The Jorhat Gymkhana Club holds a special place in Assam’s, and indeed India’s, rich history of colonial legacy and the evolution of sports and leisure culture. Established by British tea planters in 1876 during the British Raj, the Gymkhana Club is one of the oldest of its kind in Asia and has been a centre for social gatherings, sports and recreational activities for over a century.
Originally built for the tea plantation community, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club was more than just a club; it served as a social networking platform for the British officials and planters. With its rich legacy, the Club is recognized for having the third oldest golf course in the world, establishing the region's prominence in the sport and an impressive colonial architecture that attracts tourists even today.
In recent years, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club has become an integral part of the tourism landscape in Jorhat. The Club's role in promoting cultural and historical tourism supplements Assam’s extensive offering of wildlife, natural beauty, and tea gardens. Visitors to the Club can engage in a game of golf, witness the well-preserved colonial structures, or enjoy the peaceful ambiance that the grounds provide.
Tourism in Jorhat and surrounding areas has evolved to accommodate a variety of tastes and interests. Apart from heritage tourism, which the Jorhat Gymkhana Club forms a significant part, there is a growing trend of eco-tourism, wildlife safaris in nearby sanctuaries, and cultural tours that include visits to the majestic Ahoms monuments. The Gymkhana Club itself often features in heritage tours that showcase the lifestyle of the British Raj.
In an effort to preserve its history, much of the Jorhat Gymkhana Club has been maintained in its original form, allowing visitors to experience a slice of the colonial era. Efforts have been made to retain the Club's classic aesthetics while providing modern amenities for today’s travelers. Golf tournaments and cultural events held at the Club also serve as substantial draws for tourists.
Tourism at the Jorhat Gymkhana Club underscores the broader narrative of Assam’s unique interaction with its colonial past and how it shapes contemporary travels experiences. The Club continues to be a testament to the role of tourism in the conservation of historical sites, and a beacon of the leisure and camaraderie that once defined the lifestyle of a bygone era.
Whether it's for the love of history, golf, or the serene beauty of Assam, the Jorhat Gymkhana Club offers a compelling experience for tourists, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting this northeastern part of India.
