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Tezpur is a historical place in Sonitpur
distrct of Assam. With a population
of about 1,00,000 Tezpur is the major commercial and administrative
Centre of North Assam. The beautiful town is located on the
north bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra and is the fifth
largest city of Assam.
The principle attraction of Tezpur includes
its rich history, old temples, forests and wildlife. The area
is famous for its Tea plantation, the undulating stretch of
tea-gardens along with Forests and National Parks attract
a large number of tourists to this area. The name Tezpur is
derived from the Sanskrit words 'Teza' (meaning blood) and
'Pura' (meaning town or city).
Tezpur is well connected by road with different parts of Assam.
It is around 4 hours drive from Guwahati, the capital of Assam.
Tezpur has rich cultural heritage and is
considered the cultural capital of Assam. The town has produced
many stalwarts such as Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala,
Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha, Phani Sarma and Ananda Chandra
Agarwala.
Modern Tezpur was founded by the British
colonial administration in 1835 as the headquarter of Darrang
district. During second world war there was influx of Burmese
people into Tezpur. In 1983 part of the district was carved
out to form a separate district, named Darrang. Tezpur became
the headquarters of the new district of Sonitpur. Economy
of Tezpur is dependent primarily on the Tea Gardens. There
are many Tea Gardens surrounding the town of Tezpur.
Places of Tourist Attraction
Da-Parbatia – This is one
of the oldest and finest collection of sculptural art in Assam.
Da Parbatia is located a few kilometers away from Tezpur town.
Agnigarh – This is another tourist attraction
atop a small hill besides river Brahmaputra. There is a circular
stairway leading to the peak. The place offers excellent hiking
options. The hill top offers great views of the surrounding
area and is common attraction among tourists.
The Hazara Pukhuri –This is a large water
body spread over 70 acres (280,000 sq m). The tank was built
by the famous king of the Ahom Dynasty, Harjjar Varma.
Bamuni Hills – The ruins of Bamuni hill
is famous for its artistic beauty. The structural remains
present here date back to the 9th and 10th century and attract
historians and art lovers from all over the world.
Chitralekha Park – It is one of the most
beautiful places in the town. The park was first established
by a British Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Cole. In his memory
the park is commonly referred to by the locals as Cole park.
Sculptural remains of the Bamuni hill ruins can be seen here.
Ketakeshwar Dewal – Ketakeshwar
Dewal is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the northeast
of India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and enshrines
one of the biggest Shiva lingams in the world. The temple
is one of the most important pilgrimage centers in Assam.
Bhomoraguri is a bridge connecting Nagaon
district with Tezpur. A massive stone inscription made by
the Ahom General Kalia Bhomora Phukan, who had initially planned
to construct this bridge, stands here. Almost about two centuries
later, the bridge was constructed, 3.05 km long and dedicated
to this great Ahom general. The bridge was opened for vehicular
traffic on 3rd April 1987.
Tourist Destinations Nearby
Bhalukpong – Bhalukpong,
a beautiful picnic and angling spot was the capital of Bhaluka,
the grandson of king Bana. It is 64 kms. from Tezpur, remains
of old fortifications are still visible. This picturesque
spot lies on the way to Bomdila (Arunachal Pradesh). Other
attractions of Bhalukpong are a hot spring, a big orchid garden
at Tipi and the unspoilt beauty of nature. The nearest river
Jia-bhoroli fascinates the anglers. more
Nameri National Park –
It is about 35 kms. from Tezpur, situated at the foothills
of eastern Himalayas, Nameri National Park covers an area
of about 200 sq. kms. Hills, deciduous forests and the river
Jia Bhoroli have added unique charm to the place. more
Orang Wildlife Sanctuary –
Orang Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 31 km
from Tezpur and is popularly known as mini-Kaziranga. The
sanctuary occupies 72 sq km and is the home to a large number
of wild animals such as the one-horned rhino, elephant, leopard,
barking deer, tiger and a variety of water birds, green pigeon,
florican, teal, and geese. more
Eco Camp – Around 50 km
from Tezpur, off the road to Arunachal Pradesh, is the unique
Eco Camp. This is one of the most favorite excursions and
outdoor recreational sites around the city of Tezpur and is
the outcome of the united efforts of the Assam Anglers’ Association
and the Forest Department of the state. |
