Seven reasons to visit Guwahati, India
)
Located in India’s north-eastern state of Assam, Guwahati is the largest city and the only metropolis in the region. Surrounded by hills and blessed with the river Brahmaputra, Guwahati is also one of the most beautiful cities in Assam. Dispur, the capital of Assam is also situated within the city.
A city of rich historical and cultural significance, Guwahati was originally a part of the Kamrupa Kingdom during the 8th and 9th centuries. Here are seven reasons why you should visit Guwahati at least once.
)
1. Guwahati is the gateway to the Northeast India
Guwahati is a gateway to the north-eastern region of India. It not only has the only international airport in the region but also is well connected to other neighbouring states via road transport and railways.
2. See the Kamakhya Temple at Nilachal Hill
The Kamakhya Temple is one of the oldest 51 Shaktipeeths on earth. It is said to have been built in the pre-Aryan period, which was then renovated by the Koch and Ahom Kingdoms. The Ambubachi Mela – the largest religious gathering in Northeast India is celebrated in the Assamese month of “Ashara” (June) at Kamakhya Temple every year.
The Devi (Goddess) worshipped here is referred to as Mother Earth and the Ambubachi Mela commemorates her annual menstruation period. Apart from its religious significance, the Nilachal Hill where the temple is located provides the best view of the city and the River Brahmaputra.
)
3. The world's smallest river island is in Guwahati
Did you know that both the largest inhabited river island- Majuli, and the smallest river island Umananda is in Assam? Umananda is located on the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati and can be accessed via ferries and boats. The Umananda temple attracts the majority of tourists to the island.
4. Guwahati is the perfect adventure destination
The Accoland Amusement and Water Park, Rock Climbing and Mountaineering Spots and Ziplining Activities in locations such as Rani, Assam State Zoo and Panacea within the city, makes Guwahati the perfect adventure destination in Assam.
)
5. Guwahati has a range of both luxury and budget accommodation
Guwahati, the land of dreams, has a range of luxurious 5-star hotels, budget hotels, as well as homestays. The Radisson Blu, Vivanta by Taj and Novotel are the three five-star hotels that you can choose. You will find a number of budget hotels in the Paltan Bazaar area near the railway station.
6. The traditional food of Guwahati is delicious
What I love about the Guwahati the most is the option for appetizing ethnic or traditional cuisines apart from the North Indian dishes. The Naga Kitchen, Mising Kitchen, Michinga, Sangai Manipuri and Taii Singhpho are a few of my favourite traditional restaurants in Guwahati.
Tholguri, a cultural hub for lifestyle products and traditions of Assam, is also a platform where you can buy traditional snacks such as pithas and try out Assamese cuisines. To truly experience local food, you're best going with a local or taking a food tour.
)
7. There are spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls and lakes in Guwahati
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city and in the outskirts of Guwahati, lies many unexplored waterfalls, hiking trails and lakes.
Kafandonga Waterfall, the Garbhanga Forest Hike to Theopani Waterfall, Amsing Waterfall, Bonda Waterfall, hiking and camping at Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary and the Chandubi Lake ought to be on your list of places to visit if you are seeking a pleasant time amidst nature in Guwahati.
Share this article
)
Last Updated 24 January 2022
