15 Best Things to Do in Guwahati

Known as the “Gateway to North East India”, Guwahati is known to be one of India’s busiest cities in the North Eastern belt. It is a major riverine port, and at the same time, it is also known to have many hills. Guwahati is also home to several wildlife species and bird species. Looking for the best of what Guwahati has in store? Here are our top picks:

Plan a Trip to the Kamakhya Temple

Guwahati is known amongst folks for several varied reasons, but the most popular among those is that it is where Kamakhya Temple is situated. It is the main temple out of the ten Shaktipeeths and is located on the top of Nilachal Hills. Kamakhya Devi is worshipped in the temple and it is an important place of worship not only for Hindus but also for Buddhists.

Take a boat ride to the Umananada Devaloi

Umananda Devaloi is another important temple in the city, located at Umananda island also known as the Peacock Island. The island is the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world. The temple is a representation of the skills of Assamese craftsmen. Apart from being a religious attraction, the island is also an opportunity to absorb the beauty of nature. The island can be accessed by hiring a ferry from Sukleshwar Ghat but a much more convenient option is from Uzanbazar Ferry Ghat.

Spot Rhinos at the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the suburbs of Guwahati. The wildlife sanctuary is considered a successful effort in the conservation and protection of Rhinos. Rajamayong Reserve Forest and Pobitora Reserve Forest are the two major forests in this sanctuary. Greater One-horned Rhinos can be easily sighted in the grasslands of Pobitora. Other species like the Wild Water Buffalo, Monitor Lizard, and Wild Boar are also present in abundance. It is home to more than 2000 migratory birds! The place is easily accessible by a cab from Guwahati through Chandrapur or via NH37.

Dive Deep into Assam’s history at the State Museum

People who have a knack for history and culture must consider visiting the Assam State Museum. The museum displays many artefacts that offer a glimpse of the golden history of Assam. The display includes ancient Assamese coins, fabrics, tribal arts, and sculptures. This museum was established in 1940 by the then Governor of Undivided Assam.

Cruise through the Brahmaputra River

The Brahmaputra River, by whose banks Guwahati has flourished is undoubtedly one of the biggest attractions in itself. To explore the river beyond its banks, the Brahmaputra River Cruise is a great option that you must try out. The cruise offers a little something for all kinds of travellers. The cruises are offered by both private operators and Assam Tourism and range from small tours along Guwahati city to luxury services in Kaziranga and beyond. There are some special sunset cruise rides in Guwahati and the Brahmaputra Sunset is an extremely pleasing sight to admire.

Go Shopping at Fancy Bazaar

Fancy Bazar is the commercial hub of Guwahati city and is the perfect destination for tourists, especially shopping enthusiasts. The market is a go-to shopping destination for articles ranging from artefacts to electronics and everything in between. The jewellery pieces available here are famous for intricate designs and vibrant shades. Assam silk fabrics and readymade clothing apparel are popular articles found in this market.

Drive up to Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is another tempting destination for wildlife enthusiasts and is located 193 km away from Guwahati. While it may not be as close as the Pobitaro Sanctuary, it is worth a visit as it holds more than 2500 rhinos along with a sizeable population of Bengal tigers among other wild creatures. A major attraction of Kaziranga is also its yearly elephant festival which is usually held in the month of February.

Explore the Nightlife of Guwahati

Nightlife in Guwahati is still very young but it still offers a lot to those who want to make their evenings lively. Many bars, nightclubs, pubs, and discotheques are present to ward off travel fatigue. Several places organize live performances and jam sessions that attract music and dance lovers.

Stroll around the Digholi Pukuri Lake

Said to date back to the era of the Ahom Dynasty, the Digholi Pukuri was most likely used as a naval yard during ancient times. Today it is a great spot to take quiet strolls or enjoy boat rides across its quiet water. With a park surrounding it, it is also the ideal place to enjoy strolls. 

Picnic by Deepor Beel

Marked as an important site for birds by Birdlife International, Deepor Beel is home to more than 200 varieties of birds. Its proximity to the city means you can easily visit it anytime. Its lightly forested surroundings are a great place to enjoy a quick picnic with your friends and family.

Learn about the legends at Basistha Temple

Believed to have been established by the great ancient saint Basistha, the temple is among the oldest in the region. Three mythical streams immerse into one by its side, giving the temple a mystical aura.  

Visit the Assam State Zoo

If admiring wildlife excites you, another great place that you can add to your list is the Assam State Zoo. Its admirable collection of wild animals and reptiles allows one to see them at a close range. The activity is especially recommended for children who can learn a lot from their visit.

Drive through the Saraighat Bridge

Driving through the Saraighat Bridge is another great way to enjoy the vast beauty of the Brahmaputra River. With the city glimmering at a distance and the blue river rippling under it, it is surely a sight to behold. Drive through the bride and take a stop at the parks that flank both sides.

Taste Ethnic Assamese Cuisine

Known for its delectable taste and wide variety, Assamese Cuisine is a burst of flavours. Be it the vegetarian dishes or the non-veg platter, they promise to satiate your taste buds. The traditional practice of root-to-stem cooking that is widely followed in the Northeast will give you a fair idea of how sustainability is deeply intertwined with the culture of the region. 

Experience Assam’s culture at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra

Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is a unique place that was conceived to display the life and culture of the people of Assam and North-East India. It is the centre for art, culture, and literature of North East India, with a special focus on Assam.  Out here, you can experience right from model villages that replicate traditional village life to open-air amphitheatres that offer vibrant cultural programs. Recreational parks are also present for children to explore.