Guwahati The Gateway to Northeast India and Its Top Attractions
Published on February 05, 2025
Guwahati: The Gateway to Northeast India and Its Top Attractions
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and often referred to as the "Gateway to Northeast India," is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and history. Serving as the starting point for many explorations into the captivating Northeast, Guwahati offers a unique blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, serene natural beauty, and a rapidly developing urban landscape. Whether you're planning a comprehensive Assam Guwahati package, searching for the perfect Assam Guwahati tour package from Delhi, or simply looking for a quick Guwahati tour package, this city has something to offer every traveller. This comprehensive guide will delve into the myriad attractions that make Guwahati a must-visit destination.
Ancient Temples and Spiritual Significance:
Guwahati's history is deeply intertwined with mythology and religion. The city is home to several ancient temples, each with its own unique story and significance, making it a crucial part of any Assam Guwahati tour.
- Kamakhya Temple: Perched atop Nilachal Hill, the Kamakhya Temple is arguably Guwahati's most famous landmark. This revered Shakti Peetha, dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, is a site of immense religious importance, especially for tantric practitioners. The temple's unique architecture, its association with the Ambubachi Mela festival, and its rich mythology draw devotees and tourists alike. A visit to Kamakhya is a must on any Guwahati tour package.
- Umananda Temple: Located on the tiny Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Reaching the island by ferry adds to the experience, offering scenic views of the river and Guwahati's skyline. The temple itself is a peaceful haven, offering respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Navagraha Temple: Dedicated to the nine celestial bodies (planets), the Navagraha Temple is another significant religious site in Guwahati. Located on a hilltop, the temple offers panoramic views of the city.
- Sukreswar Temple: Situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra, the Sukreswar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's a serene and peaceful temple, offering a tranquil atmosphere for prayer and reflection.
Natural Beauty and Riverside Charm:
Guwahati's location on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River and its surrounding hills provide ample opportunities to connect with nature. Even a short Guwahati tour package should include some time spent enjoying the city's natural beauty.
- Brahmaputra River Cruise: A river cruise on the Brahmaputra is a must-do in Guwahati. Enjoy the cool breeze, witness stunning sunsets, and appreciate the vastness of the river. Several operators offer cruises, ranging from short evening trips to longer excursions.
- Dighalipukhuri Park: Located in the heart of the city, Dighalipukhuri Park is a popular recreational spot. The park features a large pond, boating facilities, and walking trails, offering a green oasis amidst the urban landscape.
- Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden: For wildlife enthusiasts, the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden is a must-visit. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including rhinos, tigers, elephants, and various species of birds. The botanical garden provides a serene environment for nature lovers.
Exploring Assamese Culture and Heritage:
Guwahati serves as a gateway to understanding Assamese culture and heritage. The city offers several opportunities to delve into the state's rich traditions, arts, and crafts.
- Assam State Museum: A treasure trove of artefacts, the Assam State Museum provides a comprehensive overview of Assam's history, culture, and traditions. The museum's collection includes sculptures, manuscripts, textiles, and archaeological finds.
- Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra: Dedicated to the renowned Assamese polymath Srimanta Sankaradeva, this cultural institution showcases the state's rich artistic heritage. The Kalakshetra features museums, art galleries, and auditoriums, hosting various cultural performances and exhibitions.
- Handicrafts and Silk Emporiums: Assam is famous for its silk and handicrafts. Explore the local markets and emporiums to find exquisite mekhela chadors (traditional Assamese attire), eri silk, muga silk, bamboo products, and other handicrafts.
A Foodie's Delight:
Assamese cuisine is a must-try for any visitor to Guwahati. The city offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from traditional Assamese dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
- Local Restaurants: Explore the local restaurants to savour authentic Assamese delicacies like masor tenga (fish curry), pitha (rice cakes), gahak (a type of lentil dish), and various preparations of fish and meat.
- Street Food: Guwahati's street food scene is also worth exploring. Try local snacks like jhal muri, pani puri, and various other street food delights.
Shopping and Entertainment:
Guwahati offers a vibrant shopping experience, from traditional markets to modern malls.
- Fancy Bazaar: A bustling market, Fancy Bazaar is a great place to find traditional Assamese silk, handicrafts, and other local products.
- GS Road: GS Road is a major commercial hub, with a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Planning Your Guwahati Trip:
- How to Reach: Guwahati is well-connected to other cities in India by air, rail, and road. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport serves as the city's airport, connecting it to major domestic and international destinations. Guwahati Railway Station is a major railway hub, connecting the city to various parts of the country. The city is also well-connected by road to other cities in Assam and neighbouring states. When considering an Assam Guwahati tour package from Delhi, transportation options are readily available.
- Accommodation: Guwahati offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Choosing accommodation near the city centre or close to the attractions you plan to visit can be beneficial. Many Guwahati tour packages include accommodation arrangements.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Guwahati is during the winter months, from October to April, when the weather is pleasant.
- Local Transportation: Within Guwahati, you can travel by bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi. Ride-hailing apps are also available.
- Assam Guwahati Package Tours: Opting for an Assam Guwahati package or a Guwahati tour package can simplify your travel arrangements, especially if you're short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience. Many tour operators offer customised packages, including itineraries covering the major attractions in and around Guwahati. When choosing an Assam Guwahati tour package from Delhi, make sure to check the inclusions and exclusions carefully.
Guwahati: A City of Contrasts and Charm:
Guwahati is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern development. It's a city where you can explore ancient temples, cruise on a mighty river, immerse yourself in Assamese culture, and savour the delicious local cuisine. Whether you're looking for a spiritual journey, a cultural exploration, or a nature retreat, Guwahati has something to offer. It's a city that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories. So, whether you are looking for a quick Guwahati tour package or a more elaborate Assam Guwahati package, this city at the heart of Assam is sure to enchant you.
How to Reach Assam – Guwahati Travel Guide
Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, is the largest city in Assam and a popular starting point for exploring the region. Whether you're travelling for spiritual purposes, wildlife safaris, or scenic beauty, reaching Guwahati is easy and convenient through air, rail, and road connectivity.
✈️ By Air – The Fastest Way
The most convenient way to reach Guwahati is by air. The city is served by Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), located around 25 km from the city centre. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai through daily direct flights.
Several airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet, operate frequent flights to Guwahati. For international travellers, connecting flights via Delhi or Kolkata make it accessible from abroad as well.
Upon arrival, you can easily hire a taxi or use app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) to reach your hotel or destination in the city.
? By Train – Economical & Scenic
Guwahati Railway Station (Station Code: GHY) is one of the busiest railheads in Northeast India and is well connected to almost all parts of the country. You can find direct trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Patna, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad.
Some popular trains to Guwahati include:
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Brahmaputra Mail
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North East Express
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Kamakhya Express
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Saraighat Express
The station is located in the heart of the city, making it convenient to find hotels, local transport, and eateries nearby.
? By Road – For Adventure Seekers
Guwahati is also accessible by road via National Highway 27 (NH-27) and NH-17, making it connected to nearby states like West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.
Regular ASTC (Assam State Transport Corporation) and private buses operate from Shillong, Tezpur, Siliguri, Itanagar, and other regional hubs. You can also drive your car or hire a taxi for a more flexible road trip experience.
? Local Transport in Guwahati
Once you arrive, getting around Guwahati is easy with options like auto-rickshaws, taxis, cycle rickshaws, and app-based cabs (Ola & Uber). For sightseeing, you can also book private cabs or guided tour vehicles.
Reaching Guwahati is smooth and flexible, whether you're flying in, riding the rails, or driving through the scenic routes of Northeast India. With strong connectivity and beautiful landscapes waiting ahead, your journey to Guwahati is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
Family Trip to Guwahati: A Complete Guide for Memorable Holidays
Planning a peaceful and adventurous family getaway? Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, is the perfect destination for a wholesome family vacation. With spiritual places, serene river views, nature parks, and fun activities for all age groups, Guwahati promises an unforgettable trip for families.
? Why Choose Guwahati for a Family Trip?
Guwahati is a beautiful blend of spirituality, nature, culture, and comfort. It’s well connected by air, rail, and road, and offers clean and peaceful surroundings—ideal for kids, parents, and even senior citizens. Whether it's a river cruise, zoo visit, temple darshan, or shopping in local bazaars, there's something for every family member.
? Top Attractions for Families in Guwahati
1. Kamakhya Temple
A sacred pilgrimage site, Kamakhya Temple is located atop the Nilachal Hills and offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a great place for families to seek blessings and understand Assamese culture.
2. Assam State Zoo & Botanical Garden
Perfect for kids and animal lovers, this zoo features a wide variety of animals including tigers, rhinos, and leopards. The adjoining botanical garden offers peaceful walking paths and a chance to learn about native flora.
3. Umananda Island (Peacock Island)
Take a fun ferry ride with the family to this island on the Brahmaputra River. The boat ride itself is an adventure for children, and the island houses the famous Umananda Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
4. River Cruise on the Brahmaputra
Evening cruises with live music, snacks, and breathtaking sunset views are a hit with families. This is a relaxing and memorable activity suitable for all ages.
5. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
Introduce your children to the rich culture of Assam through this museum and cultural complex featuring traditional art, architecture, and performances.
?️ Shopping & Local Markets
Fancy Bazaar is a lively market perfect for souvenir shopping, Assam silk sarees, traditional handicrafts, and delicious street food like momos and pithas. Kids love the colourful stalls, and parents enjoy budget-friendly deals.
? Family-Friendly Accommodation
Guwahati offers a range of family-friendly hotels and resorts with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and kid-friendly services. Areas near Paltan Bazaar, GS Road, and the Brahmaputra Riverfront are ideal for staying.
Some popular options include:
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Vivanta Guwahati
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Radisson Blu
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Hotel Gateway Grandeur
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Budget options like Hotel Siroy Lily or Hotel Rains Inn
?️ Food Options for All Ages
Guwahati has something for everyone—from traditional Assamese thalis to Chinese, South Indian, and North Indian cuisines. Family-friendly restaurants like Paradise, The Great Kabab Factory, and Naga Kitchen are highly recommended.
FAQS About Guwahati Travel
1. What is Guwahati famous for?
Guwahati is famous for the Kamakhya Temple, scenic Brahmaputra River, rich Assamese culture, silk markets, and proximity to Kaziranga National Park.
2. Is Guwahati safe for tourists and families?
Yes, Guwahati is considered one of the safest cities in Northeast India, especially for families and solo travellers. Just follow basic travel precautions.
3. What are the must-visit temples in Guwahati?
Apart from Kamakhya Temple, don’t miss Umananda Temple, Navagraha Temple, Basistha Ashram, and Ugratara Temple.
4. Can I visit Guwahati and Shillong together?
Absolutely! Many travellers combine Guwahati, Shillong, and Cherrapunji in one itinerary as they are well-connected by road.
5. How much time is enough to explore Guwahati?
You can explore major attractions in 2–3 days, but if you're combining it with Kaziranga or Shillong, plan for 6–8 days.
6. Are river cruises available in Guwahati?
Yes! Sunset and dinner cruises on the Brahmaputra River are very popular and family-friendly. Book in advance during peak seasons.
7. What is the best time to visit Guwahati?
The best time is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and river activities.
8. Are there any wildlife attractions near Guwahati?
Yes, Kaziranga National Park is just 4–5 hours away, and Assam State Zoo is located within Guwahati city.
9. Is Guwahati suitable for senior citizens?
Yes, with comfortable hotels, religious sites, and easy transport, Guwahati is ideal for elderly travellers and spiritual seekers.
10. What local food should I try in Guwahati?
Try Assamese thali, fish curry, pithas (rice cakes), momos, and bamboo shoot pork. Don't forget the famous Assam tea.
11. Can I use Ola or Uber in Guwahati?
Yes, both Ola and Uber are available for local travel, making it easy to commute for tourists.
12. Is it necessary to hire a guide in Guwahati?
Not necessary, but hiring a local guide or cab driver helps you explore offbeat spots and understand the cultural context better.
13. What are the best shopping places in Guwahati?
Visit Fancy Bazaar, Pan Bazaar, and Paltan Bazaar for Assamese handlooms, traditional jewellery, and souvenirs.
14. How is the connectivity to Guwahati?
Guwahati is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport serves major Indian cities.
15. Are there any cultural events or festivals in Guwahati?
Yes! Don’t miss the Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple, Bihu Festival, and Assam Tea Festival if you're visiting during those times.
