Tezpur

Tezpur is a historical place in the Sonitpur district 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 in Assam.

The principal attraction of Tezpur includes its rich history, old temples, forests, and wildlife. The area is famous for its Tea plantations, and 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 4-hour drive from Guwahati, the capital of Assam.

Tezpur has a 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 headquarters of the Darrang district. During the Second World War, there was an 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. The 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 collections of sculptural art in Assam. Da Parbatia is located a few kilometres away from Tezpur town.
Agnigarh – This is another tourist attraction atop a small hill beside the river Brahmaputra. There is a circular stairway leading to the peak. The place offers excellent hiking options. The hilltop offers great views of the surrounding area and is a common attraction among tourists.
The Hazara Pukhuri –This is a large water body spread over 70 acres (280,000 sqm). The tank was built by the famous king of the Ahom Dynasty, Harjjar Varma.
Bamuni Hills – The ruins of Bamuni Hills are famous for their artistic beauty. The structural remains present here date back to the 9th and 10th centuries 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 northeast 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 centres in Assam.
Bhomoraguri is a bridge connecting the Nagaon district with Tezpur. A massive stone inscription made by Ahom General Kalia Bhomora Phukan, who had initially planned to construct this bridge, stands here. Almost 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 km. from Tezpur and 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 unspoiled beauty of nature. The nearest river Jia-Bhoroli fascinates the anglers. more

Nameri National Park – It is about 35 km. from Tezpur, situated at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, Nameri National Park covers an area of about 200 sq. km. Hills, deciduous forests and the river Jia Bhoroli have added a 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 favourite 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.