A Historic Airfield Reborn
At the heart of this newfound popularity is Rupsi Airport, an airfield with a rich history. Originally built during World War II by the British for military supply runs in the China-Burma-India theatre, the airport fell into disuse after regional airline
Vayudoot ceased operations in 1984. For decades, it remained defunct, forcing residents of Lower Assam to travel hundreds of kilometres to Guwahati or Siliguri for flights. After persistent efforts from local groups and political leaders, the airport was redeveloped at a cost of around ₹69-70 crore and reopened in May 2021 under the government's UDAN scheme, aimed at boosting regional connectivity.
Gateway to Western Assam's Treasures
The revival of Rupsi Airport has unlocked a region brimming with natural beauty and cultural significance. It serves as a convenient entry point to several districts in Lower Assam, including Dhubri, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, and Goalpara. This strategic location significantly cuts down travel time for those looking to explore the area's attractions. Until recently, a flight was a distant dream for locals who faced arduous six-to-seven-hour road journeys to the nearest major airport. Now, with direct flights from key cities like Kolkata and Guwahati, the region is more accessible than ever.
Wildlife and Natural Splendor
For nature enthusiasts, Rupsi is a launchpad to some of Northeast India's most stunning wildlife sanctuaries. Nearby is the Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for being the second protected habitat of the Golden Langur. The airport also provides easier access to Raimona National Park in Kokrajhar and the celebrated Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity. Beyond Assam, travellers can conveniently reach West Bengal's Jaldapara National Park and Buxa Tiger Reserve, making Rupsi a hub for multi-state eco-tourism.
A Tapestry of Culture and History
The region surrounding Rupsi is steeped in history and spiritual heritage. Just a short drive away is Gauripur, home to the historic Matiabag Royal Palace, which reflects the area's aristocratic past. The town of Dhubri, situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra, is home to the Gurudwara Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site. Another major religious destination is the Mahamaya Dham, a revered Shakti Peeth that attracts devotees from across Lower Assam. For those interested in local crafts, the village of Asharikandi offers a chance to witness the traditional art of terracotta and pottery.
Planning Your Trip to Rupsi
The growing interest in Rupsi is backed by a significant increase in flight searches, as reported by travel platforms. Airlines like Alliance Air operate regular flights connecting Rupsi (RUP) to Kolkata (CCU) and Guwahati (GAU). The flight from Guwahati is a short 40-minute hop, while the journey from Kolkata takes about an hour and a half. The best time to visit Assam and its surrounding regions is generally between November and April, when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for wildlife safaris and sightseeing. As Assam looks to the future, there are plans to further expand Rupsi Airport, potentially developing it into a logistics hub and a gateway to neighbouring countries like Bhutan and Bangladesh, which will only enhance its importance for trade and tourism.
