Guwahati Tourism And Travel Guide

Flanked by the foothills of Shillong Plateau and the mighty Brahmaputra is the rapidly growing cosmopolitan city of Guwahati. Home to rich wildlife reserves, ancient temples, museums and lakes, this North-Eastern city’s story is not just about bricks and mortars. A city that introduces us to the little gem called Assam, tourism in Guwahati gives us a taste of Assamese culture, heritage and cuisine. Here is a snippet of travel guide to see in the city of Assam.

Guwahati is well connected by rail, road and air with neighbouring cities and major states of India.

By Air:

The Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is situated at Borjar, 25 km from the city. National and private carriers like Jet Airways, AirAsia India, Air India, GoAir etc ply almost daily flights from Guwahati to major Indian cities, namely, Mumbai, Kolkata and Delhi.

By Rail:

Guwahati Railway Station is the primary railhead in Assam. Rail networks connect Guwahati with neighbouring North-Eastern states and with other major cities across India, like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore etc.

By Road:

Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and other private bus services ply regular buses between Guwahati and neighbouring North Eastern states and other Assamese cities. Passengers have the option to choose from Volvo, deluxe and luxury buses for their journey.

Getting Around in Guwahati:

City Bus Service and E-Rickshaws offer cheap mode of transportation within Guwahati. For more comfortable and personalised journeys, tourists can avail of Ola and Uber cabs.

Summer (April – May):

Summer months are hot, humid and sultry in Guwahati. It is preferable not to visit Assam during summer and avoid the scorching sun. However, one may travel to Guwahati to participate in and witness Bohag Bihu, one of the three Bihus that is celebrated every year.

Monsoon (June – September):

Guwhati receives considerable amount of rainfall normally. There isn’t much to do during rainy spells except soak in the natural scenic beauty and the cloudy skies over the city. The forest safaris remain closed during these months.

Winter (October – March):

Undoubtedly the best time to visit Guwahati and enjoy the pleasant weather, winter has a chilly climate mostly. The forest safaris open after the rainy season and most importantly, two Bihus are celebrated during these months. While the Assamese people indulge in merrymaking, it offers an insight into their rich culture, practices and cuisine of the locals.

Cruise down Brahmaputra:

Cruising down River Brahmaputra watching the rising or setting sun is a magical experience. It is a spectacle witnessing the sun paint the sparkling river waters and sky with amazing hues.

Visit the Assam State Museum: 

To get an insight into the local culture folklore a visit to the Assam State Museum is recommended. It is considered to be one of the best museums in the northeast.

Wildlife Photography at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary houses a wide range of animals like the Indian one-horned rhinos, elephants, exotic birds etc. It is a excellent opportunity for wildlife and bird photographers to capture some excellent snaps.

Spend Time at Deepor Beel:

Deepor Beel is a freshwater lake in Brahmaputra and considered a paradise for birdwatchers. Every winter large number of migratory birds flies to Deepor Beel in search of warmer climate from the mountains. You can also spot some rare species of birds on your visit.

Pay Homage at Kamakhya Temple:

One of the most sacred Shakti Peethas of the country, Kamakhya Temple has thousands of devotees flocking its premises each day. Even if you are not as religiously inclined, you can plan a visit for the exhilarating views you get from the Nilachal Hills where the temple is located.

Visit to the Umananda Temple:

Situated on Peacock Island on the Brahmaputra River is the 17^th century temple of Umananda, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The half an hour boat ride to the temple is very refreshing.

No trip is complete without shopping for some mementos to adorn the corners of your house or your wardrobe. One of the best items to purchase in Guwahati is the famous Assam Pat and Muga Silk. You might want to treat yourself to the traditional Assamese dress ‘Mekhela’ and pick some up from the Pan Bazaar. For handicrafts you can try out the State Government Department Store or Pragjyotika Emporium. You can’t give the iconic Fancy Bazaar a miss which houses both flea markets and branded stores. Shopaholics are spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in this city.

Cuisine of any place is as interesting and critical as the place itself in understanding the local culture and history of its people. Every dish and every ingredient and how they became a part of the dish has a story to tell which is fascinating. Assamese cuisine has a mouth-watering spread of dishes which are unique and flavourful. From duck meat to pork, from tangy fish curry to pigeon meat, from a tangy and sour chutney to ‘Pitha’, the traditional Assamese sweet dish; the regional cuisine is a gastronomic delight. While in Guwahati, indulge in a traditional Assamese ‘thali’ and the best places to do so are, Paradise Restaurant, Heritage Khorika and Gam’s Delicacy.