Top Activities & Experiences
Guwahati offers a variety of activities and experiences for travelers looking to explore culture, adventure, nature, and food. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:
1. Take a Brahmaputra River Cruise
- Why? Experience a breathtaking sunset while sailing on the mighty Brahmaputra.
- Where? Fancy Bazaar Ferry Ghat
- Best Time: Evening (for sunset views)
- Types of Cruises:
- Sunset Cruise – Relax and enjoy panoramic views.
- Dinner Cruise – Enjoy Assamese cuisine with live music.
- Cultural Cruise – Watch live folk performances on board.
2. Seek Blessings at Kamakhya Temple
- Why? One of India’s most important Shakti Peethas.
- Where? Nilachal Hill
- Best Time: Early morning (less crowd) or during Ambubachi Mela (June).
- Experience: Witness rituals and breathtaking hilltop views.
3. Wildlife Safari at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
- Why? Spot one-horned rhinoceroses in their natural habitat.
- Where? 50 km from Guwahati
- Best Time: November to April
- Activities:
- Jeep safari through grasslands
- Birdwatching (migratory birds in winter)
4. Explore Assam State Museum
- Why? Discover Assam’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Where? Near Dighalipukhuri Park
- Best Time: Year-round
- Highlights: Tribal artifacts, ancient manuscripts, Assamese costumes.
5. Visit Umananda Island & Temple
- Why? The smallest inhabited river island in the world.
- Where? Brahmaputra River, accessible via ferry from Kachari Ghat.
- Best Time: October to April
- Activities:
- Visit the Umananda Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva).
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride.
6. Birdwatching at Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary
- Why? A paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- Where? 15 km from Guwahati
- Best Time: November to March
- Highlights: Spot rare migratory birds like pelicans and storks.
7. Enjoy the Local Street Food
- Why? Taste authentic Assamese flavors.
- Best Places:
- Paltan Bazaar for momos and chowmein.
- Fancy Bazaar for Assamese thali.
- Khar Khowa Gully for traditional Assamese dishes.
- Must-Try:
- Assam Laksa
- Masor Tenga (sour fish curry)
- Aloo Pitika (mashed potatoes with mustard oil)
8. Shopping at Fancy Bazaar & Local Markets
- Why? Best place to buy Assamese silk, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Where? Fancy Bazaar, Pan Bazaar, GS Road
- Best Buys:
- Assamese Mekhela Chador
- Traditional bamboo crafts
- Tea from Assam’s famous plantations
9. Experience Traditional Bihu Dance
- Why? A vibrant folk dance that represents Assamese culture.
- Where? Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra or during Bihu festivals (April & October).
- Highlights: Live performances with traditional music.
10. Hike to Navagraha Temple for a Scenic View
- Why? A peaceful temple with panoramic views of Guwahati.
- Where? Chitrachal Hill
- Best Time: Early morning or evening for sunrise/sunset views.
11. Try Adventure Sports at Chandubi Lake
- Why? Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Where? 64 km from Guwahati
- Best Time: October to April
- Activities:
- Boating & Kayaking
- Camping by the lake
- Village walks to explore tribal culture
12. Take a Day Trip to Hajo
- Why? A multi-religious pilgrimage site with Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist significance.
- Where? 30 km from Guwahati
- Best Time: October to March
- Must-Visit:
- Hayagriva Madhava Temple (Hindu-Buddhist site)
- Powa Mecca (Islamic shrine)
13. Explore the Spiritual Side at Basistha Ashram
- Why? A peaceful retreat surrounded by hills and waterfalls.
- Where? Basistha, Guwahati
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities:
- Meditation & spiritual retreat
- Trekking to nearby waterfalls
14. Visit Balaji Temple for South Indian Architecture
- Why? One of the most beautifully designed temples in Guwahati.
- Where? Betkuchi, Guwahati
- Best Time: Year-round
- Highlights: Peaceful environment and stunning white architecture.
15. Watch a Play at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
- Why? A cultural hub that showcases Assam’s artistic heritage.
- Where? Panjabari, Guwahati
- Best Time: Year-round
- Activities:
- Watch traditional Assamese theater & dance performances.
- Visit the museum inside.
16. Tea Tasting at Guwahati Tea Auction Centre
- Why? Assam is known for its tea, and this is the best place to learn about it.
- Where? Dispur, Guwahati
- Best Time: Year-round
- Experience: Try different varieties of Assam tea and learn about the tea trade.
17. Explore Madan Kamdev – The Khajuraho of Assam
- Why? Famous for its ancient erotic sculptures.
- Where? 40 km from Guwahati
- Best Time: October to March
- Highlights: Mysterious temple ruins, hilltop views.
Guwahati is more than just a transit city—it's a destination full of adventure, spirituality, and culture. Whether you want to cruise the Brahmaputra, explore ancient temples, enjoy local street food, or go wildlife spotting, the city has something unique to offer.
