Guwahati: The Gateway to Northeast India and Its Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Best Time to Visit Guwahati

Guwahati should hopefully be available from October to March when the weather is mild and the tourist spots are all busy with visitors. These months are still cold, but the temperatures vary between 10°C and 25°C, which can be pleasant weather for sightseeing. Also, winter is the time when migratory birds come down to the city wetlands, and hence, it becomes a perfect time for wildlife lovers to see places like Deepor Beel.

Where to Stay in Guwahati

Are you looking to stay in Guwahati? The city has a wide range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses, luxury hotels, and so on. With regard to your likes and budgets, you'll find accommodations in the city centre or at key tourist attractions or close to the airport for convenience.

Hotels in Guwahati

Hotels in Guwahati - from budget hotels to luxury hotels. Whether you are on a budget or your preference is to be close to the city centre, close to major tourist attractions, easily accessible from the airport, etc., you can choose the one that suits your needs. Book hotels with Adani Oneand book hotels in Guwahati directly.

Luxury Hotels: If you want to experience luxury, you can choose hotels like Vivanta by Taj and Radisson Blu, which have world-class facilities.

Mid-Range Hotels: There are also good mid-range hotels like Dynasty Hotel and Kiranshree Grand Hotel.

Budget Hotels: Budget hotels are popular among budget travellers as they offer cheap and comfortable accommodations.

Travel Tips for Visiting Guwahati

Here are some travel tips for visiting Guwahati-

Respect local culture: Assam is home to diverse cultures, so it's essential to honour local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting temples like Kamakhya Mandir.

Best time to visit a temple: Mornings tend to be less crowded at temples, allowing you to enjoy a more peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Bring cash: While Guwahati is a modern city, it's wise to have cash on hand, especially for small shops or rural areas where card payments may not be accepted.

Bring light clothes: The winter weather is pleasant, but summers can be quite humid. If you're travelling during the summer, pack light and comfortable clothing.

Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water and carry a water bottle during long hikes, especially in the summer heat.

Local transport: Guwahati doesn't have a metro system, but you can navigate the city using auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are also popular.

Language: Assamese is the primary language spoken, but Hindi and English are commonly understood, especially in tourist areas.

Safety: While Guwahati is generally safe for tourists, it's always best to exercise caution, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit areas and use licensed transportation.

Local transport: Rickshaws and taxis are the main modes of transport within the city, and services like Ola and Uber are readily available.

Try the local food: Be sure to sample the Assamese thali, pithas, and tenga (spicy fish curry). The street food at Fancy Bazaar is also a must-try.

Savour the Local Flavors of Guwahati: A Culinary Journey

Guwahati is not just a city with historical landmarks and scenic beauty, but it also provides a fine culinary experience that brings out the varied flavours of Assam. The culinary operations here are a blend of an indigenous influence, fertile lands, and local culture responsible for celebrating fresh produce.

1. Assamese Thali Experience

A trip to Guwahati remains incomplete without the experience of a traditional Assamese thali. This lavish meal, so artisanal in craft and ambience, derives its essence from local production and is an ode to the regional culinary heritage. Rice, khar, tenga, bamboo shoot pickle, and pithy comprise the measures: rice (a staple food source of Assam), khar (exclusive of raw papaya and pulses), tenga (sour fish curry), bamboo shoot pickle, and pitha (traditional rice cake).

Where to Try: There are several restaurants in Guwahati that serve authentic Assamese food, including Paradise, Heritage Khorika, and Michinga Restaurant.

Timings: Most Assamese restaurants serve lunch from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

Price Range: ₹ 250 to ₹ 600 depending on the restaurant.

2. Street Food Delights

For those who love street food, Guwahati offers a range of flavoursome delights. From momos, influenced by the neighbouring Northeastern states, to ghugni (spicy yellow peas curry) and Jhalmuri (puffed rice salad), the street food scene is vibrant and varied. The famous street food spots include GS Road, Paltan Bazaar, and Fancy Bazaar.

Best Time to Explore: From 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the evening is the best time to visit the street food stalls.

Price Range: ₹ 20 to ₹ 100 for each snack.

Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Guwahati, ensuring your trip is filled with unforgettable moments.

Here are to the best places to visit in Guwahati. Get cheap flight tickets to Guwahati on the Adani One platform through the various promotional offers on their app/website. Plus, get Adani Reward Points on all transactions, which can be redeemed on the platform for your next purchase. 

1. Kamakhya Temple

One of the most visited places by tourists in Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kamakhya. This temple is located atop Nilachal Hill and happens to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. Thousands of devotees visit this place mainly during the Ambubachi Mela, which is the annual fair related to the fertility of the goddess. The architectural feature, such as that of beehive domes, makes the temple even more revered.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Entry Fee: Free for general entry; Special entry: ₹ 501.

How to Reach: Around 8 km from the Guwahati Railway Station; taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available.

Nearest Metro Station: Guwahati doesn’t have a metro system yet, but public buses and taxis offer reliable transport.

2. Umananda Island

It is also called the Peacock island. Umananda Island is located in the heart of the Brahmaputra River and has a temple on it. The temple is known as Umananda Temple, where Lord Shiva is worshipped. If you want to get away from the crowd and spend some quality time with yourself, you can take a short ferry ride from the city to this island, where nature and spirituality blend in perfect harmony.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Ferry charges: ₹ 20 (government ferry), private boats can charge up to ₹ 300. However, entry to the island is free.

How to Reach: Take a ferry from the Uzan Ferry point (just 1.5 km from the city centre).

3. Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is a must-visit spot. Spread over 432 acres within the Hengrabari Reserve Forest, this zoo is home to several species, including tigers, elephants, and the one-horned rhinoceros. The botanical garden offers a peaceful walk amidst various plant species, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on Fridays). 

Entry Fee: ₹30 for adults; ₹10 for children; Extra charges for cameras, vehicle parking.

How to Reach: Around 6 km from the railway station, it is accessible via buses and taxis.

Nearest Metro Station: N/A.

4. Guwahati Planetarium

If you’re travelling with kids or are a fan of astronomy, the Guwahati Planetarium is the place to be. Situated on MG Road, this planetarium offers an interactive and educational experience through its sky-gazing sessions and special programs. The starry skies and cosmic phenomena presentations are a hit with both children and adults.

Timings: In Assamese: 11 AM, 1 PM, 2 PM & 3 PM. (closed on 15th of every month)

In English: 12 PM & 4 PM

Entry Fee: ₹ 50 for adults; ₹30 for students

How to Reach: It is located near the Dighalipukhuri and is about 3 km from the city centre. Public transport options include buses and auto-rickshaws.

5. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

 Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is outside Guwahati. The distance from the city is about 54 km. The forest has a one-horned rhinoceros, which attracts people from all around the country. You can take jeep safaris for a closer look at the forest. Also, it offers an excellent opportunity for those who like birdwatching. Being close to the city, it's a great day trip place for those who are interested in nature and wildlife

Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹ 50 for adults; ₹ 20 for children. Jeep safari charges are extra.

How to Reach: Taxis and rental cars are the most convenient options for reaching the sanctuary from Guwahati.

6. Navagraha Temple

Situated atop Chitrasal Hill, the Navagraha Temple is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas) of Hindu astrology and a shivlinga representing the sun and the centre of the planets. Built by Ahom king Rajeshwar Singha in the eighteenth century, the temple worships the astrological grahas. You can enjoy scenic views of the city from the hilltop of the temple. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for those looking to explore the region’s spiritual and astrological traditions.

Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

How to Reach: About 3 km from the city centre; reachable by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

7. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra

A visit to Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra is essential to immerse oneself in Assam's culture and heritage. This cultural complex devoted to Srimanta Sankardev, the renowned Assamese saint and cultural icon, exhibits Assam's traditional art, dance, and music. It comprises a museum, library, and open-air theatre in which performances are regularly staged, making this one of the richest cultural places to visit in Guwahati.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM 

Entry Fee: ₹ 30 for adults; ₹10 for children. Parking and camera charges are extra

How to Reach: Located about 11 km from the railway station; easily accessible by bus or taxi.

8. Basistha Ashram

Located on the outskirts of Guwahati, Basistha Ashram was built by Ahom King Rajeshwar singha in 1764. It is one of the oldest temples in the area. The place is peaceful as a spiritual retreat. The popular destination is fit for those seeking peace and natural beauty. This ancient ashram is dedicated to the sage Basistha. The lush greenery and nearby rivulets make it a picturesque spot for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free.

How to Reach: About 14 km from the railway station; taxis and buses are the most convenient options.

9. Fancy Bazaar

If shopping is on your mind, Fancy Bazaar is the place to go. Known as the shopping hub or sometimes Chandni Chowk of Guwahati, this bustling flea market offers everything from Assamese silk sarees and handicrafts to street food and electronics. It's the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs and local snacks and enjoy the lively atmosphere of one of the city’s most popular areas.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Entry Fee: Free (shopping at your own cost!).

How to Reach: Located in the heart of the city, easily accessible by bus or auto-rickshaw.

10. Nehru Park

Located near Cotton College, Nehru Park is one of the most peaceful green spaces in Guwahati. This well-maintained park is ideal for family outings, evening walks, or even solo travellers looking for a quiet escape. The park also has sculptures depicting Assam’s classical dance forms and regular live performances, adding to its charm.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. (Closed on Thursday)

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 for adults; ₹ 5 for children.

How to Reach: Centrally located, easily accessible by public transport.

Festivals and Cultural Experiences in Guwahati

Guwahati has its cultural heritage in its festivals that happen throughout the year. These festivals help to understand the culture, art and religion of Assam. 
 
1. Bihu Festival

Rongali, Bhogali, and Kongali are the three Bihus, Assam's most popular festival. Most prominent of all, Rongali or Bohag Bihu takes place in April and marks the start of the Assamese New Year and the beginning of spring. It involves traditional dance performances, folk songs, and feasts. The focus of Bhogali or Magh Bihu, celebrated in January, is on the harvest. Kongali or Kati Bihu, although celebrated in October, is marked by the prayer for a good harvest. 
 
Best Time to Visit: April for Rongali Bihu. 
 
Experience: Join local communities in the celebrations and witness the cultural performances and traditional dishes prepared during the festival, such as pitha (rice cakes) and laddoo. 
 
2. Ambubachi Mela 
 
Held annually in June at the Kamakhya Temple, the Ambubachi Mela is a major religious festival celebrating the goddess Kamakhya and the fertility of the Earth. Thousands of pilgrims, ascetics, and tourists gather in Guwahati during this period, making it a unique cultural experience. The temple remains closed for three days, symbolizing the goddess’s menstruation cycle, and reopens with rituals and celebrations. 
 
Best Time to Visit: June during the Ambubachi Mela. 
 
Experience: A chance to observe spiritual traditions, interact with ascetics, and experience the devotion of the masses. 
 
How to Participate: The Kamakhya Temple is the main venue. Travellers are advised to arrive early to witness the ceremonies and avoid large crowds. 
 
3. Dehing Patkai Festival 
 
Although not held in the city itself, the Dehing Patkai Festival is an exciting cultural event that takes place in Assam, and travellers to Guwahati often use the city as a base for their trip. This festival, celebrated in January, showcases Assam’s tribal culture with events such as adventure sports, ethnic food fairs, and craft exhibitions. 
 
Best Time to Visit: January during the Dehing Patkai Festival. 
 
Experience: Adventure activities such as paragliding, rafting, and trekking alongside cultural performances. 
 
How to Reach: Travelers can take a bus or taxi from Guwahati to Tinsukia, the nearest city to the festival site. 

Exploring the Brahmaputra River: Cruises and Water Activities 

The mighty Brahmaputra River is a defining feature of Guwahati, offering a range of activities that allow visitors to experience the city from a different perspective. From leisurely river cruises to adventurous water sports, the river is central to Guwahati’s identity. 
 
1. Sunset Cruises 
 
One of the most serene experiences in Guwahati is taking a Brahmaputra sunset cruise. As the sun sets over the river, travellers can enjoy the cool breeze, breathtaking views, and the city’s skyline lighting up in the background. These cruises usually last for an hour and offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. 
 
Timings: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (varies by season). 
 
Cost: ₹300 to ₹2000 depending on the type of cruise (basic, luxury, or dinner cruise). 
 
How to Reach: The cruise ships depart from the Fancy Bazaar area, near the riverfront. 
 
2. Dinner Cruises 
 
For a more elaborate experience, opt for a dinner cruise along the Brahmaputra. These cruises offer a multi-course meal, live music, and scenic views of the city’s twinkling lights. Some boats even have traditional cultural performances onboard, making it a memorable evening. 
 
Timings: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM. 
 
Cost: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 3,000, depending on the cruise. 
 
3. Water Sports and Adventure 
 
For those looking for a more active experience, the Brahmaputra River offers opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. While these are less common than in other tourist destinations, there are a few adventure clubs that arrange such activities for visitors. 
 
Best Time for Water Sports: November to April, when the water levels are lower. 
 
Cost: Varies by activity; kayaking and boating tours range from ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 2,500. 

Tea Gardens of Guwahati: A Journey into Assam’s Tea Legacy 

Assam is renowned worldwide for its tea, and although the city of Guwahati does not have grandes tea estates, it is indeed the gateway to the tea country of Assam. Visitors are welcome to visit the tea gardens on the outskirts to witness the process of tea production that is very educational and appreciate the lush green plantations. 
 
1. Guwahati Tea Auction Centre 
 
Located in Guwahati, the Assam Tea Auction Centre is the largest of its kind in the world, and visiting it offers a glimpse into the world of tea trading. While not a typical tourist destination, the centre allows you to witness the tea auction process, which can be fascinating for tea lovers. You can enjoy a sip of their world-class tea at GTAC lounge. 
 
 
2. Visit to Tea Estates 
 
Several tea estates are located within a few hours’ drive from Guwahati, and visiting one is a great way to learn about Assam’s tea industry. Some estates, like the Jorhat Tea Estate, offer guided tours that include a walk through the plantations, a visit to the factory, and tea-tasting sessions. 
 
Best Time to Visit: November to April during the plucking season. 
 
How to Reach: Most estates are a 3-4 hour drive from Guwahati; hiring a taxi or booking a tour is the best option. 

Day Trips from Guwahati

For travelers looking to explore more of Assam’s beauty, Majuli makes for excellent day trip from Guwahati, offering a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences. 
 
Majuli, the largest river island in the world, is about 5-6 hours from Guwahati. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its Vaishnavite monasteries, traditional mask-making, and serene landscapes. A visit to Majuli provides an opportunity to experience the spiritual and cultural life of the island’s inhabitants, many of whom are followers of the Vaishnavism sect of Hinduism. 
 
How to Reach: Majuli can be reached by a combination of train to Jorhat from Guwahati and take a cab and ferry to reach Majuli. 
 
Best Time to Visit: October to April. 
 
Timings: Ferries operate from early morning until late afternoon.

Deepor Beel: A paradise for bird watchers, Deepor Beel is a freshwater lake situated on the outskirts of Guwahati. It’s a Ramsar site and home to a variety of migratory birds, making it a great spot for those looking to reconnect with nature. Winter months are the best time to visit when the migratory birds are in full view.

Timings: Open throughout the day.

Entry Fee: Free.

How to Reach: About 19 km from Guwahati; accessible by taxis or rental vehicles.

Shopping in Guwahati: Souvenirs and Handicrafts

One of the best parts of travelling is bringing home a piece of the place you visited, and Guwahati offers plenty of opportunities to shop for authentic Assamese products. The city’s markets are brimming with traditional crafts, local textiles, and souvenirs that reflect the region's heritage.

1. Silk Shopping in Guwahati

Assam is famous for its silk, particularly the golden-hued Muga Silk, which is exclusive to the state. Other varieties include Eri Silk and Paat Silk. Guwahati’s Fancy Bazaar and Silkalay are excellent places to buy high-quality silk sarees, mekhela chadors (traditional Assamese attire), and scarves.

Best Places to Buy: Silkalay and Fancy Bazaar.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Price Range: Silk sarees and traditional garments can range from ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 30,000, depending on the quality and design.

2. Handicrafts and Artifacts

For a more rustic shopping experience, head to Pan Bazaar. Here, you’ll find handcrafted items such as bamboo and cane products, terracotta figurines, and traditional Assamese jewelry. These make perfect souvenirs and gifts.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Price Range: ₹ 100 to ₹ 5,000 depending on the item.

Experiencing Guwahati’s Nightlife

Guwahati has a budding nightlife scene, with a number of pubs, lounges, and live music venues opening up in recent years. Whether you want to unwind with a drink after a long day of sightseeing or enjoy some live performances, the city has plenty of options.

1. Underdoggs Sports Bar & Grill

One of the most popular spots in Guwahati, Underdoggs offers a lively environment with great food, drinks, and live sports screenings. If you're a fan of sports or just want to have a fun evening with friends, this place is perfect.

Timings: 12:00 Noon – 12:30 AM.

Price Range: ₹ 1,700 for two (approx.).

How to Reach: Located in the central part of the city; auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.

2. Café Hendrix

For lovers of live music, Café Hendrix is the go-to venue. Named after the legendary Jimi Hendrix, this café hosts performances by local and national artists, making it a hub for Guwahati’s music enthusiasts. It serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines.

Timings: 1:00 PM – 12:00 PM.

Price Range: ₹ 1,200 for two (approx.).

How to Reach: Located near RG Baruah Road; taxis and autos are convenient transport options.

Nearby Excursions from Guwahati

Guwahati is not just a destination in itself but also serves as a gateway to explore nearby attractions that are worth a visit. Whether it’s an overnight trip or a day excursion, here are a few must-visit places near Guwahati.

1. Shillong – The Scotland of the East

Just a 3-hour drive from Guwahati, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a beautiful hill station known for its waterfalls, rolling hills, and pleasant climate. Popular attractions in Shillong include the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, and Umiam Lake. The drive from Guwahati to Shillong is scenic, passing through winding roads and lush landscapes.

Timings: Best visited during the day; overnight stay recommended.

How to Reach: Regular shared taxis and buses run from Guwahati to Shillong.

2. Cherrapunji – The Land of Living Root Bridges

If you have more time on your hands, head to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, located around 150 kilometres from Guwahati. Known for its living root bridges, Cherrapunji offers stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls and caves. It’s ideal for adventure enthusiasts who enjoy trekking.

Timings: Daytime visit recommended, but overnight stays are possible.

How to Reach: Hire a taxi from Guwahati or Shillong.

3. Kaziranga National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is about 4-5 hours from Guwahati and is home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros. The park also hosts tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Kaziranga is one of India’s best places for wildlife safaris.

Timings: Open from November to April; 

Safari Timings – 

By Jeep- 08:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM

By Elephant- Morning: 05:30AM - 06:30AM, Morning: 06:30AM - 07:30AM

Safari charges vary as per package.

How to Reach: Buses and taxis are available from Guwahati.

A Journey Through Guwahati’s Splendour

Guwahati is a city where tradition meets modernity. Whether you are a pilgrim visiting the Kamakhya Temple, a nature lover finding peace at Deepor Beel or a history buff exploring the treasures at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, this city will leave an imprint on your heart. From river cruises on the Brahmaputra to walking through the bustling Fancy Bazaar, every nook and corner of Guwahati has a story as old as time and as young as it is now. 

Traveling for short or counting the days to your extended stay, check out these tourist places in Guwahati city and seal your day (s) with love as you explore the gateway to Northeast India. Guwahati is as charming a place as any and offers visitors much in terms of culture and spirituality, combined with plenty of natural beauty. Pack your bags, head out to explore, and allow the city to cast its spell on you. Welcome to Guwahati!