Historical Tourism in North-East India by Dr. Madhumita Deb and Dr. Sanjay Sen is a well-structured and insightful textbook designed according to the CBCS Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) syllabus in History prescribed by Gauhati University. The book offers a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and architectural richness of North-East India, making it an essential resource for students, educators, and tourism enthusiasts.

The text highlights major heritage sites of the region, including ancient monuments, archaeological locations, cultural traditions, religious centers, and historical landscapes that define the identity of North-East India. It explores the evolution of tourism in the region, its socio-cultural significance, and the role of historical heritage in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Written in clear and descriptive language, the book provides a balanced blend of academic depth and practical insights. It helps learners understand how historical tourism contributes to regional development, cultural preservation, and community engagement. The authors also discuss challenges, prospects, and modern approaches to heritage management, making the content relevant for skill-based learning under SEC.

Published by Mahaveer Publications, this textbook serves as an excellent guide for students of History, Tourism Studies, and related disciplines, offering them the knowledge and analytical skills needed to appreciate and promote the diverse historical tourism potential of North-East India.

UNIT – 01 : Theoretical Aspects of Tourism, Elementary Geography and Biodiversity of North-East India

This unit introduces students to the foundational concepts of tourism, its types, and its significance. It also explores the geography, climate, and rich biodiversity of North-East India, forming the basis for understanding historical tourism in the region.

1.01 Tourism – Concept, Meaning and Significance

• 1.01.01 Definitions of Tourism

• 1.01.02 Importance of Tourism
  – Examines tourism as a social, cultural, and economic activity.

1.02 Types of Tourism

• 1.02.01 Tourists – Definition, Characteristics, Types & Travel Motivation

  • 1.02.01.01 Definition and Characteristics of Tourist

  • 1.02.01.02 Different Types of Tourist

  • 1.02.01.03 Components of Tourism

  • 1.02.01.04 Tourism in India

  • 1.02.01.05 Economic, Social, and Ecological Impacts of Tourism

  • 1.02.01.06 Tourism in North-East India

1.03 Physiographical Divisions, Water Bodies and Climatic Conditions

• 1.03.01 Geography of North-East India

• 1.03.02 Formation of North-Eastern States

• 1.03.03 Geo-political Significance

• 1.03.04 Physiographical Settings

• 1.03.05 Climate

• 1.03.06 Rainfall

• 1.03.07 River System

1.04 Important Wildlife Habitats of North-East India

A detailed overview of the major national parks and biodiversity hotspots:

• Kaziranga National Park

• Manas National Park

• Orang National Park

• Gibon National Park

• Pobitara Wildlife Sanctuary

• Nameri National Park

• Dibru Saikhowa National Park

• Namdapha National Park

• Keibul Lamjao National Park

• Rainforests of Assam:

  • Jeypore Rainforest, Dibrugarh

  • Dehing Rainforest

UNIT – 02 : Ancient Remains and Important Tourist Places of the North-East

This unit highlights the archaeological remains, ancient settlements, and historically significant tourist destinations that shape the cultural identity of the North-East.

2.01 Ancient Remains

• Remains of Goalpara

• Ambari

• Tezpur

• Deopahar

• Malinithan

• Daiyang Dhansiri Valley

2.02 Tourist Places of North-East India

A survey of major historical and cultural tourist destinations:

• Shillong

• Cherrapunjee

• Aizawl

• Gangtok

• Kohima

• Tawang

• Hajo

• Azan Pir Dargah

• Jatinga

UNIT – 03 : Architectural Heritage of North-East India

This unit focuses on the architectural evolution, unique styles, and heritage monuments across the region.

3.01 Dimapur, Kasomari, Maibong & Khaspur

• 3.01.01 Dimapur

• 3.01.02 Kasomari

• 3.01.03 Maibong

• 3.01.04 Khaspur

3.02 Charaideo, Gargaon, Sivasagar & Rangpur

• 3.02.01 Charaideo

• 3.02.02 Gargaon

• 3.02.03 Sivasagar

• 3.02.04 Rangpur

3.03 Ujjayanta Palace & Neer Mahal

• Historical and architectural significance of these iconic structures.

3.04 Kamakhya, Hayagriva Madhava, Tripura Sundari Temple & Rumtek Monastery

• 3.04.01 Kamakhya Temple

• 3.04.02 Hayagriva Madhava Temple

• 3.04.03 Tripura Sundari Temple

• 3.04.04 Rumtek Monastery

3.05 Kangla Fort

• Cultural and historical importance in Manipur’s heritage.

UNIT – 04 : Fairs and Festivals of the North-East

This unit introduces the vibrant cultural expressions reflected through traditional festivals and fairs.

4.01 Prominent Festivals

• Bihu

• Ali Aye Ligang

• Mopin Festival

• Tai-Buddhist Festivals in Assam:

  • Poi Sangken

  • Buddha Purnima

  • Naun-wa

  • Poi Ok-wa

  • Poi Mai-ko-chum-fai

4.02 Bhaona & Ras Celebrations in Majuli

• 4.02.01 Bhaona

• 4.02.02 Ras in Majuli

4.03 Major Fairs

• Jonbil Mela

• Ambubachi Fair at Kamakhya

4.04 Tourist Festivals Based on Ethnic Culture

• Hornbill Festival

• Sangai Festival

• Dehing Patkai Festival

Bibliography