Chirang

Chirang is a district blessed with lush forests, rolling hills, and a rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This district in the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam is also popular among tourists for its exotic orchids, avifauna, and butterfly species.

Attractions

Ripu and Chirang Reserve Forest: This forest area is known for its rich flora and fauna. Birdwatching, nature walks, and wildlife photography are popular activities here.

Rongabati River: The serene river offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Aie River: The Aie River is a tributary of the Manas River which flows through Chirang District. The riverbanks of Aie are mainly popular for the vibrant Dwijing Festival celebrated annually during December or January.

Bhumeshwar Hill: Bhumeshwar Hill is another popular sightseeing attraction where tourists can explore Birijhora Tea Estate, Bageshwari Temple, and Koya Khuliya Beel.

Local Villages: A visit to traditional Bodo villages allows tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Laoti Hagrama Bridge: Your Chirang tour will be incomplete without a visit to the stunning Laoti Hagrama Bridge. This bridge becomes a major tourist hotspot during winter for picnicking.

Activities in Chirang

Adventure seekers can explore trekking trails, go on guided nature walks, or participate in eco-tourism initiatives. The district also hosts various local festivals that highlight the rich traditions of the Bodo community. Butterfly watching has also gained huge popularity here recently.

How to reach Chirang?

Chirang can be accessed by road from Kokrajhar and other neighboring districts. It is also connected to major highways, facilitating easy travel. The Patildaha station is the nearest railway station to Chirang. While traveling by air, you can take a flight to Rupshi or Guwahati Airport. Various VIP helicopters can also land in the BGR field of this district.

Flora

Vegetation Types: Semi-evergreen and evergreen vegetation with riverine, sal, and deciduous forests.

Key Plant Species:

• Wild Banana: Commonly found in the region, contributing to local biodiversity.
• Deciduous trees: Important for climate regulation and sustaining the soil quality.
• Bamboo Forests: Essential for local livelihoods and habitats for wildlife.
• Medicinal plants: The Chirang Reserve Forest is known for being the home of various medicinal species.

Fauna

• Mammals: Around 40 species, including - Indian Bison (Bos gaurus), known locally as Gaur, are often seen in forest clearings. Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor) is also a frequent resident in the forested areas alongside almost 6 species of small and large cats.
• Bird Species: Approximately 300 species, including the Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis), a flagship species of the region. Rufous-necked Hornbill (Aceros nipalensis), is rare and a sight to behold.
• Insects: Rich diversity, including Butterflies, over 100 species recorded, such as the Blue Tiger (Tirumala limniace).
• Reptiles: The district is home to Indian softshell turtles, peacock softshell turtles, and other species of snakes such as the Indian rock python.