The largest city of the northeastern state of Assam, the land of fabulous nature and wildlife, the city among temples and rich history, Guwahati is one of the most visited places of the North East and is regarded as "The Gateway to North East India ''. The city has been owned by tribes and victorious emperrors, and also attacked by evil attackers many times. The structures, architectures, stone monuments and inscriptions state the geographical and archaeological value of the city which is a must know thing to learn. Guwahati's epic climate and geographical location, situated on the banks of River Brahmaputra, creates biodiversity and invites birds across the globe. The natural beauty and serence places of the city and its outskirts are not to miss for life.
The History!
The ancient history of Guwahati dates back to the 10th and 12th century when it was inhabited by the Kiratas. From Kalika Purana, it is enscripted that Guwahati was the capital of Kamarupa Kingdom and Goddess Kamakhya in the Nilachal Hill was the presiding deity of the tribes.
The Mughals invaded Assam 17 times but were defeated by the Ahoms in The Battle of Itakhuli and The Battle of Saraighat. There are temples, architectures, monuments, and other significant structures from the mediaeval period.
Shopping here…
If you are a lover of shopping and your feet don't touch the ground when you see goods and clothes, Guwahati is the best place for you. Starting from street Shopping to artistic shopping and shopping in urbal malls, Guwahati has it all. Maati Centre is one of the unique places of the city located at Uzan Bazaar which has a variety of handmade items like Handloom, jute collection, fragrances, paper made earrings, and paintings. Pragjyoti Assam Emporium is famous for regional arts and crafts. Bamboo items and tribal arts can be bought from here. Mekhala Chadar, a distinguished local product from Assam, is a perfect gift for your dearest ones and is available at Silkalay, GS Road. Literature and academic books are bought heavily from Pan Bazaar. Maligaon Market is one of the must travel places for tasting the delicacies of Guwahati. Mishti Doi, Rasgulla, Hilsa Fish are authentic. Fancy Bazaar is another busy market and is called "Chandni Chowk of Guwahati''. Tribal clothing, accessories, various tea leaves, and home décor can be bought from Paltan Bazaar at a reasonable price.
How to reach the city
Guwahati is well connected to the major cities of the country and is proved to be an accessible land.
1. Airways:
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is 20 km from the city centre and major domestic and international flights are available.
2. Roadways:
Both private and government bus services are available from Guwahati to neighbouring cities. National Highway 27 links the city with West Bengal, Bihar and the rest of India.
3. Railways:
The Guwahati Railway Station is one of the busiest stations of India and thousands of trains connect the city to other states of the country.
Places to visit
1. Kamakhya Temple:
Kamakhya Temple is one of the Shakti Peethas of India and is visited by devotees throughout the year. It is situated on the Nilachal Hill of the Western part of Guwahati. The carvings speak of Tantrism and the scene of the hill can be seen closely from here.
2. Umananda Island:
Umananda Island is located on the Brahmaputra River and is the smallest river island of the world. Umananda Devi Temple is the major attraction point and it is the habitat of the rare Golden Langurs. It is also known as "The Peacock Island" for its shape.
3. Guwahati Zoo:
Guwahati Zoo is one of the very popular and most visited places of the city, extending to 430 acres. The zoo is a home to various types of flora and fauna and the visitors get a unique experience of nature here.
4. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 30 km away from Guwahati is the habitat of One-horned Rhinos. Apart from the animals and different types of plant species, it happens to be the home of a large number of birds and hence renowned as "Bharatpur of the East".
5. Assam State Museum:
Also known as "Assam Rajyik State Museum" , it is situated at the centre of the city and hence crowded with large people. The museum has artefacts, datas, and sculptures of ancient facts that present the history of North-east.
6. Guwahati Planetarium:
The Guwahati Planetarium at MG Road is the perfect weekend escape for astronomy lovers. The special shows which deliver the magic and facts of the universe, planets and galleries are a must when in Guwahati.
7. Chandubi Lake:
Chandubi is a natural lake at a distance of 64 km from the city. This is placed at the foot of Garo hills, surrounded by forests and tiny villages and is often served as a picnic spot.
8. Hajo:
Hajo is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, 25 km from the city. It is an important historical and archaeological site as it is the combination of regions such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. The rare tortoise found here is known as the form of "Kurma Avatar" of Lord Vishnu.
9. Maati Centre:
Maati Centre is an initiative to promote the talents of local artisans and painters. The folk and tribal art centre is situated at Uzan Bazaar in the city centre of Guwahati. If you are a person loving art and culture, you will surely fall in love with this place.
10. Dipor Bil:
Dipor Bil is a very famous lake in the state of Assam situated 18 km from Guwahati. Apart from the natural beauty, it is the home of endangered and unique migratory birds, hence it is declared as a Bird Sanctuary. People throughout the country visit here to birdwatch in winter.
11. Kaziranga National Park:
Kaziranga National Park is the habitat of elephants, wild water buffalos, swamp deer, tigers and migratory birds. It has marked its name in The World Heritage Site as it hosts two-thirds of the world's great One-horned Rhinoceros. Due to the great appearance of animals and birds, it is named as a "Biodiversity Hotspot".
12. Manas National Park:
Manas National Parkis famous for the unique and endangered wildlife species like Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, and Pygmy hog. The park gives an ineffable experience of nature and wildlife and is popular for the population of Wild Water Buffalo across the planet.
Best time to visit
Guwahati falls under a humid subtropical climate which has a hot summer and cool winter making it perfect for the tourists.
Summer- March to June- 25°C to 40°C (very hot and humid)
Rainy- June to September- 25°C to 32°C (average rainfall)
Winter- December to February- 25°C to 5°C (chilly)