The fiery fortress of forbidden love
The name Agnigarh itself holds the key to its legendary past. In Sanskrit, 'Agni' means fire, and 'Garh' means fortress, giving us the 'fortress of fire.
According to Hindu mythology, this was no ordinary stronghold. It was surrounded by a wall of fire that no one could cross without permission from its ruler, Banasura. The story centres on Princess Usha, who falls in love with Aniruddha. Banasura disapproved of their relationship, so he imprisoned Aniruddha elsewhere and isolated Usha within Agnigarh's fiery walls to keep them apart. This act of separation led to a great battle, likely between Banasura's forces and those allied with Aniruddha.
A journey through time and beauty
Agnigarh offers you a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Start your sojourn by climbing the circular stairway that winds its way to the hilltop. As you ascend, you'll encounter stone sculptures that bring the legendary tale of Usha and Aniruddha to life. A tall viewing platform awaits at the crest, rewarding you with a panoramic vista of Tezpur town and the magnificent Brahmaputra River. Don't miss the sight of the Kolia Bhomora Setu (one of the longest bridges in India), spanning the river like a gleaming necklace. Take your time to explore the park, where more sculptures depict the history of Sonitpur and the epic war that followed Usha and Aniruddha's love story.
When the sun sets, the Brahmaputra River transforms into a stunning backdrop, creating a truly magical atmosphere. So, if you're someone who likes to see the world through a viewfinder, you'll definitely want to swing by in the evening.
