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Guwahati Travel Checklist

Guwahati Travel Checklist

Guwahati Northeast States, India Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A timeline for your preparations.

Timeline Overview

Steps to take at various stages before your departure.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure.

Apply for India e-Visa

Begin your e-Visa application through indianvisaonline.gov.in.

Consult Doctor for Vaccinations

Discuss required and recommended vaccinations for India.

1M

Month Before

Book Domestic Flights

Secure flights to Guwahati from your international arrival point.

Reserve Accommodation

Book all your accommodation in Guwahati and for excursions.

Make Copies of Documents

Create multiple copies (digital and physical) of important papers.

1W

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flight details, hotel reservations, and tour bookings.

Pack Appropriate Clothing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials like a Universal travel adapter.

Download Essential Apps

Download Google Maps offline maps, Ola/Uber, and Google Translate.

Required Advance Bookings

Book important elements ahead of time to secure your trip.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights.
  • India e-Visa.
  • Accommodation for your entire trip.
  • Train tickets (especially for sleeper or AC classes on popular routes).
  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary or Kaziranga National Park safaris.

Home Preparation

Steps to take before you leave.

Before You Depart

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.
  • Ensure your house security is in order (lock doors, set alarms).
  • Pay bills that will be due during your absence.
  • Ensure important documents at home are secure.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

areas for pre-trip reading and investigation.

Culture & History

  • Read up on Assamese culture, cuisine, and history.
  • This helps your appreciation of the region.

Language & Advisories

  • Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi or Assamese phrases.
  • Review current health and safety advisories for India.

Attraction Details

  • Research specific attractions, their opening hours.
  • Note any special requirements (e.g., dress codes for temples).

Digital Itinerary Note

Make a digital copy of your entire travel itinerary and store it on your phone and in cloud storage. This is a helpful backup.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Guwahati shape your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Proceed through immigration at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU).

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked luggage from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Clear Customs:

    Pass through customs. Be aware of any declarations required for items.

  • 4
    Obtain a Local SIM Card:

    Head to authorized counters at the airport or in the city.

  • 5
    Exchange Currency:

    Exchange some foreign currency or withdraw cash from ATMs upon arrival.

Orientation & Transportation

  • Orientation Strategies:

    Upon arrival at your hotel, locate nearby ATMs, pharmacies, and reputable eateries.

  • Currency Exchange:

    Airport exchange rates might be less favorable than in the city. Withdraw enough cash for initial needs.

  • Transportation from Entry Point:

    Options from Airport (GAU) include pre-paid taxis, Ola/Uber, or ASTC airport buses.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Purchase any last-minute souvenirs from Fancy Bazaar or the malls.

If you bought large items, research shipping options well before departure.

VAT Refund

India does not currently have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists on purchases.

This means you cannot claim back tax on goods purchased.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at GAU at least 2 hours before domestic flights or 3 hours for international flights.

For Railway/Bus Station, arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.

Traffic Alert

Always account for potential traffic congestion, especially on GS Road, when planning your travel to the airport or station. Allow extra time, especially during peak hours.

Return Trip Checklist

Ensure a smooth exit from Guwahati.

Departure Essentials

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

Pre-Trip Research Overview

  • Read up on Assamese culture, cuisine, and history.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi or Assamese phrases.
  • Review current health and safety advisories for India. Get travel insurance here.
  • Research specific attractions, their opening hours, and any special requirements.

Important Travel Document Notes

Keep these critical papers secure.

Travel Documents Summary

  • Passport Validity:At least 6 months remaining.
  • Visa Status:Confirmed and printed e-Visa ETA.
  • Flight Tickets:All domestic and international bookings confirmed.
  • Hotel Bookings:Confirmed for entire trip.

Last-minute Travel Tips

  • Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi or Assamese phrases.
  • Review current health and safety advisories.
  • Research specific attractions, their opening hours, and any special requirements.
  • Be prepared for pushing and jostling in crowded areas.

Digital Backup

Keep a digital copy of your full travel itinerary on your phone and in cloud storage.

This serves as a backup.