ASSAM ASSAM
So long hidden behind red tape, Assam's beauty is a fact that defies imagination. The rarest of flora and fauna, blue hills and green tea, a bustling capital and black oil, it is a beauty that soothes even as it disturbs. Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan bound Assam in the north, Nagaland to the east, and Manipur and Mizoram to the south. In the southwest, Assam touches the borders of West Bengal and Bangladesh. In Guwahati: the commercial capital of Assam, the tour starts fromkamakhya Temple, Basistha Ashram, Zoo, Gita mandir, nabagraha Temple, Assam State museum. Assam is very rich in Wildlife. There are three national parks and 12 wildlife sanctuaries of which Kaziranga and Manas are most well known. Gateway To The Northeast: Guwahati, the industrial and commercial hub of Assam is revered for its ancient Hindu temples. It spreads at the edge of the vast moving, river-sea of the Brahmaputra. It's the service center for the oil industry and tea plantations. The world's largest tea auctions are held in the nearby city Dispur, the official state capital. The People: The Assamese are a mixture of Mongolian-Tibetan, Aryan, and Burman ethnic origins. Their language is akin to Bengali, spoken in West Bengal and in Bangladesh. Since the late 19th century a vast number of immigrants from Bangladesh has entered the valley, where they have settled to cultivate the almost empty lands, particularly the low floodplains. The hill tribes of the Garo, Khasi, and Hajong inhabit the hilly margins of the plain. The Bodo are the largest minority group in Assam and are concentrated in the northern areas of the Brahmaputra River valley. Occupation: Agriculture is basic to Assam's economy. Rice is grown on about two-thirds of the cultivated area; tea and jute are also important crops, and their sale accounts for a major portion of Assam's income. Other significant crops include oilseeds, peas, beans, canola (rapeseed), sugarcane, and fruits. Oil and coal are found in upper Assam, and the state produces about one-sixth of India's petroleum and natural gas. Handicrafts: Artist and sculptors, masons and architects, and others practicing minor crafts such as weavers, spinners, potters, goldsmiths, artisans of ivory, wood, bamboo, cane and hide flourished in Assam from ancient times. Every household possesses a handloom used to produce silk and (or) cotton clothes of exquisite designs. The Eri, Muga and Pat are the important silk products of Assam. CLIMATE: Assam has mild winters and warm summers. Summer is March to June and monsoon from July to August. November to February is winter. Average temperature is moderate, about 29 degrees C in the hottest month of August. The average valley temperature in January is 16 degrees C. The real force of the monsoon winds is felt from June onward. Rainfall in Assam ranks among the highest in the world; annual rainfall varies from 70 inches in the west to 120 inches in the east. Best season: February to May. Population: 25 million Festivals: Assam observes Bhogali Bihu, Rongali Bihu, Kati Bihu, Janmashthami and Durga Puja festivals. Rangali Bihu, the main Bihu festival, is in April. This festival is essentially in celebration of a good harvest and is accompanied with lively dances, music and feasting. Guwahati also celebrates the Ambuchi Festival in July.
AKASHIGANGA
Location: 50-km From Nagaon Town, Nagaon District, and Assam Famous Us: A Picnic Spot And Pilgrimage Akashiganga in the Nagaon district lies beside the Dabaka-Dimapur National Highway (Via Dokmoka). It is about 50-km, southeast of Nagaon town. A SCENIC SPOT: Akashiganga contains a lofty waterfall. At the foot of this waterfall, scattered ruins from stone temples can be seen. Most of the carved components from these ruins have been shifted to the archaeological garden near it. The ruins belong to at least two temples of 10th and 12th centuries AD respectively. Akashiganga is known for its scenic beauty. Picnickers throng it in winter. It is also a place of pilgrimage and modern temples have sprung up at this place, which are visited by devotees all the year around. Akashiganga also witness wild-elephant menace seasonally every year. NEARBY CITIES Nagaon: 50-km
DHUBURI
Location: Dhuburi District, Assam Main Attractions: The Gurdwara & Panchpeer Dargah Dhuburi, the headquarters of the Dhuburi district, is the western most town of the State. Interwoven with legends and history, this peninsular landmass continued to be an outpost and a river-post for the travellers from east and west who from time immemorial plied along the all-weather navigable Brahmaputra. Dhuburi exists where the Brahmaputra takes its southward elbow turn, to enter Bangladesh. It has a rare scenic beauty. It is associated with the Beula-Lakhinder episode, a legend found associated with several other places of Assam PRIME ATTRACTIONS The Gurdwara: Dhuburi also associated with the 10th Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur Singh, who with his regiment, accompanied the Mughal General Ram Singh in his invasion of Assam in AD 1669 and established the first Gurdwara of this region at the highest spot of this town. Of late, the old Gurdwara has been replaced by a magnificent one, which can be seen from several kilometers away all around. PanchpeerDargah: The Panchpeer Dargah is a shrine built over the mortal remains of five Mohammedan Saints who visited Assam in the 17th century AD. Though a Muslim Dargah, it is equally venerated by Hindus and Muslims. NEARBY CITIES Panbari: 18-km
DIBRUGARH
Location: Assam Significance: The Largest Tea Exporting Town In India. Dibrugarh, district headquarters of Lakhimpur is surrounded by tea gardens, greenery and inhabited mostly by Bengalis. It is reputed as a commercial town. Located along the river Brahmaputra, Dibrugarh is sometimes referred to as the gateway to some districts of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the largest tea-exporting town in India. In Dibrugarh one can go around the tea gardens, which are located in, and around the town. A large number of tea estates are located along National Highway-37 covering large area of Dibrugarh district. Though it has no special attractions for the tourists. Yet, a planned city has been built up at Barbari around Assam medical college. Also, there is a dam, constructed at a huge cost in order to save the town from the devastating flood of Brahmaputra. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Dibrugarh has regular air flight from major cities like Delhi, Calcutta and Guwahati from its Mohanbari airport, which is 17-km from the town. Rail: Dibrugarh is linked with Guwahati by a broad gauge line. It is also connected with other cities of the country by express and super fast trains. Road: NH-37 links Dibrugarh and other important towns of Assam, from where A/C and non-A/C deluxe coaches are available daily. NEARBY CITIES Mohanbari: 17-km Sibsagar: 80-km Digboi: 65-km Jorhat: 136-km
DIGBOI
Location: 65-km From Dibrugarh, Assam Popularly Known As: City Of Oil Significance: The Main Oil Centers In India Main Attractions: Digboi Golf Course, War Cemetery, and National Oil Park Digboi boasts of two modern wonders of the world-- a hundred-year-old oil field still producing oil and the world's oldest operating oil refinery. Popularly known as the city of oil, oil was first found over here in 1879, and drilling started off in 1888 and in 1889. Assam Oil Company established the first oil refinery of Asia in Digboi and work in the oil refinery started in 1900. Still later, being amalgamated with Burma Oil Company, Digboi became the most modern oil refinery. Crude oil is being refined here with 34 varieties of oil byproducts and one of them is Dolls, which are made from wax. Centering the refinery, this city, founded by the British, is like a painting on a canvas. The place still continues as a tiny island of the colonial culture. The atmosphere is sylvan outside the town, where wild Elephants run amuck. Once following the pressure caused by the wild move of elephants, existence of oil here came to notice. It is not unusual to see tigers & rhinos in the suburb forest. PRIME ATTRACTIONS National Oil Park: Digboi oil field is not just an oil field, but also an oil museum and a wildlife sanctuary of unsurpassed beauty. One can stand near the continent's oldest oil well known as the Discovery Well completed in 1889 AD. In the evening one may just come across a herd of elephants grazing lazily at branches of trees or just gazing at one or have a close encounter with a Royal Bengal Tiger, besides some rare species of birds. War Cemetery: The most dramatic event in Digboi's history took place during the World War II days when the belligerent Japanese got closer and were within three days' marching distance of Digboi. If one knows the history behind the World War and the Japanese invasion, then as one pays obeisance to the war heroes at the cemetery one can well imagine how many young lives were nipped in the bud at battle, how many lives laid down for the country. The horror of war can only be imagined and here in this cemetery one can feel a sense of peace, a sense of worship for lives lost not in vein. Digboi Golf Course: Digboi has an 18 hole Golf course considered to be the best in the entire upper Assam, where all-important tournaments are held. There are 8 other 9 whole Golf courses with tea estates between Dibrugarh and Doom Dooma too. Dibru Saikhowa Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is a safe haven for extremely rare White Winged Wood Duck and many migratory birds. Specialty of Dibru Saikhowa is it's wild horses, called Feral Horses. Centenary Museum: Among the other landmarks worth seeing in this City of oil is an Oil museum known as Centenary Museum, the only of it's kind in the country? Centenary Eco Park: Are you among the supporters of Eco tourism, then this Eco park is just the place for you to be visited, presenting a glimpse of the rich diversity of flora and fauna that abounds the state of Assam. Margarita: 14-km east of Digboi, this place that has such a unique name, sounding like a Spanish girl as well as a heady cocktail, but is actually a centre for the tea gardens, plywood factories and coalmines. Ledo: 6-km North West of Margarita is Ledo, also known as "the land of coal". During 2nd world war Ledo became a very important place. The British general Vinegar Joe Stillwell constructed the Stillwell highway from Ledo to Myitkyina, North East of Myanmar. Stillwell road, which is 430-km long, was built in 1944 and is known as the costliest road in the world of that time but is closed for transport today. Naharkatia: An oil well has been discovered at Naharkatia, 32-km from Digboi. Duliajan: Another oil town is Duliajan, 15-km away from Margherita, a small town, amid beautiful nature, is situated on the border of Assam-Arunachal Pradesh at the foothills of Patkoi range, standing like a wall between India and Myanmar (Burma). Flowing past Tirap River, there are tea gardens all around it. HOW TO GET THERE Air: The nearest airport Dibrugarh is 65-km from Digboi. Rail: On Dibrugarh-Ledo broad gauge rail pass regular train leave for Dibrugarh, New Tinsukia, and Digboi.
Road: National Highway-38 runs through Digboi. In between Dibrugarh and Digboi, there is Tinsukia. From Tinsukia, one can visit may visit Dibrugarh (47-km), Digboi (33-km), Teju in Arunachal Pradesh (108-km), and Parasuram Kunda (129-km). NEARBY CITIES Dibrugarh: 65-km Margherita: 14-km Ledo: 20-km Duliajan: 22-km Naharkatia: 32-km Tinsukia: 33-km Dibrugarh: 47-km via Tinsukia Tejo: 108-km via Tinsukia Parasuram Kunda: 129-km via Tinsukia
DISPUR
Location: 10-km From Guwahati On Guwahati-Shillong Route, Assam Famous As: Auction Market Of Tea Significance: Capital Of Assam Also Known As: Dishpur With the birth of Meghalaya the capital (1874 to January 1975) had been shifted from Shillong to Dispur. 10-km away from Guwahati on Guwahati-Shillong route, Dispur is a well-planned city, a quality, which the tourist will enjoy the most about the town Auctioning Tea: Guwahati is the centre of tea trading and the auction market is established in Dispur. CTC or Crush, Tear and Curl tea is on auction over here every Tuesday and Wednesday of the week. On the way to Shillong one may have a look at Dispur. Possibly, this capital is going to be shifted to Chandrapur with exquisite natural surroundings, 20-km away from Guwahati. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Guwahati airport is situated 18-km east of the centre, and is served by taxis and airport buses, including those run by Indian airlines. Rail: The railway station is in the centre of the Guwahati town with the state bus stand right behind and operates a very useful left luggage service. The back of the railway station leads into the Paltan Bazaar area, from which most of the private bus companies operate. Road:Guwahati is the connector city of NH - 31, 37 and 40 with the other cities of India by road. Buses ply from Guwahati around the cities of Northeast India by National Highways. State Transport Express and Super Express buses of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal, Nagaland, and North Bengal ply from Guwahati. NEARBY CITIES Guwahati: 10-km Chandrapur: 30-km Basistha: 22-km Hajo: 42-km Madan Kamdev: 50-km Darang: 110-km Shillong: 110-km Nowgang: 130-km Orang: 150-km Manas: 186-km Tezpur: 191-km
GOLAGHAT
Location: Assam Found In: 1848 Altitude: 71m Golaghat, one of the oldest erstwhile subdivision of the northeast Indian state of Assam, created during the pre-independence era in the year 1848, has become a full fledged district (139 years later) on 23rd October, 1987. The district comprises of three subdivisions, Golaghat, Dhansiri and Bokakhat. Geographically, it is situated at a height of 71m above sea level near 26 degree North and 94 degree East. It is bounded by river Brahmaputra in the North, Nagaland state in the South, Jorhat district in the East, and Karbi Anglong and Nagaon districts in the West. Dhansiri, Doyang, Gela-Beel and Kakodonga are the main tributaries of the river Brahmaputra that flows across the district. Tea, sugarcane, rice, mustard, oranges and pineapples are some of the principal cultivated crops. According to old folklore, Golaghat got its name from being a place of business ('Gola') near the river port (Ghat) of Dhansiri. A famous Assamese satirical saying assoc Iating Golaghat is showing up a Golaghat-face, meaning a gloomy, sickly person. Golaghat at one time was famous for its frequent outbreaks of Malaria and Kala-Azar. PRIME ATTRACTIONS Famous for its one-horned Rhino worldwide, and the Nambor reserve forest are the two natural reserves of wild flora and fauna that are situated within the district A major oil refinery is now under construction at Numaligarh. People believe that this will perhaps usher in the much-needed industrialization of the predominately residential district.
HOW TO GET THERE Air: Jorhat is well connected by air, with daily flights from Guwahati, and four flights a week from Calcutta. Rail: Jorhat is connected to Guwahati by a direct rail line Road: There are Assam state transport as well as private buses, which operate in this sector. NEARBY CITIES Jorhat: 100-km Sibsagar: 170-km
GUWAHATI
Location: Assam Formerly Known As: Pragiyotishpura Main Attraction: Brahmaputra River, Kamakhya Temple Best Time To Visit: October To May Once known as "Pragiyotishpura" or Light of the East, the most striking feature of Guwahati (also spelt as Gauhati), is the Brahmaputra, whose swollen sandy channel is so wide that the far shore is often rendered invisible. Of its many mysterious temples, 'Kamakhya' and 'Navagraha' both occupy commanding positions on hilltops while 'Umananda' sits on a small island in the middle of the Brahmaputra A Tea City: Guwahati's main business, tea is booming with the new Assam tea auction centre holding auctions that previously took place as far away as Calcutta and London. The large oil refinery at Noonmati, on the northern outskirts, symbolizes Guwahati's recent growth and prosperity. The busy central market area contrasts sharply with the almost rural riverside feel northeast of the centre, and the surrounding hills rising beyond the coconut palms give Guwahati a fairly appealing atmosphere. The Town: Although strictly speaking Guwahati is split in two by the Brahmaputra - only crossed by the Straight Bridge and the ferries - "Guwahati" is taken to refer to the main town south of the river, while north Guwahati is virtually a separate town. The main roads out of town are the Assam trunk road, to upper Assam and the Guwahati - Shillong road to Meghalaya. PRIME ATTRACTIONS Assam State Museum: Archaeological and ethnographic displays are one of the major attractions in Assam's state museum, situated near the centre of city. The collection includes stone and copper plate inscriptions dating from the 5th century, a 12th century sculptures of 'Surya', terracotta pieces and costumes. Umananda Temple: The Shiva temple of Umananda stands on an island bluff in the middle of the Brahmaputra. Its location, at the top of a flight of steep steps up from the beach, is more dramatic than the temple itself. Ferries and motor launches leave from Umananda Ghat, on the shore between the State Bank of India and the Ashok Hotel. Kamakhya Temple: On the commanding Nilachal hill, overlooking the river 8-km west of the centre, the important Kali temple of Kamakhya, with its beehive-shaped 'Shikhara', is a fine example of the distinctive Assamese style of architecture. As one of the 'Shaktipiths', it marks the place where Sati's 'Yoni' (vulva) landed when her body fell to earth in 51 pieces, and is one of the three most important tantric temples in India. A short walk up the hill brings one to a smaller and emptier temple with great views of Guwahati and the Brahmaputra. Navagraha Temple: East of the town centre, atop another hill, is the atmospheric Navagraha temple popularly known as the "Temple of the Nine Planets", an ancient seat of astrology and astronomy surrounded by large trees that shelter tribes of monkeys. Housed in a single red dome, again in the beehive style, the central lingam is encircled by a further nine representing the planets. Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalashetra: Further from the centre of the town, the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, on Shillong road in the Panjabari district, was opened in late 1998 in order to celebrate the cultural identity of the Assamese by promoting dance, drama, music and art. Sankaradeva was a saint, poet, scholar, social reformer and preacher largely responsible for the 15th century Assamese renaissance. It houses a museum, art gallery, open-air theatre and traditional Vaishnavite temple. Janardan Temple: Janardan Temple, built in the style of Hindu and Buddhist architecture, at Shukaleswar hillock near Shukaleswar Ghat of Brahmaputra, the heart of town, is worth seeing. It was renovated anew in 17th century. Assam State Zoo: Guwahati's leafy and well-managed zoo and botanical gardens are 5-km east of the centre. Animals include the one-horned rhino, the state symbol of Assam, as well as tigers and leopards.
Pandu: A little further is the Railway Township of Pandu, named after the King Pandu. Over here is situated the temple of Pandunath on the hillock. While in forest exile, Pandavas came and lived here in the guise of Ganesha. The images of Lord Ganesha and 'Pancha Pandava' brothers are present in the temple besides other images. The image of Nrisingha (also spelt as 'Nrusimha') incarnation maintains a difference from others. Further west, the sunset at Brahmaputra is simply touching. Basistha: Besides a picturesque waterfall 11-km southeast of Guwahati, two small red-domed temples at Basistha (also spelt as Vashistha), in Assamese beehive style, commemorate Vashistha Muni, the author of the Ramayana. Nestling within an impressive grove of trees, with rock carvings in the stream to add to the air of antiquity. Hajo: The small town of Hajo, 32-km northwest of Guwahati, has a special place in Assamese culture, having been sacred even before the Ahom arrived as Buddhists, let alone after their conversion to Hinduism? Holy to Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, it attracts pilgrims from all faiths, in apparent harmony. A long palm tree-lined stone staircase climbs a hill to the small Hindu temple of Hayagriba Madhab where, locals claim Lord Buddha gained Nirvana. Praying at the mosque of Pao Mecca situated nearby grants Muslims a quarter (Pao) of the spiritual benefit of Mecca. Sualkuchi: Hajo's nearby village of Sualkuchi is known for the production of golden Muga silk, that involves virtually every household and for which Assam is famous. Madan Kamdev: Some 40-km north of Guwahati, Madan Kamdev was the site of a tantric temple of 'Shakti' (Durga) dating back to the Pallava dynasty (11th and 12th centuries). The temple, mentioned in the tantric scriptures known as the "Yogini Tantra", was evidently destroyed, though the cause is unknown. Much of the site remains unexcavated, but a museum preserves many finds including figures in various erotic postures, indeed some archeologists claim only Khajuraho rivals the expressiveness of its erotica. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Guwahati airport is situated 18-km east of the centre, and is served by taxis and airport buses, including those run by Indian airlines. Rail: The railway station is in the centre of town with the state bus stand right behind and operates a very useful left luggage service. The back of the railway station leads into the Paltan Bazaar area, from which most of the private bus companies operate. Road: Guwahati is the connector city of NH - 31, 37 and 40 with the other cities of India by road. Buses ply from Guwahati around the cities of Northeast India by National Highways. State Transport Express and Super Express buses of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal, Nagaland, and North Bengal ply from Guwahati. Local Transport: Guwahati has an efficient and extensive system of minibuses too. Cycle rickshaws are easy to find around the centre of the town. The main terminal for river ferries is available at Sukreswar Ghat. GENERAL INFORMATION Altitude: 55m Temperature: Summer Max. 35°C - 22°C Winter Max. 26°C - 10°C Rainfall: 182 CMS. (May - September) Clothing: Cottons - Summer & Woolens – winter NEARBY CITIES Basistha: 11-km Hajo: 32-km Madan Kamdev: 40-km Darang: 100-km Shillong: 100-km Nowgang: 120-km Orang: 140-km Tezpur: 181-km
HAFLONG
Location: 84-km North Of Silchar, Assam Significance: Seat Of North Cachar Hills Autonomous District Council Main Attraction: Jatinga. Best Time To Visit: August To November A Breathtaking Scenic Beauty: While Shillong Hill is out of the state of Assam, a new hill emerges, at 680m high, Upper Haflong. The main language spoken over here is Dimashi. In Dimashi, Haflong means "White Ants Hillock".
Haflong is a land of pleasing blue orchards and pera, pineapple and oranges. The nature of Haflong is a great attraction in itself. Add to it the picturesque beauty of Haflong Lake situated within the heart of this hill town. The Seat Of Sovereignty: The scenic hill resort of Haflong, 84-km north of Silchar, is the seat of the North Cachar Hills autonomous district council, where members of several ethnic groups including Dimasas, Hmars, Nagas and Mizos, belonging to different religious denominations - Christian, Hindu and Buddhist - live together in apparent harmony. Haflong is spread along Main Road, which winds up from Silchar. The market, off Main Road in the centre of town is at its most bustling and colourful on Saturday, when it expands into an enclosure further down Main Road, and overflows with fresh betel nut, banana flowers and Dju Vie (rice beer) for space. For the best views, head out towards the ASTC bus stand. Jatinga: 9-km south of Haflong on the Silchar road and covered with Blue Vandas Orchids, Jatinga is famed in local folklore as the place where birds commit mass suicide. The more brutal truth is that on certain foggy, moonless nights in autumn, local migrant birds can become disorientated while flying up the valley over the saddle of the hill and are attracted with lights by local people, who clobber them to death with bamboo poles and eat them. There is a bird watching centre in Jatinga, where one may be able to stay if one can get permission from the district forestry office in Haflong. Buses to Silchar pass through, but it may be easier to make a daytrip from Haflong by auto-rickshaw. Maibong: 47-km away from Haflong, on the banks of river Mahur, lie the ruins of the once flourishing capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. A stone house and temple of Kachari kings can be seen at Maibong. Umrangshu or Umrongso: 112-km away from Haflong by road, the biggest Hydel plant under North East Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) has come up with dams across the river Kopili, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. Near Umrangshu, there is a hot water spring Garampani, which is believed to possess medicinal properties. Boating on the lake, hot water spring - Garampani and the exquisite scenery from the top of the hill are enough to captivate a tourist's attention. HOW TO GET THERE Rail: Lower Haflong is having a railway station, 3-km from town, with departures to Lumding - a slow but scenic ride, Silchar, and Dharmanagar. Road: Private buses pull in on Main Road, 100m above the market by the Hamringdi cinema, with departures early morning and midday for Silchar, plus one overnight departure to Guwahati. The ASTC bus stand, 1-km further out, sees morning and noon departures to Silchar, and one daily to Nagaon. NEARBY CITIES Maibong: 47-km Silchar: 84-km Umrongso: 112-km Lamding: 141-km Nowgang: 110-km Diphu: 178-km
JORHAT
Location: 310-km East Of Guwahati, Assam Significance: Gateway to Kaziranga, Nagaland & Northern Arunachal Pradesh Famous Excursions: Majuli & Sibsagar Stretching northeast from Guwahati along the valley, Assam penetrates the complex Brahmaputra watersheds at the eastern extremity of the Himalayas, in the area known as Upper Assam. Jorhat is the main centre for the region, with an airport and road connections, and acts as the gateway to Kaziranga, Nagaland and northern Arunachal Pradesh. Although not particularly attractive to tourists in itself, Jorhat makes a good base for exploring the unique Vaishnavite culture of Majuli, the largest river island in the world. North of Jorhat lies Sibsagar, former capital of the Ahoms and home to numerous tombs, temples and palaces. Jorhat, 310-km east of Guwahati, has research establishments dedicated to the tea industry. A tea research centre is established at Chinnamara, 5-km away from Jorhat. Annual tea festival in Jorhat is another attraction, along with temple of Buri Gohani, British imperial mementos, and the hanging platform to hang Freedom Fighters in front of the jail and many others. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Jorhat is well connected by air, with daily flights from Guwahati, and four flights a week from Calcutta. The airport is situated 5-km out of town and can be reached by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw or Indian Airlines buses.
Rail: Jorhat railway station is on the Farketing-Mariyani branch railway station. There are also bus services to Mariyani, the nearest mainline railway station, where two express trains run to Tinsukia, Dimapur, and Lumding. Road: ASTC buses run to Guwahati, Tezpur, Sibsagar, Tinsukia, Dimapur and Itanagar, Kaziranga is served by buses to Guwahati and Tezpur. Private buses are also available. Alternatively, one can take bus or taxi to reach Niyamati Ghat and cross the river by ferryboat or launch over to Majuli NEARBY CITIES Chinnamara: 5-km Majuli: 12-km Sibsagar: 60-km Kaziranga: 90-km Golaghat: 100-km
MAIBONG
Location: 47-km From Haflong, Assam Famous As: Headquarters Of The North Cachar Hills District Historical Significance: Capital Of Kachari Kingdom Main Attraction: Ramchandi Temple Maibong in the lap of the North Cachar Hills is a small town and the headquarters of the North Cachar Hills district. Located 338-km away from Guwahati, it can be visited both by road (via Lamding) and railways. An Ancient Capital City: Maibong was the capital of the Kachari kingdom from mid-sixteenth to mideighteenth century AD. The remains of this old capital still exist on the east bank of the Mahur River and to the south of Maibong of the day. This old capital, which was approximately 1-sq-km in area was fortified all around and segmented into blocks with earthen ramparts, which were reinforced with bricks. The buildings inside this capital do not exist at present but a few of the stone sculptures and carved blocks from this city are now preserved in the Haflong District Museum. PRIME ATTRACTION The most attractive object of Maibong is a two-roofed monolithic temple, known as the Ramchandi temple. The temple bears an inscription of AD 1761. HOW TO GET THERE Rail: The nearest railhead is situated at Guwahati, 338-km. The nearest railway station is located at Lamding. Road: Regular bus services ply to Maibong via Lamding NEARBY CITIES Haflong: 47-km Silchar: 131-km Umrongso: 159-km Nowgang: 157-km Lamding: 188-km
MAJULI
Location: 12-km North Of Jorhat, Assam Famous For: Vaishnava Sattras & Bathau Puja Significance: The Largest Fresh Water River Island In The World. Best Time To Visit: October To May Majuli is the largest fresh Water River Island in the world, situated in the upper reaches of the river Brahmaputra in Assam. This landmass, with a population of 1.6 lakhs, majority being tribals, has a very rich heritage and has been the abode of Assamese Vaishshnavite culture with tremendous potential for spiritual and Eco-tourism. The island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has rich ecology with rare breeds of flora and fauna and is a part of a major migratory path for Ducks, Geese and other birds. The population contains a wide mix of tribal peoples, including Ahoms and Kacharis; the Mishing and Deori tribes inhabit upper Majuli. The Assamese Vaishnavite Culture: Ferries run twice a day from Nimatighat, 12-km north of Jorhat, to Manjuli, which holds several important Vaishnavite Sattras. At present there are 22 Sattras on the island, including those in Garamur and Kamalabari, but one has to travel a few kilometers out of Kamalabari to see some of the more interesting ones. Although the origins of Majuli may be uncertain, it is known for a fact that the social reformer Sankardeva visited the island in the early 16th century. Sankardeva propagated a form of Vaishnavism that was simpler and more accessible than the ritualistic Hinduism of the time. His approach was rooted in faith and prayer, and stressed on the cultural aspects of life and living. The Namghar: This cultural ambience is not confined to the Sattras alone. Every village on the island, whether tribal or non-tribal, has assimilated these traditions in daily life. The central point of all villages is
the Namghar; where periodically people gather to sing and pray. It is more than a temple - it is a sacred meeting place as well. Usually after the sessions of reading and discussion, the members of the Sattras will get together to decide on matters concerning the village community. A Harmonised Living: In this day of individualism, Majuli still preserves the notion of the community. Among the majority Mishing community, who migrated from the Arunachal hills many generations ago, traditions of Ali-Ay-Ligang (the harvest festival) are still preserved, and different ethnicity have been living together peacefully for generations. Pottery -The Art Of Primitive Times: Pottery in Majuli is probably the single most important heritage of all. Pots are made with hand from beaten clay and burnt in driftwood-fired kilns. Only the womenfolk in the village labour to shape the pots with hand. Finished pots are ferried up and down stream on country boats for barter trade. According to the archeologists this has to be a missing link between Mohenjodaro & Harappan civilization. Elsewhere in the world potter's wheel reigns supreme; but Majuli still retains its link with the long dead past. Thus, Majuli is a living archeological museum in its own right. PRIME ATTRACTION The Sattras: The Sattra at Auniati, 4-km west, keeps Royal artifacts from the Ahom kingdom and has an interesting collection of Assamese handicrafts and jewellery. While Bengenati, 4-km east built in the early 17th century, has a very friendly caretaker who is happy to show visitors around Shamaguri. 6-km beyond Bengenati, is a centre for making clay and bamboo masks - sculptures in their own right used for traditional festivals and performances. Other interesting Sattras can be found at Bongaori, 8-km beyond Shamaguri, and Dakhinpat 5-km south of that. Majuli has recently been recommended for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the Indian government. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Majuli's nearest centre is Jorhat, which is well connected by air, with daily flights from Guwahati, and four flights a week from Calcutta. Rail: The nearest railway station is situated at Jorhat. Road & By Boat: From Guwahati, Jorhat is a seven-hour bus ride and buses leave early mornings and at nights. From Jorhat it is only 14-km to Neemati Ghat. There are at least two ferry rides to Majuli every day, one around 10.00 am, the other around 3.00 PM. Exact times can be ascertained from the private bus stand at Jorhat, from where buses leave for Neemati. The first ferry ride lasts about an hour - after that transfer to a bus for a ten-minute bus ride across Major Sapori, another island en route to Majuli. Then a short ferry ride, and yet another bus ride to Kamalabari, the main town on the island. One can also hire a taxi, either from Jorhat or in Majuli. The taxi can cross over on the ferry. Ras Purnima: Lord Krishna is supposed to have played with his consorts in Majuli. Though thousands of miles distant from Vrindavan, one only has to visit Majuli during the "Ras Purnima" in the month of 'Kartik' (October - November) to experience the zest of this festival. Virtually every single person on the island is involved in the three-day long 'Ras' festival, depicting the life of Krishna. Every village hosts its own, and people who have left Majuli return to take part in the song, dance, theatre and merriment. And the language that is used is 'Brajavali', the tongue of Mathura. In Majuli, the days of Bhawna and Ras are special, with thousands turning out all over the island to watch and experience. NEARBY CITIES Jorhat: 12-km Kamlabari: 5-km MAYANG Location: 50-km From Guwahati, Assam Mayang is 50-km away from Guwahati. Travelling east along NH-37, one reaches Chamata, a roadjunction near Sonapur 32-kms from Guwahati. From here a gravel road connects Mayang 18-km north of it. The road passes by the Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary, which is famous for its one-horned rhinos A Place Of Black Magic: From time immemorial Mayang was famous as a place of witchcraft and incantations and because of this it continued to be a much-feared region till a few decades back. Though the craft has died down at present, the media persons and the researchers still visit this region in search of whatever information about sorcerery persists till now. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Guwahati airport is the nearest airport situated 50-km from Mayang. Rail: The nearest railway station is at Guwahati.
Road: Guwahati is the connector city of NH - 31, 37 and 40 with the other cities of India by road. Buses ply from Guwahati around the cities of Northeast India by National Highways. State Transport Express and Super Express buses of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal, Nagaland, and North Bengal ply from Guwahati. NEARBY CITIES Guwahati: 50-km Sonapur: 82-km
PANBARI
Location: 18-km East Of Dhuburi, Assam Significance: Contains The Oldest Mosque Of Assam. Main Attractions: The Mosque & Alamganj Panbari is situated 18-km east of Dhuburi and lies on the way to Guwahati. Panbari contains the oldest mosque of Assam. Standing majestically beside the National Highway, this three-domed edifice is ascribed to Mirjumla, the Mughal Governor of Bengal, who invaded Assam in AD 1662. The Mughal Touch: Of late, a township consisting of brick-plinths, terracotta antiquities as also horde of coins have been discovered near this mosque, which have been tentatively assigned to the Mughal period. The area is also believed to be the headquarters of Hussain Shah who was the Governor of Bengal at the turn of the 15th century AD. At Alamganj, 7-km west of Panbari and half a kilometre south from the National Highway, exist a selfstanding massive wall along with a large and deep well, which are presumed to be part of an Idgah establishment. They belong to 16th - 17th century AD. NEARBY CITIES Alamganj: 7-km Dhuburi: 18-km SIBSAGAR Location: 60-km East Of Jorhat, Assam Famous As: Centre For Tea & Oil Trades Main Attractions: Shivratri Festival & The Ahom Monuments Historical Significance: Former Capital Of The Ahom Dynasty The Glory Of The Past: Sibsagar was known as the former capital of the Ahoms, who ruled Assam for more than 600 years till the advent of British. One of the oldest towns in Assam, Sibsagar - "The Ocean of Shiva"- lies 60-km east of Jorhat and 369-km from Guwahati and is an important centre for the tea and oil trades. It's cluster of monuments from six centuries of Ahom rule are still of significance to modern Assamese culture. A huge artificial tank, constructed by Queen Madambika in 1734, lies at the heart of the complex. Rising from its southern shore, the massive plain 32-metre-high Shivadol is the tallest Shiva temple in India, flanked by smaller temples dedicated to Durga and Vishnu. Pilgrims come from all over the state visit this temple during the Shivaratri festival. On the western shore of the lake next to a park, the Tai Ahom Museum contains a few ill-labeled artefacts. Modern Sibsagar is a fast developing town and is the headquarters of the district of the same of name. The Eastern Regional Headquarters of the Oil and natural Gas commission is located at Nazira only a few kilometers away from the town PRIME ATTRACTIONS Kareng Dhar & Talatal Ghar: A seven-storied place having three storeys underground is known as Talatal Ghar and the upper storey is known as Kareng Ghar were built by King Rudra Singha (1696-1714) and are situated 6-km away from Sibsagar town. There were two underground tunnels from the Talatal Ghar connecting Dikhow River and Gargaon place, which were later blocked by the East India Company. Rang Ghar: A two-storied oval shaped pavilion from which Ahom royalties watched elephant fight and other sporting events. King Parmatta Singha (1744-1751) and stands close to the Kareng Ghar built it. Gargaon Palace: Gargaon, the principal town of Ahoms built by the XV King Suklenmung in 1540, lies 13-km east of Sibsagar. The old palace was destroyed and King Rajeswar Singha rebuilt the present seven-storied palace around 1762. Jaysagar Tank and Temples: King Rudra Singha built the tank in memory of his mother, Joymoti, a patriotic martyr in 1697 at Rangpur (5-km). It covers an area of 318 acres and on its bank 3 temples were built in 1698 by the same monarch. These are the Joydol (Vishnu temple), the Shivadol and the Devidol, which are highly revered.
Gaurisagar Tank and Temples: The Gaurisagar tank was built by queen Phuleswari Devi (1722- 1791) and was dedicated to goddess Durga. It is covering an area of 150 acres and enclosing Shivadol and the Vishnudol temples. Gaurisagar is only 12-km from Sibsagar. Rudrasagar Tank and Temple: King Lakshmi Singha built the tank in 1773 in memory of his father King Rudra Singha. On its banks stand a Shiva Temple and is situated 8-km away from the Sibsagar town. Namdang Stone Bridge: The Bridge, cut out from a single solid rock over the Namdang River is situated 12-km away from Sibsagar. Workmen brought from Bengal during the reign of King Rudra Singha in 1703 constructed it. Charaideo: The original capital of the Ahom kings, built by Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom dynasty, in 1253 AD is 28-km east of Sibsagar town. It is famous for the numerous "Maidams" or burial vaults of king and other members of the royal families. Ajan Pir Dargah Sharif: At Saraguri Chapori (22-km) stands Ajan Pir Dargah Sharif. Ajan Pir was the first Muslim saint to compose "Zikir" in Assamese language. On the day of the "Urs" thousand of devotees gather here to pay homage to the memories of this great Muslim reformer. Other Places And Shrines Of Interest: There are a great number of Vaishvava Sattras, Muslim Dargahs, and Buddhist and Sakta shrines situated in and around Sibsagar. There are more than 500 tanks, vaults, earthen forts and "Rajbaries" (Castles), belonging to the Ahom, Manipuri, Jaintia and Shan Princes and Kachari kings. HOW TO GET THERE Rail: frequent buses serve Simaluguri, the nearest railhead, 20-km east, from the junction 200m north, all passing through Gargaon. Road: From the ASTC bus stand, 300m east at the junction of Hospital road and AT road, one can find regular bus services to Jorhat, Kaziranga, Guwahati, Tezpur and Tinsukia. The private bus stand is situated across the road. Three daily buses serve Charaideo from the Saheli stand, by the same junction. For Gaurisagar, tempos can be picked up at the central market. Other local destinations are best reached by auto-rickshaw. NEARBY CITIES Rudrasagar: 8-km Rangpur: 5-km Gaurisagar: 12-km Gurgaon: 13-km Simaluguri: 20-km Saraguri Chapori: 22-km Jorhat: 60-km
SILCHAR
Location: Cachhar District, Assam Inhabited Mostly By: Bengalis Main Attractions: Sri Knach Kanti Devi Temple, Khaspur, and Bhuban Hill The headquarters of Cachhar district is Silchar, inhabited mostly by the Bengalis. The Barak River flows by the extreme east of the town. The sunrise amid charming nature from Surma valley in Silchar is incomparable. The first rays of the sun rising from behind the hill changes its colours every moment in the river waters. PRIME ATTRACTIONS Sri Kancha Kanti Devi Temple: From Silchar, 17-km away on the way to airport, at Udharband is situated the famous temple of Sri Kancha Kanti Devi. The Goddess is widely known as very potent and that she is a union of Goddess Kali and Goddess Durga. Being commanded in the dream, the king established this four-armed gold image of the image of the Goddess in 1806. There are various legends centering on the Goddess. The old temple is no more present on the site instead a new one had been built up. Fulfillment of one's desire is assured under the dream-commanded tree at the Ashram of Brajamohan Goswami, 2-km further ahead. Devotes may have their prasad at noon. That too is a legendary one. Khaspur: 3-km away is Khaspur on the left from Brajamohan Goswami Ashram. It was the capital of the kings of Cachhar in 1690. The ruins of the capital are of great importance and a visiting spot for tourists. The original palace is in a state of non-existent, but its subsidiaries, the main entrance gate, the 'Suryadwar'; 'Debalaya' are still there intact. The entrances are of elephant-patterns. Take a city bus and get down at Salganga or visit by taxi/auto. Bhuban Hill: 50-km away is Bhuban hill, on which is situated the Bhubaneswar temple. The god & goddess are 'Hara-Parvati'. From Silchar it is 37-km away in Bhuban Nagar and one can reach over here by bus and cover the rest of the distance walking along the hill track.
Maniharan Tunnel: 5-km north of the Bhubaneswar temple is Maniharan tunnel and it is believed that God Sri Krishna used to use this tunnel. Holy Tribeni River flows down the tunnel. There is also a temple complex over here and Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Garurha, and Hanuman are being worshiped in those temples. Festivals are held over here on the eve of Dol Purnima (full moon night of Doljatra), Baruni and Shivaratri. Other Attractions: Some other attractions include: the newly developed medical college; 11 martyr's tombs at Gandhi Bag on the bank of the lake, who dedicated their lives on the eve of language movement in 1964, 11 monumental pillars are erected there for the 11 martyrs. A little further are Harisava and the temple of Goddess Lakshmi Devi. HOW TO GET THERE Air: Silchar's airport, 13-km away, can be reached by shared taxi from outside the Indian Airlines office in club road. One can catch regular flights of Indian Airlines to Calcutta and Imphal from here. Rail: The railway station is situated 3-km out of town in Tarapur, with regular trains to Haflong and Lumding, where one can catch a connected train for Guwahati. Road: The state bus stand, near Devdoot cinema, where the Central Road and Club Road meet the Circuit House Road, is the terminus for Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura State Bus Services. NEARBY CITIES Tarapur: 3-km Khaspur: 3-km Udharband: 17-km Bhuban Nagar: 50-km
TEZPUR
Location: 181-km Northeast Of Guwahati, Sonitpur District, Assam Formerly Known As: Sonitpur Main Attractions: Da-Parbatia Temple, Agnigarh & Bamuni Hills Best Time To Visit: October To May
The City Of Eternal Romance: Amid tea gardens and military cantonments on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, 181-km northeast of Guwahati, the pleasant little town of Tezpur, built around several lakes, stands on the site of Sonitpur. Undulated green valleys surrounded by hills of Arunachal Pradesh, with snow capped peaks of Himalayas as the northern backdrop, lush green tea gardens and magnificent archaeological ruins have all contributed to make Tezpur a tourist's delight. The Legend Of Sonitpur: Sonitpur, as ancient Tezpur was known in the olden days is a city steeped in mythology, legend and folklore. The City of Blood ('Sonit' of 'Tez' - Blood, 'Pur' - city) conjures up images of the romantic legend of Usha and Aniruddha and of the fierce battle between "Hari" and "Hara". Old Darang became today's Sonitpur - Tezpur being the district Headquarters of Sonitpur. According to the legend, Darang was the capital of demon King Banasura, an ardent follower of 'Bhairavnath', incarnation of Lord Shiva. Usha, the beautiful daughter of King Bana happened to see her love in her dream. Following the description of Usha, her confidante Chitralekha portrayed it in painting. The lover was none other than Aniruddha, Grandson of Sri Krishna, King of Dwarka, who was finally found out and the wedding of Usha and Aniruddha took place according to 'Gandharva' tradition. When it came to the knowledge of Bana he sent Aniruddha to prison. To rescue his grandson Sri Krishna came from Dwarka. In response to the call of his devout Bana, Shiva also came there. When the appeal for rescue failed sword fight ensured between Hari (Lord Krishna) and Hara (Lord Shiva in the form of Banasura), resulted in bloodshed in the entire town. Since then the town has been named as Sonit or Tezpur meaning "A blood stained town". Bana was vanquished and Usha and Aniruddha were united forever. Usha and Aniruddha settled on the Bamuni hill, 5-km away from the city. The ruins and remains of "Agnigarh" where the immortal romance blossomed, still bear mute testimony of this legend.
A Treasure House Of Assam's Cultural Heritage: Tezpur's contribution to art, culture, literature particularly to the freedom struggle has earned for her a unique niche in the history of Assam. Chandra Kumar Agarwalla, Ananda Agarwalla, Dandi Kalita and a score of others enriched Assasmese literature. "Rup Konwar" Jyoti Prasad the doyen of Assasmese art and culture was an artist, poet, literature, dramatist, lyricist, filmmaker and a fearless freedom fighter. In 1942, for the first time in entire British India, the Tricolour was hoisted in the police station at Gahpur, a quite town under Sonitpur district. Fourteenyear-old Kanaklata braved British bullets and died holding the national flag aloft over here. PRIME ATTRACTIONS Nehru Maiden: Nehru Maiden, the triangular green park behind the tourist lodge, features a pretty little church and the small District Museum, with old manuscripts and sculptures from both ancient and modern times, labeled in Assamese and English. Chitralekha Udyan: opposite the Tourist lodge, a British deputy commissioner established Chitralekha Udyan, with its central lake, in the 1800's to house remnants of Asura's palace. The park is at its best in the early evening when the fairy lights and pathways are lit up. The Mahabhairav Temple: The main market, Chowk Bazaar, is on MC Road roughly 1-km north of the tourist lodge, with the ancient Mahabhairav temple, dedicated to an incarnation of Shiva, still further north. Agnigarh: 1-km east along the river Brahmaputra, the hill of Agnigarh commands great views over the town and river, and is said to be the place where Asura imprisoned his daughter, Usha. Preserving the sweet memory of young lovers, Agnigarh or the rampart, surrounded by fire, is perhaps the most beautiful tourist sport of Tezpur. According to legend princess Usha the only daughter of King Banasura was kept inside the palace, which was surrounded by rampart of fire. Da-Parbatia: There is little left of Da-Parbatia temple, 6-km west of town, except its finely carved doorframe depicting Ganga and Yamuna, said to be the oldest specimen of religious art is Assam. The ruins of the doorframe of Da-Parbatia Temple are perhaps the finest and oldest specimens of sculptural of iconoclastic art in Assam. Its carving has the characteristic of the style of early Gupta School of sculpture. The doorjambs having two Goddesses Ganga and Yamuna standing below with garlands in hands in artistic pose and elegance are decorated with beautiful ornamental foliage. Bamuni Hills: The ruins of Bamuni hills are famous for its artistic beauty. The sculpture remains, which had been dated back to the 9th and 10th century AD, now lie in the Cole Park and Missionary compound. The Hazara Pukhuri: This large tank preserves the name of Harzara Varman in Tezpur and was excavated in the early part of the 19th century. This is the third largest tank covering an area of 70 acres. Cole Park: It is one of the most beautiful places in the town. The park, which was first established by a British Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Cole, is the place for peace loving people. One can see here the two massive ornamented stone pillars and the sculptural remains of the famous Bamuni hills. Bhalukpong: Bhalukpong, a beautiful picnic and angling spot was the capital of 'Bhaluka', the grandson of King Banasura. It is 64-kms from Tezpur under the foot of Aka Hills (Arunachal Pradesh). Remains of old fortifications are still visible. This picturesque place lies on the way to Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh. Other attractions of Bhalukpong are a hot spring, a big orchid garden at Tipi and the unspoilt beauty of nature. Eco Camp: About 50-km from Tezpur, off the road to Arunachal Pradesh, drive over a dirt track and creaky bridges to reach the Eco Camp, a unique experiment by the Assam anglers Association and the state's Forest Department. The Eco Camp is near the Jia Bhoroli River and across the river, on the other side, is the Nameri Tiger Reserve. Bhomoraguri: A mammoth stone inscription made by the Ahom General Kalia Bhomora Phukan, who planned to construct a bridge over Brahamputra could be seen here. Almost two centuries later, a bridge over Brahmaputra at the same place has now been completed. The 3.05-km bridge named after the great Ahom general, connecting Nagaon district with Tezpur was opened for vehicular traffic by the than Prime Minister of India Late Rajiv Gandhi on April 3rd 1987. The Nameri Tiger Reserve: The Nameri Tiger Reserve sprawls over from Assam into Arunachal Pradesh. The best way of traveling here is on elephants as there are no roads inside the park. The thick jungle, with patches of swamp, is home to a variety of animals and birds. Among the animals that one can spot over here include the powerful Mithun or Indian Bison and the rare white winged Wood Duck, counted among the most endangered bird species on earth. Orang Wildlife Sanctuary: A miniature Kaziranga covering an area of 72-km is only 65-km to the west of Tezpur town. The animals to be seen in this sanctuary are One horned Rhinoceros, Buffalo, Leopard,
Sambhar, Barking Deer, Tiger, varieties of water birds, Green Pigeon, Florican, Teal, Geese and Wild Elephant Kaziranga National Park: The first national park of Assam, Kaziranga is 80-kms from Tezpur via Kalia Bhomra Bridge. The park is world famous for its one-horned Rhinoceros. Kaziranga is the abode of varieties of wildlife life such as Tiger, Elephant, Indian Bison, Buffalo, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hog-Badger, Cap Langur, Hillock Gibbon, Swamp Deer, Sambhar, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Sloth Bear, Goose, Hornbill, Ebisse, Cormorant, Egret, Heron, Fishing Eagle and Pelican. HOW TO GET THERE Air: The nearest airport is Saloni about 10-km from Tezpur. Rail: The nearest railway station is Rangapara 60-kms from Bhalukpong and 65-km from Orang Wildlife Sanctuary. Road: The state bus stand has ASTC buses to Guwahati via Kaziranga continuing to either Tinsukia or Dibrugarh. Other services run to Sibsagar, Shillong and Siliguri. APSTS buses run to Itanagar and Bomdila via Bhalukpong. Private bus companies also operate from opposite side of the state bus stand and run luxury buses to the same destinations once or twice daily. NEARBY CITIES Bamuni Hills: 5-km Saloni: 10-km Bhalukpong: 64-km Jia Bhorali: 50-km Orang: 65-km Kaziranga: 80-km Rangapara: 124-km Guwahati: 181-km
UMRANGSHU
Location : 112-km From Haflong, Assam Also Known As : Umrongso or Umrongshu Famous As : Hill Station. Main Attraction : Garampani & Kapili-Hydro Electric Project Umrangshu is located at the borders of Assam and Meghalaya, 112-km away from Haflong. This hill station is blessed with the natural backdrop of North Cacher Hills region. For the sake of enjoying this alluring journey, one should travel from Haflong Hill to Umrangshu and from their via Jowai to Shillong hill. PRIME ATTRACTIONS Garampani & Kapili-Hydro Electric Project: 7-km away from Umrangshu in Meghalaya, the hot spring Garampani is lost in the water of Kapili Hydroelectric Project. Barrage and dams are constructed on the Kapli River along 19-km area from Umrangshu to Hot Spring. A Lake has already come up over here. The Kapili Hydroelectric Project Township is another painted picture on the canvas. HOW TO GET THERE Road: ASTC buses ply from Umrangshu in the morning and at noontime to Haflong, taking approximately 4 hrs to reach. Buses also ply from Umrangshu in morning and evening to Shillong via Jowai, as well as to Jowai. NEARBY CITIES Garampani: 7-km Haflong: 112-km Silchar: 196-km
