8 Great Places to Visit in Guwahati That You Can’t Miss!

Guwahati is a city in the northeastern state of Assam, India, and known for several places to visit in Guwahati. It is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is the largest city in the state. Guwahati has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its natural beauty, ancient temples, and vibrant nightlife.

The city has a tropical monsoon climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September. The winter months from November to February are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. So, the place offers ideal travel conditions during the non-rainy seasons to allow you to explore the top places to visit in Guwahati. 

Guwahati is a major commercial, educational, and cultural center of northeastern India and is also an important transportation hub, with a major airport, railway station, and bus station. The city is well-connected to other parts of the region and the country by road, rail, and air, making it easier to explore the top places to visit in Guwahati. 

In recent years, Guwahati has undergone significant development, with the construction of modern infrastructure, shopping malls, and entertainment complexes. However, the city has managed to retain its unique character and charm and continues to attract visitors from all over the world.

With that said, let’s explore the top places to visit in Guwahati.

Places to visit in Guwahati (1-2)

Kamakhya Temple – Places to visit in Guwahati for religious people

One of the most popular and revered temples in Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. It is known for its unique architecture and religious significance and is one of the top places to visit in Guwahati.

This place offers a lot to explore, among several other places to visit in Guwahati. These include:

• Offer prayers: The main reason to visit Kamakhya Temple is to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess Kamakhya. The temple is open to visitors every day, but timings may vary during festivals and special occasions. 
• Witness the Ambubachi Mela: The Ambubachi Mela is a four-day festival held annually at Kamakhya Temple to celebrate the fertility of the goddess Kamakhya. It is one of the most important festivals in Assam and draws thousands of devotees from all over the country. So, you must put this temple in your places to visit in Guwahati list to witness this mela.
• Explore the temple complex: The temple complex is spread over a large area and includes several shrines, ponds, and sculptures. Visitors can explore the complex and learn about the history and significance of the temple.
• Take a dip in the holy pond: The temple complex has a holy pond called the Kund, which is believed to have healing powers. Devotees take a dip in the pond to cleanse themselves before offering prayers to the goddess. Undoubtedly, places to visit in Guwahati such as these allow you to have a wholesome experience. 
• Attend the daily rituals: The temple priests perform several rituals every day, including the Mangala Aarti, the afternoon Bhog, and the Shayan Aarti. Visitors can attend these rituals and witness the traditional practices of the temple.
• Visit the Kamakhya Museum: The Kamakhya Museum, located within the temple complex, showcases various artifacts and exhibits related to the temple’s history and culture. It is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati if you love to explore the historical significance of any place. 
• Explore the nearby attractions: Kamakhya Temple is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River and the city of Guwahati. Visitors can also explore the nearby Umananda Island, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Assam State Zoo.

Umananda Island – Places to visit in Guwahati to enjoy scenic views

This river island is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra river and is home to the Umananda Temple. Visitors can take a ferry to reach the island and enjoy the scenic views. 

Including this place in the places to visit in Guwahati list allows you to explore the following activities. 

• Visit the Umananda Temple: The island is home to the Umananda Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Assam and attracts thousands of devotees every year, making it a must-visit among all places to visit in Guwahati.
• Take a ferry ride: Visitors can reach the island by taking a ferry ride from the mainland. The ferry ride offers scenic views of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding hills.
• Enjoy nature: Umananda Island is a lush green island with a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island and take a leisurely walk along the walking trail that leads to the temple. It is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati for nature lovers. 
• Spot wildlife: The island is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, langurs, and hoolock gibbons. Visitors can spot these animals while exploring the island.
• Photography: The island offers several picturesque spots, and photography enthusiasts can capture the scenic beauty of the island, the temple, and the river. To get pictures with a perfect backdrop, you can include them in your places to visit in Guwahati list. 
• Picnic: Umananda Island is a popular spot for picnics and family outings. Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a picnic amidst the natural surroundings.
• Watch the sunset: The island offers a beautiful view of the sunset over the Brahmaputra River. Visitors can watch the sunset and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the island.

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Assam State Zoo – Places to visit in Guwahati for wildlife lovers

Spread over a large area. The Assam State Zoo is home to a wide range of animals and birds, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants. It is one of the top places to visit in Guwahati if you love wildlife encounters.

Here are some of the things to do when visiting the Assam State Zoo:

• Animal and bird watching: The zoo is home to a variety of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, bears, and various species of birds. Visitors can observe these animals and learn about their behavior and habitat.
• Enjoy nature: The zoo is spread over a large area and is surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the zoo and take a leisurely walk along the walking trails. To enjoy nature at its best, it is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati.
• Visit the museum: The zoo has a museum that houses a collection of animal specimens, including skeletons, skins, and other exhibits. The museum also has information about the various species of animals and birds in the zoo.
• Take a ride on the toy train: The zoo has a toy train that takes visitors on a tour of the zoo. The train ride is a fun and unique way to explore the zoo. If you haven’t experienced a ride on the toy train before, you can put it in your places to visit in Guwahati list. 
• Picnic: The zoo has several picnic spots, and visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a picnic amidst the natural surroundings.
• Visit the botanical garden: The zoo has a botanical garden that is home to a variety of plants and trees. Visitors can learn about the different species of plants and their medicinal properties. For people who love flowers and plants, it is one of the best places to visit. 
• Attend events: The zoo hosts several events and programs throughout the year, including animal shows, cultural events, and educational programs for children.

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary 

Located around 50 km from Guwahati, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its population of one-horned rhinos, as well as other animals like leopards and wild boars.

If you consider visiting this wildlife sanctuary, among other places to visit in Guwahati, you can enjoy the following activities. 

• Rhino spotting: Pobitora is known for its population of one-horned rhinoceros, and visitors can spot these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Jeep safaris are available for visitors to explore the sanctuary and observe the rhinos, making it one of the top places to visit in Guwahati. 
• Bird watching: Pobitora is home to a variety of bird species, including the Greater Adjutant Stork, which is an endangered species. Visitors can watch these birds and learn about their behavior and habitat.
• Nature walk: Visitors can take a nature walk along the designated trails in the sanctuary, which offer scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests. For people who love to spend time with nature, it is one of the fun places to visit in Guwahati. 
• Photography: Pobitora is a photographer’s paradise, with opportunities to capture the rhinos and other wildlife, as well as the natural beauty of the sanctuary.
• Camping: The sanctuary offers camping facilities, and visitors can spend a night under the stars amidst the natural surroundings. Places to visit in Guwahati such as these offer the best of all adventurous activities. 
• Visit nearby attractions: Pobitora is located close to several other tourist attractions, including the Manas National Park and the Kaziranga National Park. Visitors can explore these attractions and learn more about the wildlife and natural beauty of Assam. 
• Visit the local villages: The nearby villages offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the Assamese people. Visitors can interact with the locals, taste local cuisine, and shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.

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Assam State Museum – Places to visit in Guwahati for history lovers

This museum showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of Assam, including exhibits on tribal cultures, traditional crafts, and archaeological artifacts. So, it is one of the unmissable places to visit in Guwahati. 

You can explore a wide range of activities while visiting such places to visit in Guwahati. For instance, you can:

• Learn about the history of Assam: The museum has a collection of artifacts that date back to the ancient period, and visitors can learn about the history of Assam and its cultural heritage.
• See the collection of antiques: The museum has a collection of antiques, including sculptures, coins, and manuscripts that showcase the artistic and cultural traditions of Assam. If you love such antique collections, it is one of the top places to visit in Guwahati. 
• Visit the textile gallery: The museum has a textile gallery that displays traditional clothing and fabrics of the different ethnic groups of Assam. Visitors can learn about the weaving and dyeing techniques used in the region.
• Explore the weapons gallery: The museum has a weapons gallery that displays weapons used in ancient times, including swords, daggers, and spears.
• Visit the natural history gallery: The museum has a natural history gallery that displays a variety of animals and birds found in the region. Visitors can learn about the biodiversity of Assam and its conservation. People who like to update themselves with past information will love places to visit in Guwahati such as these. 
• Attend events and exhibitions: The museum hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year, including cultural events, art exhibitions, and workshops.
• Shop for souvenirs: The museum has a souvenir shop that sells handicrafts, textiles, and other traditional items. Visitors can shop for souvenirs and take a piece of Assam’s cultural heritage with them. It is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati for shopping enthusiasts. 

Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra – Places to visit in Guwahati to witness the cultural heritage

Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra is a cultural complex in Guwahati that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Assam. 

Here are some of the things to do when visiting Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra:

• Visit the museum: The museum at the Kalakshetra showcases the cultural and artistic traditions of Assam, including its dance, music, theater, and handicrafts. So, it is one of the most entertaining places to visit in Guwahati.
• Explore the art galleries: The Kalakshetra has several art galleries that display the works of local artists and artisans, including paintings, sculptures, and other art forms.
• Attend cultural events: The Kalakshetra hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including music and dance performances, theater productions, and film screenings. Since it offers great cultural events, it is one of the top places to visit in Guwahati. 
• Explore the open-air theater: The Kalakshetra has an open-air theater that hosts performances of traditional music and dance forms, including the Bihu dance, which is a popular folk dance of Assam.
• Visit the craft center: The Kalakshetra has a craft center that showcases the traditional handicrafts of Assam, including weaving, pottery, and bamboo crafts. 
• Enjoy the natural surroundings: The Kalakshetra is set in a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery and water bodies. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the complex and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, making it one of the top places to visit in Guwahati.
• Shop for souvenirs: The Kalakshetra has a souvenir shop that sells traditional handicrafts and other items. Visitors can shop for souvenirs and take a piece of Assam’s cultural heritage with them.

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Nehru Park – Places to visit in Guwahati to relax and unwind

Nehru Park is a popular public park located in the heart of Guwahati city. It is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Guwahati. 

Some activities that you can enjoy at Nehru Park include the following. 

• Relax and unwind: The park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings and take a break from the busy city life.
• Take a walk: The park has well-maintained walking paths that are ideal for taking a leisurely stroll. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the park and get some exercise at the same time. It is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati if you want to unwind. 
• Have a picnic: A park is an ideal place for a picnic with friends and family. Visitors can bring a picnic basket and enjoy a meal in the tranquil surroundings of the park.
• Visit the toy train: The park has a toy train that runs on a track and offers a fun ride for children and adults alike.
• Play games: The park has open spaces that are ideal for playing games such as frisbee, badminton, and other outdoor games.
• Attend events: The park hosts several events throughout the year, including cultural events, musical performances, and festivals. For people who like to attend several events, it is one of the top places to visit in Guwahati.
• Enjoy the musical fountain: The park has a musical fountain that puts on a beautiful light and water show. Visitors can enjoy the show and take some memorable pictures.

Basistha Ashram

Basistha ashram is located on the outskirts of Guwahati and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is also known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

• Visit the temple: The ashram has a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings from the deity.
• Explore the surroundings: The ashram is located in a peaceful and serene environment, surrounded by lush greenery and a small stream. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the ashram and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
• Attend the aarti: The ashram conducts regular aarti ceremonies, which are a beautiful and spiritually uplifting experience.
• Meditate: The ashram provides a peaceful and serene environment that is ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection.
• Participate in yoga classes: The ashram conducts yoga classes, which are a great way to relax, rejuvenate and connect with oneself.
• Enjoy the nearby waterfall: The Vasishta Temple is located close to the waterfall known as Basistha Ashram waterfall. It is a beautiful spot where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Visit the nearby tea gardens: The tea gardens of Assam are famous for their scenic beauty and tea production. Visitors can take a trip to the nearby tea gardens and learn about tea cultivation and production.

Conclusion

Guwahati is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. It is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the northeastern region of India. The city offers a variety of places to visit, from the Kamakhya Temple, the Umananda Island, the Assam State Zoo, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Assam State Museum, to the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Nehru Park, and Basistha Ashram. These places offer visitors a chance to experience the cultural, historical, and natural diversity of the city.

The Assam State Zoo and the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary are ideal for animal lovers, offering a chance to see some of the rare and exotic species of the region. The Assam State Museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state, while the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra provides a platform for local artists and artisans to showcase their talent.

Nehru Park and Basistha Ashram are places to relax and unwind in the midst of nature, offering opportunities to meditate, participate in yoga classes, attend aarti ceremonies, and explore the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Overall, Guwahati is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the northeastern region of India. And if you are looking for a religious destination, you can explore things to do in Puri.

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