Guwahati, a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty, is situated in the heart of Assam. This city has something to offer every kind of traveller, from colourful markets and mouth-watering cuisine to quiet river excursions and old temples. Guwahati is your starting point for a fantastic journey in Northeast India, whether looking for spiritual enlightenment, trying authentic Assamese cuisine, or seeing the varied wildlife. 🤩
Through this article, let’s explore the 9 top things to do in this fascinating city, where each day promises to be unique and unforgettable.
Top Things to do in Guwahati ✅
1. Enjoy the Annual Ambubachi Mela
Guwahati is known for its temples and religious presence, especially the Kamakhya temple . This temple is one of India’s 51 Shakti pithas, located 7 km from Guwahati. Kamakhya temple is associated with an ancient belief that Goddess Sati’s reproductive organs were settled at this place on Earth. Hence, every year in mid-June, Ambubachi mela is organized at the temple to celebrate the menstruation of the goddess.
During the Ambubachi festival, which lasts from the seventh to the tenth day of the Hindu month of “Asadha,” the temple doors are closed, signifying the Goddess Kamakhya’s annual menstrual cycle. On the twelfth day, the doors are ceremoniously reopened, ushering in a vibrant fair that transforms the temple grounds into a bustling celebration of devotion and cultural fervor. This enchanting festival draws countless devotees and visitors, making it an unforgettable experience of spiritual and communal joy.
- Entry – Available free (special entry with a ticket of Rs. 101 & VIP entry with a ticket of Rs. 501.)
- Timings – 7:30 a.m – 4:30 p.m. (break from 1-2:30 pm)
2. Visit to the Weaver’s Town
On the Brahmaputra river’s banks is a small town – Sualkuchi. The city is also called the Manchester of East by the locals for its silk production. People visit this beautiful town to understand the weaving culture of our country. You will find many women hand-weaving the finest silk in their homes on the backstrap loom. Moreover, you can also buy beautiful silk outfits and traditional bridal dresses from the local market as a souvenir. While in Sualkuchi, do not miss the Raas Mahotsav that happens in November.
- Entry fee: Free
3. Spend a Day River Cruising on the Brahmaputra River
River cruising is one of the top things to do in Guwahati with the tourists. You can find many cruise operators who can take you for a fabulous cruise experience on this legendary river. Depending on your schedule, you can take a short or multi-day cruise to enjoy some other parts of Assam. These cruises also offer lunch and dinner, where you can enjoy famous Assamese delicacies.
4. Shopping at Fancy Bazar
If you want to experience the hustle and bustle of Guwahati’s hotspot, then you should visit the Fancy Bazar. It is one of the best and most popular places to see if you want to enjoy the local life of Guwahati.
Located right in the city’s centre, this bazaar is the perfect place to buy Assamese silk or souvenirs while enjoying the local cuisine. What is even better is that you can witness tradition and modernization all in one place. From charming small packed shops to modern showrooms, Fancy Bazar has everything for every tourist.
- Timings – 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m.
5. Boat Ride at the Umananda Temple 🛕
Umananda temple is yet another famous sightseeing destination of Guwahati, and its boat ride makes it more memorable. Umananda temple is located on Peacock Island in the centre of the Brahmaputra River. The island is the world’s smallest riverine island, which can be reached through a boat ride. The experience of enjoying the calm Brahmaputra river and the beautiful surroundings is nothing less than a meditation in itself.
- Timings – 07:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m.
6. Visit the Assam State Museum
You cannot miss to enjoy and be amused by the local Ahom culture when you are in Guwahati. You can enjoy the beauty of this culture at the Assam State Museum. The museum will enthral you with its vast collection of tribal artworks and artefacts, Ahom sculptures, coins, old manuscripts, weapons, ammunition, and some exquisite Assamese textiles. It is housed in a fantastic colonial structure. If you are visiting with your family, especially kids, it should be on your list of things to do in Guwahati.
- Entry – For adults, the entry fee is Rs. 20.
- Timings – 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.
7. Jeep Safari at the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary 🐅
If you want to witness one of the world’s unique animals, enjoy a jeep or elephant safari at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located around 30 km from Guwahati and is called the Bharatpur of the East. In Assam’s Morigaon district, you can enjoy the untainted environment for the whole day. You can plan this safari trip on the way to Kaziranga National Park.
- Entry – The entry fee is Rs. 50 per person (The elephant safari will cost you Rs. 450 per adult, and the jeep safari is priced at Rs. 3650.)
- Timings – Elephant safari happens between 06:30 a.m. – 07:30 a.m.; jeep safari starts at 07:00 a.m. and lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Book buses to Guwahati now.
8. Try Barbeque at the Khorikaa
When visiting this charming place, you should try your hands on Assamese cuisine. You can enjoy the delicacies at Khorikaa, which is one of the best places to enjoy Assamese dishes. Unlike other restaurants, you can enjoy a good evening with some great barbeque options at a very reasonable price. Some of the popular things to try at this restaurant are Chicken Khorikaa, Smoked Pork, Barbequed Fish, and Pigeon.
- Cost for Two: Rs. 700 approximately.
- Timings – 11:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
9. Visit the Navagraha Temple 🛕
The Guwahati Navagraha Temple honours the nine planets in our solar system. Nine Shiva lingams are placed inside the temple to represent these nine planets. Each is covered with beautiful, vibrant, colourful clothes similar to the celestial bodies. As per the local beliefs, praying at the Navagraha temple helps ward off evil spirits. Moreover, people also say that the town has also earned its ancient name, “Pragjyotishapura,” from this temple. If you visit Guwahati in February, do not forget to attend the annual Yagya ceremony. Besides, many research activities based on astrology and astronomy take place within this temple.
Timings – 04:00 a.m. – 09:00 a.m.
Plan your Guwahati Trip now! 🚍
Guwahati provides diverse experiences for all visitors with its alluring fusion of culture, nature, and history. This city has much to offer every traveller, from the calm sunsets along the Brahmaputra River to the spiritual atmosphere of the Kamakhya Temple and the mouthwatering Assamese cuisine that entices the senses.
Whether you are looking for natural wonders, spiritual enlightenment, or a taste of real Assamese life, Guwahati is a city that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the richness and beauty of northeastern India, as well as with enduring memories.
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