According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report (2026), Jorhat in Assam has surpassed global hotspots like Berlin and Langkawi to become the most trending destination for Indian travellers, registering a 493% increase in travel searches.

Historical and Cultural Background

• Jorhat, located in Upper Assam, was once the last capital of the Ahom Kingdom before the Burmese invasions in the early 19th century. 
• The name “Jorhat” derives from “Jor” (twin) and “Hat” (market), referring to the two major trading markets — Chowkihat and Macharhat.
• Today, Jorhat stands as a bridge between Assam’s glorious Ahom past and its modern identity as the Tea Capital of the World.

Tea Heritage and Colonial Legacy

1. Cinnamora Tea Estate (1839): Assam’s oldest tea estate, established by Maniram Dewan, the first Indian tea planter.

2. Sangsua Tea Estate (1884): Among the most scenic estates, known for its heritage bungalow built in classic colonial style.

3. Thengal Manor (1929): Built by Raibahadur Siva Prasad Barooah, this grand bungalow marks a milestone in Assamese media history as the site from where “Dainik Batori”, Assam’s first daily newspaper, was published in 1930.

• Now a heritage tea bungalow, it allows visitors to experience the elegance of the tea era.

4. Tocklai Tea Research Institute (1911): The world’s oldest and largest tea research centre, leading innovations in tea cultivation, flavour development, and climate resilience.

Colonial Heritage: Tea Bungalows and Institutions

Jorhat still retains a number of British-era structures that once served planters and officials:

• Jorhat Gymkhana Club (1876): Established by D. Slimmon has the oldest golf course in Asia and the third oldest in the world. 
• Das & Co. Building: One of the earliest trading establishments of British Assam, located in Jorhat town, it served as a commercial hub for tea and imported goods. Its red-brick architecture reflects the colonial mercantile style.

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

1. Swargadeo Chaolung Siu-Ka-Pha Samanway Kshetra: Built in honour of Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom dynasty who entered Assam in 1228 CE and established his capital at Che-Rai-Doi.

2. Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar (1461): Founded by Saint-reformer Madhabdev, this is one of Assam’s most sacred Vaishnavite centres.

• The main pillar of the Namghar is said to be made from the Xaal (Shorea robusta) tree planted by the saint himself.
  

3. Lachit Borphukan Maidam: The burial site of Lachit Borphukan, the legendary Ahom general who led Assam’s army to victory against the Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat (1671).

• His remains were interred here by Swargadeo Udayaditya Singha, symbolising Assam’s martial glory.

4. Statue of Valour – Lachit Borphukan: The 125-foot bronze statue, sculpted by Ram Vanji Sutar, stands as one of India’s tallest warrior statues.

Natural and Educational Landmarks

1. Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary: Declared in 1881 (as Hoollongapar Forest) and later renamed, this sanctuary is home to India’s only ape species — the Hoolock Gibbon.

• It also shelters stump-tailed macaques and Assamese macaques, making it an ecological hotspot.
  

2. Assam Agricultural University (est. 1969): Established under the Assam Agricultural University Act, 1968, it is the state’s premier agricultural institution contributing to research in sustainable farming and rural development.

3. Chandrakanta Handique Bhawan (1926): Headquarters of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, built through donations from Radhakanta Handique.

Significance: Promotion of authentic, culture-rich destinations over commercial hubs, Revival of tea tourism and heritage, Increased visibility of Assamese culture, history, and hospitality.

Prelims MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Jorhat in Assam:

1. The Cinnamora Tea Estate, established by Maniram Dewan, is the oldest tea estate in Assam.
   
2. Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar was founded by Sankardeva in 1461.
   
3. Jorhat Gymkhana Club, built in 1876, is home to Asia’s oldest golf course.
   
4. Thengal Manor was the site from which the first Assamese daily newspaper Dainik Batori was published.
   

Which of the above statements are correct?

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

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