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Guwahati Travel Resources

Guwahati Travel Resources

Guwahati Northeast States, India Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps:

    A must-have for navigation, finding points of interest, checking public transport routes.

  • Ola/Uber:

    Ride-sharing apps widely used for booking taxis and auto-rickshaws.

  • Google Translate:

    Invaluable for overcoming language barriers. Download offline language packs.

  • WhatsApp:

    Widely used for communication in India. Many hotels prefer WhatsApp.

  • MakeMyTrip/Goibibo:

    Popular Indian online travel agencies for booking local flights, hotels, and train tickets.

Useful Websites

  • Indian Visa Online:

    The official government portal for e-Visa applications: Indianvisaonline.gov.in

  • IRCTC:

    The official website for Indian Railways train ticket bookings: Irctc.co.in

  • Assam Tourism:

    The official state tourism website, for attractions, festivals, and travel within Assam: Tourism.assam.gov.in

  • Online Booking Platforms:

    Booking.com, Agoda, and TripAdvisor are useful for accommodation and reviews.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

General guidebooks on India or specialized guidebooks on Northeast India (e.g., Lonely Planet) provide broader context.

Books About the Destination

"The Story of Assam" by Edward Gait for history or "Leaves from the Jungle" by Verrier Elwin for tribal life insights.

Explore cultural content on Skillshare

Local Publications

Local English newspapers like The Assam Tribune or The Sentinel are available.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • All-in-one Emergency: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • Police: 100
  • Fire: 101
  • Ambulance: 102

Lost Document Procedures

  • Passport/Visa: Report loss or theft to the nearest police station immediately to file a FIR.
  • Credit Cards: Contact your bank immediately to cancel lost or stolen cards.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on Indian wildlife, notably the one-horned rhinoceros in Kaziranga National Park.
  • Look for cultural documentaries on Northeast India that explore its diverse ethnic groups.

Music & Art

  • Listen to traditional Assamese folk music, including Bihu songs and Borgeet.
  • Explore Assamese paintings, sculptures, and traditional crafts.

Online Communities & Forums

  • Travel forums like TripAdvisor and Reddit (subreddits like r/India, r/Assam, r/travel) offer useful advice.
  • These platforms connect you with other travelers and locals.
  • Learn Hindi or Assamese with Babbel

Critical Information

Emergency & Medical Information

Hospital Locations

  • Apollo Hospitals: GS Road, Guwahati – A reputable private hospital.
  • GNRC Hospitals: Dispur, Guwahati – Another prominent private hospital.
  • Excelcare Hospitals: Boragaon, Guwahati – A multi-specialty hospital.
  • Familiarize yourself with the nearest reputable hospital to your accommodation.

Embassy & Consulate

  • Most foreign embassies and consulates for India are in New Delhi.
  • Some countries may have regional consulates in Kolkata, Mumbai, or Chennai.
  • Keep their emergency contact details handy.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Earthquake: Northeast India is a seismically active zone. Follow "Drop, Cover, and Hold On".
  • Flooding: Localized flooding occurs during heavy monsoon rains.
  • Follow local authorities' instructions and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.
  • Your hotel staff offers guidance in such situations.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase last-minute souvenirs, like Assam silk, tea, or handicrafts.
  • If you bought large or valuable items, research shipping options (postal service or international courier).
  • Review customs regulations for your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • India does not currently have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists on purchases.
  • You cannot claim back tax on goods purchased.

Pre-departure Timing

Airport Timing

  • Arrive at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight.
  • Allow 3 hours before an international flight (if you have one).

Railway/Bus Station Timing

  • Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before your train or bus departure.
  • Account for potential traffic congestion, especially on GS Road.
  • Allow extra time, especially during peak hours.

Return Trip Preparation

Essential Checks

  1. Confirm your return flight details (time, terminal, gate).
  2. Pack your luggage within your airline's weight and size limits.
  3. Keep sufficient local currency for airport transfers or last-minute purchases.
  4. Ensure all your valuable documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  1. Read up on Assamese culture, cuisine, and history.
  2. Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi or Assamese phrases.
  3. Review current health and safety advisories for India.
  4. Research specific attractions, their opening hours, and any special requirements.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Mail & Pet Care

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding. Organize pet care if you have pets.

Home Security

Ensure your house security is in order (lock doors, set alarms).

Bills & Documents

Pay bills that will be due during your absence. Ensure important documents at home are secure.

Important Reminder

Keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and insurance details separate from the originals.

Continuing Your Journey

Experiences

Life-Changing Aspects

  • Unique Blend:

    Witness the blend of ancient spirituality at Kamakhya Temple with modern urban life.

  • Overlooked Culture:

    Experience the distinct culture of Northeast India, a region often overlooked.

  • Brahmaputra Connection:

    Connect with the powerful Brahmaputra River, the lifeline of Assam.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Multiculturalism:

    Guwahati is a melting pot where various communities and their traditions intersect.

  • Assamese Cuisine:

    Appreciate the simplicity, freshness, and distinct flavors of Assamese cuisine.

  • Tantric Hinduism:

    Gain insight into Tantric Hinduism at Kamakhya Temple, a spiritual tradition.

Responsible Travel Pledge

Support Local Businesses

Choose local eateries, shops, and tour operators. Your money directly benefits the local economy.

Minimize Waste

Actively reduce your waste, especially plastic consumption. Use a Reusable water bottle and Reusable shopping bags.

Respect Customs

Show respect for local customs, traditions, and religious practices. Your respectful demeanor fosters positive interactions.

Next Destination Recommendations

Wildlife Enthusiasts

  • Kaziranga National Park (Assam): The premier destination for the one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Manas National Park (Assam): Known for its tiger population and diverse wildlife, bordering Bhutan.

Nature Lovers & Trekkers

  • Shillong & Cherrapunji (Meghalaya): Explore stunning waterfalls and lush green landscapes.
  • Dawki (Meghalaya): Known for its crystal-clear Umngot River, for boating.

Return Visit Suggestions

Regional Connections & Combinations

  • Assam-Meghalaya Circuit: A popular and logical combination, blending plains and wildlife with hills and waterfalls.
  • Arunachal Pradesh Extension: Extend your journey for Himalayan landscapes and Buddhist monasteries.

Different Seasons or Experiences

  • Consider a return during the monsoon season (June-September) to witness intensely lush green landscapes.
  • Return to witness a different Bihu festival or other local events for fresh cultural insights.
  • Explore a different part of the Northeast Indian states to discover incredible diversity.

Final Thoughts

Guwahati offers a journey into an unique and welcoming region.

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