Guwahati - The Gateway to Northeast India
Guwahati is the kind of place that has its own flavor that never fails to charm the tourists. Situated between the banks of the Brahmaputra River and the Shillong Plateau, it is one of the major cities of Assam. From the Shunga-Kushana period to the Mughal era, different rulers were the reason for the establishment of this diverse city of Assam. It is a place where different cultures breathe and live together and this in itself becomes more of a reason to visit this city.
Earlier, Guwahati was known as the Hindu kingdom of Kamarupa's capital and went by the name, Pragjyotisa. If you want to know the city spiritually, then some of the places which you must visit are Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple, Navagrah Temple, Moriaatti Jumma Masjid, and Rajdhani Maszid. For nature lovers, the popular Kaziranga National Park and Nehru Park are some of the most amazing options to explore.
History of Guwahati
The myths and legends of Guwahati date back thousands of years. You would be surprised to know but there are some references that directly relate to epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana. Thus, it can be said that it is one of the most ancient cities of India. Not just that, if we go by Mahabharata, then there was also a time when Guwahati was the capital of Narakasura and Bhagadatta. Within Guwahati, there is an ancient Shakti temple of Goddess Kamakhya in Nilachal hill.
The Medival History
Appointed by the Ahom Kings, this city was the seat of Borphukan which was the civil-military authority of the Assam region. It is interesting to know that Borphukan's residence was in the present Fancy Bazar area. It even had a council hall which was built in approximately 300 yards.
Modern History
It is a known fact that the Mughals invaded Assam approximately 17 times. However, not a single time was they able to succeed. What's more intriguing is the fact that they were defeated by a considerably less Assamese army in the battle of Itakhuli and the battle of Saraighat. This gives us proof of the battle-readiness of the Ahoms. Furthermore, this city was even under Burmese rule from 1817 to 1826. And after the first Anglo-Burmese War, the city came under the British Empire.
Major Attractions in and Around Guwahati
1. Umananda Temple
Positioned in the Peacock Island and dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a tranquil spot to worship and align your spiritual energies. The surroundings of this temple are very peaceful as it is located at the top of the hill. Undoubtedly, it comes across as a wonderful place to sit and enjoy the scenic views of nature. Apart from Lord Shiva, there are 10 other Hindu God’s idols placed here.
2. Assam State Museum
Also known as Assam Rajyik State Museum, built amid the colonization of Britishers in India in 1940, this is a place that you would love to visit if you consider yourself a history buff. Once you visit this museum, you will realize how wonderful is the collection of artifacts, and old sculptures placed here dates back to the 5th-12th century.
3. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
This incredible hub of nature covers an area of 38 sq. km. and has gained a huge amount of fame due to its nearness to Guwahati. The lush green vegetation and the glimpse of the endangered species like the one-horned Rhino will simply leave you mesmerized. One can also see the endangered Rhinos during an elephant or Jeep Safaris.
4. Guwahati Zoo
Falling in the list of one of the most captivating zoos of the nation, and situated in the dense green forests of Hengrabari, this place also goes by the name Green Lung Of The City Of Guwahati.
5. Kaziranga National Park
Here you would get to see one-horned Rhinoceros. Also, Kaziranga National Park was declared the Tiger Reserve in 2006. Apparently, this place is home to a large breeding ground of elephants and wild water buffalos, swamp deer, etc. Furthermore, this place also has achieved great success in terms of wildlife conservation. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity, this is a must-visit place for its natural beauty.
6. Umananda Island
A beautiful and serene island, this is the perfect getaway from chaos for a while. Situated in the middle of the Brahmaputra, you can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and so many other activities. It was named Peacock Island by the Britishers due to its shape.
7. Kamakhya Hills
Kamakhya Hills aka Nilachal Hills is a place with spellbinding views of nature's beautiful and breath-taking spectacles. It is an ideal place for a group of friends and couples, as you would get to enjoy the serene environment while trekking towards Kamakhya Temple.
8. Dighali Pukhuri
This is a manmade lake surrounded by a soothing ambiance to keep you calm yet curious. Those decorated gardens around the lake will definitely be a soul-rejuvenating spectacle for you.
Things to Do in Guwahati
- Seek blessings at Kamakhya Temple – Experience the spiritual energy of this famous Shakti Peetha.
- Explore Umananda Island – Take a ferry ride to Peacock Island.
- Go on a wildlife safari at Pobitora – Spot the endangered one-horned rhinoceros.
- Enjoy a boat ride on the Brahmaputra – Witness stunning sunsets.
- Visit Assam State Museum & Kalakshetra – Discover Assam’s cultural heritage.
- Shop at Fancy Bazaar – Buy traditional Assamese handloom products and handicrafts.
- Relax at Deepor Beel – Spot migratory birds and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Best Time to Visit Guwahati
- October to April – Best time for pleasant weather and sightseeing.
- May to June – Summer can be hot and humid, but travel is possible.
- July to September – Monsoon season brings heavy rains, making outdoor activities difficult.
How to Reach Guwahati
Being the largest city of Assam, Guwahati has come a long way as an urban travel getaway. If you want to have a taste of true North-Eastern culture, then a visit to Guwahati can be an eye-opener for you. It is located at an approximate distance of 1,907, 2,753, 1,008, 2,952 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Follow the given below information to reach here.
By Air
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport aka Guwahati Airport is just 25 kilometers away from the main city. It is a well-established airport with regular flight services. It is well-connected to India’s major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Apart from these metropolitan cities, the airport has good connectivity with neighboring cities like Imphal, Bagdogra, Itanagar, etc. as well.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Guwahati
By Rail
One of the primary rail lines of Assam is the Guwahati Railway Station that is 5 kilometers away from the main city center. The railway line is well-connected to other major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
By Road
The city of Guwahati can be reached via the neighboring regions of the state of Assam as well as other major metropolitan cities of India. There are private and government buses that run frequently and if you are looking forward to traveling via your own vehicle then you would need to take NH 44, 16, or 27 depending upon your location.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guwahati
Q. What are the top tourist attractions in Guwahati?
A. The top tourist attractions in Guwahati include the Kamakhya Temple, Assam State Museum, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Umananda Temple, and Sualkuchi Village.
Q. Can I visit Shillong from Guwahati?
A. Yes, Shillong is just 100 km away and can be reached in 3 hours by taxi or bus.
Q. How many days are enough for a Guwahati trip?
A. A 2-3 day trip is ideal to explore major attractions, temples, and nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
Q. What are the must-try foods in Guwahati?
A.
- Assamese Thali – Rice, dal, fish curry, and bamboo shoot dishes.
- Masor Tenga – A tangy fish curry.
- Momos & Thukpa – Popular Tibetan dishes.
- Pithas – Traditional Assamese rice cakes.
