Assam

Dominated by the mighty Bramhaputra River, which has carved out the deep cradle of its birth, Assam with its capital Guwahati, is one of the most advanced states in the North East.  Assam is blessed with vast alluvial plains rich in forests and rolling tracts of Paddy and Tea, and oil from the vast depths of the earth. The most accessible of the North Eastern States, Assam was ruled for six centuries by the brave Ahoms (of the Shan tribe of Burma) from the 13th century, who successfully repulsed the Mughal invasions. They were also great patrons of the arts. One can still see some of their places, tanks and temples around Sivsagar. Tourists from home and abroad pour into her world-renowned Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the last frontiers for the pre-historic, one -horned rhino. The Project Tiger Reserve Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a World Heritage Site. Assam is also home to the world’s largest inhabited riverine island, Majuli.

Guwahati - “The Light of the East” is the gateway to Assam and the entire North East region. Straddling the banks of the Brahmaputra, this former capital of the Kamrup kings (when it was ancient Pragjyotishpur) is a crowded, busy river-town and a major commercial for the region. Guwahati is home to many temples that date back to Vedic and Puranic times.

The “Kamakhya Temple” dominates the life of Guwahati, as much as does the great Brahmaputra River. One of the most revered shrines of the Hindu faith, the temple is located on Neelachal Hill. The shirne finds mention in the inscription of King Samudragupta’s pillar at Allahabad. A rush of devotees throngs the temple during the Ambubachi Mela. Amongst of the other holy places in Guwahati is the Bashishta Ashram, The Nabagraha Temple, Ugratara Temple, The Dirgheshwari Temple, The Ashvaklanta Temple offers superb views of the city against Brahmaputra River.

A River Cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra is a wonderful opportunity to get a feel of this legendary river. Catch the ferry travelling between Sukheswar Ghat and North-Guwahati or travel a little more stylishly in one of the state tourism -run vessels. Top it off with a trip to Sualkuchi (an hour’s drive away) to explore the dazzling world of Assam Silk.