Agnigarh

Located in Tezpur, the Agnigarh is a wonderful fort in Assam. The Agnigarh Fort has the literal meaning of 'a residence amidst fire'. There is a legendary story behind such an exceptional name. Usha, the daughter of King Banasura fell in love with Krishna's son, Aniruddha. She did not even see him before he appeared in her dreams. Usha's companion Chitralekha was a master painter and she drew a portrait of Aniruddha using Usha's descriptions only. She was remarkably successful with the drawing and helped Usha to identify him.

However King Bana was not happy with this relationship. He built the Agnigarh fort surrounded by an ever-burning fire to keep Usha from meeting Aniruddha. However Krishna saved them to unite the loving couple. The Agnigarh Fort in Assam is situated atop a hill on the Brahmaputra riverside. A circular stairway, which leads to the peak, is a good trekking option. Sculptures depicting the scenes relating to the story have been constructed much later, enhancing the beauty of the way to the hillock. The entire town and the lovely scenery around it can be seen from the viewpoint, built within the fort complex. If you are planning to visit Assam, do not forget to include the Agnigarh Fort of Tezpur in your list. Agnigarh will not disappoint you.