Assam

Assam: The land of Beauty and beasts

Sprawling along the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam or Axom happens to be the most accessible place amongst the North-eastern states of India. It is a state of picturesque scenery with rolling plains, expansive green paddy fields, mighty waterways and traditional festivals. Best known for its tea gardens that produce the finest tea leaves in India, Assam is also one of the most fertile states in India. References of Assam can be seen in ancient Indian books like Mahabharata, Purans and the Tantras. The place was ruled by Ahoms in 1228, a Shaan tribe from Myanmar. They spread Hinduism in the region and ruled for nearly six centuries. During their rule, they victoriously fought against the Mughal invasions. The Burmese conquered the region in 1882, dethroning the Ahoms. By 1838, the entire north-east of India became part of the Bengal Presidency of British India.

The most visited temple here is the Kamakhya Temple situated in Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. The temple sits atop the Nilachal Hill beside the Brahmaputra river. Basistha is also another major tourist draw where two temples lie beside a lovely waterfall. There are several famous wildlife sanctuaries too located here like Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaziranga Game Sanctuary. One of the best kept national parks in India, Manas is the only tiger reserve in Assam. It is also an abode of rare golden Langur and red Panda. Amongst the numerous attractions, Majuli is a must-visit place in Assam. It is the largest riverine island in the world. Bohag bihu (April) is the main festival of Assam during which you can see the entire state geared up in full fervour.