Guwahati Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Staying Connected

Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are major mobile network operators in India, with good 4G/5G coverage in Guwahati. Prepaid SIM cards are purchasable at authorized retail stores. Documentation (passport, visa copy, photo) is necessary.

Providers & Internet Access

Jio and Airtel often demonstrate consistent service.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and some restaurants. Quality varies.
A local SIM with data often displays the most reliable connection. Consider Airalo eSIMs or Solis Wi-Fi for connectivity.

Language Navigation

Assamese is the official state language. Bengali is also widely spoken. Hindi is commonly understood, especially in commercial areas. English is widely understood in tourist services and by educated individuals.

Translation Tools

The Google Translate app is highly recommended. Download offline language packs.
A small phrasebook with common phrases is a helpful tool.
For deeper language immersion, explore Rosetta Stone.

Useful Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello/Greetings: Hindi: Namaste / Assamese: Nomoskar
Thank you: Hindi: Dhanyabaad / Assamese: Dhonyobad
Yes: Hindi: Haan / Assamese: Ho
No: Hindi: Nahin / Assamese: Nai

Travel Basics

How much?: Hindi: Kitne ka hai? / Assamese: Ki daam?
Water: Hindi: Paani / Assamese: Pani
Food: Hindi: Khana / Assamese: Khaadya
Delicious: Hindi: Swadisht / Assamese: Swadishtu

Local Appreciation

Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi or Assamese is appreciated by locals and enriches interactions.

Operating Hours & Airport Services

Retail Hours

Shops generally open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. Malls stay open later, until 10:00 PM.

Dining Hours

Lunch service runs from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dinner service begins around 7:00 PM and continues until 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM. Cafes open earlier.

Government & Culture

Government offices operate from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Attractions vary; many museums close on Mondays.

Money Matters

Banks generally open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, they typically operate from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

ATM Access

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available throughout the city.
Most ATMs operate 24/7.
Look for major banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis for reliable access.

Seasonal Changes

During the monsoon (June-September), some outdoor activities, especially safaris in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaziranga National Park, may close or have limitations due to heavy rains and flooding.

Holidays & Impact

Major National Holidays: Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti. Most businesses close.
Assam Specific Holidays: Bihu Festivals (Jan, Apr, Oct).
Ambubachi Mela (June): Kamakhya Temple and nearby businesses are significantly impacted by large crowds.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access globally.
Visit Priority Pass for membership details.
Comfortable waiting areas and amenities are available.

Flight Compensation

Compensair assists with compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
A service that retrieves rightful compensation.
Claim your eligibility at Compensair.

Holiday Planning

During major holidays, transportation might be crowded, and services might be reduced. Plan accordingly if your visit coincides with a major festival.

Cultural Practices

Respectful interaction with local culture enriches your experience and fosters a positive impression.

Greeting & Dress

Cultural preservation efforts support local institutions like Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, which actively preserve Assamese arts. Purchase authentic handicrafts directly from local artisans.

Interaction Guidelines

Greeting: 'Namaste' or 'Namaskar' (palms pressed, slight bow).
Attire: Modest clothing is recommended, especially for women.
Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Shoes must be removed.

Dining & Visuals

If eating traditional Indian food without cutlery, the right hand is for eating. Wait to be invited to eat if dining in a local home.

Photography Rules

Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially women and children.
Photography is often prohibited inside temple inner sanctums, certain museums.
Respect privacy and avoid intrusive photography in residential areas.

Cultural Sensitivities

Be aware of your surroundings and the potential impact of your photography. Respect signs regarding photography restrictions. If someone declines, respect their wishes.

General Taboos

Do not point your feet at someone, a deity, or sacred objects.
The head is considered sacred; avoid touching someone's head.
Avoid using your left hand for giving or receiving items (money, food, etc.).

Social Considerations

Public displays of affection are minimal. Be cautious when discussing sensitive political or religious topics.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Travel

Women traveling solo should exercise extra caution, especially at night.
Public spaces can be male-dominated; isolated areas should be avoided.
While homosexuality is decriminalized, public acceptance varies. Discretion is advisable.

Important Reminders

Bargaining

Common in local markets.
Politeness and a friendly demeanor maintain.
Aggressive negotiation is not appropriate.

Religious Sites

Remove footwear before entering.
Maintain silence or quiet conversation.
Respect rules or signs regarding photography.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Women Travelers

Exercise extra caution, especially at night.
Public spaces can be male-dominated; isolated areas are best avoided.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

Homosexuality is decriminalized in India.
Public acceptance varies; Guwahati is relatively conservative.
Discretion is advisable, specifically outside progressive urban centers or private settings.

Accessibility Details

Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs is limited in Guwahati, necessitating careful planning.

Mobility Access

Accessibility infrastructure displays very limited presence throughout Guwahati and India in general.

Considerations

Pavements are often uneven, broken, or non-existent, making wheelchair navigation difficult.
Public transport (buses, auto-rickshaws) lacks wheelchair design; high steps and narrow entrances are common.
Many older buildings, smaller establishments, and local shops lack ramps or elevators.

Accessible Locations

Some newer luxury hotels might display accessible rooms. Confirmation of these features directly with the hotel before booking is advisable.

Spots & Transport

The Guwahati Ropeway is designed to be accessible, with a smooth ride and good views.
Hiring a private car with a driver is the most feasible and recommended transportation option.
Door-to-door service and greater flexibility are achieved with a private car.

Sensory Impairment Support

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Sign language interpreters are rare.

Planning Notes

Braille signage is not common in public spaces or attractions.
Guide dogs are not widely recognized or permitted in all public spaces or transport.
Research specific rules if traveling with a service animal.

Accessibility Resources

Formal resources specifically for accessible tourism in Guwahati are limited.

Direct Inquiries

Contact specific hotels or tour operators directly to inquire about their accessibility features.
Inquire about services they might provide.
Travel agencies specializing in accessible travel to India may display more detailed guidance and tailored itineraries.

Currency Note

Always carry small currency notes for local purchases and transportation. This simplifies transactions and saves time.

Guwahati Travel Tips