It occupies the central part among the other north east Indian states. Assam was ruled for many centuries by the Ahom kings, whose architectural styles and deft workmanship can still be witnessed from the well preserved monuments. It is absolutely amazing, how by using locally available material, such stupendous works of architecture could be achieved! These can be seen all year round.
Assam is synonymous with the world famous one-horned rhinoceros, found in its natural habitat and world heritage site, the Kaziranga National Park. One might say the Kaziranga National Park is the elder brother when compared to the other equally appealing wildlife sanctuaries namely - Manas National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Nameri National Park and Dibro-Saikhowa National Park. Each of these places have their own distinctive appeal. The park is open from October to March, before the onset of the monsoons.
Besides, the natural beauty of this region, Assam is well known for the tea that is produced from its various tea plantations spread across its numerous tea gardens. This labour intensive industry was introduced and developed by the British and till today,it has served as an important means of sustenance for many and source of revenue for the government. To the curious, the management of the tea gardens are more than eager to give a guided tour of the tea garden as well as the factory where the manufacturing process can be seen first hand. One can take in sweet fragrant aroma of tea here! The best time to visit would be during the manufacturing season.
My writing would be incomplete if I fail to mention about the worlds largest freshwater island in South Asia, on the Brahmaputra river, namely Majuli. It is the seat of Vaishnavite learning and is dotted with these learning centres across the island. There are six satras on this island, they are - Kamalabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Garamurh Satra, Auniati Satra, Bengennati Satra and Samaguri Satra. The just concluded Raas festival saw many pilgrims, domestic and foreign tourists converge on this riverine island for the extravaganza. This island is safely accessible during the dry season when the river is not in spate.
The above is just a glimpse of the renowned places that are well known to people of India as well as those staying abroad. Its the tip of the iceberg! There are many lesser known places and destinations that are equally appealing and attractive and about which I intend to share later.
But before that, I need to clear certain myths surrounding the state of Assam and the region as a whole!!
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