Profile
Introduction:
Sri Surya Pahar is a lesser-known but significant archaeological site in Assam, India, located about 132 km northwest of Guwahati. It is a hilly terrain where several rock-cut Shivalingas, votive stupas, and deities of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain pantheon are scattered in an area of about one km. This site was once one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the region.
About the Place:
The Sri Surya Pahar site is centered on the hills of Sri Surya which is profusely filled with Shiva Lingas. According to popular belief, 99,999 Shiva Lingas were engraved here by Vyasa to build up a second Kashi. However, there is no historical evidence of the exact number of Lingams once dotted in these hills. The area covers extensive space after centuries of neglect and pilferage.
History of Place:
A few years ago, some archaeologists unearthed a few Shiva Lingas and houses at Sri Surya which confirmed the long-held belief that a thriving civilization held sway around Sri Surya Pahar some centuries ago. Scholars even refer to the accounts of famous Chinese traveler Huen Tsang to claim that it was Sri Surya Pahar, not Guwahati, that was the ancient land of Pragjyotishpur or Pragjyotisha Kingdom, the capital of the Kingdom of Kumar Bhaskara Varman (600-650).
Facts about the Place:
The exact figure of the Lingas (and also other deities and relics) in the hill is yet to be counted scientifically. Sri Surya Pahar was once a confluence of three religions, as evident from the innumerable sculptures and other relics belonging to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Entry Fees: The entry to Sri Surya Pahar is free for all.
Timings and Closed Day: The place can be visited from morning to evening every day. However, it is always better to check before visiting the place as the timings can vary.
How Much Time It Will Take to See This Place?
It will take approximately 1-2 hours to explore the entire site of Sri Surya Pahar.
Where to Park Your Vehicle When Visiting This Place?
There is a dedicated parking area near the entrance gate of the site. Visitors can park their vehicles there.
Nearest Metro Stations/Railway Station/Airport:
The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is about 134 km away. The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, which is around 135 km from Sri Surya Pahar.
Activities to Do at This Place:
Sri Surya Pahar is a perfect place for those interested in history and archaeology. Visitors can explore the various rock-cut Shivalingas, votive stupas, and deities of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain pantheon.
Apart from these, there are also various inscriptions that depict the evolution of scripts from Brahmi to Sanskrit, and finally to Assamese. The site is also said to be associated with the legendary King Bhagadatta, who was believed to be the ruler of Pragjyotishpura.
Visitors to Sri Surya Pahar can witness the ancient rock-cut sculptures, votive stupas and deities of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain pantheon. The place is also surrounded by lush greenery, which makes it a perfect spot for a serene and peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Entry to Sri Surya Pahar is free of cost, and visitors can explore the site from sunrise to sunset. It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear as the terrain can be rough and uneven. It is also important to carry sufficient water and snacks as there are no food stalls or shops nearby.
The best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar is during the winter months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. Visitors can spend around 2-3 hours exploring the site, depending on their interest and pace.
When visiting Sri Surya Pahar, it is best to park your vehicle at the designated parking area and walk to the site. The nearest railway station is in Goalpara, which is around 12 km away, and the nearest airport is in Guwahati, which is around 132 km away.
Activities to do at Sri Surya Pahar include exploring the ancient rock-cut sculptures and deities, enjoying the serene and peaceful surroundings, and soaking in the historical and cultural significance of the site.
FAQs:
- Is there an entry fee for Sri Surya Pahar?
A. No, entry to Sri Surya Pahar is free of cost. - What is the best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar?
A. The best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar is during the winter months of October to March. - How long does it take to explore Sri Surya Pahar?
A. Visitors can spend around 2-3 hours exploring Sri Surya Pahar, depending on their interest and pace. - Is there a parking area at Sri Surya Pahar?
A. Yes, there is a designated parking area for visitors to park their vehicles. - Are there any food stalls or shops near Sri Surya Pahar?
A. No, there are no food stalls or shops near Sri Surya Pahar, so it is advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks.
When planning a trip to Sri Surya Pahar, it is recommended that you hire a guide to fully understand the significance of the site and the different monuments present. It is also advised to wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water as the site involves a bit of walking and can get tiring. Make sure to carry a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
As for other places to visit, you can explore the nearby town of Goalpara, which is famous for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. You can also visit the Manas National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in the country.
Yes, there are some places to eat and stay near Sri Surya Pahar. There are a few small local eateries near the site that serve local food and snacks. However, for better options, one can go to nearby towns like Goalpara and Bongaigaon where there are several restaurants serving Indian and Assamese cuisine.
For accommodation, there are not many options available near the site. One can either choose to stay in nearby towns or cities like Goalpara or Bongaigaon or opt for homestays in the nearby villages.
The best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar is during the winter months between October to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, and one can enjoy exploring the site without any hindrance. During the monsoon season, the region experiences heavy rainfall, which might affect the exploration of the site.
Apart from the Lingas, votive stupas and deities of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain pantheon, there is a lot more to explore at Sri Surya Pahar. The site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Brahmaputra River. The place is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several species of birds and butterflies.
Overall, Sri Surya Pahar is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts who wish to explore the lesser-known archaeological sites of India. It offers a unique insight into the religious and cultural diversity of ancient India and is sure to leave one mesmerized with its beauty and serenity.
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