SILCHAR: A TOURIST ATTRACTION BOASTING OF SCENIC BEAUTY, RICH CULTURE AND TRADITIONS.

Silchar, a vibrant town in Assam, situated on the banks of Barak river and in between the lush green hills of the valley, often overshadowed by its more renowned counterparts in Assam stands out with its own unique charm, making it a great place to add into your travel list. It is a place that is fascinating culturally, traditionally and religiously all the same. Silchar has a rich and diverse history shaped by its geography and cultural influences. The town has been a destination for migrants from other parts of India and neighbouring countries. This influx has contributed to Silchar's diverse cultural and social fabric. 

Silchar was founded by one British captain in 1832, when the headquarters of Cachar was shifted to Janiganj in Silchar. The drafted history of the place dates back to the 13th century, when the Tippera Dynasty of Tripura conquered the place and continued ruling for the next 3 centuries or so. Since then, multiple kingdoms came in and ruled over the disputed land of Cachar, and because of different kinds of rulers, also having witnessed invasions by the  Burmese, this district turned out to be a concoction of several different cultures and ethnicities. 

Silchar, the principal city in the Cachar district, is surrounded by verdant tea gardens, rolling hills, and serene landscapes. Its picturesque environment offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The nearby Barak River, with its gentle flow and scenic banks, overlooking the city’s vibrant lights at night,  provides an excellent setting. Sadarghat is a picturesque spot, with its gentle flowing water on the banks of the Barak River. It’s ideal for relaxing walks, enjoying boat rides, and taking in the scenic river views. 

One of Silchar's most captivating aspects is its rich cultural diversity. The city is a melting pot of various ethnic communities, where Bengalis and  Manipuris comprise the majority of the population. This cultural amalgamation is evident in the city's festivals, cuisine, and daily life. The local cuisine in Silchar is a delectable reflection of its diverse cultures. From mouthwatering authentic bengali food to piquant manipuri dishes, it all comes together in one place. As the days go by, several different exotic food destinations keep coming out in the town varying from traditional dishes to multicuisine hotspots.

Silchar is not just about natural beauty and festivals; it also boasts intriguing historical sites. The Koch ruler’s Khaspur Ruins, located a short drive from the city, are remnants of an ancient civilization that once thrived in the region. These ruins provide a glimpse into the past, with their impressive structures and historical significance. Silchar is the site of the world's first polo club.  It was later renamed to Silchar Polo Club and survives today as the Cachar Club, though no polo is played any more. The first competitive modern form of polo was played in Silchar as well, and the plaque for this feat still stands behind the local District Library. Silchar was a tea town and Cachar Club was the meeting point for tea planters. Cachar Club continues to stand as the ideal place for meetings, located in Club Road. 

The city’s temples, including the Kachakanti Kalibari, dating back to the 1900s  and several other places of worship, add to its cultural and spiritual landscape. These sites are not only places of worship but also offer visitors insights into the region's religious practices and architectural styles. The town boasts of several different historically-enriched temples, like the Masimpur Kalibari, located near the Army base camp, and the highly revered Bhuban Mahadev Mandir, situated in the outskirts of the town, where one has to hike for long hours to reach the temple premises.  

For those with a penchant for adventure, Silchar offers opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities. The surrounding hills and forests are ideal for trekking and nature walks. The Maniharan tunnel, located 5 kms from the Bhuban Mahadev temple, is a breathtaking sight to behold, boasting of a spectacular waterfall. Located about 25 km from Silchar, Dolu Lake is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. It’s a good spot for nature enthusiasts.

Although not in Silchar itself, Haflong is a nearby hill station, about 90 km away known for its pleasant weather and stunning views. It’s a popular destination for those seeking a break from the plains. Silchar also serves as the gateway to the states of Manipur and Mizoram, so one can enjoy being on the plains in Silchar and get the taste of hills as well because of the neighbouring naturally rich places. 

Silchar being a developed city is connected to the rest of Assam and Northeast. The city has a well connected air, rail and road network. There is a broad gauge rail network to Lumding and Agartala. The Silchar railway station is located at Tarapur. Silchar airport is located at Kumbhirgram, about 22 km from Silchar town. There are regular flights to Kolkata,  Guwahati and other Northeastern states, also connecting flights to the rest of the country from Silchar. Silchar is connected to Guwahati and other Northeastern states by the national highways. Bus facilities are available from Silchar to Guwahati and other connecting places. Hence, as the transport has become relatively easier over the years of development, going to and fro from the place has become manageable, although, there is still scope for greater developments for connectivity.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Silchar is the warmth and hospitality of its people. The city’s residents, known for their friendly demeanour and cultural pride, make visitors feel welcome and offer genuine insights into the region’s way of life.

Conclusion

Silchar, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, historical significance, and the shrine for holy religious practices, offers a unique travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. It is a city where traditional charm meets modern extravagance, making it an enriching destination for travellers looking to explore the northeastern region of India. As we move forward, keeping the significance of the values of the town in our minds, one can only hope to see the place flourishing as a hub for tourism.