In ancient times Assam was known as 'Light of the East'. Lying across the river Brahmaputra, south of Arunachal Pradesh and the kingdom of Bhutan, it is situated in the north-east region of India.

Assam was known as 'Pragijyotishpura' in historical times. The state was taken over by the Ahoms, Buddhists from Myanmar. 'Assam' is a sanskrit derivative for 'Ahom'. The British annexed the land in late eighteenth century. A hundred years later saw an alarming influx of foreigners from Bangladesh. The stir that followed witnessed probably the youngest political leaders in the world, governing the state.

The Assamese are a mild race who were forced to agitation, rather than, by nature.

Assam is one of the richest states in India, known for its tea, oil and rice.

Best period to visit: 
October - May

Places to visit: 

Guwahati :
is the state capital, situated on the Brahmaputra and also the gateway to north-east India.

Kamakhya Temple is an ancient temple, important as a centre for tantric and shakti cult worship. Umananda Temple is situated on the Brahmaputra itself and is accessible only by boat. Navagraha Temple (nine planets) and the Sulkeswar Janardhan Temple are the other important sights.
State Museum is another 'must' to be seen for its exhibits on the region's heritage, textiles, sculptures and anthropology.

Jorhat -
is the town nearest to view the tea plantations.


Sibsagar -
is strongly advised on the itinerary to view the ancient relics and remnants of the famed Ahom kingdom.


Majuli and Tezpur-
are the other places one should visit.

Kaziranga National Park & Manas wildlife Sanctuary-
home to the Indian rhinoceros and tiger reserves, respectively, are ofcourse world famed.

Arts & Crafts:
Rare and exotic silks : muga, endi & pat. Woven textiles. Wicker items.

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Cities to Visit

  1. Sibsagar
  2. Majuli
  3. Tezpur
  4. Guwahati
For information about these cities contact:

tushind@vsnl.com