Assam - the land of red rivers and blue hills have many unexplored destinations tucked in some sleepy corners. One such concealed yet mesmerizing jewel is my home town- Margherita. This small town, in the district of Tinsukia, was once a very important trade route with China through the historic Stillwell Road.
This western name of Margherita has an interesting story. This place was named after the Italian queen Margaret to honor the Italian Chief Engineer Chavelier R Paginini who was associated with some major railway developments in the town.
This postcard-perfect place is nestled in the foot of Patkai Hills and a tributary to the mighty Brahmaputra, the river Burhi Dehing flows through the heart of the town. Margherita is known as the 'Coal Queen of Assam' as coal is found in abundance. The place is also famous for its tea. But there's much more in store for travelers who are keen to explore this hidden gem of Eastern India.
Things to do in Margherita:
1. Coal Heritage Park and Museum Tour:
Your trip to the Coal Queen of Assam will be incomplete without a visit to the Coal Heritage Park and Museum. This is the first coal museum in the northeast. A glimpse into the history of the place and its coal heritage can be experienced in this museum.
2.Buddhist monastery visit:
The Buddhist Monasteries are an integral part of Margherita’s religious scene. Dibong and Pawoi Mukh villages are two places to experience the Buddhist culture and religion. These two monasteries offer much needed peace of mind to a weary soul.
3. Taste the Singpho Way of Life:
To soak in the spirit of culture, tradition and splendor of natural beauty, one must explore and taste the Singpho way of life in Margherita. A short drive from the main market can lead to a charming little village called Ketetong. This village is a cultural hotspot as along with other tribes and indigenous people, an ancient tribe of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the Singpho resides here. Rich in cultural heritage, the village is adorned with some beautifully constructed bamboo and wooden “Chang Ghar.” To satiate the taste buds of a wanderlust soul, the village has an unique eco resort, Singpho Eco Lodge which offers some delectable traditional Singpho delicacies with a traditional ambience to die for!
4. A drive on the historic Stillwell Road:
While in Margherita, a true explorer must head out for a drive on the Stillwell Road. The road was built during World War II to ease connectivity between India and China as the Japanese had cut off the Burma Road in 1942. The road was first named Ledo Road and later renamed as Stillwell Road after the General of U.S.Army Joseph Stillwell.
5. A leisurely stroll amidst the meandering tea gardens, alongthe river bank:
The beautiful tea gardens spread across the tops of the small hills and plains offers an exhilarating experience to a wanderer. The winding roads, the aroma of the fresh tea leaves and the landscape are enticing enough to make one crave for more. An evening walk on the river bank will be a perfect end to a stunning day. When the day turns into a mellow evening, the sky wears an amber hue and this little town is blanketed in a soothing calmness that will transport one to a dreamy world.
The breathtaking tea gardens, the surrounding Patkai hills, the picturesque river in the middle and the warm hearted people make this place an exceptional affair to remember forever!
Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia
Nearest airport: Dibrugarh
If you ever plan a trip to Assam, make sure to stop by Margherita - trust me when I say this, you'll fall in love with my hometown :)
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