Darrang District, Assam
Darrang is a district in Assam state of India. The district is situated in the central part of Assam on the North banks of river Brahmaputra. It covers an area of 3481 square km and shelters a population of 908,090. The district shares boundaries with Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan in the North; Sonitpur district in East; river Brahmaputra in South and district Kamrup districts in the West. The district headquarters of Darrang are located at Mangaldai.
History:
The name Darrang was derived from the Bodo word Dourang, which means ‘Lilabhumi’ (Playground) of Gods. As mentioned in Mahabharata, Darrang was a part of Kamrupa kingdom. In the beginning of 16th century, Koch King Nara Narayan included Darrang in his Kingdom. Later in 1637, Darrang became a part of Ahom kingdom. In 1792, Darrang Raja was defeated by an expeditionary force under the command of Captain Welsh. The current Darrang district was formed on 1st July, 1983.
Climate:
The climate of the Darrang district is congenial. In the winter, the northern part of the district is colder than the rest of the district. The average temperature in Darrang ranges from 10 to 30° C. Average annual rainfall is about 2120 mm.
People:
Darrang district has a population of 908,090 (2011 census). The population density in the district is 491 inhabitants per square kilometre. Its sex ratio is 923 females per 1000 males. The literacy rate in Darrang district of Assam is 64.55 %.
Connectivity:
Darrang lacks railway connectivity but has a good network of roads. National Highway 52 is the major road link passing through the district. Regular public bus services are available between Guwahati and Mangaldoi. The nearest airport is in Barjhar, near Guwahati. The distance to state capital Dispur is about 68 kms.
Attractions in Darrang District:
Darrang district is known as the home to Manas National Park, which it shares with four other districts. Another attraction in the district is Orang National Park, which it shares with Sonitpur district. Darrang also has a wildlife sanctuary named Barnodi. Bhairabkund in Darrng is a famous picnic spot in Assam. Other notable tourist attraction in the district are Patharughat Swaheed Mina, Kamakshya Devalaya, Gandhi Smriti Park, Khatara Satra, Dihing Satra, Batha Beel