, Pangolin, Civet Cat & Otter.

Birds:

Both migratory and local birds. viz. Palican, Green Pigeon, Bengal Florican, Cormorant, Greylag Goose, Large Whistling Teal, Great Adjutant Stork, King Vulture.

How to Reach


Orang is at a distance of 140 kms. from Guwahati, 32 kms. from Tezpur and 68 kms. from Mangaldai, the district HQ by road. It would take One and half hour to reach from Mangaldai. The nearest railhead is Rongapara and the nearest airport is Saloni (Tezpur).Public buses & rental cars are available from Guwahati, the State Capital or Mangaldai.

Accommodation


There are two(2) Inspection Bunglows inside the park. One is at Silbori and the other at Satsimlu inside the forest. One Tourist Lodge is coming up at Nalbari (Tourist Department).

In addition, there is a Government Tourist Lodge, a Circuit House and other private hotels of moderate rates at Tezpur. Also there are hotels and lodges in Mangaldai and Rowta.


Useful Addresses


DFO, Western Assam Wildlife Division, Tezpur (for accommodation at IB).

Deputy Director, Tourism, Govt. of Assam, Tezpur (for accommodation at Govt. CH)

Range Officer, Orang Wildlife Sanctuary, Orang, P.O. Silbori (Pin-784114) Darrang (for visit).



Boating at Brahmaputra, Orang

Darrang has a population representing diverse ethnic, religious and linguistic communities which have rich cultural heritage and social customs. Some of the prominent art forms of the Darrang are:



Bardhuliya


This art form is performed by men (Dhuliyas) in groups of 10 or more. Dhuliyas play Bardhol which is a cylindrical percussion instrument measuring about 1 mtr. in length & 1/2 mtr. in diameter. The Bardhuliyas speciallise in exhibition of rhythmic somersaults while playing the Bardhol. Bardhuliyas perform in religious occasions such as Deul in spring, the Mothenee in Kati (Nov. in Julian calendar) month, Durga festival (mid. of Oct.) or other ceremonies.

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Bardhol Sequence,(301 kB)


Ojapali

Byah Ojapali

Sukananni Ojapali


Ojapali is one of the unique form of arts of Darrang which involves three art forms - Song, Dance and Drama. It is performed by a group of 4 or 5 men of whom the chief performer is called Oja who is supported by 3 to 4 Palis, and hence the name Ojapali.. The only instrument played by Ojapali is Khutitaal (palm sized Cymbal). The performers wear long sleeved white gowns, silver jewelry etc. and Nupur (bundle of tiny metallic percussions played by body vibrations).

Ojapali can be divided into 2 forms basing on the occasion & style: Byah and Sukananni. As the history goes, there were two very talented singers named Barbyahu & Sarubyahu during Koch Kingdom. They were often invited by Kings to sing various mythological & religious rhymes. With time, their style got popular among people of the area.

The central subject of this Byah Ojapali are the epics - Ramayana & Mahabharata. Unlike other Ojapali forms, the story is sung in pure classical style involving Ragas. A noticeable element of this form is the different Mudras (Gestures of hands & fingers). Dance is another key part of the performance. To make the presentation interesting & make people understand, they perform humorous dialogues & narrations in between.

Click Here to See Full ViewSukananni Ojapali aims at presenting the tragic story of Behulaa-Lakhindar from Padma Purana among the masses. The easy yet high standard rhyme is accompanied by pleasant rhythm, tune and dance. Different Mudras are remarkable part of this form also. The team dances here too. This art is performed normally during Manasa Puja (Worship of Goddess of Serpents). The Ojapalis first praise various gods & goddesses and then gradually move to the epic of Behula-Lakhindar. Though the presentation is targeted for the mass, it maintains high dignity & standard.

Lalit Oja of Sipajhar area of the district has been awarded the prestigious Sangeet Natak Academy award for his expertise in Sukananni Ojapali and for contribution in popularising this traditional folk art form.


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Part of Sukananni Ojapali,(239 kB)


Siyan Geet (Songs)


This form of folk song was introduced by followers of Sri Sankaradeva. It is almost similar to the common Assamese Lokageet or folk-song. The content of these songs is mostly Hindu mythology.

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Part of a Siyan Folk-Song,(145 kB)


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A full Siyan Folk-Song (low quality, 301 kB)


Dehbichaar Geet( Songs)


Another kind of folk song, often called Mangaldaiya folksong, perhaps introduced in post Sankaradeva period, and follows this culture. The content is spiritual & mystic, rather than religious, hence similar to Baul songs of West-Bengal. The instruments used are Khanjari (A tiny hand held leather percussion, open at one end, with some metal discs attached), Dotara (string instrument), Tokaaree (uni-string instrument, the chamber made of matured water-gourd etc.

Deodhani Dance


Deodhani dance is performed solo or in group of 3 or 4 females essentially on the occasion of worship of Devi Manasa (or Maroi). As per mythology, Behulaa had to dance before the goddess Manasa to get back her husband's (Lakhindar) life. The dancer wear Mekhela in Muga, red blouse, different traditional jewelry and leave their hair open. The dance to the tune of Jaidhol (specific cylindrical percussion instrument) & Khutitaal, played by Palis.

This dance form depicts the process of worship of Devi Manasa. A striking moments of this dance is dancing with Daa (sharp weapon used for sacrifice), and the rotating of dancers' head in rapid circular motion, with open tresses.

It is believed that Deodhanis get possessed by the Goddess in course of the dance.

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Part of Ranachandi Song (Deodhani),(278 kB)


Dhepa Dhuliya


Yet another unique traditional folk art of Darrang. Here, 2 to 4 performers play the Dhepadhol which is specially made so as to generate a unique thud, and accompanied by 4 to 6 persons playing Taals (Cymbal). The team dances while playing the instruments. Dhepadhol is a cylindrical drum of 1.5 mtr. length with a tapered left end. The Dhol is covered at both ends with animal skins like Jaidhol and Bardhol but what makes the Dhepadhol different is that the covering of the right end is double layered and has a small whole on the outer layer. Water is put into the gap between the layers so as to get the thud, and hence the name. Another unique feature of Dhepa Dhuliyas is their vibrant & colourful shirt & gown having prominence of red, green and blue colour.

Dhepadhuliyas perform in wedding ceremony or other such social occasions.

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Part of Dhepa Dhol Sequence,(129 kB)


Kaleeya


This ancient music form is at the verge of extinction. Similar to Shahnai of West-India, the Kaali is a beautiful bronze instrument and about 1'6" long. It is wide towards one end and the musician puts a mouthpiece on the other, narrower end to okay it. It was very popular in local wedding ceremonies.

Nangelee Songs


Nangelee songs are unique to Darrang which are couplets of very informal colloquial words, sung by Garakhiyaas (cowboys). While singing Nangelee songs, the cowboys get divided into 2 groups and enact a conflict between them over silly issues which soon reaches climax leading to physical assault, intervention/ negotiation by the senior cowboy.

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Nangelee (Starting),(149 kB)

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Nangelee (Negotiation),(141 kB)

Seon Chapori Naam



Another unique folk form of Darrang. It is variant of Naam, somewhat similar to Ojapali as this is also targeted to describe religious and mythological stories in religious or other occasions. The word Chapori(=clapping) points to the prominence of claps during the performance. The team comprises of one Pathak (leader), a few followers, 2 Taal players, one Nagara (set of 2 or three small leather percussions, with leather on top) player. They also include short drama in between their performance to kill monotony. A very enjoyable ingredient of this performance is their Saraki dance (crossing each other in zigzag fashion) and Khedaa dance.


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Seon Chapori (Starting),(129 kB)


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Seon Chapari,(Middle:Claps,Nagara & Taal),(79 kB)


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Seon Chapori (Climax),(110 kB)


Bodos are scattered in the northern part of the district. Hence, best place for viewing their arts could be Niz-udalguri, Chandana Badi Village, Bagari Guri, Golamatha, Balisita Harishinga, Khairabari, Bhergaon etc. Khudiram Basumatary is one prominent Bodo folk artist in Darrang. Among the new generation, Binay Daimary,Naren Bodo, Kulen Bodo etc. are worth mentioning.

Bagurumba dance


This dance is a vital part of Bodo culture and depicts the beauty of nature. Now-a-days, it has got 2 varieties: Natural Bagurumba, which is performed with no song, and the Royal Bagurumba, which is accompanied by songs.

Baishagu Dance


This is the dance of Spring, similar to Bihu dance in theme. It is performed during Bohaag (April) Month, by young boys & girls.

Kherai Dance


Kherai (=to bow down in prayer) is a bodo religious dance and is essential part of Bathow worship. Bathow is actually the Shiva, the tribal God in actuality. Usually villagers celebrate the Bathow worship once in a year where Kherai is performed in 5 stages. First, the place is made sacred for dancing. Then, sweeping & mopping, water with Tulashee leaves is scattered over the place. Tender Banana leaf is kept over the place as a symbol of welcome. Finally the dancers dance covering the place and praise the Gods.

Bardoisikhlaa Dance


It is another reputed Bodo dance. It depicts the might of Goddess Water & Air.

Ranachandee Dance


This is a spectacular war dance of Bodos.

Rabha tribe lives around Udalguri area of the district and some part South part of Goalpara district.

Farakanti Dance


It is a very ancient rabha dance. It is performed to bring peace for soul of the deceased, by descendants and others during the ritual.

Sathar Dance


This is the dance of romance, and performed in Spring, by young boys & girls..

Khukchi Dance


Performed by Male during Spring to satisfy the Gods.

Samzar Dance


It is closely attached to agriculture. This dance is performed by villagers at the beginning of Jeth (last of May) month for better crops.

Jhumur Dance: This dance belong to Tea Tribe (Adibashi) community.

Places to visit in Central Assam -- Nagaon District




Nagaon




1.BORDOWA:-

The Birth place of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, the great Artist, Author, founder of Vaisnava Religion, Dramatist etc. of Assam. The place is situated 18 Km North – West from Nagaon town, There are two Sattras one is Narowa Sattra and other is Salaguri Sattras. The mini Museum is there in Narowa Sattras. Fagua Festival and the Birth and Death Anniversaries of the Vaishnava saints are observed there with great grandeur.

2. POKHI TIRTHA:-

( Samaguri Bill ) – Where Migratory Birds from different place of the world comes in winter Season. The distance of the place is 16 K.M. towards East from Nagaon town.

3. LOWKHOWA :-

The wild life Century is situated at Lowkhowa namely “LOWKHOWA AVAYARANYA” covering an area of 70 Sq. Kms. Distance from Nagaon Town is 25 K.M. towards North. Its main attraction is the Great Indian One-horned Rhinoceros. Other animals are Tiger, Leopard, Asiatic Buffalo, Wild Boar, Civet Cat, Leopard Cat, Hog Deer etc.Various species of birds and reptiles are also found in Laokhowa. For accomodation and sanctuary visit please contact :

i) Tourist Information Officer, Nagaon Tourist Lodge, Nagaon, Assam. Phone +91 3672 22906
ii) Divisional Forest Officer, Nagaon Wild Life Division,Assam. Phone +91 3672 23104

4. CHAMPAWATI KUNDA:-

Champawati Kunda is a famous falls situated in Chapanala in Nagaon district.


5. RANTHALI:-

This is a village, where Assamese Gold plated ( Traditional )ornaments are made by local people. The distance of Ranthali is 4 K.M. from Nagaon town towards west.

6.RAHA :-

Situated at about 22 KMs west of Nagaon it was an important Chowki during the Ahom Days. Today, Raha is an important trade centre for Agricultural product such as Paddy, Jute and Mustard. An important institution here is the Fishery Training College - the first of its kind in Nagaon.

7. JAMUNAMUKH :-

Located at 35 KMs from Nagaon is famous for its earthen wares.

8. KALIABOR :-

The Sub-division town situated at a distance of 48 KMs east of Nagaon is a historic place. As it initially was the headquarters of Barphukans during the Ahom days. It was also the scene of several battles against the Muslim invaders.

9. SILGHAT :-

Situated at a road distance of 48 KMs from Nagaon is a vital and picturesque river port lying on the South bank of the mighty Brahmaputra. Pre-communication links of Central Assam across the Brahmaputra are maintained through this port town.Besides,playing host to the Assam Co-operative Jute Mill ,Silghat also has several temples to enthrall visitors.A big Samantagiri hillock draws big crowds from everywhere.

10.HOJAI:-

This sub-divisional town is situated at a distance of 61kms from nagaon and is renowned as the granary of Assam,besides its more allusive claim to being the centre of the Agar perfume industry.It is also the principal whole-sale market for rice in assam.Besides rice, sugar-cane, mustard and jute,vegetables are also grown in abundance.

11.DOBOKA:

situated 34kms ,south-east of Nagaon was the seat of the Doboka kingdom,mentioned in the Allahabad inscription of Gutpta Emperor Samudragupta according to some historians.The Akashiganga waterfall ,near Dabaka is a favourite with many picknickers.

12.LUMDING and CHAPARMUKH:

are two very important railway junctions and naturally serve as trading centres as well. Lumding is also the Divisional headquarters of the NF railway,.Various small scale industries including candle works and trunk factories are also located at Lumding.

13.JUGIJAN:

situated at about 6 kms from Hojai has become well known after the recent discovery of remnants of a fort and three stone temples decorated with carvings and base -reliefs.Seven Siva Lingas have also been excavated and preserved here.An11th century century idol of Chamunda has been discovered at Navanga village,2kms from Jugijan.

Temple and Namghar

1. KAMAKHYA TEMPLE :-

The famous Kamakhya Temple is situated in Silghat (Bank of the river Brahmaputra ). The Ashok Astami Melais held every year near Kamakhya Temple.

2. BHARALI NAMGHAR:-

It is situated in Hatbar.

3. BORDOWA NAMGHAR:-

This Namghar is situated in Nagaon Sattra, where Mahapurush Sankardev was born.

4. SAUBHAGYA MADHAV, DULAL MADHAV AND GOPAL MADHAV

These are the three ancient temples during the reign of Ahom King Shiva Singha.

DANCES :- There are many dance forms available in Nagaon mainly “ Nagayan Ojhapali “



Places to visit in Central Assam - Morigaon District

Morigaon

PLACES OF INTEREST

· Patekibori Than

· Pabitora Wildlife Sanctury

· Sitajakhala

· Deosal Siva Temple.

· Kachasila Hill.

· Asia's Largest Dry Fish Market.


* Pabitora Wildlife Sanctury :

Legend says that the King of Mayong gave this name Pabitara to this forest in the name of his lovely daughter who died in her youth.

On 18.11.1971 , this forest was declared as Reserved Forest, keeping in view that the one horned Rhinos are abound in it.

On 16.7.1987 Pabitara was declared as Pabitora Wildlife Sanctury with an area of .
38.83 Hectars. It is an ideal habitat for the world famous endangered one horned Rhino with a density of five Rhinos in every square K.M. Pobitora is also rich in migratory birds, rare species of birds, wild buffeloes and wild pigs. It is about 17 Km. from National Highway No.37 from Chamata. One I.B. is there for the tourists. Boating is another pleasure at Haduck Beel at Pobitara.

** Kachasila :

Just few Kms. away from Pabitora to the top of Kachasila Hills, an ancient temple, perhaps of 9th Century ,with statues of Lord Shiva and Parvoti. There is also a large number of statues of Lord Ganesh. The statues and coriin stones are the matters of research.

*** Deosal :

It is situated by National Highway no.37 about 4 kms. away from Jagiroad town, with a big ancient temple of Lord Shiva. Shiva Ratri Mela is observed every Year very colourfully. Local people believe that Deosal was the Ashram of Valmiki, where Sita Devi was left by Rama.

**** Sitajakhala :

It was discovered in the last year of the fourth decade of the last Century. Several steps were made by cutting the stones from the temple to the River Killing at the Sita Jakhala Hills.The wall of the temple is full of statues of Hanuman & Sita herself. So people believe that Valmiki cut those stones as steps for Sita to go to the river from the temple when she was pregnant and leftby Rama. So the steps got the name SITA JAKHALA. This area is very rich in cattle population.

***** Sivakunda :

This is a water fall in the Amsoi hills, located about 10 k.ms.from National Highway no.37 towards south. It is a picturesque spot and a large number of people gather from October to March for picnic.

****** Joon Beel Mela :

A traditional mela of barter where people of the hills come to the plains with the goods produced in hills and exchange it with the goods produced in the plains according to their need. When this practice was started is not known clearly but the king of Gova gave it an organised form. During Magh every year this Mela is held, symbolising the mutual under standing between hills & plains.

******* Dry Fish Market :

Asias largest dry fish market is situated at Jagiroad in Morigaon District. Consignments of sea and freshwater dry fish from every corner of the country, particularly from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Bihar come to this market. Locally in Assam also some of amount of dry fish is produced . This dry fish is mainly supplied to the hill states like Nagaland, Manipur , Mizoram, Meghalaya and Arunachal . Some portion of dry fish is supplied to South Asian Countries and also to Singapore and Malaysia.


Saturday, February 2, 2008

Places to visit in Central Assam - Kamrup District




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KAMRUP

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Madan Kamdev Temple

Barely 40 Kms. away from Guwahati, the gateway of North-East and 3 Kms. from Baihata Chariali on National Highway 52, Madan Kamdev is an enigma, a mystery, a marvel which speaks about the ancient Kamrup. Scattered all around the Dewangiri hillock with an idyllic back drop of green hills and flowing rivulet, are griffins, nymphs, dancing fairies, gods and goddesses in cosmic evoluations, walls, pillars, lintels and door frams decorated with flowers, animals, Kalpa-vriksha (the tree of fulfillment), six sided Bhairava, four headed Shiva, Demons, Serpants and men, women and animals in every conceivable erotic postures, all in ruins-ruin of gigantic proportion - that is Madan Kamdev. Carvings that arrest time and remain ageless proclaiming eternal yearning for Love and Joy. Every curvable surface here is vibrant with a fervour of joy-dee vivre which transformed rocks into living, breathing, dancing beauty - a timeless dream on silent rocks.


It is belived that Kama or Madan, the God of Love was reborn in this place after being turn into ashes by angry Lord Shiva. One school belive that Madan was reborn and united to his wife Rati in this tiny hillock. Another school argue that the name Madan Kamdev is romantic association to palce, because of the numarous erotic sculptures.


Perhaps there is no place in India except Khajuraho and Kanarak, where basic weaknesses of mortals caught in fear, doubt, love, jelously and consumate passion have been so eloquently expressed. It is realy a mystery, how Madan Kamdev, a place exquisite antiquities, so near to Guwahati escaped the notice of all for such a long time. It is now established that many priceless imageses of Madan Kamdev were either stolen by curio hunters or by religion-duped villagers without perhaps realising the value of the curving they removed.


Assam Archeology more or less has confirmed that the ruins of Madan Kamdev belonged to the 10th to 12th century A.D. when the Pala Dynasty ruled Kamrupa. The ruins are believed to be the remains of more than 20 temples consigned to Lord Shiva. The surviving portion of Madan Kamdev shows that these were perhaps the finest mediaval temples ever built in the entire Brahmaputra Valley. Be it so, or it otherwise Madan Kamdev, continues to remain an archeological challenge.




Saraighat war Memorial Park:


This Park is at Agyathuri on the northern bank of river Brahmaputra .The Park has been constructed for preservation and promotion of the memories associated with the Battle of Saraighat which took place in the year 1671 A.D. between the Ahoms and Mughals under the command of the great Ahom "Senapati" Lachit Barphukan .


The total cost of this project is Rs. 65 lakhs which has been made available by the Planning and Development Dept. Govt. of Assam under the untied fund 2005-06. The entire project has been completed within the record time utilizing 100% of the fund.

Hayagriva-Madhab Temple


Hayagriva-Madhab Hayagriva Madhava Mandir is situated on the Monikut hill near Hajo of Kamrup district .It is known that the temple was constructed by the King Raghu deva Narayan in 1583. According to some other historians. King of Pala dynasty constructed it in 6th century. It is a stone temple and it enshrines an image of Hayagriva Madhav. The rows of elephants are seen on the body of the temple and they are fine specimens of Assamese art. There is a big pond known as Madhab Pukhuri near the temple. Doul ,Bihu and Janmastami festivals are celebrated every year in the temple. Moreover this temple preaches both Hinduism and Buddhism, which attract Buddhist Monks from far flung places.


Poa Macca
Poa Macca is a place of pilgrimage for the Muslims and is located at Hajo, a small town near Guwahati. It is the tomb of seer Giasuddin Auliya. It is believed that by offering prayers here the faithfuls gain one fourth of the spiritual enlightenment of what could be gained at Mecca. Hence the name - "poa" meaning one-fourth.


Aswaklanta :

This temple being famous for the Hindus was constructed by king Siva Singha in 1720 A.D. situated on the bank of the river Brahmaputra. It consists two big temples. It is said that Lord Krishna, while coming to kill Narakasura, his horse got tired in this place. There are also some others opinion that the horse was attacked near this temple and the name of it should have been Aswakranta and not Aswaklanta. Formally there was a Kunda, a place of sacrifice near the temple. Now this Kunda does not exist because it was eroded by the river Brahamputra. Inside this temple, there are two images one of Janardana and the other of Anantasai Vishnu. The later is a fine art specimen of eleventh century. There is one stone inscription on the body of the temple located at north Guwahati. Ideally located on the bank of the river, it is linked by regular ferry services with the south bank. It can be reached by road across the Saraighat bridge.

Chanda's Merghar at Chaygaon :-

It is a site with which a mythological story is attached to a merchant named Chanda Saudagar and his son Lakhindar and his daughter-in-law Beula. The story goes that Chanda Saudagar , who was a devotee of Lord Siva ,once got a curse from 'Nag Devata' (the God of Snake) that he would have no descendents any further as his only son would be killed on the latter's wedding nite. To prevent this, Lakhindar and his bride was confined in the "Merghar" (a specially built sealed house for the newly wed couple to prevent entry of snakes ) However despite every effort , Lakhindar was bitten to death by 'Nag Devata' . It was Beula 's relentless offerings and prayers that saved her husband's life later on. Ruins of 'Merghar' and replica of Siva idols are still found around this site.

Chandubi :-

A natural lagoon and a fine picnic spot which is 64 km from Guwahati. The lake and its surroundings broken by glades, is in ideal holidays resort and has the added attraction of fishing and rowing in the lake. The place is easily accessible by bus from the central bus stand at Adabari, Guwahati.Daul Govinda Mandir: Located at the north bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra. It is a place of historic importance. The temple and shrines, copper plates and rock inscription are scattered to suggest a glorious heritage in and around north Guwahati. The holy Daul Govinda Mandir is perfectly placed at the beautiful foot hills of Chandrabharati hill at Rajaduar, a place of the east of North Guwahati and this natural ambience heightens the sanctity of this place of worship.Everyday hundreds of pilgrims assemble here particularly, during the month of Magha and especially on the auspicious full moon day. Daul Govinda Mandir has two idols i.e. of Lord Shyamaray and Lord Govinda of course most of the devotees offer their prayers mainly to lord Govinda. Sidheswar Devalaya : It is situated in Sualkuchi of Kamrup district. It is an ancient Siva temple, which was built during the time of Ahom King Siva Singha's rule. A few images of archeological interest exist at the site. Dirgheswari Temple : Located on the north bank of the Brahmaputra and linked by a motorable road, this shrine is considered as one of the supreme Devi Tirthas of the state. Isolated and lying at the foot of a range of hills, it has several rock cut images which can be traced to the 11th to 12th century A.D. This is one of the few temples where buffalo sacrifice is done annually during Durga Puja.


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Sualkuchi - the silk village of Assam

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Indigenous Weaving Product from Pat-Muga -the Assam silk In the of context of silk weaving in Assam , Sualkuchi is a name that stands apart. Situated on the bank of the river Brahmaputra, about 35 kms from Guwahati, Sualkuchi is a block of Kamrup District with a population around 52,679,with 90 sq km . There are 8 G.P. in Sualkuchi block out of which, weaving is a dominant occupation. In fact Sualkuchi is known as the MANCHESTAR of the East. A weaver in traditional loomThe weaving tradition in this hamlet can be traced to the 11th century when king Dharma Pal, of the Pala dynasty, sponsored the craft and brought 26 weaving families from Tantikuchi to Saulkuchi. The village took shape as a weaving village when the SHAMS occupied Sualkuchi defeating the Mughals in the mid 17th century. Dyeing and processing of silk by traditional method 'Project Sualkuchi'- A dream of the people, by the people, for the people.The North Eastern Council, in exercise of the financial powers authorized by the Govt. of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, accorded administrative approved as well as sanction on 8th May 1987 towards implementation of the Scheme IPP for the weavers of Sualkuchi and Adjoining areas under the pattern of self help group of Kamrup District of Assam. The Scheme is being implemented by Deputy Commissioner Kamrup and Project Director, DRDA, Kamrup District Assam.


Objectives


• To provide self-employment to the rural masses, especially women.

• To organize poor weavers into Self Help Group's for their empowerment and sustenance.

• To provide managerial and technical skill to the weavers.

• To build a team of resources persons who can update the knowledge and skill of the weavers.

• To increase the nos. of skilled weavers and upgrade their existing skills through proper training.

• To facilitate the gainful utilization of Muga ,Eri yarn product through the Yarn Bank.

• To produce superior quality of furnished product through strict quality control mechanism.

• To create relevant marketing support in the village itself.

• To enhance income generation from the existing level through value addition.


National Institute of fashion Technology(NIFT) and Project SualkuchiThis premier institute of design management and technology was set up in 1986,under the aegis of Ministry of Textiles to impart Fashion education and cater to the human resources development needs in India, to train professionals to meet the varied manpower requirement of the apparel section, but also a solid foundation to which the country could profitably transform to meet the international challenges. Hon'ble Minister, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma visiting weaving lab of NIFT, Kolkata
The Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup Assam, vide Letter no. KCA/Project Salkuchi/Nift/2004/1 dated 19th March 2004,sought the participation of Nift in the above Project for the development of managerial capacity and upgrading the technical skill of the weavers of self-help group. Accordingly, in context to the IPP, Nift is committed towards the development of entire Sualkuchi handloom cluster in terms of various technological and skill up gradation, establishment of R and D centres for handloom, setting up of various common facility centres, product innovation, design diversification and conversion of handloom materials into fashionable garments, setting up of yarn bank and CAD Centre, and conduction of various training and exposure programmes for the weaving artist of Sualkuchi region.


The estimated cost of this project is 695.50 crores. The underlying points highlights briefly the progress of the scheme.1. A total of 100 self help groups have been formed and they have been provided a revolving fund of Rs. 10,000/- each.2. Each self Help group have been provided with Rs. 2 lakhs as subsidy and Rs. 2 lakhs as bank loan.3. 300 weavers were given training on updated looming methods, new disigne and other related waving aspects at NIIFT, Kolkatta.4. The construction work of common facility centre at Sualkuch is going on. 5. The approximate estimated budget of this task is Rs. 60 lakhs.