Bogmati turns a favourite tourist destination in Assam

Bogamati hill area (Guwahati), Feb.18 (ANI): Despite being rich in wildlife and having several national parks, Assam could not become a major tourist centre due to militant activities for many years. But now it is trying to bring about a change. Efforts are being made to develop new tourist places such as Bogamati hill area.

Endowed with fascinating natural scenery, Bogamati hill area in particular is nature lovers' paradise.

Located at the Indo-Bhutan border area, Bogamati lies between two hill ranges and the foothills of the Bhutan border. Today, it is a hotspot for picnickers, thronging from remote places of Assam. Just five year ago, it was the general headquarters of the militant outfit United Liberation Front of Assom (ULFA).

After firm action against the militants and development of the region by the state tourism department, Bogamati has today become a popular tourist destination.

The Bogamati hill resort offers some picturesque sights, including 'Bor Nadi' river, which originates from Bhutan Hills and flows through two ridges of the hills.

Private companies are also in process of tying up with the state government to develop 'Bogamati' as a hub for water sports.

"Earlier, there used to be militants here, but it is not so now. The situation was not good but now everything is fine. There were a few shops but now the numbers of shops has increased," said Sunmoni Basumatary, one local resident.

"After they have develop the place and its sports it has become very popular. The response of the people who come to this picnic spot is good. Roads are also developed slowly its becoming a good picnic spot and we have no fear to come here," said Mutesh Sharma, one tourist.

The growing influx of tourists here has developed good business opportunities for local villagers who have set up eating-joints or telephone booths for visiting tourists. By Peter Alex Todd (ANI)