Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre — Attraction in Assam

The Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre is an epitome of Assam's rich cultural and historical legacy, nestled on the picturesque banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River. This magnificent structure, a restored British-era bungalow, stands as a testament to the region's storied past, while showcasing the river's profound impact on the lives of those who inhabit its banks.

As one steps into the Heritage Centre, they are greeted by an array of exhibits that chronicle the river's odyssey, from its origins in the Tibetan Plateau to its confluence with the Ganges. The exhibits are a masterful blend of traditional artifacts, interactive digital installations, and captivating photographs, which collectively weave a narrative that is both informative and engaging.

One of the centre's most striking features is its art installations, which pay tribute to the river's majesty and the lives it sustains. The "River Life" installation, for instance, is a poignant representation of the river's rhythms and the people who live in harmony with its ebbs and flows. Similarly, the "Heritage Mosaic" is a stunning depiction of the region's rich cultural heritage, with intricate patterns and designs that reflect the diverse traditions of the Brahmaputra Valley.

The centre's library is another treasure trove of knowledge, housing a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and documents that shed light on various aspects of the Brahmaputra River and its valley. From historical accounts to scientific studies, the library offers a wealth of information that caters to the interests of scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.

After exploring the centre's many wonders, visitors can unwind at the riverside café, which serves an array of local delicacies and refreshments. The café's tranquil ambiance and stunning views of the Brahmaputra make it an ideal spot to relax and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The Heritage Centre's beautifully landscaped gardens, which stretch along the riverfront, offer breathtaking views of the Brahmaputra and provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As the sun sets over the river, the gardens take on a magical quality, with the sound of birds chirping and the gentle lapping of the water against the shore creating a soothing melody.

The Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre is not just a museum or a cultural hub; it is a celebration of the river's life-giving spirit and the people who call its banks home. Through its various initiatives, including cultural events, workshops, and lectures, the centre seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the river and its significance in the lives of the people of Assam.

In conclusion, the Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of Assam. With its stunning architecture, captivating exhibits, and serene ambiance, the centre offers a unique and enriching experience that will leave visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Brahmaputra River...

THIS PLACE IS A HIT OR MISS/LOVE AND HATE AT THE SAME TIME. TAKE YOUR PICK!! Beautiful location and manicured garden (though not a huge variety of flora). Pleasant atmosphere with a splendid view of the river. Appreciable that they don't charge entrance fee for senior citizens.

The Museum: The old DC bungalow has been converted to a museum of broader Assamese history. For people who are unfamiliar, it is a good experience. Display and curation, especially of the textiles and weaves is beautifully done. Other rooms could be better and I say this only because they charge Rs. 100 person. Maybe Rs 50 would have been more justifiable. The write up is good but not readable. The maps and writeups are placed high above the eye level of an average height person. Small font and too wordy; could have been more eloquent writings.

Starbucks Cafe: The staff seemed somewhat confused with the orders (they didn't mess up though). Just overwhelmed I think, which should not be the case given that it was only at 25% capacity when I went on a weekday afternoon. The baristas are young and don't speak up. I ordered the Kenya blend hot coffee and was told they dont have it brewed at this time. I asked if they can brew and then they again seemed confused or hesitant. When one pays Rs. 250 for a cup of coffee, I expect the cafe to be able to provide what's on the menu. Finally I requested a pour over. The suggestion should have come from them in the first place. It was sitting there till I asked them to pour it and of course by then it was over brewed and nasty to taste.

Overall experience: It is a calm and quite atmosphere in the middle of a bustling business neighborhood. Terrific view but comes with a price (sad that now one has to pay to view nature). They have very small playgrounds. Waste of time and money if you come with kids. The viewing area has railing but not entirely child proof, so one has to watch the kids the entire time. This place is not for children. Not enough play area and gets noisy and annoying to others who come there for a quite time.

They need to have options for mode of payment. Expensive place and don't accept credit card? Stupid process of checking tickets and bills on the way out. When they already check your ticket when entering the museum, what is the logic of checking at the exit gate? And if the Rs.20 ticket needs to be checked, do so when entering. Why does it matter if one spent money in Starbucks or not? Basically, started great and ended with an...

A British-era bungalow on a hillock that used to be the 17th century military office of the Ahom rulers has been converted into a heritage centre depicting life along the Brahmaputra River.

Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu on October 3 inaugurated the Mahabahu Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre on Guwahati’s Barphukanar Tila, meaning Barphukan’s Hillock. A Scottish-type wooden bungalow standing since 1850 was renovated and converted into the heritage centre.

Barpukhan was a post equivalent to Governor General created by Ahom king Pratap Simha or Susengpha (1603-1641). The hillock by the Brahmaputra, mentioned in ancient scriptures as Mandrachal, was from where Ahom General Lachit Barpukhan launched the Battle of Saraighat in March 1671 to inflict the most crushing defeat on the Mughals.

Saraighat is regarded as the “greatest naval battle ever fought in a river”.

Captain Archibald Bogle, posted as the Assistant Commissioner and Collector of Kamrup district in the 1850s, had the bungalow built. Post-Independence, it continued to be the Deputy Commissioner’s Bungalow until 2011.

“Standing as a grand tribute to the majestic river and capturing its significance to the region, the Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre has been set up in a nearly 150-year-old bungalow after an elaborate restoration,” Mr. Naidu said.

He called for a national campaign for rejuvenating Indian rivers and the inclusion of lessons on water conservation in the school curricula.

Appreciating the Brahmaputra Heritage centre, the Vice-President said other cultural places too should create green and healthy spaces for people.

The centre has on display the history of the Battle of Saraighat, the heritage of Assamese war boats, an amphitheatre, an exhibition space, a cafeteria and two viewing decks. The other attractions include a collection of traditional fishing equipment, photographs and artefacts related to the history of Guwahati and river transport, installations depicting the textile designs, ethnic motifs and indigenous musical instruments of communities inhabiting the banks of the...