Top attractions in Guwahati
Guwahati, the largest city in the northeastern state of Assam, India, offers a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Here are some of the top attractions in Guwahati:
Kamakhya Temple
Located on the Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya Temple is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. The temple complex features several smaller shrines and offers a panoramic view of the city.
Umananda Island
Situated in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, Umananda Island is home to the Umananda Temple. This scenic island is accessible by ferries and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Assam State Museum
A visit to the Assam State Museum allows you to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, textiles, and archaeological exhibits that showcase the history and traditions of Assam.
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
This cultural center and museum is dedicated to the life and works of Srimanta Sankardev, a 15th-century Assamese saint, poet, and social reformer. It features an open-air theater, an art gallery, a museum, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Guwahati Planetarium
The Guwahati Planetarium is a popular attraction for science enthusiasts. It offers regular shows and presentations about astronomy, celestial bodies, and space exploration, providing an educational and entertaining experience.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 50 kilometers from Guwahati, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its dense population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Visitors can take jeep safaris to explore the sanctuary and spot various wildlife species.
Brahmaputra River Cruise
Embark on a scenic cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River to enjoy breathtaking views of the river, the cityscape, and the surrounding landscapes. Sunset cruises are particularly popular for their picturesque beauty.
Navagraha Temple
The Navagraha Temple, situated atop the Chitrasal Hill, is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies in Hindu astrology. Each temple is dedicated to a specific planet, and devotees believe that visiting these temples brings good fortune.
Guwahati Zoo
Also known as the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, it is home to a diverse range of animal species, including the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, leopards, various primates, and a variety of bird species.
Fancy Bazaar
A bustling market area in the heart of Guwahati, Fancy Bazaar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of shops selling traditional Assamese handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and local delicacies.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Guwahati has to offer. Exploring the city’s temples, museums, natural beauty, and cultural sites will provide you with a rich and diverse experience.
Things to do in Guwahati
Here are some things to do in Guwahati:
Visit the Kamakhya Temple
Explore the famous Kamakhya Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. Take part in the religious rituals and soak in the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
Take a River Cruise
Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Brahmaputra River. Choose from various options like a sunset cruise or a dinner cruise to witness stunning views of the river, the cityscape, and the surrounding landscapes.
Explore Umananda Island
Take a ferry ride to Umananda Island, located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. Visit the Umananda Temple, stroll around the island, and enjoy the serene natural beauty.
Experience Assamese Culture at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
Visit the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, a cultural center dedicated to the life and works of Srimanta Sankardev, a prominent saint and artist of Assam. Explore the museum, art gallery, and open-air theater to learn about Assamese art, culture, and traditions.
Discover Assam State Museum
Visit the Assam State Museum to explore the rich history and heritage of Assam. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and archaeological exhibits that offer insights into the region’s past.
Enjoy Wildlife at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a safari at the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Guwahati. Spot the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros, along with other wildlife species like tigers, elephants, and various bird species.
Taste Assamese Cuisine
Indulge in the flavors of Assamese cuisine. Try traditional dishes like Assam tea, fish tenga (sour fish curry), masor tenga (sour fish soup), pitha (rice cakes), and other local delicacies at popular restaurants and food stalls.
Shop at Fancy Bazaar
Explore the vibrant markets of Fancy Bazaar. Shop for traditional Assamese handicrafts, silk textiles, jewelry, bamboo products, and local spices. Bargaining is common in the market, so hone your bargaining skills for a good deal.
Visit Guwahati Zoo
Spend a day at the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden. Witness a variety of animal species, including the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, leopards, monkeys, and colorful birds.
Enjoy Nightlife
Experience the nightlife scene in Guwahati by visiting pubs, bars, and lounges. Enjoy live music performances, dance to the tunes of local bands, and savor delicious food and drinks.
Remember to check the timings and availability of attractions and activities before planning your visit. Guwahati offers a mix of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences that cater to various interests.
Guwahati Tour Packages
FAQs on Guwahati Tourism
The best time to visit Guwahati is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is also the time when festivals like Bihu and Durga Puja are celebrated.
Guwahati is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati has regular flights from major cities in India. The city is also a major railway hub with direct train connections to various parts of the country. National highways connect Guwahati to other cities in the region.
Some popular day trips from Guwahati include visiting the Kaziranga National Park, known for its one-horned rhinoceros; the Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, known for its picturesque landscapes and waterfalls.
Yes, Guwahati and its surroundings offer various adventure activities. You can go river rafting in the Brahmaputra River, trek in the nearby hills, go wildlife spotting in the national parks, or indulge in water sports in Umiam Lake near Shillong.
Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Guwahati include Bihu (Assamese New Year), Durga Puja, Ambubachi Mela (at Kamakhya Temple), and the Brahmaputra Beach Festival. These festivals showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of Assam.
Guwahati is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night, taking care of your belongings, and following local customs and guidelines.
Yes, Guwahati has several markets and shopping areas where you can shop for traditional Assamese handicrafts, silk textiles, jewelry, bamboo products, tea, spices, and more. Fancy Bazaar, Pan Bazaar, and Ganeshguri Market are popular shopping destinations in the city.
Besides the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, there are several other prominent pilgrimage sites near the city. These include the Hajo, a town known for its Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist shrines, and the Madan Kamdev Temple, an archaeological site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Yes, you can hire local guides for sightseeing in Guwahati. Many travel agencies and tour operators provide professional guides who can offer insights into the city’s history, culture, and attractions.
Some attractions in Guwahati may have entry fees, and specific rules or regulations may apply. For example, the Kamakhya Temple may have separate entry fees for certain rituals. It’s advisable to check the official websites or inquire beforehand about any restrictions or entry fees for the attractions you plan to visit.