Pancharatna is a small town in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, India. It is situated amid beautiful hills and valleys, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The town is named after the five hills surrounding it, which are believed to have spiritual significance. The hills are locally known as Borail, Borajan, Borlang, Borpothar, and Baralangso. Visitors can hike to the top of these hills to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and take in the cool, fresh air.
Pancharatna is known for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several indigenous communities, including the Dimasa and Zeme Nagas. Visitors can learn about their unique cultures and traditions by interacting with the locals and attending cultural events and festivals.
One of the main attractions in Pancharatna is the Jatinga Bird Observatory, located about 10 kilometres from the town. The observatory is known for its annual phenomenon of bird suicides, where several species of birds crash into buildings and trees on certain moonless nights. The phenomenon is still a mystery; scientists are studying it to unravel its cause.
Another attraction near Pancharatna is Haflong Lake, about 27 kilometres away. The lake is one of Assam's largest natural water bodies and is surrounded by lush green hills. Visitors can go boating or fishing in the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visitors to Pancharatna can also explore the nearby villages known for their handicrafts and traditional textiles. The town is famous for its hand-woven shawls made by local weavers using traditional techniques. Visitors can watch the weavers at work and buy the shawls as souvenirs.
Haflong is the only hill station in Assam, about 30 kilometres from Pancharatna. The town is known for its scenic beauty, fresh air, and pleasant climate. Visitors can explore Haflong Lake, one of Assam's largest natural water bodies, and enjoy boating and fishing. The town is also famous for its tribal culture, handicrafts, and traditional textiles.
Jatinga:
Jatinga is a small village located about 10 kilometres from Pancharatna. The town is famous for its annual phenomenon of bird suicides, where several species of birds crash into buildings and trees on certain moonless nights. Visitors can explore the Jatinga Bird Observatory, which is dedicated to studying this phenomenon and learning about the different species of birds found in the region.
Umrangso:
Umrangso is a small town located about 45 kilometres from Pancharatna. The city is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and rock formations. Visitors can explore the Borail Range, a series of hills offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The town is also home to several hydroelectric projects and is known for its natural hot springs.
Maibong is a historic town located about 60 kilometres from Pancharatna. The city was once the capital of the Dimasa Kingdom and is known for its ancient monuments and temples. Visitors can explore the Maibong archaeological site, which has several ruins of the Dimasa Kingdom, including the Dimasa Rajbari Palace and the Kachari Fort.
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 120 kilometres from Pancharatna. The park is known for its one-horned rhinoceros and is home to several other species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can go on wildlife safaris and explore the park's diverse flora and fauna.