Bishwanath Chariali, Sonitpur, Assam

Bishwanath Chariali, Sonitpur, Assam

Biswanath Chariali is one of the major towns of the Sonitpur District in the state of Assam. It is at a distance of 75 km from Tezpur and 255 km from Guwahati.


The town is celebrated for its expansive tea estates. The Monabari tea estates, which is located here, is Asia`s largest tea estate. The places to visit in and around this town are Bishwanath Temple, Borola Stone, Bhaluk Gossain Temple, Agriculture College and Pratapgarh (set up by Pratap Singha). The Naag Sankar, a place very famous for ancient temples, is at a distance of 15 km away.

Moran Town, Assam

Moran is a small ` census town` situated in Dibrugarh district of the northeastern state of India, Assam. It is surrounded by the towns of Dihajan in the west, Tengakhat and Tinkhong in the east, Mohanbari in the north and Salaguri, Maranjan and Sonari in the south. The district headquarters is in Dibrugarh, which is at a distance of 40 km. from Moran Town and connected via roadways. This town is industrially very developed. It is a major tea-producing region in the state and also a major oil field. Dibrugarh Railway station and the airport at Dibrugarh are the major access points.

As per the Indian Census report of 2001, Moran Town had a small population of 6784. To be specific, males account for 53% of the population and females comprises of the remaining 47%. In this ` census town` 10% of the population is less than six years of age. The Census report also reveals the literacy rate of Moran Town. The average literacy rate of Moran Town is 84%, which is much higher than the national average literacy rate, which is 59.5%. The male literacy rate of Moran Town is 86% and the female literacy rate is 86%.

A prime attraction near Moran Town is Raidangia Dol, which contains remnants of the Ahom Dynasty.

Makum, Tinsukia, Assam

Makum, Tinsukia, Assam


Makum is a significant town situated in Tinsukia District of the northeastern state of India, Assam. It is placed in the east of Guwahati at a distance of 525 km. The NH 37 passes through the town and NH 38 starts from this town. The nearest access points are the Dibrugarh Airport and the Makum Junction Railway Station on the Tinsukia-Dangori line of North East Frontier Railways. Geographically, the town is located between 27.5° North latitude and 95.45° East longitude at a height of 122 metres (400 feet) above mean sea level.

As per the Indian Census report of 2001, Makum had a population of 15, 058. Males constitute 53% of the population and females account for the remaining 47%. In Makum, 13% of the population is less than six years of age. The average literacy rate of Makum is 68% which is higher than the national average literacy rate which is 59.5%. To be specific, the male literacy rate is 73% and the female literacy rate is 62%.

The Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, which is one of the nineteen-biodiversity hotspots in the world, is one of the prime attractions of the place. The tea gardens at Doomdooma and Digboi are an ideal retreat for tourists.

Kharijapikon, Assam

Kharijapikon, Assam

In India, one finds numerous towns and places that have thronged its states. The state of Assam too is not an exception in this regard. Kharijapikon is one such place. In fact it is the name of a census town, which has its location in the district of Goalpara of Assam state.

For distinguishing the attributes of any town it becomes essential on the part of a person to get acquaintance with the demographical scenario of that particular town. Towards fulfilling that goal, over the years a handful of demographers of Indian Territory have diligently carried on surveys and research works. As a result a number of reports have been brought out thereby highlighting literacy rate, population etc. One of the relevant demographical documents is the Census report of India that has been published in the year 2001. According to this report, the total population of Kharijapikon has been enumerated to be 5833. From this report, if one desires one can even get information about the male and female and that too separately. Instances can be cited. This census report emphasizes that the females are less in number than that of males. In other words female populace comprises of 43 percent while that of male constitutes of 57 percent. In Kharijapikon town, children below six years of age constitutes of 13 percent of the total population.

The literacy rate of Kharijapikon acts as a relevant data and this also can be derived from the report as well. Interestingly, the average literacy rate of Kharijapikon is 73 percent, which is higher than that of the entire nation. The average literacy rate of India constitutes of 59.5 percent. To be specific, there has been difference between the rate of male literacy and female literacy. While male literacy rate comprises of 80 percent, the rate of female literacy is as low as 64 percent.

The demographers also have been able to throw some light about the district and its distinctive characteristics. According to the expert opinion, almost ninety percent of the people of the aforesaid district grow crops like paddy, jute, green and black gram, potato etc.

Bhalukpong

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.

Bamuni Hills

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.

Da-Parbatia

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.

Agnigarh

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.

The Mahabhairav Temple

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.

Chitralekha Udyan

Chitralekha Udyan

Opposite the Tourist lodge, Chitralekha Udyan, with its central lake, was established by a British deputy commissioner 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.

Nehru Maidan

Nehru Maidan

Nehru Maidan, 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.

A Treasure House Of Assam`s Cultural Heritage

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. Fourteen-year-old Kanaklata braved British bullets and died holding the national flag aloft over here.

Tezpur, Assam

Tezpur, Assam
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. Literally meaning "full of Blood", it is named after a mythical battle between Vishnu and Shiva.

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.

The Sattras

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.

Pottery -The Art Of Primitive Times

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.

The Namghar

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

Majuli, Assama

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.

Haflong, Assam

Haflong, Assam
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 Dimasa. In Dimasa, 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 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 day-trip 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.

The Lalmati-Duramari Ganesh Temple

The Lalmati-Duramari Ganesh Temple
The Lalmati-Duramari Ganesh Temple near Abhayapuri town under North Salmara Sub-Division, is one of the oldest temples of the state. The historicity of the images are yet to be ascertained. But after a study of the stone carving and modes related to the carved idols, archeologists opine that the temple and images belong to 8th to 10th centuries AD.

There are three views advanced as the reason for destrcution of the temple .The first view has it that eartquakes during the 8th and 10th centuries destroyed the temple and its images, while according to tyhe second view, Kalapahar who revolted against worshipers and priests, destroyed the temple along with other temples and images in the North-East. The third view has it that Burmese(Maan) invaders who camped at Malegarh(Manegarh) hills destroyed the temple along with the idols. But it seems that eartquake has been the prime cause of the destruction of the temple.

Rock Cut Caves

Rock Cut Caves

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

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

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

Bageswari Temple

Bageswari Temple

Bageswari Temple on the top of in the middle of Bongaigaon town is proposed to be developed as afforested hillock with a garden and a small artificial lake fed by a perennial stream This would improve the water catchment area of the town and the surrounding environment.The Bhageswari Hill houses acients Shiva temple inside a stone cave flanked either side by another 2 temples mainly temple of Bhageswari and Baba Tarak Nath. Every year 15 to 20 thousand devotees visit to the Bhageswari hill top.

Bongaigaon, Assam
The decision of the Government of Assam in 1989, to create a new District of Bongaigaon curving out some areas of the Goalpara and Kokrajhar District with its headquarter located at Bongaigaon was quite challenging. It was the political and administrative exigencies which had necessitated to create this new district suddenly although the people of Bongaigaon and the adjoining areas were demanding a new Sub-Division with its headquarter to be located at Bongaigaon from the very beginning.

This decision to create a new District, Bongaigaon was quite challenging because the very idea to create such a district was neither a long standing one nor a tested one. Moreover, the decision to set up a district headquarter at Bongaigaon was more challenging as there was no Sub-divisional infrastructure in this town, whereas the other newly created district head quarters of Assam had Sub-divisional infrastructures of their own. In the absence of such basic infrustructural facilities, the initiation of the activity of the district headquarter was almost started on the street, which was not only challenging task but also novel one.

Daporijo, Assam

Daporijo, is a beautiful place on the right bank of Subansiri river with picturesque villages.Located a few kms away from here are some caves. Languages spoken here are Tagin, Hill Miri, Adi(Gallong), Hindi, Assamese and English. Ideal for Trekking and angling on river Subansiri.

Best Season to visit :
October to April.

Getting There:
Nearest airport is at Lilabari. Nearest railway stations would be North Lakhimpur and Silapathar. One can reach Daporijo by bus from Itanagar via Ziro and from Likabali via Bazaar.

The cities of Assam

The cities of Assam have rightly inherited the culture of diverse communities that have settled here over the years. Dating to more than two thousand years, all the cities of Assam saw several twists and turns in the process of its formation. Through the mountain ranges of Himalayas, the mighty Brahmaputra River passes through the heartlands, making the cities of Assam fertile and rich in flora and fauna. Dispur is capital, and also Guwahati claims equal fame and prestige. In fact it is an abode of university, schools, colleges and also some reputed cultural institutes.

The other important urban areas are Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Tinsukia (Tinicukiya), Sibsagar (Xiwoxagor), Silchar (Silcor), Tezpur, Nagaon, Lakhimpur, Bongaigaon, etc.

Bewitching Dudhani

Bewitching Dudhani

A view of Damanganga river mesmerizes you with its vastness. The adventurous water sports such as speed boating, kayaking and canoeing are enjoyed here immensely by the tourists. Take a drive by speed boat or water scooter in the river, have the feeling which is unparalleled and is sure to pump your adrenaline faster.

Vanganga Lake and Island Garden, dadara

Vanganga Lake and Island Garden, Dadra

A unique dreamland where the beautiful lake garden with wooden bridge and thatched huts gives you a chance to romance with the nature. An option for boating in the placid lake makes the place even more alluring and charming.

Silvassa, The Silvery Capital

Silvassa, The Silvery Capital

Once under the rule of Portuguese, Silvassa acquires its name from the Portuguese word 'Silva' meaning 'woods'. As you travel through extremely quiet windy streets of this tiny Silvassa, you will understand that Portuguese were not wrong in naming their favourite city, whose reminiscence is still alive in the Our Lady of Piety Church. Tourists coming to Silvassa make it a point to make a visit to the Lion Safari Park, which is among the few places in India where you will find lions roaming around. Spine chilling! Isn't it?

Vandhara Udyan and Pipariya Udyan are the two excellent gardens holding the nature with sprawling lawns, gushing waterfalls and little islands make an ultimate destination for the people wanting to be lost in the nature. The tribal cultural museum situated in Silvassa peeps into the tribal lifestyle housing the masks, fishing gadgets, life-size statues and musical apparatus.

Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam

Lying just 15 kms from the state capital, this is a historic spot, which was left unnoticed for a long time. The capital of Ay-Vel kings of the 8th - 9th century, the only thing that has withstood time is a rock temple, assigned to the period of the Cheras because of a strong influence to die Pallava Pandya architecture. The rock temple is just a little off the main junction, and is a protected monument under the Archeological Survey of India.

Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple

Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple

The imposing seven storied tower makes it the most impressive landmark in the city. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carvings and, mural paintings. The temple is an excellent example of the Dravidian style of architecture. The presiding deity is Lord Vishnu reclining on the Serpent Anantha. Only Hindus are allowed entry inside and the dress regulations are strictly followed.

Kodungalloor

Kodungalloor

Kodungalloor (Cranganore) 32 km away was formely called Muziris. This was in olden times the premier sea port on India`s West Coast. It was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, King of Kerala whose famous palace Allal Perumkovilakam was situated near the great pagoda at Tiruvanchikulam. St. Thomas is believed to have landed at Muziris in 52 AD. The Cheramanparambu where the King`s palace stood, the ancient Thiruvanchikulam Temple, the Bhagavathi Temple, the Portuguese Fort and the old mosque - very similar in appearannce to a Hindu temple and believed to be the first mosque built in India -are all situated nearby and worth a visit.

Chacha Nehru Children`s Museum

Chacha Nehru Children`s Museum

This Museum established in 1980 is named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who is remembered for his great love for children. The Museum displays a vast range of objects. On view are dolls, both traditional and proclaim dolls from all over the world, a mini aquarium and the first issue of children`s literature in Malayalam.

Aruvikkara

Aruvikkara

16 km north of Thiruvananthapuram and gifted with lavish scenic beauty is Aruvikkara, with an ancient temple dedicated to Durga on the banks of the river.

Aruvi Waterfalls/Vaiyanthol

Aruvi Waterfalls/Vaiyanthol

Just 60 kms from Trivandrum and 7 kms from the Bonecaud estate in the Peppara forest range. This 4 ft cascade is one of the most verdant and un spoiled spots in Kerala. Road accessibility b only upto Bonecaud, thereon the Kaani tribesmen accompany trekkers along the mountain path. Prior permission from the Forest Department is required before approaching the area.

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery is the largest and one of the most important monastery in entire Sikkim. The monastery is situated on a hilltop and is around 24 Km from Gangtok. The view of Gangtok city from the hill is simply breathtaking. Rumtek Monastery was the seat of Rangjung Rigpe Dorje when he was on exile. The monastery is home to the monks community who perform rituals continuing from many ages. The monastery is visited by many Buddhist pilgrims as it contains many sacred objects like Golden Stupa and relics of worshiped Sixteenth Karmapa.

Enchey Monastery

Enchey Monastery

Enchey Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. IT is almost 200 years old and is situated around 3 km from the Gangtok city center. The monastery is said to have been built on the site blessed by the legendary tantric master Lame Druptab Karpn who was known for his ability to fly. When built, the monastery was just a small hermitage. It was expanded to present size during the rule of Sikyong Tulku who built it in the shape of a Chinese Pagoda. Enchey Monastery today is an important Nyingma order and is most famous for an annual dance celebration where a religious masked dance called 'Chaam' is performed. The celebrations goes on for two days and falls on 18th and 19th of 12 month according to Lunar Calendar. There are 90 monks in Enchey Monastery who perform all the religious rituals in the monastery.

Gangtok Tourism

Ropeway Over Gangtok City

The Capital of Heaven

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is also the largest city in the state. It is one of a kind hill resort that is characterized by a amalgamation of different cultures. Situated at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level, it lies in the Eastern side of Sikkim and is the headquarters of the eastern district. Being on the lower Himalayas, Gangtok offers some breathtaking views of Himalayas and Kanchenjunga, the second highest peak in the world. Gangtok has been able to move on with time, developing itself into a modern city, and still preserve its olden charms. The city is the center for Buddhist culture studies and is studded with some magnificent monasteries. In fact, Gangtok was just a small hamlet before the construction of Enchey Monastery in the year 1840 after which pilgrims started pouring in and the city got recognition as a pilgrim destination.

The best time to visit Gangtok is from April to July. Most of the days during this period are clear and you get the best views of Himalayas. Gangtok is quite modern so will find number of malls where you can shop for international brands as well. The city is also the best place to shop for traditional items and clothes.

Cherrapunjee

Cherrapunjee

Situated 1,300 metres, above sea level Cherrapunjee is noted for having the heaviest rainfall in the world। A pleasant drive of about 56 kms from Shillong with a view of the mist covered ravines will take you to the famous Nohsngithiang falls, Nohkalikai falls, Mawsmai caves and Thangkharang Park

Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake

17 kms from Shiiiong is the beautiful Umiam Lake. The Orchid Lake Resort provides Watersport facilities which include sailing, water skiing etc. The Lum Nehru Park lies adjacent to the resort.

Mairang

Mairang

Mairang is a prominent town in West Khasi Hills District of the northeastern state of India, Meghalaya. It is located in the west of Shillong, the state capital at a distance of 30 km. The nearest access points are airport and railway station at Guwahati. Located between 25.57° North latitude and 91.63° East longitude it has an average elevation of 1564 metres (5131 feet) above mean sea level.

The Indian Census report of 2001 states that Mairang had a population of 11,517. Males and females comprises of an equal proportion of the population. In Mairang, 22% of the population is les than six years of age. The average literacy rate of Mairang is 62% which is higher than the national average literacy rate which is 59.5%. Out of it, the male literacy rate is 62% and the female literacy rate is 63%.

The calm and quaint surroundings of Mairang make it a paradise for all nature lovers. The historical monument built in memory of U Tirot Singh, Chief of Hima Nongkhlaw,is an important landmark of the place. The members of the Khasi tribe dominate the town of Mairang.

0 kms from Shillong, capital of Nongkhlaw state. Home of the legendary U Tirot Sing Syiem (Raja of Nongkhlaw). who spear-headed a war against the British invaders to defend the territorial integrity and cultural identity of the Hynniewtrep people. He raised the battle-cry on April 4, 1829, but was finally captured and died in captivity in Dhaka on July 17, 1835.

Dawki

Dawki

Dawki

Location: Jaintia Hills District

Travelling from Shillong to the International trade route border town of Dawki is a splendid drive of 95 kilometres passing through deep gorges and ravines, which is certainly a thrilling experience. On approaching Dawki is the Umngot river, the venue of the annual boat race held during March - April at Umsyiem. The Umngot river is the natural boundary between Ri Pnar or Jaintia Hills with Hima Khyrim of Khasi hills over which is a single span suspension bridge was constructed. This is the gateway to Bangladesh where major export and import transactions take place.

96 kms from Shillong, is a border town, where one can have a glimpse of the neighbouring country of Bangladesh. The colourful annual boat race during spring at the Umgot river is an added attraction.

Elephant Falls

State Museum

Located at the State Central Library complex, visitors can get a glimpse of the lifestyle and heritage of the people.

Cathedral of Mary Help of Christian

At LaitumKhrah, it attracts devotees and visitors alike.

Bishop and Beadon Falls

Both cascade down the same escarpment into a deep valley, the mass of water dissolving into misty sparks.

Elephant फाल्स

12 kms on the outskirts of the city, the mountain stream descends through two successive falls set in dells of fern-covered rocks.

Spread Eagle Falls

A soothing setting amidst the calmness of nature - a treat to the eyes.

Sweet Falls

Situated near Happy Valley, most suitable for a day`s outing and picnic. Explore it!

Crinoline Falls

Near Lady Hydari Park, a cool spot within the city limits.

Jakrem

64 kms from Shillong, a popular health resort having hot-springs of sulphur water, believed to have curative medicinal properties.

Ranikor

140 kms from Shillong, is a scenic spot and an angler`s paradise of carp and masheers.

Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park

A popular charming tourist draw, the adjacent mini zoo is an added attraction.

Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden

A secluded but captivating spot with plethora of indigenous and exotic plants and is located just below the Ward`s Lake.

Sohpetbneng Peak

Sohpetbneng Peak

1,545 metre, 20 kms from Shillong, regarded as sacred by the Hynniewtrep people, is set amidst a beautiful scenic view against the backdrop of a sacred forest. This `Navel of Heaven` as per Khasi mythology is a heavenly peak which offers to fill the spiritual void and emptiness, to those who seek and desire solace and peace of mind.

Meghalaya Tourism

Meghalaya

Meghalaya is literally the "Abode of Clouds". The name describes the climatic phenomenon that brings torrents of rain to its mountainous terrain Meghalaya is a region of great scenic beauty: a panorama of lush undulating hills; pine covered slopes, fertile valleys; 250 species of orchids, meandering rivers, waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, emerald green lakes, gorges and precipitous ravines. It is inhabited by three ancient tribes, the Khasis, the Caros and the jaintias.

Tucked in the North Eastern region of India, the State, approximately 22,429 sq. kilometres (8,659 sq. mites) in area, lies between 25 and 26.15 North latitude and 89.45 and 92.47. East latitude. It is bounded by Assam in the North and East, and the plains of Bangladesh in the South and West.

Phake Tribe

Phake Tribe

Residing in Dirugarh and Tinsukia district of Assam, along Dihing river. They are said to have come here from Thailand in the late 18th century. They speak Assamese language as well as Phake language. These group is also known as Phakial and are a follower of Theravada Buddhism

Mishing Tribe

Mishing Tribe

The Mishing Tribe belonging to Tibeto Burmese group have agriculture as their occupation. They inhabit districts of Tinsukia, Sibsagar, Sonitpur, Jorhat and Golaghat. Mishing people found the most fertile land on the banks of River Brahmaputra and settled on sides of the river. Though their production was great, frequent floods prevented them from climbing the economic ladder. The main festival of Mishing tribe is Ali-Lye-Ligangin the month of February which is the harvest festival. They speak language known as Mishing language.

Karbi People

Karbi People

Karbi tribe generally reside in hilly areas of Assam and form the major portion of population of Karbi Anglong district. They also inhabit places in North Cachar Hills, Nagaon and Sonitpur districts of Assam. They are mentioned as Mikir in the constitution of India

Bodo Tribe

Bodo Tribe

Bodo People were one of the earliest tribes to move to Assam. Today they constitute a large part of Assam population accounting to around 5.3%. They are not restricted to any specific area and are found in almost all parts of Assam. The speak Bodo language that is derived Tibeto Burmese family of language. Most of them are engaged in rice cultivation, tea plantation and poultry farming. Bodo Women engage themselves in weaving which has become a known culture of Bodo Tribe. Bodos were earlier known to worship their forefathers, however in recent times they have started practicing Hinduism and Bathouism.

Tribes of Assam

Tribal Man In Assam

They Make Assam Magical

Assam became the settling ground for many civilizations who came here through different routes as it was connected by land to many states and country. Negritos, Dravidians, Alpines, Tibeto Burmese and Aryans were the major races that made a settlement in Assam. They made Assam there home and came to be known as Asamese. The largest population in Assam is of the Tibeto Burmese origin like the Bodo tribe and Mishing tribe. Major tribes of Assam earn their livelihood through agriculture and by selling their handicrafts. Different types of tribes are famous for variety of handicrafts. Some are famous for handloom and some have mastered in metal of pottery works. Their languages too differ according to their place of origin.

Golf Course

Golf Course

Golf Course in Digboi is among the best in North Eastern Part of India. It is a 18 hole course where many national and international tournaments are played. The entire setting of the course is so beautiful that wish to come here again and again. You will find other golf courses too in the city, but none come close to this one.