Current Tezpur is regarded as the commercial, administrative and the educational center of Assam apart from being a major base for the Indian Army and the Indian Air force. A central university (Tezpur University) is located at the place and the city also boasts of a number of reputed schools and institutions like the Darrang College and the Assam Valley School. The city is also regarded as the main commercial hub of the state. The contribution of this place to the art, culture, and literature especially during the freedom struggle, is remarkable, and has earned it a niche in the history of Assam. Apart from that, Tezpur is also known for being home to a number of tourist places. The most important attractions have been mentioned below.Places to see in Tezpur
Agnigarh
Agnigarh is one of the most important tourist destinations of Tezpur. A circular stairway leads to the peak of the hill and offers a good trekking option. In fact, people often come here for picnic or simply to enjoy the scenes and sights. There is a very famous legendary story behind this place.
Cole Park
Located in one of the most beautiful and legendary places of Assam, the Cole Park attracts a host of travelers and nature lovers every year. This park was established by Mr. Cole, a Commissioner of Assam under British rule. It was later renovated by Mr. M.G.V.K. Bhanu, the deputy Commissioner of Tezpur, in 1996.
Mahabhairab Temple
Mahabhairab Temple, located atop a small hill in the northern part of Tezpur, is considered as a major landmark of this ancient city and contributes a lot to the magnetic charm and beauty of the place. It is believed that the original temple was made of stone, constructed by Banasura, the demon king who had his capital at Tezpur.
Ketakeshwar Dewal
Ketakeshwar Dewal is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the northeast zone of India. The entire temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and enshrines one of the biggest Shiva lingams in the entire world. Over the years, the temple has emerged as the most important pilgrimage centre in the state of Assam.
Hazara Pukhuri
Hazara Pukhuri is a very large tank, spreading across 70 acres (280,000 sq m), situated in the Tezpur city of Assam. It dates back to 19th century tank and was built by the famous king of the Ahom Dynasty, Harjjar Varma.
Bamuni Hills
To the east of Tezpur city are the remnants of Bamuni Hill, are renowned for their excellent artistic finesse. The structural remains present here date back to the 9th and 10th century and attract historians and art lovers from all over the world. A group of seven shrines is located here and figures of ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu are carved over the horned Kirtimukha panels that adorn the cross-shaped bracket lintel.
Nag Sankar Temple
East of Tezpur, at Jamuguri, we can find a very well-known temple, which is known as Nag Sankar. It is said that King Narasankar of Nagakha built the shrine, sometime around the 4th century. The place has now become a very famous pilgrimage centre of not only Tezpur, but the whole of Assam.
Padum Pukhuri
Padum Pukhuri (padum means lotus) is a well-known lake, with an island situated inside. This island has been converted into a park, with a musical fountain and it is connected with the mainland by means of an iron bridge. The main attractions within the park are the water sports, like rowing and paddling. It also has a toy train.
