Silchar, Assam: Gateway to Barak Valley | Culture, History & Nature

Situated along the banks of the majestic Barak River, Silchar is the thriving economic and cultural heart of Southern Assam’s Barak Valley. Fondly known as the “Island of Peace,” this captivating city weaves together a tapestry of history, scenic beauty, and a vibrant linguistic legacy. For those eager to discover a distinctive side of Assam, Silchar offers an enriching and memorable experience.

Location & Best Timing to Visit

• Location: Silchar is strategically located in the southern part of Assam, serving as a gateway to Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura. It's surrounded by tea gardens and lush green hills, characteristic of the Barak Valley.

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Silchar is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasantly cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 28°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, often leading to floods, while summers (April to May) can be hot and humid.

Places to Visit in & Around Silchar

Silchar and its surroundings offer a diverse range of attractions, from spiritual sites to natural retreats:

1. Kancha Kanti Devi Temple:

   • Description: A highly revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Kancha Kanti, a fusion of Kali and Durga. This ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel, attracting devotees from across the region.

   • Timing: Typically open from early morning (around 6:00 AM) till late evening (around 8:00 PM), with a midday break. Best to visit during morning or evening aarti.

2. Maniharan Tunnel & Temple:

   • Description: Located a short drive from Silchar, this site is associated with Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Krishna passed through this tunnel while pursuing a demon. There's a temple complex and a serene riverine setting.

   • Timing: Daylight hours are best, generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

3. Bhuban Hills:

   • Description: Known for the Bhuban Mahadev Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) and other cave temples. It's a popular trekking destination offering panoramic views and a tranquil environment. The trek can be challenging but rewarding.

   • Timing: Early morning to afternoon. Plan a full day if you intend to trek to the top. It's advisable to have a local guide for the trek.

4. Badarpur Fort (Ruins):

   • Description: Though mostly in ruins, this ancient fort on the bank of the Barak River holds historical significance, reflecting the region's past. It offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of bygone eras.

   • Timing: Accessible during daylight hours.

5. Martyr's Memorial (Bhasha Shahid Smarak):

   • Description: A poignant memorial commemorating the 11 martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Bengali language in 1961 during a protest against the Assam government's decision to make Assamese the sole official language. It stands as a symbol of linguistic pride and sacrifice.

   • Timing: Always accessible. Best for a reflective visit during daytime.

6. Tea Gardens:

   • Description: The Barak Valley is home to numerous sprawling tea estates. A drive through these lush green landscapes is incredibly refreshing. Some estates might offer tours or allow visitors for a glimpse into tea processing (enquire locally).

   • Timing: Daytime.

Connectivity to Silchar

Silchar is a well-connected city, making it easily accessible for travelers from various parts of India.

• By Air:

  • Silchar Airport (IXS): This is the primary airport serving the Barak Valley. It has direct flights connecting to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi, Imphal, and Bangalore.

  • Location: Located approximately 29 km from the city center.

  • Local Transport from Airport: Taxis and shared autos are readily available outside the airport to take you to the city.

• By Rail:

  • Silchar Railway Station (SCL): A significant railway junction in the region. Silchar is connected by broad gauge lines to Guwahati, Lumding, Agartala, and other parts of India.

  • Travel Time: From Guwahati, the train journey takes approximately 9-10 hours, passing through scenic landscapes.

• By Road:

  • Silchar is connected by National Highways (NH-6 and others) to major cities in Assam and neighboring states like Meghalaya (via Shillong), Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur.

  • Bus Services: Regular government and private bus services operate from Guwahati, Shillong, Agartala, Aizawl, Imphal, and other towns to Silchar.

  • Private Cabs: Taxis and private cars can also be hired from major cities for a comfortable journey.

  • Travel Time: From Guwahati, the road journey takes approximately 7-8 hours (via Shillong), while from Shillong, it's about 5-6 hours.

Other Relevant Information for Travelers

• Accommodation: Silchar offers a decent range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly lodges and guesthouses to mid-range and a few upscale hotels. Most are located conveniently in the city center or near major transport hubs. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is advisable.

• Local Cuisine: The cuisine in Silchar is predominantly Bengali-influenced, given the linguistic majority. Expect delicious fish curries (like maachher jhol), rice-based meals, shukto (mixed vegetable stew), dal, and a variety of bhaja (fries). Don't forget to try local sweets like rosogolla and sandesh.

• Local Transportation: Within Silchar city, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and shared minivans (called "trekker" or "sumo") are common modes of transport. For longer distances or excursions to nearby sites, hiring a private taxi or car is convenient.

• People and Language: The predominant language spoken in Silchar is Bengali. Assamese and Hindi are also widely understood, especially by traders and younger generations. English is spoken in hotels and by educated individuals. The people are generally warm and hospitable.

• Festivals: Silchar celebrates all major Bengali festivals with great fervor, particularly Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Saraswati Puja, which are grand affairs. Other significant festivals include Diwali, Eid, and Christmas.

• Safety Tips: Silchar is generally a safe city. However, like any other urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Keep your belongings secure and avoid venturing into isolated areas alone.

Experience the Charm of the Barak Valley

Silchar offers a refreshing departure from the usual tourist trails, inviting you to discover its unique linguistic pride, spiritual depth, and the serene beauty of the Barak Valley. Whether you're interested in history, spirituality, or simply a tranquil escape, Silchar promises an enriching and memorable journey.

Read also: Top 10 Places in Assam