Majuli is the world's largest river island and is situated on the Brahmaputra River. A visit to this beautiful island will provide insight into the unique culture of the Mishing tribes and their way of living. The island hosts a number of satras, which are monastic centers established by the saint Sankardeva. These satras are the hub of Assamese classical culture. A trip to Majuli might include exploring its lush greenery, enjoying the tranquil ambiance, visiting the tribal villages, and experiencing the vibrant cultural performances. You might also get to witness the art of mask-making, traditional boat-making, and pottery which is indigenous to this region. This excursion is not only about seeing the sights but also about understanding the ecological balance and the efforts in place to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Built in 1876 by the British, Jorhat Gymkhana Club is steeped in history and colonial charm. The club holds the oldest golf course in Asia and the third oldest in the world. Visiting the club is not just an opportunity for golf enthusiasts but also a chance to peek into the past as the club retains much of its original architecture and ambiance. Visitors can spend the day golfing, or enjoy other sports facilities available like tennis and billiards. There's also a swimming pool for relaxation. Even for non-sporty visitors, a trip to the Gymkhana Club offers a relaxing day out with its sprawling lawns and heritage aesthetic.
Being the first tea estate established in Assam in 1850, Cinnamora Tea Estate holds significant historical importance. The estate offers visitors an educational and enjoyable experience of seeing how tea is grown, harvested, and processed. Walking through the lush tea gardens, you can observe the pluckers at work, interact with the plantation workers, and learn the art of tea tasting. Visitors get an in-depth look at the entire tea-making process, and the picturesque surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and photography. The time spent at the Cinnamora Tea Estate is not just informative but also incredibly soothing.
Thengal Manor provides a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury. This heritage bungalow situated in Jalukonibari, a few kilometers from Jorhat town, was built in 1929. It was from this manor that the first Assamese daily newspaper, Dainik Batori, was published. During a stay or visit, guests can expect to be treated to traditional Assamese hospitality, sample local cuisine, and appreciate the architectural beauty of the manor surrounded by well-manicured gardens. Staying at Thengal Manor is an experience that allows one to relive the grandeur of Assam's past amid contemporary comforts.
The Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, located near Jorhat, is a protected area that houses India's only gibbons – the Hoolock Gibbons, and a variety of other primate species. Within this fragment of an evergreen forest, visitors can immerse themselves in the dense canopy while trekking and maybe lucky enough to spot some of the rarest and most fascinating primates. Guided tours are recommended for the best experience. Besides gibbons, one might also observe troops of langurs, macaques, and myriad bird species. The sanctuary is a crucial conservation area and offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife and nature conservation efforts up close.
The Raja Maidam is the burial site of the first Ahom king of Assam, Swargadeo Purandar Sinha, located on the banks of the Toklai River in Jorhat. The historical site provides a glimpse into the Ahom funeral customs which involved the construction of maidams, resembling the Egyptian pyramids in a much-smaller scale. These structures were built to commemorate the Ahom kings and nobility. Visitors to Raja Maidam can take part in a peaceful and contemplative exploration of the grounds and gain some knowledge about the history and the significance of the Ahom dynasty in Assam's cultural tapestry.
Established in 1911, the Tocklai Tea Research Institute is the oldest and largest tea research station in the world. Aimed at providing research and knowledge enhancement for tea plantation and processing, the institute conducts tours for visitors interested in the science and innovations behind tea production. One can observe experimental tea gardens, processing units, and attend seminars or workshops held by tea experts. The lush green surroundings make it idyllic for a guided educational tour which can enrich the understanding of this much-loved beverage.
The Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar is an important religious and cultural center established by the saint-reformer Madhavdeva in 1461. It stands as a testimony to the Assamese tradition and culture and plays a pivotal role in the preservation of the region's Vaishnavite heritage. The namghar, or prayer house, is a place for communal worship and houses the sacred fire that has been burning for over 500 years. Visitors can experience the peaceful ambiance, partake in the prayer sessions, and enjoy the bhaona performances, which are traditional Assamese religious plays narrating the stories of Lord Krishna.
This memorial has been built to honor Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom Kingdom in Assam. The Sukapha Samannay Kshetra is a historical landmark providing educational insight into the life and legacy of Sukapha, his journey to Assam, and the establishment of the Ahom dynasty. The site features a statue of Sukapha, an exhibition hall, and a park where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks. The center also organizes cultural festivals and events that recreate the historic scenes of the Ahom era. A trip here is bound to be a learning experience for those interested in Assam's rich history and heritage.
Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium aims to promote a scientific temper and understanding amongst visitors of all ages. The center presents a combination of education and entertainment with its interactive exhibits, science shows, and the planetarium sessions that take viewers on a journey through the cosmos. The varied topics covered include physics, biology, and astronomy, making it an ideal place for students, families, and science enthusiasts to engage with scientific principles in a fun and applied setting. The center is not only an attraction but also an investment in inspiring future scientists and thinkers.