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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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