Quick Facts
Geographical & Historical Facts
- Location: Jorhat is located in Upper Assam, on the northeastern part of India.
- Historical Importance: It was the last capital of the Ahom Kingdom, which ruled Assam for nearly 600 years before British colonization.
- The name “Jorhat” is derived from “Jor” meaning two and “Hat” meaning market — referring to two market places, Macharhat and Chowkihat.
Cultural & Educational Significance
- Cultural Hub: Jorhat is considered the Cultural Capital of Assam, home to several satras (Vaishnavite monasteries) and historical sites.
- Educational Institutions:
- Jorhat Engineering College
- Assam Agricultural University (AAU) – India's first agricultural university in the northeast.
- Tezpur University has a regional center here.
- Tocklai Tea Research Institute (established in 1911) is Asia’s oldest and largest tea research center.
Nature & Tourism
- Majuli Island: World's largest river island, located on the Brahmaputra near Jorhat. It’s a major center for Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture.
- Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary: Famous for India's only gibbon species – the Hoolock Gibbon.
- Surrounded by lush tea gardens, offering a picturesque landscape typical of Upper Assam.
Economy
- Jorhat is a major tea trading center. Many tea estates and gardens are situated in and around the district.
- It has a growing economy centered around tea, agriculture, education, and tourism.
Connectivity
- Jorhat Airport (Rowriah Airport) connects it to cities like Guwahati and Kolkata.
- Road and rail networks are well-developed, linking it with other major towns and cities in Assam.
Famous Personalities from Jorhat
- Dr. Bhupen Hazarika – Renowned singer and cultural icon of Assam.
- Lachit Borphukan – Legendary general of the Ahom Army, known for his heroic leadership against the Mughals.
