INTRODUCTION
180 km long, five-hour drive from Guwahati brings one to Tezpur. Tezpur leads to Bhalukpung 60 km ahead on the border of Arunachal Pradesh. A few kilometers further into Arunachal Pradesh from here, brings one to Tipi, where Asia's third largest orchidarium has been set up.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
A board at the entrance to the orchidarium and research center declares it to be a temple of orchids. Facing the gates of this unusual orchid center, one finds a warning painted in large letters along the rock face skirting the road-'beware of elephants'.
Orchids have flowers with unusual shapes, beautiful colors and a very delicate fragrance. The blooms usually have one petal larger than the rest. Because of their rarity, they are highly prized and sought after, and cultivating them is almost a cult among some of its aficionados. In addition, the setting up of projects like orchidaria or arborate are necessary for the preservation of species of flora that may be too delicate to be able to survive the onslaught of today's environmental encroachments and consequent pollution.
Inaugurated in 1972, this orchid-cum-research center at Tipi is spread over 112.8 acres and boasts over 50,600 orchids under cultivation, or which 315 are classified as exotic. The plants are grown, preserved and nurtured in tiers upon tiers of pots, in enclosed hot houses. Arunachal Pradesh is home to over 425 species of orchids, and the orchidarium has identified and listed 20 varieties as endangered.
One of the orchid varieties found in these parts is known as the Lost Indian lady's slipper-lost because it was first discovered in the 1850s and was lost for a while before being rediscovered some five decades later; and lady's slipper because of the shape of the flower. Another rare, red variety is known as dancing girls because the shape of the blooms resembles dancing figures.
The variety known Rhynchostylis consists of a dense, elongated bunch, known as kopou; this grows profusely and is often used in bridal decorations in the Assam region. Because of its long, bushy shape, it is also known as foxtail orchid.
The magnificent Vanda species is another speciality of this northeastern region. This variety is one of those that have been declared to be suitable for commercial propagation.
The aims of the orchidarium project are the conservation of orchids, research and the promotion of an orchid industry. With this center at Tipi as headquarters, the project has sub-centers at places like Itanagar, Tezu and Dirang.
The orchidarium complex is divided into a natural forest area and a reserved area. These are neatly labeled with maps at the entrance to guide the visitor. There is also a museum of orchids, where again, labels and charts give the lay visitor a variety of information regarding different species of orchids. For those who have seen endangered species of fauna in mesh enclosures in zoos and sanctuaries, it is a very novel experience to see flora preserved and protected in the same way.
Besides the orchidarium, the Tipi center also has a beautifully maintained large garden with a variety of visually enchanting trees, shrubs and flowers. A relaxed stroll through the grounds can soothe and invigorate, as only pristine nature untouched by urban trappings can.
HOW TO REACH
BY AIR - One can take the Guwahati-Tezpur-Bhalukpung-Tipi route. Guwahati is around 250 km away and Tezpur a little over 60 km away. The nearest airport is at Guwahati from where Vayudoot services are available.
BY RAIL - Since there are no railway connections the only other option is the road network. Buses are easily available.
WHERE TO STAY
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Tipi.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about tourism in Tipi. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.
Showing posts with label Tourism of Assam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tourism of Assam. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
SIBSAGAR
INTRODUCTION
One hundred and fifty km east of the famous Kaziranga National Park, in the state of Assam, lies the town of Sibsagar where a mighty dynasty of rulers known as the Ahoms (Tai) reigned supreme as an invincible power for 600 years, until the British annexed the region in 1826. Here, rising on the periphery of a large 129-acre artificial tank called the Sibsagar Lake (which had given the town its name), are the archaeological remains, palaces, and temples of the Ahoms, now being preserved as national protected monuments.
HISTORY
Assam, in fact, derives its name from the Ahom dynasty which held such undisputed sway in the east that even the Mughal rulers, who had extended their dominance over most of the northern parts of the subcontinent, could not make inroads into Ahom territory in spite of 17 attempts at invasion (one of which was made by Emperor Aurangzeb, in the mid-17th century).
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
True to the mindset of the picture-postcard scenery, the tall-elongated 104 feet (31 m) high dome of the Shivadol (Shiva Temple) rises into view as one approaches Sibsagar. The 250-year-old Sibsagar Tank constructed by Queen Madambika is said to have a water level that stands higher than the surrounding ground although it is situated right in the middle of the town. Siberian migratory ducks come all the way here to spend the winter months in this stretch of water and birds flutter around in large numbers as visitors make their way to the cluster of three temples-the Shivadol, Devidol and Vishnudol -along the road skirting the tank. One interesting fact is that at Vishnudol, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, there is a Shiva lingam in the sanctum sanctorum, which is unusual (devotees are normally followers of either Vishnu or Shiva, not both).
At a short distance away from the temples, ancient cannons made from iron have been preserved as relics from the time of the Ahom rule. Facing the road and the picturesque tank is the tourist office and tourist lodge flanked by the office of the Archaeological Survey of India that has resurrected and regenerated interest in the ruins of a bygone era.
Twenty-eight kilometers east of the present Sibsagar is Charaideo, where one can see the maidams or burial vaults and mounds of the royal families. A seven-storied mansion known as the Gargaon Palace, at Gargaon, which is 13 km east of Sibsagar, has become one of the main tourist attractions of the region.
Six kilometers from Sibsagar town is another monument, the Kareng Ghar and Talatal Ghar, the latter a seven-storied structure of which three are underground.
Close by is Rang Ghar, an oval shaped, two-storied pavilion from which the Ahom kings are said to have watched elephant fights and other events. The base of the monument has a series of arched entrances and atop the roof is a decorative pair of carved stone crocodiles. All these structures have been designated as protected national monuments. In many of these, only the brick framework exists with vestiges of sculptural adornments here and there. The Ahoms, who used special thin baked bricks, did not have the use of cement and, therefore, used a paste of rice and eggs as mortar for their construction.
At Rangpur (which was the name of the old Ahom capital), five km from Sibsagar, there is another large man-made lake known as the Joysagar built by king Rudra Singha in 1697, a year after he came to power. The lake and the temple Joidol (erected a year later, in 1698) commemorate the memory of his mother, Queen Joymati, who was tortured to death. Just as Sibsagar tank had three temples constructed on its shores, Joysagar too has a set of three temples of which Joydol is one; the other two are, as at Sibsagar, the Shivadol and Devidol, dedicated to Shiva and Devi, respectively. From what remains of the sculpture decorating these temple walls, one can see carving of elephants and other animals in panels and rows reminding one a little of the workmanship at Belur and Halebid in Karnataka state. There is a depiction of Brahma astride a peacock and hunting scenes on the outer panels along with a rare 16-armed Durga and Narashimha. The most unfortunate thing is that many of these relics have been irretrievably lost.
Rudra Singha who erected the temple around Joysagar was also responsible for the construction of the Namdang stone bridge cut from a monolithic rock over the Namdang River, 12 km from Sibsagar. Today, the National Highway 37 passes over this historic bridge. Rudra Singha's son, Lakshmi Singha built, in turn, one more tank in memory of his father in 1773 and named it Rudrasagar. Situated 8 km from Sibsagar, this tank too has a temple on its banks dedicated to Shiva.
Yet another man-made tank with its own set of three temples along the bank can be seen at Gaurisagar, 12 km from Sibsagar. Built by Queen Phuleswari Devi who lived in the middle of the 18th century, the Gaurisagar tank is spread over 150 acres and is dedicated to Gauri or Goddess Durga. The three temples here as at Sibsagar and Joysagar, are Vishnudol, Shivadol and Devidol.
HOW TO REACH
BY AIR - The proximity to a number of airports around Sibsagar-Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Dimapur, and Tezpur - makes Sibsagar easily accessible for the tourists.
BY ROAD - The National Highway 37, which runs right through Assam state from its western border with Bengal to the north-eastern tip along Arunachal Pradesh, connects Sibsagar with Guwahati (the state capital) and Kaziranga on one side and Dibrugarh on the other. The route is lined with lush emerald green forests.
WHERE TO STAY
Tourist lodges and circuit houses are available at both Jorhat and Sibsagar. The latter also happens to be the district headquarters and a leading tea and oil-producing region.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about tourism in Sibsagar. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.
One hundred and fifty km east of the famous Kaziranga National Park, in the state of Assam, lies the town of Sibsagar where a mighty dynasty of rulers known as the Ahoms (Tai) reigned supreme as an invincible power for 600 years, until the British annexed the region in 1826. Here, rising on the periphery of a large 129-acre artificial tank called the Sibsagar Lake (which had given the town its name), are the archaeological remains, palaces, and temples of the Ahoms, now being preserved as national protected monuments.
HISTORY
Assam, in fact, derives its name from the Ahom dynasty which held such undisputed sway in the east that even the Mughal rulers, who had extended their dominance over most of the northern parts of the subcontinent, could not make inroads into Ahom territory in spite of 17 attempts at invasion (one of which was made by Emperor Aurangzeb, in the mid-17th century).
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
True to the mindset of the picture-postcard scenery, the tall-elongated 104 feet (31 m) high dome of the Shivadol (Shiva Temple) rises into view as one approaches Sibsagar. The 250-year-old Sibsagar Tank constructed by Queen Madambika is said to have a water level that stands higher than the surrounding ground although it is situated right in the middle of the town. Siberian migratory ducks come all the way here to spend the winter months in this stretch of water and birds flutter around in large numbers as visitors make their way to the cluster of three temples-the Shivadol, Devidol and Vishnudol -along the road skirting the tank. One interesting fact is that at Vishnudol, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, there is a Shiva lingam in the sanctum sanctorum, which is unusual (devotees are normally followers of either Vishnu or Shiva, not both).
At a short distance away from the temples, ancient cannons made from iron have been preserved as relics from the time of the Ahom rule. Facing the road and the picturesque tank is the tourist office and tourist lodge flanked by the office of the Archaeological Survey of India that has resurrected and regenerated interest in the ruins of a bygone era.
Twenty-eight kilometers east of the present Sibsagar is Charaideo, where one can see the maidams or burial vaults and mounds of the royal families. A seven-storied mansion known as the Gargaon Palace, at Gargaon, which is 13 km east of Sibsagar, has become one of the main tourist attractions of the region.
Six kilometers from Sibsagar town is another monument, the Kareng Ghar and Talatal Ghar, the latter a seven-storied structure of which three are underground.
Close by is Rang Ghar, an oval shaped, two-storied pavilion from which the Ahom kings are said to have watched elephant fights and other events. The base of the monument has a series of arched entrances and atop the roof is a decorative pair of carved stone crocodiles. All these structures have been designated as protected national monuments. In many of these, only the brick framework exists with vestiges of sculptural adornments here and there. The Ahoms, who used special thin baked bricks, did not have the use of cement and, therefore, used a paste of rice and eggs as mortar for their construction.
At Rangpur (which was the name of the old Ahom capital), five km from Sibsagar, there is another large man-made lake known as the Joysagar built by king Rudra Singha in 1697, a year after he came to power. The lake and the temple Joidol (erected a year later, in 1698) commemorate the memory of his mother, Queen Joymati, who was tortured to death. Just as Sibsagar tank had three temples constructed on its shores, Joysagar too has a set of three temples of which Joydol is one; the other two are, as at Sibsagar, the Shivadol and Devidol, dedicated to Shiva and Devi, respectively. From what remains of the sculpture decorating these temple walls, one can see carving of elephants and other animals in panels and rows reminding one a little of the workmanship at Belur and Halebid in Karnataka state. There is a depiction of Brahma astride a peacock and hunting scenes on the outer panels along with a rare 16-armed Durga and Narashimha. The most unfortunate thing is that many of these relics have been irretrievably lost.
Rudra Singha who erected the temple around Joysagar was also responsible for the construction of the Namdang stone bridge cut from a monolithic rock over the Namdang River, 12 km from Sibsagar. Today, the National Highway 37 passes over this historic bridge. Rudra Singha's son, Lakshmi Singha built, in turn, one more tank in memory of his father in 1773 and named it Rudrasagar. Situated 8 km from Sibsagar, this tank too has a temple on its banks dedicated to Shiva.
Yet another man-made tank with its own set of three temples along the bank can be seen at Gaurisagar, 12 km from Sibsagar. Built by Queen Phuleswari Devi who lived in the middle of the 18th century, the Gaurisagar tank is spread over 150 acres and is dedicated to Gauri or Goddess Durga. The three temples here as at Sibsagar and Joysagar, are Vishnudol, Shivadol and Devidol.
HOW TO REACH
BY AIR - The proximity to a number of airports around Sibsagar-Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Dimapur, and Tezpur - makes Sibsagar easily accessible for the tourists.
BY ROAD - The National Highway 37, which runs right through Assam state from its western border with Bengal to the north-eastern tip along Arunachal Pradesh, connects Sibsagar with Guwahati (the state capital) and Kaziranga on one side and Dibrugarh on the other. The route is lined with lush emerald green forests.
WHERE TO STAY
Tourist lodges and circuit houses are available at both Jorhat and Sibsagar. The latter also happens to be the district headquarters and a leading tea and oil-producing region.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about tourism in Sibsagar. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.
MANAS TIGER RESERVE
FACTS & FIGURES
Area
360 sq km (gross area, 2840 sq km)
Languages
Assamese, English
Best Time to Visit
October to April*
STD Code
03666 (Barpeta)
INTRODUCTION
Manas Tiger Reserve, situated amidst the gentle slopes at the foothills of the Himalayas in India's northeastern state of Assam, is the only tiger reserve of its kind in the entire northeast. Apart from the rising population of tigers, Manas is also the home of the rare golden langur, the hispid hare, the pigmy hog, the one-horned rhinoceros and at least twenty other species of animals and birds that are listed as highly endangered. Manas derives its name from the Goddess Manasa. The forest stretches beyond Indian territory to the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, with the crystal waters of the Manas River demarcating the international border. Some areas that adjoin the river path are often flooded, but only for a brief period; the water level subsides as soon as the rainfall stops because of the sloping. Mixed deciduous type of vegetation is found in the park. The dense forest cover often prevents the sunrays from the forest.
This beautiful park was previously known as North Kamrup and was declared a sanctuary on October 1, 1928, with parts of it having been notified as reserved forests as early as 1907 and 1927. It was established as the core of the Manas Tiger Reserve from April 1973 and consecutively inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1985 and elevated to the position of a National Park status on September 7, 1990.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The climate of Manas Tiger Reserve is tropical. The temperature during summer does not rise above 37°C and during the winter it stays at around 11°C. Monsoon season (May-September) brings heavy to very heavy rainfall to the tune of 160 cm, because of which the park often gets flooded.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Manas Tiger Reserve provides shelter to a variety of wildlife, including 55 mammalian species, 36 reptilian species and 3 amphibian species, thus making it the greatest protected area in India in terms of numbers.
The tiger population at Manas Reserve is approximately 80 in number. Apart from the ones named above, capped langurs, hoolock gibbons, Assamese macaques, slow lorises, leopards, panthers, golden cat, fishing cat, marbled cat, binturongs, sloth bears, wild dogs, Ganges dolphins, hog deer, Indian muntjacs, water buffaloes, gaurs (Indian bison), giant squirrels, hispid hare, otters, Indian pangolins, and some 2,000 elephants are also found here. The rare and attractive red panda has been spotted occasionally in the higher elevated portions of the forest. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded, including the Bengal florican, great pied hornbill, wreathed hornbill and few unique species of waterfowls. Reptiles include different species of snakes and the monitor lizards. The Assam roofed turtle was spotted at the Reserve as recently as 1989.
Manas forest is possibly as diverse as a natural biosphere can be. Its vegetation ranges from tropical semi-evergreen forests in the northern parts to tropical moist and dry deciduous forests of the other regions. There are extensive alluvial grasslands in the western region of the park, which comprises a variety of different grasses and shrubbery. There is also a considerable variety of aquatic flora along the Manas River.
One can hire a jeep to go around the park. The Assam State Tourist Department conducts tours, including boat trips and elephant rides. These trips are both convenient and cost effective.
PLACES AROUND MANAS
The state capital Guwahati is barely 176 km from Manas. It is a historical city formerly known as Pragjyotishpur. Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, it is famous for the temple of Goddess Kamakhya, the shrine of Shakti worship built by the Koch king Naranarayan.
Orang and Pabitora are two wildlife sanctuaries worth visiting. The one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) and various species of deer abound here.
The town of Hajo (25 km west of Guwahati) is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. The town also boasts of the Hayagriba Madhava Temple, accessible via a long stone stairway. Hajo and the adjacent Sarthebari village are renowned for their bell metal work.
The nearby town Barpeta is notable for the monastery and shrine dedicated to the Vaishnavite saint, Sankardeva.
HOW TO REACH
Manas Tiger reserve is 176 km from Guwahati, from where one can drive down to the park. The journey lasts approximately five and a half hours. The nearest rail junction is at Barpeta Road, 136 km from Guwahati. Guwahati in turn is a well-connected rail junction as well as an airport. The regular bus services to the park by the state transport as well as the private operators is yet another option.
WHERE TO STAY
Two forest lodges maintained by the tourism department provide comfortable accommodation near the park. The first lodge is located at Barpeta Road and the second at Bansbari. The state department also has two bungalows at Mathanguri inside the forest. There is no provision for catering at these bungalows and lodges, so needful provisions for food must be made. Cooks and chefs are available for a small fee.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Manas Tiger reserve.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information on tourism in Manas Tiger Reserve. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Manas Tiger Reserve Pleasant.
Area
360 sq km (gross area, 2840 sq km)
Languages
Assamese, English
Best Time to Visit
October to April*
STD Code
03666 (Barpeta)
INTRODUCTION
Manas Tiger Reserve, situated amidst the gentle slopes at the foothills of the Himalayas in India's northeastern state of Assam, is the only tiger reserve of its kind in the entire northeast. Apart from the rising population of tigers, Manas is also the home of the rare golden langur, the hispid hare, the pigmy hog, the one-horned rhinoceros and at least twenty other species of animals and birds that are listed as highly endangered. Manas derives its name from the Goddess Manasa. The forest stretches beyond Indian territory to the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, with the crystal waters of the Manas River demarcating the international border. Some areas that adjoin the river path are often flooded, but only for a brief period; the water level subsides as soon as the rainfall stops because of the sloping. Mixed deciduous type of vegetation is found in the park. The dense forest cover often prevents the sunrays from the forest.
This beautiful park was previously known as North Kamrup and was declared a sanctuary on October 1, 1928, with parts of it having been notified as reserved forests as early as 1907 and 1927. It was established as the core of the Manas Tiger Reserve from April 1973 and consecutively inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1985 and elevated to the position of a National Park status on September 7, 1990.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The climate of Manas Tiger Reserve is tropical. The temperature during summer does not rise above 37°C and during the winter it stays at around 11°C. Monsoon season (May-September) brings heavy to very heavy rainfall to the tune of 160 cm, because of which the park often gets flooded.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Manas Tiger Reserve provides shelter to a variety of wildlife, including 55 mammalian species, 36 reptilian species and 3 amphibian species, thus making it the greatest protected area in India in terms of numbers.
The tiger population at Manas Reserve is approximately 80 in number. Apart from the ones named above, capped langurs, hoolock gibbons, Assamese macaques, slow lorises, leopards, panthers, golden cat, fishing cat, marbled cat, binturongs, sloth bears, wild dogs, Ganges dolphins, hog deer, Indian muntjacs, water buffaloes, gaurs (Indian bison), giant squirrels, hispid hare, otters, Indian pangolins, and some 2,000 elephants are also found here. The rare and attractive red panda has been spotted occasionally in the higher elevated portions of the forest. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded, including the Bengal florican, great pied hornbill, wreathed hornbill and few unique species of waterfowls. Reptiles include different species of snakes and the monitor lizards. The Assam roofed turtle was spotted at the Reserve as recently as 1989.
Manas forest is possibly as diverse as a natural biosphere can be. Its vegetation ranges from tropical semi-evergreen forests in the northern parts to tropical moist and dry deciduous forests of the other regions. There are extensive alluvial grasslands in the western region of the park, which comprises a variety of different grasses and shrubbery. There is also a considerable variety of aquatic flora along the Manas River.
One can hire a jeep to go around the park. The Assam State Tourist Department conducts tours, including boat trips and elephant rides. These trips are both convenient and cost effective.
PLACES AROUND MANAS
The state capital Guwahati is barely 176 km from Manas. It is a historical city formerly known as Pragjyotishpur. Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, it is famous for the temple of Goddess Kamakhya, the shrine of Shakti worship built by the Koch king Naranarayan.
Orang and Pabitora are two wildlife sanctuaries worth visiting. The one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) and various species of deer abound here.
The town of Hajo (25 km west of Guwahati) is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. The town also boasts of the Hayagriba Madhava Temple, accessible via a long stone stairway. Hajo and the adjacent Sarthebari village are renowned for their bell metal work.
The nearby town Barpeta is notable for the monastery and shrine dedicated to the Vaishnavite saint, Sankardeva.
HOW TO REACH
Manas Tiger reserve is 176 km from Guwahati, from where one can drive down to the park. The journey lasts approximately five and a half hours. The nearest rail junction is at Barpeta Road, 136 km from Guwahati. Guwahati in turn is a well-connected rail junction as well as an airport. The regular bus services to the park by the state transport as well as the private operators is yet another option.
WHERE TO STAY
Two forest lodges maintained by the tourism department provide comfortable accommodation near the park. The first lodge is located at Barpeta Road and the second at Bansbari. The state department also has two bungalows at Mathanguri inside the forest. There is no provision for catering at these bungalows and lodges, so needful provisions for food must be made. Cooks and chefs are available for a small fee.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Manas Tiger reserve.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information on tourism in Manas Tiger Reserve. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Manas Tiger Reserve Pleasant.
KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK
FACTS & FIGURES
Area
430 sq km
Language
Assamese, Hindi, and English
Best time to visit
November to April
STD Code
036776
INTRODUCTION
Kaziranga National Park, situated in the northeastern state of Assam, is one of the most picturesque wildlife parks in India. The natural habitat of the one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), Kaziranga lies on the southern banks of the Brahmaputra River, northeast of Assam's capital Guwahati. Originally established as a game reserve in 1908, which included specific portions of Assam's Sibsagar district, Kaziranga was declared a sanctuary in 1940 to counter excessive poaching. In 1974, the Indian Government declared it as a protected site. The park's original inhabitants-the rhino and the elephant being the most noticeable-now thrive in a serene environment to the sheer delight of nature lovers. Viewing wildlife at Kaziranga Park because of its vast open spaces, the presence of the mighty Brahmaputra, and adjoining Mikir hills makes a trip to Kaziranga a complete 'jungle' adventure.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Weather in Kaziranga is pleasant throughout the year. There are no extremities in terms of temperature variation; the winters (November-January) are cool and summers warm (temperature does not exceed 38°C). Monsoon (June-July) season is dominant and lasts for a long time in this area. Mild showers may be experienced throughout the year.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Apart from being the home of the one-horned rhino, it is also the natural habitat of wild buffaloes, wild boars, elephants, Barasinghas (swamp and hog deer), leopards, tigers, hoolock gibbons, capped langur, rock python, monitor lizards, various species of eagles, partridge, bar-headed geese, whistling teals, florican storks, herons, pelicans and water fowls. Large areas of the park comprise of marshland interspersed with large pools fringed with reeds, patches of elephant grass, scattered trees, and thickets.
In November 1999, the Kaziranga National Park was selected for the millennium award by the World Wildlife Fund-Tiger Conservation Programme (WWF-TCP) for being one of the best-managed parks in the country. The Park earned this award for the second time in succession.
The areas adjoining the park, though they sound like tough terrains, are easily accessible on the backs of elephants. Mihimukh is the starting point for the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. An elephant-ride during early hours of dawn awards an excellent opportunity for seeing wildlife at a close range. Elephants are managed by authorized mahouts (trainers), who guide visitors through the park. Contrary to what one may have heard, rhinos browse past visitors nonchalantly. The rhino is a peace-loving animal and, instead of batting an eyelid about peaceful tourists who have invaded its territory, it keeps itself busy grazing in the wild. Moreover, the conditions at Kaziranga are ideal for the rhino to survive. In addition to elephant rides, several watch towers have been set up for elevated viewing of the wildlife park. Pleasant boat rides at the nearby Rhinoland park can also be availed by tourists.
Sunset is a pleasant sight as well with the birds returning to their nests. After sunset, a pleasant conversation and personal experiences can be exchanged with other fellow tourists once the day's adventures come to a close.
Convention and norms are limited and the beauty of the regional flora and fauna can be enjoyed at its closest best. It is precisely for this reason that many tourists feel drawn towards Kaziranga National Park.
HOW TO REACH
We can provide you all tourist permit car/coach, for the city and intercity drives and can look after all your travel related services.
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation at Kaziranga ranges from various forest rest houses and bungalows to the Kaziranga Forest Lodge owned by the ITDC (Indian Tourism Development Corporation), depending upon the budget. Rest houses and hotels are perched besides the main road at Kohora (near the southern boundary of the park), and, blessed with a clear sky, one can have a panoramic view of the Himalayas from here. Indian cuisine and snacks are available at the forest lodge.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Kaziranga.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information on tourism in Kaziranga National Park. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Kaziranga National Park Pleasant.
Area
430 sq km
Language
Assamese, Hindi, and English
Best time to visit
November to April
STD Code
036776
INTRODUCTION
Kaziranga National Park, situated in the northeastern state of Assam, is one of the most picturesque wildlife parks in India. The natural habitat of the one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), Kaziranga lies on the southern banks of the Brahmaputra River, northeast of Assam's capital Guwahati. Originally established as a game reserve in 1908, which included specific portions of Assam's Sibsagar district, Kaziranga was declared a sanctuary in 1940 to counter excessive poaching. In 1974, the Indian Government declared it as a protected site. The park's original inhabitants-the rhino and the elephant being the most noticeable-now thrive in a serene environment to the sheer delight of nature lovers. Viewing wildlife at Kaziranga Park because of its vast open spaces, the presence of the mighty Brahmaputra, and adjoining Mikir hills makes a trip to Kaziranga a complete 'jungle' adventure.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Weather in Kaziranga is pleasant throughout the year. There are no extremities in terms of temperature variation; the winters (November-January) are cool and summers warm (temperature does not exceed 38°C). Monsoon (June-July) season is dominant and lasts for a long time in this area. Mild showers may be experienced throughout the year.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Apart from being the home of the one-horned rhino, it is also the natural habitat of wild buffaloes, wild boars, elephants, Barasinghas (swamp and hog deer), leopards, tigers, hoolock gibbons, capped langur, rock python, monitor lizards, various species of eagles, partridge, bar-headed geese, whistling teals, florican storks, herons, pelicans and water fowls. Large areas of the park comprise of marshland interspersed with large pools fringed with reeds, patches of elephant grass, scattered trees, and thickets.
In November 1999, the Kaziranga National Park was selected for the millennium award by the World Wildlife Fund-Tiger Conservation Programme (WWF-TCP) for being one of the best-managed parks in the country. The Park earned this award for the second time in succession.
The areas adjoining the park, though they sound like tough terrains, are easily accessible on the backs of elephants. Mihimukh is the starting point for the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. An elephant-ride during early hours of dawn awards an excellent opportunity for seeing wildlife at a close range. Elephants are managed by authorized mahouts (trainers), who guide visitors through the park. Contrary to what one may have heard, rhinos browse past visitors nonchalantly. The rhino is a peace-loving animal and, instead of batting an eyelid about peaceful tourists who have invaded its territory, it keeps itself busy grazing in the wild. Moreover, the conditions at Kaziranga are ideal for the rhino to survive. In addition to elephant rides, several watch towers have been set up for elevated viewing of the wildlife park. Pleasant boat rides at the nearby Rhinoland park can also be availed by tourists.
Sunset is a pleasant sight as well with the birds returning to their nests. After sunset, a pleasant conversation and personal experiences can be exchanged with other fellow tourists once the day's adventures come to a close.
Convention and norms are limited and the beauty of the regional flora and fauna can be enjoyed at its closest best. It is precisely for this reason that many tourists feel drawn towards Kaziranga National Park.
HOW TO REACH
We can provide you all tourist permit car/coach, for the city and intercity drives and can look after all your travel related services.
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation at Kaziranga ranges from various forest rest houses and bungalows to the Kaziranga Forest Lodge owned by the ITDC (Indian Tourism Development Corporation), depending upon the budget. Rest houses and hotels are perched besides the main road at Kohora (near the southern boundary of the park), and, blessed with a clear sky, one can have a panoramic view of the Himalayas from here. Indian cuisine and snacks are available at the forest lodge.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Kaziranga.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information on tourism in Kaziranga National Park. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Kaziranga National Park Pleasant.
KAMAKHYA TEMPLE
INTRODUCTION
Down the centuries, Kamrup Kamakhya has been the seat of the powerful tantrik cult in India. Situated atop the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, it is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas of the country. Rising to a modest height of 562 feet above the mighty river Brahmaputra, the hill on which the temple stands commands a magnificent view of the entire city. Several smaller shrines and temples dedicated to Kala Bhairava, Shiva and other Hindu deities are also located in its vicinity.
HISTORY
Kamakhya came into existence after the female genitalia of Sati, the Great Mother Goddess, fell when Vishnu started dismembering her body to force her inconsolable husband, Shiva, into performing his divine duties again.
Legend has it that King Daksha had organized a sacrificial rite, to which he invited all the deities except Shiva. In fact, Daksha had done it deliberately to insult Shiva. Sati, being the daughter of Daksha, came uninvited. During the ceremony, Daksha began to speak ill of Shiva. Unable to bear the insults heaped on her husband, Sati immolated herself. The meditation of Shiva, who is omnipresent, was disturbed. Furious, he descended on Daksha and his kinsmen and destroyed them. With the dead body of his beloved Sati on his shoulders, he started the dance of destruction (Tandava). In his attempt to calm down Shiva and save the world from ruin, Vishnu sent forth his chakra to cut Sati's dead body. The reproductive organ of Sati, the yoni, fell at the spot where the temple of Kamakhya stands today.
When the yoni of Sati fell on the hill, where the temple stands, the hill turned blue and came to be known as Nilachal (blue mountain). The name of the place Kamrup Kamakhya was given by Narakasur, the demon king. He made Kamakhya his patron deity. The original temple was built by Kamdev, the God of Love, with the help of the celestial architect Vishwakarma.
Tradition has it that once in every year, the spring waters at Kamakhya turn red and the temple remains closed. Kamakhya, the Mother Goddess, is supposed to enter her period of menstruation. Cloth offerings brought from near and afar by devotees are soaked in the waters and distributed as prasad (offering).
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
The shrine consists of a flight of steps down to the bowels of the earth, to a dark mysterious chamber. Here, draped in a silk sari and covered with flowers is kept the matra yoni.
PLACES AROUND KAMAKHYA
From Kamakhya, one can go to Kachapukhuri. This is a natural pond full of turtles. However, what puzzles the zoologist and common man alike is the habitation of these amphibians at such a high altitude.
The Bhutanese Tara Temple and the shrine of the snake Goddess, Manasa, are two other temples situated in the vicinity of Kamakhya.
The Bhubaneswari Temple is situated at the highest point of the hill. It offers a spectacular view of the city and the Brahmaputra River.
HOW TO REACH
BY ROAD - Kamakhya is connected to the city center by a good motorable road. Guwahati is connected to other parts of the country, including Calcutta and Delhi, by road, airways and railways.
BY AIR - The nearest airport is Gopinath Bordoloi Airport at Borzhar, 14 km from the city center. Regular flights are available from Calcutta while five days a week flight service is available from Delhi.
WHERE TO STAY
Guwahati being the major city of Assam is well equipped hotels of different categories and other suitable accommodations.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Kamakhya Temple.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about tourism in Kamakhya Temple. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.
Down the centuries, Kamrup Kamakhya has been the seat of the powerful tantrik cult in India. Situated atop the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, it is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas of the country. Rising to a modest height of 562 feet above the mighty river Brahmaputra, the hill on which the temple stands commands a magnificent view of the entire city. Several smaller shrines and temples dedicated to Kala Bhairava, Shiva and other Hindu deities are also located in its vicinity.
HISTORY
Kamakhya came into existence after the female genitalia of Sati, the Great Mother Goddess, fell when Vishnu started dismembering her body to force her inconsolable husband, Shiva, into performing his divine duties again.
Legend has it that King Daksha had organized a sacrificial rite, to which he invited all the deities except Shiva. In fact, Daksha had done it deliberately to insult Shiva. Sati, being the daughter of Daksha, came uninvited. During the ceremony, Daksha began to speak ill of Shiva. Unable to bear the insults heaped on her husband, Sati immolated herself. The meditation of Shiva, who is omnipresent, was disturbed. Furious, he descended on Daksha and his kinsmen and destroyed them. With the dead body of his beloved Sati on his shoulders, he started the dance of destruction (Tandava). In his attempt to calm down Shiva and save the world from ruin, Vishnu sent forth his chakra to cut Sati's dead body. The reproductive organ of Sati, the yoni, fell at the spot where the temple of Kamakhya stands today.
When the yoni of Sati fell on the hill, where the temple stands, the hill turned blue and came to be known as Nilachal (blue mountain). The name of the place Kamrup Kamakhya was given by Narakasur, the demon king. He made Kamakhya his patron deity. The original temple was built by Kamdev, the God of Love, with the help of the celestial architect Vishwakarma.
Tradition has it that once in every year, the spring waters at Kamakhya turn red and the temple remains closed. Kamakhya, the Mother Goddess, is supposed to enter her period of menstruation. Cloth offerings brought from near and afar by devotees are soaked in the waters and distributed as prasad (offering).
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
The shrine consists of a flight of steps down to the bowels of the earth, to a dark mysterious chamber. Here, draped in a silk sari and covered with flowers is kept the matra yoni.
PLACES AROUND KAMAKHYA
From Kamakhya, one can go to Kachapukhuri. This is a natural pond full of turtles. However, what puzzles the zoologist and common man alike is the habitation of these amphibians at such a high altitude.
The Bhutanese Tara Temple and the shrine of the snake Goddess, Manasa, are two other temples situated in the vicinity of Kamakhya.
The Bhubaneswari Temple is situated at the highest point of the hill. It offers a spectacular view of the city and the Brahmaputra River.
HOW TO REACH
BY ROAD - Kamakhya is connected to the city center by a good motorable road. Guwahati is connected to other parts of the country, including Calcutta and Delhi, by road, airways and railways.
BY AIR - The nearest airport is Gopinath Bordoloi Airport at Borzhar, 14 km from the city center. Regular flights are available from Calcutta while five days a week flight service is available from Delhi.
WHERE TO STAY
Guwahati being the major city of Assam is well equipped hotels of different categories and other suitable accommodations.
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Kamakhya Temple.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about tourism in Kamakhya Temple. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.
GUWAHATI
FACTS & FIGURES
Language
Assamese, Hindi, English, Bengali
Best time to visit
October to April.
STD Code
0361
INTRODUCTION
Guwahati, the capital city of the northeastern state of Assam, was formerly known as Pragjyotishpur (the City of Eastern Light). Its etymological root is derived from two Assamese words, "Guwa," meaning areca nut and "Haat," meaning market. Couched between the picturesque hills of the eastern flanks of the Himalayan mountain range, Guwahati houses the political capital of the state, Dispur. The gateway to the seven other northeastern states, Guwahati is a vital tourist link point, besides being an attraction in itself.
LOCATION
Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, at an altitude of 55 meters above sea level, Guwahati is the junction of three important roads, National Highways 31, 37 and 40. It is split into two parts by the river and North Guwahati is almost a separate town. One can visit it via the Saraighat Bridge or by the ferries that ply on the river. The nearest important city is Calcutta (1182 km), while the capitals of the other northeastern states are at distances varying from 110 km to 650 km. The city experiences an annual rainfall of 180 cm (from May to September). While summer temperatures range from 22 to 38°C, in winters the mercury ranges from 10 to 25°C. The best time to visit this cosmopolitan city is from October to April.
HISTORY
There is magical aura that still lingers over the ever-expanding city. The demon king Narkasura is said to have built this ancient city. Another reason for Guwahati's charm is its being the ancient 'Kamrup', the birthplace of Kamdeva, the God of Love.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Guwahati is particularly famous for its Kamakhya temple situated atop the Nilachal hill, at a distance of 10 km from the railway station. Noted to be the most sacred among the tantrik shrines of Shakti worship in the world, Kamakhya, was built in the 10th century by the Koch king, Naranarayan. It is a common practice here to offer animal sacrifice to appease the Goddess. Above Kamakhya is another small temple, Bhubaneshwari, from where one can have a bird's eye view of the city.The Shiva temple of Umananda, reached by motor boats and public ferries from Umananda Ghat, stands on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra. Atop another hill in east Guwahati is the Navagraha temple-the "temple of the nine planets,"-an ancient seat of astrology and astronomy. Housed in a red beehive-shaped dome, the central lingam is encircled by further nine representing the planets (graha)-Sun (Surya, Ravi), Moon (Chandra, Soma), Mercury (Buddh), Venus (Sukra), Mars (Mangal), Jupiter (Brhaspati) and Saturn (Sani). Two more were added, Rahu and Ketu, the dragon's head and the dragon's tail, or the ascending and descending nodes of the moon. Nearby, there is the Vashistha Ashram, an interesting old shrine, with plenty of verdure and three beautiful streams, Lalita, Kanta and Sandhya. It is at a distance of 12 km from the railway station and is said to have been the abode of sage Vashistha. Several other temples like the Ugratara temple, famous for its golden idol and buffalo sacrifices, are also strewn across the city.
Besides these religious sites, one must visit the Guwahati Zoo, which is the largest natural zoo of the country. The various museums-the State Museum, Anthropological Museum, Forest Museum, and Cottage Industries Museum-are treasure houses of Assam's rich cultural past. The Guwahati planetarium, located on MG Road, is one of the finest in the country.To complete one's tour of Guwahati, one must visit the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra. Built in the 1990's, this modern complex at Panjabari provides a one-stop review of the artistic excellence of the region.
PLACES AROUND GUWAHATI
The Manas wildlife sanctuary, 176 km from the city, is situated on the banks of river Manas. It is the only tiger project of its kind in Assam.
Pabitora, a small wildlife sanctuary, 60 km from Guwahati is also worth a visit. Rhino and various species of deer abound here.
Hajo, 25 km west of Guwahati, is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. The town also boasts the Hayagriba Madhava Temple, accessible via a long stone stairway. At the foot of the stairway is a large pond inhabited by one of Hajo's oldest residents: a giant turtle. Hajo is also renowned for its bell metal work.
Chandubi, 64 km from the city, is a natural lagoon and a fine picnic spot, 64 km from Guwahati. The lake is a perfect holiday resort, with ample fishing and rowing opportunities.
Madan Kamdev, about 35 km from Guwahati, is famous for its impressive archeological ruins and the Durga temple dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries.
Sualkuchi, 32 km from Guwahati, is a village where almost all the inhabitants are weavers, involved in the traditional art of silk weaving.
Tezpur is 181 km east of Guwahati, and is a town of both historic importance and adventure sports.
Barpeta, 185 km from Guwahati, is notable for the monastery and shrine dedicated to the Vaishnavite saint, Sankardeva.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
The most notable festival here is the Bohag Bihu, which marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and falls sometime in mid-April. Various local delicacies like pithas, larus, and other sweetmeats are available then. All these preparations are strictly vegetarian. The Durga Puja, celebrated in the month of October, is another major festival. In the months of June-July, there is the famous Ambubashi Mela at Kamakhya temple that attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the country.
HOW TO REACH
There are regular flight services to Guwahati from Delhi (2½ hours), Calcutta (1½ hours), Imphal, Agartala, Aizawl, Dibrugarh and Jorhat. The busy and overcrowded Paltan Bazar railway station is the destination for many trains from every corner of India. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.
WHERE TO STAY
Guwahati offers several private hotels ranging from high-end to budget-friendly ones. Fish is a major delicacy in Assam and one can savor mouthwatering curries in and around Paltan Bazar at cheap rates. We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Guwahati.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about hotels in Guwahati. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Guwahati Pleasant.
Language
Assamese, Hindi, English, Bengali
Best time to visit
October to April.
STD Code
0361
INTRODUCTION
Guwahati, the capital city of the northeastern state of Assam, was formerly known as Pragjyotishpur (the City of Eastern Light). Its etymological root is derived from two Assamese words, "Guwa," meaning areca nut and "Haat," meaning market. Couched between the picturesque hills of the eastern flanks of the Himalayan mountain range, Guwahati houses the political capital of the state, Dispur. The gateway to the seven other northeastern states, Guwahati is a vital tourist link point, besides being an attraction in itself.
LOCATION
Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, at an altitude of 55 meters above sea level, Guwahati is the junction of three important roads, National Highways 31, 37 and 40. It is split into two parts by the river and North Guwahati is almost a separate town. One can visit it via the Saraighat Bridge or by the ferries that ply on the river. The nearest important city is Calcutta (1182 km), while the capitals of the other northeastern states are at distances varying from 110 km to 650 km. The city experiences an annual rainfall of 180 cm (from May to September). While summer temperatures range from 22 to 38°C, in winters the mercury ranges from 10 to 25°C. The best time to visit this cosmopolitan city is from October to April.
HISTORY
There is magical aura that still lingers over the ever-expanding city. The demon king Narkasura is said to have built this ancient city. Another reason for Guwahati's charm is its being the ancient 'Kamrup', the birthplace of Kamdeva, the God of Love.
TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Guwahati is particularly famous for its Kamakhya temple situated atop the Nilachal hill, at a distance of 10 km from the railway station. Noted to be the most sacred among the tantrik shrines of Shakti worship in the world, Kamakhya, was built in the 10th century by the Koch king, Naranarayan. It is a common practice here to offer animal sacrifice to appease the Goddess. Above Kamakhya is another small temple, Bhubaneshwari, from where one can have a bird's eye view of the city.The Shiva temple of Umananda, reached by motor boats and public ferries from Umananda Ghat, stands on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra. Atop another hill in east Guwahati is the Navagraha temple-the "temple of the nine planets,"-an ancient seat of astrology and astronomy. Housed in a red beehive-shaped dome, the central lingam is encircled by further nine representing the planets (graha)-Sun (Surya, Ravi), Moon (Chandra, Soma), Mercury (Buddh), Venus (Sukra), Mars (Mangal), Jupiter (Brhaspati) and Saturn (Sani). Two more were added, Rahu and Ketu, the dragon's head and the dragon's tail, or the ascending and descending nodes of the moon. Nearby, there is the Vashistha Ashram, an interesting old shrine, with plenty of verdure and three beautiful streams, Lalita, Kanta and Sandhya. It is at a distance of 12 km from the railway station and is said to have been the abode of sage Vashistha. Several other temples like the Ugratara temple, famous for its golden idol and buffalo sacrifices, are also strewn across the city.
Besides these religious sites, one must visit the Guwahati Zoo, which is the largest natural zoo of the country. The various museums-the State Museum, Anthropological Museum, Forest Museum, and Cottage Industries Museum-are treasure houses of Assam's rich cultural past. The Guwahati planetarium, located on MG Road, is one of the finest in the country.To complete one's tour of Guwahati, one must visit the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra. Built in the 1990's, this modern complex at Panjabari provides a one-stop review of the artistic excellence of the region.
PLACES AROUND GUWAHATI
The Manas wildlife sanctuary, 176 km from the city, is situated on the banks of river Manas. It is the only tiger project of its kind in Assam.
Pabitora, a small wildlife sanctuary, 60 km from Guwahati is also worth a visit. Rhino and various species of deer abound here.
Hajo, 25 km west of Guwahati, is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. The town also boasts the Hayagriba Madhava Temple, accessible via a long stone stairway. At the foot of the stairway is a large pond inhabited by one of Hajo's oldest residents: a giant turtle. Hajo is also renowned for its bell metal work.
Chandubi, 64 km from the city, is a natural lagoon and a fine picnic spot, 64 km from Guwahati. The lake is a perfect holiday resort, with ample fishing and rowing opportunities.
Madan Kamdev, about 35 km from Guwahati, is famous for its impressive archeological ruins and the Durga temple dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries.
Sualkuchi, 32 km from Guwahati, is a village where almost all the inhabitants are weavers, involved in the traditional art of silk weaving.
Tezpur is 181 km east of Guwahati, and is a town of both historic importance and adventure sports.
Barpeta, 185 km from Guwahati, is notable for the monastery and shrine dedicated to the Vaishnavite saint, Sankardeva.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
The most notable festival here is the Bohag Bihu, which marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and falls sometime in mid-April. Various local delicacies like pithas, larus, and other sweetmeats are available then. All these preparations are strictly vegetarian. The Durga Puja, celebrated in the month of October, is another major festival. In the months of June-July, there is the famous Ambubashi Mela at Kamakhya temple that attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the country.
HOW TO REACH
There are regular flight services to Guwahati from Delhi (2½ hours), Calcutta (1½ hours), Imphal, Agartala, Aizawl, Dibrugarh and Jorhat. The busy and overcrowded Paltan Bazar railway station is the destination for many trains from every corner of India. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.
WHERE TO STAY
Guwahati offers several private hotels ranging from high-end to budget-friendly ones. Fish is a major delicacy in Assam and one can savor mouthwatering curries in and around Paltan Bazar at cheap rates. We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Guwahati.
Tourism-of-India.com provides complete information about hotels in Guwahati. Tourism-of-India.com offers package tours in order to make your visit to Guwahati Pleasant.
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