Dispur, the capital of Assam, acquired the status following the separation of Meghalaya from Assam. Until then Shillong was the capital. Dispur, one amongst the smallest capitals in the world, is famous for largest tea production. Dispur is one of the important tourist destinations with attractive tourist spots in and around the city. Here are the top 12 places to visit in Dispur to make your tour complete.
1. Assam State Museum
Assam State Museum gives you an insight of the rich cultural past of the state. It is located in Dighali Pukhuri at its southern end. Some of the collections at this museum belong to prehistoric period. The collections at Assam State Museum include sculptures, woodwork, garments used by royal families, weapons, paintings, utensils, inscriptions made of stone and copper and a lot more. Reminders of World War II are also seen here. Visiting Assam State Museum will make a perfect beginning to your tour of Dispur as you get to learn about the glorious past of the place and about its culture.
2. Assam State Zoo And Botanical Gardens
Situated in a sprawling 432 acre of land, Assam State Zoo and Botanical Gardens is the largest in North Eastern region. Established in 1957, the zoo went on to add a botanical garden in 1982. The animals in the zoo include white tiger, rhinoceros, leopard and Himalayan black bear. The botanical garden has a wide range of flowers, plants, herbs as well as shrubs. Children’s park, forest museum and joy rides offer great source of entertainment to you on your visit to Assam State Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
3. Sualkuchi
Sualkuchi is amongst the top favorites in Dispur as it is renowned for silk production. This is where Muga, golden variety of silk is produced. This type of silk is not found in any other part of the world. You could view silk production and production of Muga.
4. Uma Nanda Temple
Uma Nanda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva belongs to 17th century. The temple was constructed by King Gadapani of Ahom on Peacock Island of River Brahmaputra. Another attraction of the island where Uma Nanda temple is situated is that it is home to golden langurs, which are endangered. To reach the temple, you will have to hire ferryboats or motor boats.
5. Srimanta Shakardeva Kalashetra
Srimanta Shakardeva Kalashetra is the place you need to be if you are keen to know about the life and culture of the people of Assam and the tribes living here. Srimanta Shakardeva was a seer in the 15th century. The aim of the institute is to promote, develop, research and restore the rich cultural heritage of the communities of Assam.
6. Regional Science Centre And Museum
The Regional Science Centre and Museum was established in the year 1994. Interactive demonstrations on various topics including life during pre-historic period, science and education are conducted here. The special scientific equipments that are on display attract students. Contributions made to the field of science by various Indian scientists are on display here. Regional Science Centre and Museum is a great place for learning.
7. Evening Cruise on Brahmaputra River
Evening cruise on Brahmaputra River is something you are not to miss on your tour to Dispur. The river originates in Tibet where it is called as Yarlung Zanbo River. It enters Indian Territory through Himalayan gorges into the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It acquires the name Dihang here. River cruises are always attractive and cruising on Brahmaputra River is a lifetime experience. You could have excellent view of sunset and the colors it paint on the majestic river.
8. Janardana Temple
Janardana Temple is situated on the hillock of Shukaleswar. The temple is believed to belong to 10th century. It was later renovated in 17th century. The temple is unique, as you will find the temple’s architecture to be a perfect blend of Hindus and Buddhists.
9. Navagraha Temple
Navagraha Temple, dedicated to nine celestial bodies, was constructed around 18th century. According to those who follow Hinduism, the celestial bodies of our Solar system are considered Gods and they are considered to possess the powers to influence the lives on earth. Hence, people who follow this faith, frequent the temple. The temple is situated on top of Chitrachal Hill.
10. Shilpagram
Shilpagram is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Dispur. The specialty of the culture of Assam can be gauged by the handicraft items on display here. Some of the collections here include ethnic jewellery, silk sarees, handicrafts made of metal and wood and carpets.
11. Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple is situated on Neelachal hilltop. Being the highest point in the city, the views from here are spectacular. Kamakhya Devi Temple refers to the temple complex, which houses nearly twenty temples. The temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya Devi is the largest of all the temples.
12. Basistha Ashram
Basistha Ashram is a pilgrimage site located at the confluence of Sandhya, Lalita and Kanta rivers. Legend goes that the rivers acquired their names from the three wives of Sage Basistha. The ashram is said to have been established by him and it is frequented by pilgrims. Basistha temple, which is built in the ashram, is dedicated to Shiva. The temple was built by King Rajeswar Singha.
All tourist places in Dispur are sure to overwhelm you. Once you are here, do not miss witnessing the live tea auctions conducted near Dispur. India being the largest tea producer in the world and this part of the world having the biggest tea auction house in the world, you are sure to be thrilled viewing the auction. Dispur is a wonderful holiday destination and with proper planning, you could enjoy every minute of your stay here.
Some More Tourist Destinations Of Assam:
