Fun things to do in Guwahati
Guwahati, the biggest city of Assam, is situated on the Brahmaputra River and has a blend of cultural, spiritual, and natural sites. The city is visited by both domestic and international tourists as it acts as a gateway for the northeast of India. Ranging from temples and museums to wildlife sanctuaries and cruises along the river, Guwahati provides experiences of all kinds. Planning your visit with proper information about timings, entry fees, and travel tips ensures a smooth trip. For comfortable and extended stays, consider booking service apartments in Guwahati. Here are ten things to do in Guwahati for every traveller.
Things to do in Guwahati
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Visit Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati
Kamakhya Temple is located on Nilachal Hill, roughly 8 kilometres from the central city. It is of prime religious significance as one of India’s 51 Shakti Peethas. Pilgrims come to worship Goddess Kamakhya. There are various smaller shrines within the temple complex and vistas of the Brahmaputra River. Pilgrims from all parts of the country visit here during the annual Ambubashi Mela in June.
Travel Tips:
You must begin early in the morning since lines get long after 9:00 AM. Bring water and comfortable shoes since you have to go uphill. Cameras can still be kept out of bounds within the central shrine.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The temple is open every day from 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 2:30 PM to 9:30 PM. It is free to enter, but special darshan tickets are about ₹500 per head. The weather remains pleasant between October and March, making it the best time to visit.
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River Cruise on the Brahmaputra
Brahmaputra in Guwahati
A Brahmaputra cruise provides you with a glimpse of the water, hills, and cityscape. Daytime, sunset, and dinner cruises are operated by cruise operators. The sunset cruise is popular with tourists due to the experience during the evening hours. Cultural shows and traditional food are available on dinner cruises as well.
Travel Tips:
Book the tickets well in advance during weekends and tourist seasons. Keep a light jacket ready on winter nights because the river breeze will be chilly. Arrive at least 30 minutes before boarding at the boarding location.
Timings and Entry Fees:
Cruises run daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM based on the type. Prices of tickets vary from ₹300 to ₹1,200 per head based on the package. November to April is the best time for a cruise as river conditions are stable during this period.
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Visit Assam State Museum
Assam State Museum in Guwahati
Assam State Museum, situated in the centre of Guwahati at Dighalipukhuri, displays the history, culture, and heritage of Assam. You can find displays of sculptures, manuscripts, tribal works, textiles, and coins. The museum also contains departments for archaeology, epigraphy, and folk art. A visit provides you with an overview of Assamese traditions and culture.
Travel Tips:
Spent a minimum of two hours walking through the galleries. It is compulsory to take permission for photography within the museum, so check beforehand before taking snaps. Remember to bring cash for the entry tickets since card facilities won’t function.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The museum operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding Mondays and the second Saturday of the month. The entry charges are ₹20 for Indians and ₹100 for foreign tourists. Students obtain discounts with proper ID cards. Morning visitation is advisable when the museum is less crowded.
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Walk Around Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple on Peacock Island in Guwahati
Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island in the centre of the Brahmaputra River. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, draws pilgrims and tourists alike. It is necessary to take a ferry ride from Umananda Ghat to access the island. The journey itself offers glimpses of the city and river. The temple takes on special significance on Maha Shivratri when pilgrims come in huge numbers.
Travel Tips:
Bring water and lightweight footwear, as you have to climb stairs on the island. Ferries run at a fixed interval, but you might want to avoid late nights. Do not litter on the island to ensure that it remains clean.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM every day. Ferry fares vary from ₹20 to ₹100 based on boat type. Admission to the temple is free. October to March is the ideal time to visit when the weather is pleasant.
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Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Guwahati
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 48 kilometres from Guwahati and features a herd of one-horned rhinoceroses. The sanctuary contains deer, leopards, wild boars, and more than 200 species of birds. Jeep safaris or elephant rides can be taken by the visitors to travel to the place.
Travel Tips:
Book weekend safaris in advance. Bring binoculars for bird viewing. Dress in light-colored clothing and minimise noise to raise animal sighting chances. Bring water and dry snacks for the safari.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The sanctuary is open from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The entry fee is approximately ₹50 per individual, and jeep safaris range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 based on the duration of stay. It is best to visit from November to April. The sanctuary is closed during the monsoon season.
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Unwind at Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden in Guwahati
The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, found in the Hengrabari locality, covers over 400 acres. It has tigers, lions, rhinoceroses, elephants, and other animals such as giraffes and chimpanzees. The botanical garden part of the place consists of different plants and trees. School parties and family groups come to visit the zoo often.
Travel Tips:
Bring caps or umbrellas during the summer, as the zoo is a place of extensive walking. Keep away from cages and obey the instructions of the staff. Bring a water bottle and snacks for the kids.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The zoo is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM during winter and 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM during summer, excluding Fridays. The entry charges are ₹30 for adults and ₹10 for kids. There is an extra camera charge. For the best experience, visit in the morning when the animals are more active.
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Visit Basistha Ashram
Basistha Ashram in Guwahati
Basistha Ashram, situated near Guwahati, has mythological importance along with nature. This place is believed to be where sage Basistha performed his meditation. There is a temple, caves, and a stream present at the location. The surrounding hills provide serene walking spaces.
Travel Tips:
It is advisable to bring light footwear since the place has irregular paths. Visits in the morning give a more peaceful experience. Bring water and light refreshments, as shops are sparse in the region.
Timings and Admission Charges:
The ashram remains open between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM. Entry is free of cost. People generally spend two to three hours viewing the temple and the surrounding areas. The most suitable time for visiting is between October and March.
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Fancy Bazaar Shopping
Fancy Bazaar Shopping in Guwahati
Fancy Bazaar, usually referred to as the “Chandni Chowk of Guwahati,” is the most crowded market in the city. The market has clothes, jewellery, traditional Assamese products, handicrafts, and foodstuffs. Tourists also indulge in local snacks such as pithas and sweets. The congested alleys are always packed, particularly in the evenings.
Travel Tips:
Bargaining enables you to obtain good rates. Have cash, as many small shops won’t accept cards. Take care of your items at busy spots. Nighttime visits provide a more vibrant experience.
Timings and Entry Fees:
Shops are open between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM throughout the day. Entry is gratis. Tourists tend to stay for two to three hours based on shopping requirements. The best time to shop is before the big Assamese festivals, such as Bihu.
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Relax at Nehru Park
Nehru Park in Guwahati
Nehru Park, situated in Pan Bazaar, is a place where one can relax amidst green surroundings. The park features walking trails, musical fountains, and kids’ play zones. The park consists of sculptures that represent Assam’s various dance forms. Families and groups tend to drop by in the evening.
Travel Tips:
Bring a mat if you intend to sit on the lawn. Nights offer a better climate and the fountain music show. Bring kids’ snacks, but small booths also function around the park.
Timings and Entrance Fee:
The park is open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Entrance fee is ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children. Evening visiting will be best if you want to watch the fountain shows.
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Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, situated at Panjabari, is a cultural complex in the name of the great saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardev. The complex comprises a museum, library, open-air theatre, and art gallery. Assamese culture, traditional crafts, and artworks are exhibited here. Cultural programs and festivals are also organised in the open-air theatre.
Travel Tips:
You need to spend at least three hours visiting the museum and watching cultural shows if scheduled. You can carry a notebook in case you wish to jot down notes regarding Assamese art and literature. Evening cultural performances bring in a richer experience.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The complex is open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day. It charges ₹30 for adults and ₹10 for children as entry fees. The best time to visit is from October to March when cultural festivals are held.
Conclusion
Things to do in Guwahati offers a balanced travel experience with a blend of temples, museums, wildlife, and cultural venues. You can go to Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple, and Basistha Ashram for spiritual experiences. You may go on a river cruise or relax at Nehru Park. Nature enthusiasts can visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and the Assam State Zoo. Culture and history enthusiasts can visit the Assam State Museum and Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra for in-depth revelations. Those who love shopping can visit Fancy Bazaar, whereas families have a variety of options spread around the city. Every activity is accompanied by specific timings, entrance charges, and useful travel advice, making planning a snap. An entire trip, inclusive of these ten activities, enables you to experience Guwahati’s culture, nature, and heritage systematically.