Northeastern India has always been a source of pride for the tourism industry, and Guwahati, as the Gateway to the Northeast, is truly a sight to behold. When Guwahati comes to mind, every globetrotter has some exciting or adventurous experience to share. The city’s location on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, surrounded by the Shivalik Hills, adds to its plethoric presence, and the tourist attractions here make every vacation here even more enjoyable and fun. Each of these tourist attractions, whether the famous Kamakhya Mandir or the Guwahati zoo, leaves a simple yet powerful impression on visitors. From temple devotees to adventure seekers, everyone has something to bring back that will keep their journey to this gateway region in their hearts for the rest of their lives.
The Best 20 Places to Visit in Guwahati
1. Kamakhya Temple
One of the Shakti Peethas, the Kamakhya Temple, is a must-see for both devotees and adventurers. The temple is very important and contains ten Mahavidyas. It has four Garbhagriha and three mandapas on its walls, as well as several sculptures. Inside the temple, an image of the deity’s yoni is worshipped rather than an idol of the Goddess. Because the deity’s womb is said to have been installed in this temple, and so Kamakhya Devi is known as the bleeding Goddess. The breathtaking view of the Nilachal Hills, and the evening Aarti complements the temple’s appearance.
2. Umananda Island
Famously known as the Peacock Island due to its shape, Umananda is the smallest river island in the whole world based on the heart of the Brahmaputra River. The island is home to a very rare and endangered species known as Golden Langurs, which Himalayans revere. The main attraction on the island is the Umananda Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, it is the same location where Lord Kamdev was burned to ashes by Lord Shiva’s third eye when he attempted to disrupt his meditation, hence the alternate name Bhasmachal.
3. Guwahati Zoo
The Hengrabari Reserve forest hold the famous Guwahati zoo or the Assam State zoo/ Botanical garden. Its rich flora and fauna makes the place look more vibrant and colorful. The zoo houses 895 animals, birds, and reptiles from around the world. Among the major exhibits are a one-horned Indian Rhinoceros, Leopard Cat, Tiger, Golden Langur, Clouded Leopard, Elephant, Himalayan Black Bear, and Hoolock Gibbon. The zoo has grown to accommodate more animals over the years, and it also has a lovely botanical garden. Thousands of tourists and wildlife enthusiasts visit the park every year to see the indigenous and exotic animals on display.
4. Basistha Ashram
Guru Bashisht the famous sage who wrote Ramayana had built this ashram for himself to reside in his last few days of life. The construction, architecture, and beautiful setting all work together to create a mesmerising ambiance and picturesque Ashram. There is also a Shiva Mandir which makes the place more divine and peaceful. The rock boulders on the ashram’s side, combined with the narrow streams, make it an ideal place to spend time with family, friends, or even children looking for some peace and quiet. It is an octagonal temple topped by a polygonal Sikhara. The temple has a Sunken Garbhagriha that is said to contain the sage Vasistha’s foot impression.
5. Guwahati War Memorial
A place to pay homage to all the war heroes of the motherland who sacrificed their lives to free the place from the British Raj. The memorial is located near the Dighalipukhuri Park in Latasil, Guwahati, and the foundation was laid on May 18, 2015. The site, however, was open to the public in December 2016. The memorial includes a replica of ‘Amar Jawan,’ as well as some incredible recreations of the Saraighat battle. Overall, the site is a lovely initiative by the State government’s Rajya Sainik Board and an excellent way to enhance the historical site’s beauty.
6. Kaziranga National Park
The one-horned Rhino, which is mostly found in Kaziranga National Park, adds to the area’s appeal and fame among visitors from around the world. Kaziranga National Park is located on the floodplains of the mighty Brahmaputra River and has lush vegetation that covers nearly the entire park. Tall elephant grass, marshlands, and tall tropical broadleaf forests distinguish this national park, which receives massive amounts of rainfall each year, sometimes exceeding dangerous levels. A diverse range of wildlife, including one-horned rhinos, Asiatic elephants, wild water buffalo, leopards, and Royal Bengal Tigers, thrives here. Kaziranga National Park is also an official Tiger Reserve and home to one of the world’s largest tiger populations.
7. Ugra Tara Temple
In every way, Ugra Tara Devi, the incarnation of Goddess Parvati, is unique. It is an important Shakti temple was built in 1725 by the Ahom ruler Siva Singh. Instead of a statue, a pool of water is placed in the temple’s main sanctum and is worshipped as the Devi herself. Faith is the foundation of this beautiful yet small temple, which attracts devotees from all over the world all year. Visit the temple in Guwahati for a divine experience and to feel the power of the Devi.
8. Madan Kamdev
The Madan Kamdev archaeological site, located on the outskirts of Guwahati, dates back to the 10th century. The panoramic beauty of the region adds to the site’s excitement and richness. The ruins here are from the Pala dynasty of Kamarupa and are spread out over a large area. Madan Kamdev is one of the top Guwahati tourist attractions for those interested in history and legends. Madan Kamdev idols and sculptures are scattered throughout the 500-metre area. The idols are all intricately decorated with architecture and carvings. One of the fascinating attractions is situated on a hill.
9. Manas National Park
Manas National Park, the second tiger reserve after Kaziranga, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the state of Assam, it is also an elephant reserve and a biosphere reserve. The reserve’s native inhabitants include the Golden Langur and the Red Panda. It is known not only for its diverse biodiversity, but also for its breathtaking scenery, which includes forested hills, grasslands and evergreen tropical forests. It is home to the second largest tiger population in India. It is also known for its wild water buffalo, which are one of India’s most endangered species.
10. Saraighat Bridge
Built over the mighty Brahmaputra River this is the first railway cum Road Bridge. The construction started way back in 1958 and was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1962 but was open to public traffic in 1963 June. An Iconic bridge with a road highway on top and a rail line underneath. The bridge, which was originally built for the North Frontier Railway, connects the North East region to the rest of the country; it has Lachit Borphukan Park on the south end and Chilarai Park on the north end.
11. Janardana Temple
On the banks of the Brahmaputra River the Shukleshwar Hillock has the famous Janardana temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The origins of the temple are unknown, but it is thought to have been renovated in the 17th century. A beautiful synthesis of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, with design elements from both adorns the temple. The interior walls are milky white and intricately carved with deities. The main sanctum of the temple, which houses a Buddhist statue, is a popular place of meditation and worship for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
12. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its diverse wildlife, particularly the Indian unicorn Rhino. Around 2000 migratory birds and reptiles call the sanctuary their home. There are numerous bird species in the nature reserve. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a heavenly 38 square kilometre retreat of rugged wilderness and greenery. In addition to the nature reserve, Pobitora offers a variety of excursions. These include visits to Sualkuchi, a weaving village, and Hajo, a place of pilgrimage. Additionally, as Pobitora is an inland protected area, you can experience local culture by visiting exciting and unusual Assamese communities.
13. Iskcon Temple
It is also known as the Shri Shri Rukmini Krishna Temple and is located on a hilltop in the Ulubari Chariali district of the capital city. It is beautifully constructed of stark white marble, which adds a stunning look to the architecture of the building. It is surrounded by lush green gardens in which devotees perform meditation peacefully. The interiors feature Krishna and Rukmini deities dressed in attractive attire. There are various halls within the temple for preaching the teachings of the Vaishnavism Society, which regards Lord Vishnu as their supreme power.
14. Chandubi Lake
An unique self-born through an earthquake, this natural lake lies on the foot of the Garo Hills, with Meghalaya and Assam surrounding it. Nestled in between serene and calm tea gardens adorning around it with dense forests and cute little villages to enhance the ambience. The variety of flora and fauna it holds in the 2000 ha of land makes it appealing to the eyes. It is a perfect picnic destination in the midst of nature with all the natural amenities making the lake more alluring to the tourists.
15. Assam State Museum
Also know n as the Assam Rajyik State Museum, it behold the rich and deep cultural ancient history of the state. Being situated at the heart of the city it makes the museum more alluring for history enthusiasts visit the city and even the locals. It was built in 1940 which was the year of British Colonization in India so the glimpse of that era is still felt in the place. The artefacts go way back to the Second World War making the place more intriguing for all. It was founded by the Kamarupa Anusandhan Samiti, an Assam research society, to showcase the history, sculptures, and handicrafts of North East India.
16. Fancy Market
Flea markets are always a strong tourist spot in any city, the Chandni Chowk of Guwahati is the fancy market. Fancy Bazaar will entice you with its tiny shops, stray stalls, and roadside setups, as well as its labyrinthine alleys and low prices. The market is a shopping mecca for all the obsessive shoppers out there, a disorganised yet charming mix of disorganised shopkeepers, hustling shoppers, and the aroma of local street food. The market is well-known for its Assam Silk shops, garment shops, sweet shops, and small coops for memorable souvenirs and takeaways.
17. Navagraha Temple
In Hindu mythology the nine planets or commonly known as the Navagraha are very essential. It is believed each of them carries powers which can control the human life and fate. Keeping this in mind a must visit is the famous Navagraha temple in Guwahati where the devotees pay their regular visit. Ahom King Rajeswar Singha built the temple between 1923 and 1945. It’s also the pinnacle of spiritual inclination.
18. Haajo
India is known as the country of unity in its diversity, and the Haajo in Guwahati truly exemplifies the quote. It is an ancient divine place where the three religions of Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism coexist and bring many devotees of these three religions together to pay homage and find serenity. Even ordinary tourists come here to find heartfelt solace. It is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, and its prominent temple, Hayagriva Mahadeva, adds to the divine and authentic feel of the place.
19. Bhuvaneshwari Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari is situated on a panoramic hilltop viewing the whole city of Guwahati. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga where devotees comes to pay their homage to the Devi. Visit in the evenings to see the stunning sunsets over the River Brahmaputra, which adds to the beauty of the area. According to Hindu mythology, this temple is one of the Shakti Peethas and is located on top of the Nilachal Hills.
20. Dispur
The capital city is abound with panorama views, as do unique traditions and a rich tribal culture. Since 1973, the city has served as Assam’s capital, and it is home to some of the state’s most important structures, including the Assam Secretariat, State Emergency Operations Center, and State Assembly House. Numerous Hindu temples reflect the state’s distinct culture. Dispur, on the outskirts of Guwahati, is also famous for its tea auction market. Dispur is ideal for a vacation because it is rich in flora and fauna and has pleasant weather all year.
So now when you have the list for the best places to visit in Guwahati, why wait just book yourself and your family to the Guwahati Tour Packages and enjoy the best travel experience with the tough of excitement and serenity as a combo.
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