Situated on the banks of the river Brahmaputra, Tezpur has preserved the cultural ethos of Assam from time immemorial.

Tezpur derives its names from the Sanskrit root words Tez which means blood and Pura which means town. There are indications that this city was called Sonitpur in ancient India. During the epic war Mahabharatha, this city witnessed a bitter battle between Lord Krishna’s army and the Banasuras to rescue Aniruddha. The name Tezpur was born out of the bloodshed.

During your tour to north-east India if you are looking to bask in the glory of the past and soak in the rich cultural heritage, then Tezpur is sure to find its way into your package tour.

History of Tezpur

History in Tezpur can be traced back to the 8^th and 9^th century AD. There are various historical ruins including the Bamuni hills which are relics from this era. They showcase art belonging to the Gupta period. The next account of history actually then transposes to Modern India where is there is account of Tezpur being established as the capital of the Darrang district by the British East India company. There is also mention of Tezpur having borne the influx of refugees from Burma during World War II. Tezpur continued to remain the capital of Darrang in independent India. During the Indo-China war in 1962, the town was under threat by the Chinese army. This led to the jail gates being opened and all prisoners being released. In 1983 Tezpur become the capital of the newly formed Sonitpur district.

Tourism in Tezpur

Besides history and mythology, Tezpur is filled with wonderful mix of archaeological ruins, exotic garden, lakes and beautiful hills.

Some of the most important sites bearing the historical inscriptions are the Bamuni hills and Da Parbatia. The Bamuni hills showcases 9^th century AD art with a cross shaped lintel adorned with Kirtimukha panels bear the ten different incarnations of Lord Vishnu as told in Hindu mythology.Da Parbatia is a relic of the 6^th century AD. The doorframe is a masterpiece of Gupta art bearing innumerable sculptures of Goddess Ganga and Yamuna.

Chitralekha Udyan is a beautiful garden retreat filled with sculptures, pillars and water sports facilities. Agnigarh hill is yet another destination which is home to well manicured and exotic garden.

If you are interested in adventure, you can try your hand at climbing the monolithic rock at Ouguri hill, and if you are looking to camp outside, then the tents available at Nameri National Park may interest you. The park is home to elephants, deer and black bears.

Another interesting stopover is the Kolia Bhomora bridge. Amongst the longest bridges in India it connects Tezpur and Nagaon and offers a breathtaking view.

True to its name Tezpur offers the entire repertoire of Assamese culture including the dance forms of Jhumur, Bihu, Sattriya and Bagrumba. Archery and golf are quite popular here.

An eclectic mix of myth, history and culture Tezpur usually finds its way on the travel itinery of those on a tour of India.