Assam is a state famous for places of picturesque beauty. Praiseworthy initiatives from the Government of Assam and people are taken for the preservation of nature in the forms of National parks, wild life sanctuaries and museums. The establishment of several parks in places of historical significance and natural beauty is a great attraction to tourists from all over the world to Assam. The architectural and sculptural beauty of these parks makes them a sure asset to the tourism of Assam. Often these parks are the symbols of gratitude to nature that provides infusion of history and conservation of nature as valuable assets for future generations.
Udhyan in Assamese means garden and Chitralekha Udyan is one of the favorite tourist spots located in exact centre in Tezpur district in Assam. According to historical evidence it was built in 1906 A.D. During the British reign this place was reconstructed as a park that was known by the name of a British Official. Mr Cole was the commissioner of this state at that time and the park was known as Cole Park. After independence the Government of Assam under Indian Government undertook the management and administration of the park. In the year 1996, the Deputy Commissioner of Tezpur Mr M.G.V.K Bhanu took the earnest effort to renovate the park in the present form without damaging the beauty of the park. After the renovation of the park it was renamed as Chitralekha Udyan recently as a tribute to the ancient mythological character Chitralekha, who was an important person in a love story that resulted in the construction of Agnigarh, another famous tourist spot in Assam, renowned for the ancient architectural and sculptural beauty. According to Hindu mythology Chitralekha was the friend of princess Usha, daughter of king Banasura of Agnigarh Fortress. She possessed mystical universal powers that enabled her to help the princess to find her lover.
The archeological remains of Chitralekha Udyan affirm that it was originally built during 9th or 10th century. The prime attraction of the park is the two majestic pillar constructions in stone with exceptional carvings that is believed to be the remains of Bamuni hills built during the 9th century. Another attraction is the famous Bhomoraguri inscription that explains the ancient strategy of building bridges across river Brahmaputra. At present Kolia Bhomora Setu or bridge that is built with concrete exists across the river. The ancient Bhomoraguri inscription is kept in the park for public view. This ancient strategic inscription describes the intellectual approach to the construction or engineering strategy of bridges that is relevant even today.
The Kolia Bhomora Setu is the name of one of great Ahom chieftains in Assam, dedicated to the memory of this Great Assam ruler.
Another attraction of the park is the horseshoe shaped lake where paddling and rowing is permitted. Several exhibitions are also conducted in the park. It is a unique picnic spot for students and school children as the place serves the purpose of recollection of historical importance and recreational activities. Limited yet exciting amusements are the major attractions for children. The display of jet fighter model MIG 21 of Indian Air Force and concrete made map of India never fails to get the attention of children and adults alike. Bumping cars also gives pure enjoyment in the park that attracts children beyond doubt. Along with water sports the park also provides open air stage, walkways and restaurants that serve authentic Assamese cuisine inside the park that could be enjoyed in the park premises. The park is suitable for one day trips though lodging facilities are available in Tezpur. Accessibility to Tezpur is possible through air, road and rail transport.
The bounty of nature is beyond description that makes every visitor mesmerized every moment that is been spent in this park during day time and even more beautiful during evening when the attractive lamps are switched on that gives another beautiful dimension to the park.