Things To Do
in Guwāhāti
Guwahāti sits on the northern banks of the Brahmaputra in Assam, blending ancient temples with riverine scenery and a bustling urban core. It serves as a gateway to the region’s tea, wildlife, and culture while offering riverfront walks, hilltop viewpoints, and a lively market scene. The city’s cuisine reflects multiple influences—Assamese, Bengali, and tribal flavors—presented in home-cooked dishes and accessible street food.
With storied temples, diverse markets, and nearby nature escapes, Guwahati offers a compact, energetic base for exploring eastern India.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning jeep safari in Kaziranga National Park, renowned for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. As you traverse the lush grasslands and dense forests, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this UNESCO World Heritage site home. The morning light is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the breathtaking landscapes and the animals in their natural habitat.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, embark on an elephant safari to get a closer view of the park's enchanting flora and fauna. As you ride through the tall grass and shallow waters, learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect this unique ecosystem. Spend some time at the park's visitor center, where you can discover more about the wildlife and culture of the region.
Return to Guwahati and unwind with a riverside dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Brahmaputra River. Enjoy traditional Assamese cuisine as you watch the sunset casting golden hues over the water. The evening concludes with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.
Begin your day with a guided boat cruise on the majestic Brahmaputra River, one of India's most significant waterways. As the boat glides along the river, marvel at the lush landscapes and the serene beauty of rural life that unfolds along the banks. Don't forget to capture the stunning views of the sunrise reflecting off the water.
After the cruise, enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the small islands in the river, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the island, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the unique culture of the indigenous communities. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps participate in a traditional fishing activity.
Return to the city and visit the Assam State Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of Assam. The museum showcases artifacts, textiles, and art that tell the story of the region's heritage. Conclude your day with a cultural performance, featuring traditional music and dance that reflects the vibrant spirit of Assam.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚏Local transport (one-way) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $30-70 |
| 🎟️Attraction entrance | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/handicrafts | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and spiritual sites
- Accessible nature escapes near the city
- Vibrant markets and authentic Assamese cuisine
- Friendly locals and easy to navigate for first-time visitors
- Traffic can be congested and unpredictable
- Some areas have limited English signage and infrastructure outside the main zones
- "নমস্কাৰ" - Hello
- "ধন্যবাদ" - Thank you
- "মই বৰ ধন্য" - I’m very grateful / I’m thankful
- "ক্তৃপা কৰিবা?" - Could you please help me?
- "মইVegetarian খাবা" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Guwāhāti
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic vantage point over Guwahati, especially dramatic at dawn or dusk, with the city’s hills and river as a backdrop.
Wide river views, ferries, and sunset colors along the banks near Saraighat Bridge make for atmospheric photos.
Cave temple complex set within greenery, offering tranquil shots of nature and traditional architecture.
Waterways and the island temple provide intimate, small-boat photography opportunities with the city’s skyline in the distance.
Cultural center with interesting façades, gardens, and exhibits that lend themselves to architectural and cultural photography.
Food in Guwāhāti
Guwāhāti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy fish curry made with tomatoes and lemon, a beloved staple of Assamese homes.
Must-Try!
A distinctive alkaline curry base used with vegetables or fish, giving a clean, mineral note to the dish.
A sour, fish-based noodle soup with herbs and tamarind, served with rice noodles and vegetables.
Mashed vegetables (often potatoes and onions) dressed with mustard oil and green chilies, a comforting side dish.
Sweet or savory rice flour cakes, commonly enjoyed during festivals and chilly evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market district for textiles, handicrafts, and a wide array of street bites and chai stalls.
Bustling market area known for garments, electronics, and quick snacks—great for people-watching and inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering most temples; ask before taking photos inside sacred spaces.
A respectful Namaste is common; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Ask for permission in private homes or religious sites; some areas may prohibit photography.
Safety
Tipping in Guwāhāti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. A small amount (5–10%) at sit-down restaurants is appreciated if service was good; for street vendors and small cafés, round up the bill.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places also accept cards (Visa/Mastercard) and UPI or digital wallets (Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay). In hotels and larger restaurants, international cards are usually accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with highs often in the 30s°C (90s°F); carry water, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing. Start early to beat the heat when visiting temples and outdoor sites.
Heavy rainfall (June–September) with high humidity and occasional flooding in low-lying areas; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear; roads can be slick.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography with clear skies.
Cool and comfortable, especially in the early mornings and evenings; light jacket recommended (December–February).
Guwāhāti at Night
Hiking in Guwāhāti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes around Basistha Hill with temple views and greenery.
A scenic trail around the Kamakhya temple area offering city and river vistas.
Airports
How to reach Guwāhāti by plane.
Guwāhāti’s primary airport with domestic and limited international connections; well-connected to Indian metros and some neighboring countries via transit hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main regional group; diverse subcultures and languages across the state, with strong tea and agrarian traditions.
Significant minority groups contributing to the city’s culinary and cultural diversity.
Nepali, Malayali, and tribal communities contributing to Guwahati’s multicultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in schools, clubs, and local tournaments; casual games and viewing events are common in parks and pubs.
A pervasive sport across the region; local matches and national broadcasts attract casual crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guwāhāti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer dal, vegetable curries, dal/papad, and bhaji; specify no meat and request clarified oil if needed.
Rice-based dishes are common; ask about atta-based rotis or bhature and opt for dal, greens, and fish preparations when possible.