Tinsukia

State

Located in the north-eastern region of India, Tinsukia is one of the administrative districts of the state of Assam. Originally known as Changmai Pathar, Tinsukia previously had its name as Bangmara. Tinsukia is bordered by Dibrugarh District of Assam in the south-west. The Lower Dibang Valley District and the Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh lie to the northern and the eastern region of Tinsukia, respectively.

Situated 480 km north-east of Guwahati and 84 km away from the border of Arunachal Pradesh, Tinsukia covers a geographical area of 3790 sq km. With a total population of 1,316,948, the major towns of Tinsukia District are Digboi, Margherita, Doomdooma, Makum and Tinsukia. Known for its rich flora and fauna the major rivers that flow through Tinsukia are Bhramaputra, Lohit, Buri Dehing and Dibru. Tinsukia is divided into three sub divisions that are Sadiya, Tinsukia and Margherita.

According to an ancient map prepared by Captain Hamilton Vetch which dates back to 1841, some parts of the Tinsukia District were known as “Bengmara” country of Moamareeya Tribe. The first ruler of Tinsukia was Swargadeo Sarbanada Singha, who was the king of the Muttack Kingdom. The 18th century and the early years of the 19th century was when the Muttack Kingdom occupied the Ahom kingdom by waging the Moamareeya rebellion.

The rich culture which adds to Tinsukia’s vibrant history comprises of numerous ancient festivals such as Shapawang Yawng Manau Poi, Bihu, Ali-Aye-Ligang, Tuluni and Saghi which are celebrated with great zeal. Shapawang Yawng Manau Poi is known to be the most famous folk dance festival and is held on the 14th of February every year. Assamese, Bengali and Hindi are the major languages spoken in the region.

With an economy based on agriculture, plantation and forestry, the Tinsukia District is known for orange cultivation. Besides, the other crops grown here include tea, ginger and rice paddy. One of the major tourist spots of Tinsukia is the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park which attracts bird watchers from all over the world. This national park is also the natural habitat for the feral horse and is open to visitors from the month of November to the month of April.

Tinsukia can be reached by air very easily as the nearest airport to this destination is at Mohanbari which is 40 km away. Tinsukia is also well connected by rail and road. The best time to visit Tinsukia is during the monsoon and winters.