Guwahati Northeast States, India Travel Guide
While Guwahati is an urban center, its proximity to the Brahmaputra River and natural areas offers outdoor pursuits.
Formal, long hiking trails are limited directly within Guwahati. Surrounding low hills around Kamakhya Temple or Navagraha Temple have short, informal trails, generally easy to moderate. More structured trekking opportunities are in neighboring Meghalaya.
Recreational boating is available at Dighalipukhuri Park and Chandubi Lake. Short sunset cruises on the Brahmaputra River offer scenic views. Longer, multi-day luxury river cruises also operate.
Direct adventure sports within Guwahati city are limited. Some adventure camps on the outskirts may offer activities like zip-lining or basic rock climbing.
Always check local weather conditions and any safety advisories, especially for river activities or wildlife safaris.
Immerse yourself in Guwahati's food culture and heritage.
These are the most important festivals in Assam, celebrated with fervor. Rongali/Bohag Bihu (Mid-April) marks the Assamese New Year. Magh Bihu (Mid-January) is a harvest festival with bonfires (Mejis). Kati Bihu (Mid-October) focuses on prayers.
Grandly celebrated (September/October) with elaborate Pandals (temporary structures) and cultural programs. Similar to Kolkata's festivities.
Held at Kamakhya Temple (June), this tantric fertility festival attracts many devotees and sadhus. It offers an unique spiritual experience, though it occurs during peak monsoon and is very crowded.
Direct interaction with local communities is generally available through specialized tours outside the main city.
Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is the main venue for traditional Assamese dance and music.
Informal cultural workshops (silk weaving, music) may be arranged by local guesthouses.
For those seeking calm and rejuvenation, Guwahati has options for relaxation and traditional wellness practices.
Guwahati is not a coastal city, so no beaches. Some luxury hotels have swimming pools that may be accessible to non-guests for a day pass fee.
Some pubs, cafes, and restaurants (notably on GS Road) occasionally host live music with local bands. Check local listings.
Rabindra Bhawan hosts plays, musical concerts, and dance recitals. Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra has cultural performances.
Guwahati's growing nightclub scene is concentrated along GS Road, including venues like JBs, Club XS, and Cafe Hendrix.
Explore Guwahati's diverse shopping experiences, from traditional bazaars to modern malls.
Sualkuchi (day trip) is a major center for silk weaving, where visitors can see weavers producing Muga, Eri, and Pat silk. Government-run Assam Emporium shops sell authentic handicrafts.
GS Road Malls (City Centre, Central Mall, The Hub) are modern shopping hubs with international and national brands, department stores, and multiplexes.
Support local artisans directly. Look for certified fair trade products, especially for tea and silk.
