Jorhat

Jorhat: Explore Assam’s Tea Capital & Cultural Heritage

Talking about urban centres in Assam, Jorhat is one of the most important and appreciated cities of the state. It was once the capital of the Ahom Kingdom and has a fair share of historical influence. The city is popular for various reasons and Kaziranga National Park is one of them. Be it beauty or wildlife, the city has everything to offer. Apart from its culture and lifestyle, people visit Jorhat to explore the largest riverine island in the world, Majuli Island. Ferries are available from Jorhat to the island which is around 20km from the city.

History of Jorhat

The word 'Jorhat' means two 'haats' or 'market'. Marcharhat and Chowkihat were two different banks of Bhugoi River in the 18th century. Jorhat was the capital of Ahom Kingdom and flourished to the fullest in the reign of the Ahom King, Gaurinath Singha. In the year 1794, he shifted his capital from Sibsagar to Jorhat. Then, it was acquired by the Burmese after the sudden invasion in 1817. Since then, the Burmese ruled the region till 1824 before the invasion of British East India Company.

Major Attractions in and Around Jorhat

1. Majuli

India has got so much to offer to people residing in the country and also to those coming from outside the country to witness the rich culture and heritage along with its stunning attractions. Majuli is a name that makes India proud because of its beauty and serenity. It is the world’s largest riverine island which is located in the Brahmaputra River of Assam.

2. Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

Positioned at a distance of 20km from the main town, the wildlife sanctuary is known for its hoolock gibbon population. Bordered by the Brahmaputra river on one side and tea gardens on the other, this place is not just home to 40 species of hoolock gibbons, but also to capped langur, stump-tailed macaque, pigtail macaque, rhesus macaque, slow loris, elephant, and various other animal species.

3. Nimati Ghat

Known among the significant Aunjati ports of the state, the Nimati ghat works as a link for ferry boats that operate from the river port to the Majuli Island, Kamalabaru and Aunaiti. One can enjoy boat riding and experience the natural beauty of Jorhat.

4. Molai Forest Reserve

Situated on Majuli Island, it is one of the best things to explore in Jorhat. Molai Forest Reserve is home to Bengal Tigers, Indian Rhinoceros, Deer, and other animals like rabbits. Also, it is the place where you can find several varieties of birds such as vultures. Apart from this, it houses different types of trees namely Arjun, royal poinciana, cotton trees etc.

5. Cinnamora Tea Estate

The tea estate was established by Maniram Dewan who was a sirastadar of an assistant commissioner in 1850. This popular tea estate is also the first one of the state.

6. Dhekiakhowa BorNamghar

It is one of the most important Namghars of Assam which was established by saint-reformer Madhavdeva. He lit up an earthen lamp in the year of 1528 and it is still burning. It is the perfect place to acquire some spirituality.

Things to Do in Jorhat

Explore Tea Estates – Enjoy tea tasting, plantation walks, and factory tours.
Take a Ferry to Majuli – Discover Assam’s cultural and religious heritage.
Visit Satras & Namghars – Learn about Assamese Vaishnavism and traditional art forms.
Go Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting – Visit Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary.
Attend Festivals – Experience Bihu, Majuli Raas Leela, and Tea Festival.

Best Time to Visit Jorhat

October – March (Winter & Spring) - Ideal weather for exploring tea gardens, monuments, and outdoor activities.
April – June (Summer) - Warm but suitable for cultural tours.
July – September (Monsoon) - The region experiences heavy rains, making travel difficult.

How to Reach Jorhat

Jorhat, being one of the major cities of Assam. It also lists in the urban cities of the state. Beautiful mosques, temples, gardens can leave a great impression in the minds of tourists. Here, people mostly speak in the Assamese language. Also, Hindi and English are prevalent in the city. The city is 2,197.4 km via NH27, 3,021.0 km via NH27, 1,291.8 km)via NH27, 3,247.9 km via NH 44 away from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangaluru respectively.

By Air

Jorhat is having its own airport named Rowriah Airport aka Jorhat Airport. Being 4th major airport of Assam, it is well-connected to cities like Guwahati, Kolkata. Another major airport is Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport aka Guwahati Airport situated in Guwahati. It is about 323 kilometres away from Jorhat. The airport is well-connected to major cities of India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, Imphal etc. Once you reach the airport, you can take local transport modes to reach Jorhat.

Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Jorhat

By Road

Jorhat has got well-established roads which are connected to other areas of Assam. Road trips within the state are amazing. There are several areas that are well-connected to Jorhat via road. Some of them are Dimapur, Sibsagar, Guwahati, Itanagar, Imphal, Shillong etc.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Jorhat Railway Station which is well-networked with other major cities of Assam. Also, if you are travelling from other states of India, you need to deboard at Guwahati Railway Station and then head to local express trains to reach.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jorhat

Q: Where is Jorhat located?
A: Jorhat is located in the state of Assam in northeastern India.

Q: What are the tourist attractions in Jorhat?
A: Some of the popular tourist attractions in Jorhat include Jorhat Gymkhana Club, Radha Krishna Mandir, and Jorhat Science Centre.

Q: How far is Majuli from Jorhat?
A: Majuli is about 20 km from Jorhat and can be reached by a 1-2 hour ferry ride from Neemati Ghat.

Q: How many days are enough to explore Jorhat?
A: A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal to explore tea estates, historical sites, Majuli, and wildlife.