In a significant ceremony held on Thursday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled the official UNESCO World Heritage recognition plaque at the historic Charaideo Moidam site in Dibrugarh. This event marks a pivotal milestone following the site's prestigious addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 26, 2024, celebrating its unique 700-year-old mound-burial system from the illustrious Ahom dynasty.
Charaideo Moidams: The Pyramids of Assam
Often referred to as the "pyramids of Assam," the Charaideo Moidams comprise more than 90 royal burial mounds nestled in the scenic Charaideo valley. This site served as the first capital of the Ahom kings, who ruled the region for nearly six centuries, leaving behind a rich cultural and archaeological legacy that continues to captivate historians and tourists alike.
Tourism Surge Post-UNESCO Recognition
Addressing reporters at the event, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed a remarkable surge in tourism since the UNESCO designation. "The UNESCO tag has already catapulted Charaideo onto the global map," he stated. "Since the recognition, we have welcomed over 80,000 domestic tourists, and in 2025 alone, approximately 200 foreign travellers have visited this sacred ground." This influx underscores the growing international interest in Assam's heritage sites.
Ambitious Four-Point Roadmap for Development
The Chief Minister outlined an ambitious four-point roadmap aimed at transforming Charaideo into a premier international tourist destination. This comprehensive plan focuses on sustainable development and community involvement to preserve the site's integrity while boosting local economy.
Phase One: Academic Research and Scientific Investigation
The initial phase emphasizes academic research and scientific exploration. "Several Moidams remain unexcavated," Sarma noted. "To facilitate this, a dedicated study circle will be established in a state university to spearhead deep research into the Ahom burial traditions." This initiative aims to uncover more historical insights and enhance the site's educational value.
Phase Two and Three: Maintenance and Community Participation
The second and third pillars of the plan involve meticulous maintenance and active community participation. The CM stressed that local communities must become stakeholders in this growth. "When international tourists arrive, we will need homestays and eco-friendly guest houses," he explained. "We also envision organizing cultural festivals like Me-Dam-Me-Phi on a grander scale to showcase our living traditions." This approach ensures that tourism benefits are shared locally while preserving cultural authenticity.
Phase Four: Buffer Zone Development
The final phase focuses on developing the buffer zone surrounding the site. Among the numerous structures, 21 Moidams belonging to Ahom princesses are located within this area and require specialized preservation efforts. Integrating these into the tourism circuit will enhance visitor experience while safeguarding delicate historical artifacts.
Collective Commitment for Heritage Preservation
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister called for collective commitment from all stakeholders. "The success of this mission depends on our collective dedication," he asserted. "It is the responsibility of every citizen to preserve this heritage for future generations. We aim to position Charaideo Moidam as both a world-class tourist destination and a living laboratory for archaeological and historical research, ensuring that these ancient monuments continue to inspire and educate, while contributing to the state's economic development."
This unveiling ceremony not only celebrates Assam's rich history but also sets the stage for a transformative journey towards sustainable tourism and cultural preservation, positioning Charaideo as a beacon of heritage on the world stage.
