Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and the gateway to Northeast India, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that beautifully blends modernity with traditional charm. Nestled along the banks of the Brahmaputra River and surrounded by picturesque hills, Guwahati offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and religious sites. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Guwahati has something for everyone.

Here’s a guide to exploring the best of Guwahati tourism:

Major Attractions in Guwahati

Kamakhya Temple

One of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, Kamakhya Temple is located atop the Nilachal Hills and is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, a form of the divine feminine. The temple is a significant part of the Shakti Peethas, a series of sacred locations where pieces of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.

The temple is known for its annual Ambubachi Mela, a festival that celebrates the earth's fertility and is an important event in the Hindu calendar.

The temple's location offers stunning views of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding hills.

Umananda Temple

Situated on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is accessible by ferry from the riverbank and is known for its serene atmosphere and scenic beauty.

The island is also known for its unique population of Golden Langur monkeys and is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Brahmaputra Riverfront

The Brahmaputra River is the lifeblood of Guwahati, and its riverfront offers many opportunities for relaxation, boating, and enjoying the stunning views.

The Uttara Swami Malaya Mandir, located along the river, and the Dighalipukhuri Lake nearby are also popular places to visit.

You can enjoy a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.

Kaziranga National Park (Day Trip)

Located about 5-6 hours from Guwahati, Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for being home to the one-horned rhinoceros. The park is rich in wildlife and offers excellent safari experiences, where you can spot rhinos, tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

A day trip or overnight stay at Kaziranga is a must for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Assam State Museum

Located in the heart of the city, the Assam State Museum offers insight into Assam’s history, culture, and heritage. It houses a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures, ancient manuscripts, tribal costumes, and more.

The museum is a great place to learn about the region’s rich traditions and the history of Assam’s diverse ethnic communities.

Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra

A cultural complex and center for the promotion of Assam’s art, culture, and heritage, Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra is named after the great saint and social reformer, Srimanta Sankardeva, who founded the Ekasarana Dharma movement.

The complex includes an open-air theater, a museum, an art gallery, and an auditorium, and it hosts various cultural performances and events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions and Scenic Spots

Nanda Hills and Nanda Lake

Nanda Hills is a popular viewpoint located on the outskirts of Guwahati. The hilltop offers a panoramic view of the entire city, the Brahmaputra River, and the surrounding hills. It is also known for Nanda Lake, a beautiful man-made lake where visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride.

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 50 km from Guwahati, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a large population of the one-horned rhinoceros, as well as various other species of animals and birds. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching opportunities. It’s a quieter alternative to Kaziranga and ideal for those seeking a more relaxed wildlife experience.

Deepor Beel

A large lake and wetland located on the outskirts of the city, Deepor Beel is an important bird sanctuary and a peaceful spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and boating. The lake is home to migratory birds, making it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.

Cultural and Religious Experience

Sankaradeva Kalakshetra

Srimanta Sankardeva, the cultural and spiritual luminary of Assam, has left a lasting legacy in the region. Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is a cultural hub dedicated to showcasing the traditional art forms of Assam, including Bihu dance, Sattriya dance, and Bhakti movements.

Hajo

About 25 km from Guwahati, Hajo is an ancient pilgrimage site that holds religious significance for Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple in Hajo is an important Hindu site, while the Poa Mecca mosque is revered by Muslims. The unique blend of religious harmony here makes it a fascinating visit.

Navagraha Temple

The Navagraha Temple, also known as the Temple of Nine Planets, is located on the Surya Hill and is an important pilgrimage site for those interested in astrology and planetary deities. It is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of the Hindu astrological system.

Shopping and Local Markets

Fancy Bazaar

Fancy Bazaar is one of the most popular shopping districts in Guwahati. The market offers a range of items, from traditional Assamese textiles like muga silk and assamese saris to local handicrafts, jewelry, and street food.

Paltan Bazaar

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Paltan Bazaar is another popular shopping destination. The market offers a variety of goods, from clothes to toys and accessories. You can also find traditional Assamese handicrafts and ethnic items here.

Handloom and Handicraft Stores

Guwahati is an excellent place to shop for Assamese handloom products like gamocha (traditional Assamese cotton towel), muga silk sarees, and japis (traditional hats). Handicraft shops offer intricately designed bamboo and wooden artifacts, as well as brass and bell metal items.

Festivals in Guwahati

Bihu Festival: Bihu is the most important festival in Assam, and Guwahati comes alive during the Bihu celebrations in April. The festival marks the Assamese New Year and is celebrated with traditional Bihu dance, folk music, and elaborate feasts.

Rath Yatra: The Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated with great zeal in Guwahati, with a procession featuring large chariots carrying idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. It’s a major religious and cultural event in the city.

Durga Puja: Durga Puja, celebrated with grandeur and devotion, is another major festival in Guwahati. The city is beautifully decorated with lights, and temporary pandals are set up, with elaborate rituals and cultural performances taking place throughout the festival.

Culinary Delights in Guwahati

Guwahati offers a rich culinary experience, with a variety of traditional Assamese dishes and Indian cuisines:

Assamese Cuisine: Try local delicacies like Masor Tenga (sour fish curry), Khar (a curry made with raw papaya and pulses), Pitika (mashed vegetables), and Pakhala Bhaat (fermented rice).

Street Food: Guwahati is famous for its street food scene, offering pani puri, chowmein, momos, and samosas. Don’t miss the local sweets like til pitha and ladoo.

Tea: Assam is famous for its tea, so enjoy a steaming cup of Assam Tea at one of the local tea stalls or cafes.

Best Time to Visit Guwahati

October to March: The best time to visit Guwahati is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

April to June: Guwahati can be quite hot and humid during the summer, making it less ideal for travel. However, this is the time when you can witness the vibrant Bihu festival.

Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rains, so it’s best to avoid traveling during this time unless you’re prepared for the wet conditions.

How to Reach Guwahati

By Air: Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport connects the city to major Indian cities and international destinations.

By Train: Guwahati is well-connected by rail to most major cities in India. The Guwahati Junction is the main railway station in the city.

By Road: Guwahati is connected to other parts of Assam and