Goalpara

Introduction

The current Goalpara district was established in 1983, initially comprising two sub-divisions: Goalpara Sadar and North Salmara Civil. These were formed from the previously larger Goalpara district. However, in 1989, the district was reorganized, with only the Goalpara Sadar sub-division retained. The North Salmara Civil sub-division was merged into the newly formed Bongaigaon district. Presently, the district lies entirely on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River. It covers an area of 1,824 square kilometers and is bordered by the Garo Hill districts of Meghalaya to the south, Kamrup district to the east, Dhubri district to the west, and the Brahmaputra River to the north.

History and Origin

Goalpara is an administrative district in Assam, India. The name is believed to have originated from ‘Gwaltippia,’ meaning “Guwali village” or “village of the milkmen.” The history of the district dates back several centuries. According to the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang’s account, Sir Edward Gait suggested that the capital of King Kumar Bhaskar Varman’s state could have been located in either Goalpara or Coach Behar. Under British rule, Goalpara was annexed in 1765, and after the British took control of Assam in 1826, the district was incorporated into Assam in 1874 with Dhubri serving as the district headquarters. On July 1, 1983, Goalpara was divided into two districts—Dhubri and Kokrajhar. Later, on September 29, 1989, Bongaigaon district was carved out from parts of Goalpara and Kokrajhar.

Natural Beauty and Archaeological Sites

The district is known for its natural beauty and archaeological sites. Key tourist attractions include Sri Surya Pahar, an archaeological hill site showcasing the cultural heritage of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. Dadan Hill is home to a Shiva temple built by a general from King Bana’s army. The temple is surrounded by mythological stories from ancient times. Pir Majhar, located in the heart of Goalpara town, is the tomb of the saint Hazarat Sayed Abul Kashem Kharasani, respected by both Hindus and Muslims. Other notable attractions include Hulukanad Hill, Sri Tukreswari Hill, Paglartek Baba in Barbhita, Urpod Beel in Agia, and Dhamar Risen Beel in Lakhipur.

To our mind, Sri Surya Pahar is the most famous archaeological site in the Goalpara district of Assam. It bears the marks of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. There is a Hanuman temple near Surya Pahar, and every year in January, a grand fair is organized, attracting thousands of visitors.