So, here we are, taking you to a small town in the middle of the state that offers a combination of all the significant things about this Eastern state. Jorhat, the last capital of the decaying and declining Tunkhungia Ahom Dynasty as the name signifies, was just a pair (Jor) of markets (Hat) namely, Chowkihut and Macharhut. Nestled on the eastern and the western banks of the river Bhogdoi, Jorhat is celebrated for its Vaishnavite cultural centers in the world's biggest riverine island 'Majuli' and the lush green tea gardens.
A brief-up
If you like to travel across small towns having a world of their own then we just found you the right destination for your next exploration. However, Jorhat today has grown into a thriving city and as the best laid out town in Upper Assam with a better connectivity to the rest of the country. So, you will not crib about bad roads and lack of facilities. Known as "The Cultural Capital of Assam", Jorhat also has the distinction of having the largest number of educated residents in Assam. While visiting Kaziranga National park, the habitat of the World famous one horned rhinos, extend the visit to Jorhat or simply head straight to this land.
The biggest attraction of the place is no doubt Majuli, the largest riverine island in the World. Too many titles for a small place to hold! Located in the middle of Brahmaputra valley, Majuli houses a thriving town and its vastness will make you wonder if you are really visiting an island or not. A population of around 1.5 lakh people on the island makes it the largest inhabited riverine island in the world. Just a few kilometers of drive from the Jorhat town and an hour long ferry ride will take to this land of marvel. But accommodations and travel arrangements should be booked beforehand.
There are number of Vaishnav monasteries called ‘Satras' on the island that one can visit to understand the great cultural and religious ways of the people living there. Drastically reduced to 22 numbers, these Satras have always been the subjects of much research from tourists and scholars across the globe. The most important of the remaining Satras are Kamalabari, Auniati and Garamur and there, you will be surprised to see things beyond religion. Educated, cultured and talented bunch of people vowing to keep up the tradition of the Vaishnavas are indeed worth admiration.
The Bonus
If you are never tired of nature and its innumerable offerings, then you will swear by its abundance on this island. Being a wetland, Majuli is home to some endangered species of birds, both locale and migratory and different flora and fauna. Do we need to tell you how spectacular the mighty river Brahmaputra looks as the evening sun dives deep into the serene water and the redness of the sun gets smudged? By now, you must be contemplating the possibilities of you turning into a poet, a photographer or a philosopher. The flocks of flamingoes returning to their nests and the lonely boatman returning home with his days catch is not something you haven't heard of. But, trust us; such moments in life are best experienced then read in a travel magazine.
But, we strongly suggest you visit the island during the three day Ras Purnima festival celebrated somewhere near November when the cultural fervor reaches its peak. Experience, this great Indian love saga with a real full moon at the backdrop and it will be the experience of a lifetime. A moonlit stage, a live Krishna-Radha pair, the maddening dance, the feeling of love and devotion and the swaying crowd- do we need to explain more?
Getting around
Now, having returned from this land of enchantment, visit Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar (place of worship) in Assam, established by saint-reformer Madhabdev in 1461. Just 3.5 kms away from National Highway 37, this place accommodates the exercise of Baisnav Religion. Submerge yourself in the recitals and eat some healthy Prasad made of soaked grams, lentils, rice, coconut and salt. Skip this place if you are not much interested in knowing the religious practices of the place.
And getting back to the Ahom capital days, there are not many signage of the era as it was believed to be a temporary capital. But, Lachit Borphukan's Maidam, the tomb of the greatest ever Ahom general who defeated the mighty Mughals at Saraighat in 1672 is of major connotation. There are several such small structures which can interest you. Just roam around and you will know. But, what if you don't find much ancient stuff; the remains of the British era can excite you as well.
Established by the British, Jorhat Gymkhana Club has been a venue for horse races ever since its inauguration. A lush green 9-hole golf course circuit vying for a position in the "World Heritage list" as the oldest golf course in Asia offers facilities in lawn tennis grass courts, swimming pool, billiards, polo, gentleman's bar and a cinema theatre. Didn't we tell you, you will never complain about lack of facilities? Moreover, if you really want a royal treatment, then the Thengal Bhawan a few miles away from the main town is the place to be.
Built in 1880 by Raibahadur Shiva Prasad Barooah, an affluent Assamese, this place is the epitome of the sophistication this place is known for. Now turned into a 3 star heritage hotel, the palatial structure can be your ultimate sojourn spot thousands of miles away from a busy life. Just roam around the tea gardens situated nearby. Suck out the green in everything you see around you. Your world will be at peace. A sneak peek at the tea factories can also be a different experience.
In the town area, there not much to shop as things are a bit expensive thanks to the rich tea garden lives, but a glimpse of the Gar Ali, the business street of the town can be a perfect evening outing. Don't forget that Jorhat is famous for sumptuous Mughlai Paranthas. Break into any of the restaurants in the area for a nice treat. Belle-Amies, Woodland, BeeZee Inn are a few well known places to eat out. Also, don't miss the local Golgappawalas and Scoops, the favorite ice-cream parlor of the locals. A few packets of pure and fresh Assam tea can be a nice gift for your loved ones for who doesn't want to wake up to the aroma of a freshly brewed cup of tea?
But, being a trustworthy travel guide, we don't want you to end your great Assam experience here as you can always extend your stay and make the most of your travel by planning excursions to the nearby places like Sibasagar- Ahom capital of great historical interest, the Numaligarh Refinery and the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary.
Diversity of things to do in the area is many and we think you will love this great combination of culture, leisure and nature because, vacations do not always mean crowded hill stations and famous beaches. There are some journeys in life that give you an insight and that is exactly what we just presented to you. Spin on and experience- that is all we want to say.
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