Happy TravellerWelcome to Digboi, a town in the Tinsukia district of Assam, India, often referred to as the Oil City of Assam. Digboi has a rich history and played a significant role in the discovery and production of crude oil in India. With its well-developed infrastructure and unique British bungalows, the town exudes a distinct charm that is hard to find elsewhere. Let’s dive in and discover what makes Digboi a must-visit destination.
Digboi’s history dates back to the late 19th century when crude oil was discovered here, and the first oil well in Asia was drilled. The town’s name is derived from the phrase ‘dig boy dig,’ which was what the English and Canadian miners told the laborers as they dug for crude oil. Digboi has the oldest oil well in operation and is the site of India’s first refinery, which began production in 1901. While the crude production is not high today, Digboi has the distinction of being India’s oldest continuously producing oil field. With its rich history in oil production, Digboi has a captivating story to tell.
One of the unique features of Digboi is its British bungalows, which were built to house the British professionals working for Assam Oil Company. These bungalows are now a popular tourist attraction and a part of Digboi’s heritage. The town also has an eighteen-hole golf course as part of the Digboi Club and guest houses and tourist residential apartments laid on Italian architectural plan to promote tourism in upper Assam. Digboi’s architecture and infrastructure are a reflection of its past and its unique charm.
The town of Digboi is also home to the Digboi Oil Centenary Museum, which showcases the history of oil exploration and production in the region. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the town’s history and legacy. Digboi War Cemetery is another popular tourist spot that pays tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. The cemetery is well-maintained and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to pay their respects.
In terms of transportation, Digboi is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Mohanbari Airport in Dibrugarh, and the nearest railway junction is Tinsukia Junction. Regular flights and trains connect Digboi to cities like Delhi and Kolkata. The town also has a railway station and is well-connected by roadways. Rickshaws are the main mode of transport within the city.
In conclusion, Digboi is a town with a rich history and heritage that is often overlooked by tourists. It has a unique charm that is hard to find elsewhere and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. With its museums, war cemetery, and golf course, there is something for everyone in Digboi. So pack your bags and head to Digboi to uncover the many treasures that this town has to offer.
