Things To Do
in Guwāhāti
A bustling metropolis in the northeast region of India, this city serves as a gateway to the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Seven Sister States. Nestled along the Brahmaputra River, it blends natural beauty with urban vibrancy, hosting vibrant markets, ancient temples like Kamakhya Temple, and a lively arts scene.
This city is not only an important cultural and educational hub but also plays a pivotal role in the region's transportation and commerce, making it a pivotal city in the northeast.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Kamakhya Temple, known for its spiritual significance. Enjoy the serene environment and panoramic views of the city as you explore the temple complex.
Head to the Assam State Museum to learn about the rich culture and history of the region. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery to savor authentic Assamese cuisine.
Take a sunset boat ride on the Brahmaputra River, enjoying picturesque views as the sun sets. Conclude your day with a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy some local street food.
Start your day by visiting the Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a wildlife safari. Witness the stunning biodiversity and take in the picturesque landscapes.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature or at a local spot nearby the park. Continue your exploration of the park's trails and observe diverse flora and fauna.
Return to Guwāhāti and visit the local markets for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Wind down with dinner at a restaurant that offers traditional Assamese dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions
- Home to beautiful natural landscapes, including hills and the Brahmaputra River
- Growing educational and economic opportunities
- Rich biodiversity, including several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries
- Mild climate compared to other regions in India
- Culinary variety, famous for Assam tea and local cuisines
- Traffic congestion and urban infrastructure challenges
- Limited public transportation options and connectivity
- Seasonal flooding issues during monsoon
- Pollution and environmental concerns in urban areas
- Healthcare facilities may not meet the standards of larger cities
- Economic disparities between urban and rural areas
Best Activities in Guwāhāti
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a serene river cruise on the Brahmaputra River to experience picturesque views of Guwahati and its surrounding landscapes.
Explore the ancient Kamakhya Temple, an important pilgrimage site and a hub of religious and cultural activities in Guwahati.
Visit the Assam State Zoo to witness a diverse range of wildlife species and enjoy a day amidst nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guwāhāti with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guwāhāti
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city and the Brahmaputra River, as well as the surrounding hills and landscapes.
Known for its picturesque vistas, including stunning views of Guwahati city and the Brahmaputra River.
Provides beautiful views of the river and the city, with opportunities for capturing scenic images.
Food in Guwāhāti
Guwāhāti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy fish curry made with tomatoes, lemon, and a variety of local spices, usually served with rice. Must-try at Khorikaa Restaurant or Parampara Paradise.
Must-Try!
A simple yet flavorsome mashed potato dish blended with mustard oil, onions, and green chilies, often paired with rice or roti. Available at Heritage Khorika or Paradise Restaurant.
A traditional alkaline dish made with raw papaya, pulses, and local greens, known for its distinct taste. Best sampled at Bhogdoi Restaurant or Parampara Paradise.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guwāhāti better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local street food, offering an array of snacks such as pani puri, momos, and various chaats.
A vibrant area known for its street food stalls serving delectable dishes like litti choka, jhal muri, and various Assamese snacks. Perfect for an evening food expedition.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with respect, such as using 'Namaste' or 'Pranam' when meeting someone, especially elders.
Being mindful of religious customs and practices, such as removing shoes before entering a place of worship, and showing reverence in and around religious sites.
In Guwāhāti, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places or attending traditional events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guwāhāti with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guwāhāti
Ensure a smooth experience
In Guwāhāti, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. It is common to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill if the service was satisfactory.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Guwāhāti, especially for smaller purchases. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for convenience, as not all places may accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guwāhāti.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Guwāhāti is during the winter season, particularly from October to March. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can expect cultural festivals, such as the Assam International Tea Festival and the Guwahati International Film Festival, during this time.
Summers in Guwāhāti can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 35°C. It's advisable to avoid visiting during this season as the weather can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities. However, if you do visit during this time, you can expect the Bihu festival, a significant cultural event in Assam, to take place.
Guwāhāti experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can lead to flooding and travel disruptions. The city's natural beauty flourishes during this time, with lush greenery and vibrant flora. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. It's important to be prepared for potential rainfall and its impact on travel plans if visiting during this season.
Guwāhāti at Night
Hiking in Guwāhāti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic location near Guwahati offering beautiful trails, stunning landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere suitable for hiking.
Located around 176 km from Guwahati, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides various hiking opportunities in a rich biodiversity hotspot.
Nearby village known for its scenic beauty and trails that offer a unique hiking experience amidst the Assamese culture.
The area surrounding the Kamakhya Temple has several trails that lead to picturesque views and a spiritual experience.
A beautiful lake area in the city with adjacent trails perfect for leisurely walks and short hiking sessions.
Offers hiking routes with views of the stunning Himalayan foothills, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guwāhāti through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Guwāhāti by plane.
The main airport serving Guwāhāti, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city. It handles domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Kolkata, West Bengal, approximately 600 kilometers from Guwāhāti. It is the nearest major international airport serving numerous international destinations.
Situated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, around 1,000 kilometers from Guwāhāti, this airport serves international flights as well as domestic routes.
Located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, about 1,200 kilometers from Guwāhāti, serving both domestic and international routes.
Located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, approximately 1,602 kilometers from Guwāhāti. It is a major international airport with extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Assam, primarily speaking Assamese, with rich cultural heritage.
An ethnic group from the Bodoland Territorial Region, primarily residing in the northern parts of Assam.
A significant demographic group in Guwahati, primarily consisting of migrants from West Bengal and Bangladesh.
People from Manipur who have settled in Guwahati, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Ethnic groups from Nagaland, residing in Guwahati for educational and employment opportunities.
Communities of laborers who worked in Assam's tea plantations, with diverse tribal backgrounds.
A community that migrated from Punjab, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Guwahati.
A diverse group including indigenous Assamese Muslims and Bengali Muslims living in the region.
Various denominations, primarily comprised of indigenous tribal populations from northeastern India.
The Soul of Guwāhāti
Discover the essence of Guwāhāti through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Guwāhāti, with a large following. Local tournaments and matches in various formats are commonly organized.
Football is widely played and followed in Guwāhāti. The city has several local clubs and competes in regional tournaments.
Badminton enjoys popularity due to its accessibility and is played both recreationally and competitively in schools and clubs.
Basketball has been gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with several courts available in schools and parks.
Athletics is nurtured through schools and colleges, with events like running, jumping, and throwing being actively promoted.
Field hockey has a legacy in the region and maintains a dedicated player and fan base, with competitions held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guwāhāti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Assamese cuisine is largely non-vegetarian, there are ample vegetarian options readily available, such as paneer dishes, lentil curries, and fresh vegetable preparations, offered in most local restaurants and cafes.
Finding vegan options may require some inquiry, but many restaurants are able to accommodate vegan dietary needs, offering dishes like mixed vegetable curries, dal, and traditional rice preparations.
With rice being a staple in Assamese cuisine, individuals requiring gluten-free options will find a plethora of choices, including rice-based breads, rice noodles, and various rice-based snacks.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Guwāhāti with these cultural adventures.