The Ultimate Guwahati Guide: Top 30 Picks

You should definitely visit Assam Rajyik Museum. The collection includes epigraphy, sculptures, miscellaneous, natural history, crafts, anthropology, folk art, and manuscript, arms and ammunition. Sculptors from the Indus Valley civilisation, terracotta extracted from the different parts of Northeast India, handicrafts and handmade items are all on display. The library was founded in 1985 and has extensive stenographic collections. Don’t forget to check that out.

Timing: 10 AM - 4 PM (Monday closed)

Entry Fee: INR 33 for adults, INR 11 for students, INR 300 for foreigners, and free for children below 12 years of age. 

Contact: 09127164118

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Facebook: Assam State Museum

The Kamakhya temple is famous not only as a place of worship in Assam, but it is in fact rather an unusual temple in the whole of India. The temple is situated on the Nilachal hill in Guwahati, and the goddess of the temple, Kamakhya Devi, is known as the ‘Bleeding Goddess’ in the region. Although there is no depiction of the goddess Shakti in the temple complex, it is Yoni, or the female genitalia part of the goddess, situated in a corner of the cave in the temple, that gets the veneration. 

Timing: 5:30 AM - 1 PM and 2:30 PM - 5 PM every day.

Entry: Free

Contact: 03612734654

LBB tip: The prasad of the temple is the garb-gira, which is the water present in the garb-grah, which you must drink. And if you want to take some with you, fill it in a copper urli to take it.

Google Rating: 4.6/5

The temple's ruins date back to the 10th and 12th centuries AD, when the Pala dynasty governed Kamrupa. It features a sculpture of Lord Shiva with his wife, Parvati, or Shakti. The temple ruins contain representations of griffins, a monster with a lion's body and an eagle's head and wings; sculptures of nymphs, dancing fairies and other gods and goddesses; and carved door frames, walls, and pillars, as well as the Kalpa-vriksha tree, often known as the tree of fulfilment, contributing to a divine backdrop. Numerous sensual sculptures, with a close connection to the art of Khajuraho temple. The four-headed Shiva, six-sided Bhairava, serpents, demons, men, women, and animals in various amorous poses. 

Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free

LBB tip: Bring your own food. There are no food stalls within 3 to 4 kilometres

A non-profit cultural organisation in the Panjabari region of Assam. It has been named after the mediaeval poet-playwright and reformer Srimanta Sankardeva. This happens to be the greatest cultural assemblage in Northeast India. The team works to protect, restore, and promote Assamese ethnic communities and their cultural legacy. It is supervised by a committee of executives from the Assam Government's Cultural Department. You can click Instagram-worthy and Pinterest-like photos of the highlands of the Shillong plateau. Visit the Bhupen Hazarika Museum too.

Attractions: Lalit-Kala Bhavan, a heritage park with cable car facilities, sound and light shows

Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 30 to INR 100 per person

Contact: 03612332665

Instagram: @kalakshetra_guwahati

Facebook: Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra

Google Rating: 4.4/5

Standing at Dighalipukhuri Park, it was built as a memorial to the soldiers who lost their lives defending the nation during a war, but it is still there in spirit. A huge army tank will catch your eye upon entering. This was donated by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force. The display of exhibitions on the Battle of Sariaghat and sculptures depicting scenes from the Indo-China War, the Kargil War, and the 1971 attack on Karachi are a must-see as a thing to do while you are in Guwahati. The war memorial also has a replica of the 'Amar Jawan' from Delhi.

Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Contact: 01628634221

LBB tip: You can drive down, book an Uber/Ola or use public transport.

Google Rating: 4.6/5

The Hengrabari Reserve Forest is home to the zoo. From the Himalayan black bear, tiger, and Asian elephant to leopards, blackbucks, sambar, nilgai, and striped hyenas, the zoo has it all. A bonus section is the aviary, which attracts ornithologists and birdwatchers because of its bird collection. The greenhouses have a diverse range of plants on display and are a must-see for anyone who loves nature. Entry is free for children below the age of 3 years old.

Attractions: African white rhinoceros, black rhinoceros, kangaroos, pumas, jaguars, llamas and the one-horned rhino

Timing: 8 AM - 4:30 PM

Contact: 08135933835

Entry Fee: INR 30 per adult, INR 10 for children between 3 and 12 years of age. INR 100 for foreigners. INR 5 to INR 100 per wheeler vehicle parking. INR 100 for camera charges and INR 300 for foreigners with cameras.

Instagram: @assamstatezoo

Google Rating: 4.1/5

A motor highway sits on top of the double-decker bridge, with a rail line below. The bridge, originally built for the North Frontier Railway, is an important link between the North East and the rest of the country, connecting Lachit Borphukan Park on the south end and Chilarai Park on the north. The concept of building the bridge had been laid out in 1910 and had gained traction during World War II. Since then, Saraighat has been a major historical site for the Mughal-Ahom fight and serves as the meeting point for both banks of the Brahmaputra River.

Timing: Open 24 hours

How To Reach: You might have to travel to Pandu, which is to the south and cross the Brahmaputra River to Amingaon to the north.

LBB Tip: Get your cameras ready because the view every hour of the day is just so photoworthy

It is the world's smallest inhabited island, located along the Brahmaputra River, and golden langurs are known to have lived on the island. According to local folklore, the name has multiple interesting backstories. It was dubbed "Peacock" because of its shape, which resembled the feathers of the bird. You can get a glimpse of the rock-carved figures of Ganesha, Surya, Vishnu, and other Hindu deities crafted by local craftsmen. Umanada is sprinkled with tamarind trees, a diverse mix of flora and fauna, including some endangered species. There are also various hiking trails.

How To Reach: You will need to take a ferry ride to the island from the mainland. The ride costs INR 250. The ferry and motor boats operate from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

Take the Alfresco Grand Cruise along the meandering waterbody. Breathtaking sunsets, scrumptious regional cuisines, and live music – this needs to be on your to-do list for Assam. It crosses China, India, and Bangladesh. The Brahmaputra Valley presents an ideal locale for those seeking uncommon experiences. Kaziranga National Park is a go-to tourist spot along the Brahmaputra. Make sure to explore the park and keep an eye out for the one-horned rhino.

Timing: 4 PM - 9 PM

Price: INR 600-INR 1800 per person.

Contact: 9854958549, 9435558001

Facebook: Alfresco Grand

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Visit Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Dipor Bil Bird Sanctuary, Manas National Park, Kaziranga National Park and so on. Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Dehing Patkai National Park is apparently India’s only rainforest and elephant reserve. You can try river rafting and jungle safaris and explore the largest project tiger reserve, elephant reserves, and biosphere reserves.

Attractions: Leopards, gaurs, wild boars, capped langurs, feral horses, asiatic water buffaloes, and one-horned rhinos.

Timing: Open 24 hours.

Entry Fee: All national park and wildlife sanctuary prices range between INR 400 and INR 2500 per person.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

River rafting on the Kameng River needs to be on your list. Take in the clear mountain air and allow the calming atmosphere to completely surround you. The river is a major tributary and merges with the Brahmaputra at Tezpur, which is located on the east of the Kolia Bhomora Bridge. It also acts as a boundary between East Kameng districts and West Kameng districts, which house the Aka tribe.

Attractions: Camping, hiking trails, water sports

Best Time To Visit: Mid-October to February

Timing: Depends on the river rafting company you are booked with

Price: INR 20,000 to INR 90,000

LBB Tip: Carry dry snacks and some liquids, a first-aid kit and a bag for your wet clothes

Google Rating: 4.4/5 - 4.8/5

At the foot of the Garo Hills is the Chandubi Lake. The lake is spread between Assam and Meghalaya. It was formed as a result of the 1897 earthquake in Assam. The drive to the lake along the Bhutani highway is as ethereal as you can imagine. With the Rabha Hasongs of Assam and the Garos of Meghalaya coexisting in a kind of cultural potpourri, the area has much to offer those who enjoy different cuisines. Live like a local as you dig deeper into the tribal-styled huts dotting the area.

Attractions: Breakfast at Chandubi Lake Eco Resort and boat rides

Timing: 7 AM - 6 PM for Chandubi Lake; Chandubi Lake Eco Resort is open 24 hours

Price: INR 1,200 to INR 1,500 for Chandubi Lake Eco Resort

Google Rating: 4.4/5

This Assam district is described as the "Switzerland of the Northeast". Nagaland, Manipur, and Meghalaya encircle it. As you can see from every photo of this, it is full of rivers, verdant rolling hills, flora, and fauna. This district includes numerous towns and villages. One of the most popular tourist destinations is a village called Laisong. It is the biggest hub for the rural culture of Zeme Naga.

How To Reach: The drive to Haflong is 6 hours and 48 minutes. There are weekly trains that run from Guwahati to Haflong and back. It will cost you between INR 200 and INR 599 per ticket.

The Tai Phake rely on family customs and the counsel of monks, who are forthright in their advocacy of language preservation. By volunteering to teach people how to read and write in Tai, they provided a ray of hope. Paim Thee, 45, who manages the Dibrugarh-based non-profit Poi Foundation and is employed by All India Radio, came up with the concept. Should you truly want to live like a native, spending a few days in Namphake among the locals themselves might deepen your admiration for Assam. Don't miss the water tank inside the monastery known as the Mucalinda Tank.

Attractions: Namfake Buddhist Monastery, Poi-Nen-Chi Festival in March, Burhidihing River

How To Reach: There are regular public buses and cars you can hire to Namphake

Founded by Gopal Chandra Agarwalla in 1921, it is on the northwest bank of the Brahmaputra. The Bholaguri tea estate laid down the foundation of cinema in Assam with its first-ever film studio as well. The concept and idea of the makeshift film studio were brought to life by Jyotiprasad Agarwala, the father of modern Assamese culture. The studio was dubbed Chitroban Studio and the first film was Joymoti. Currently, the tea estate is a heritage site and is under the Assam Tea Corporation.

Attractions: The bungalow of Jyotiprasad Agarwala, where he composed music for the film Joymoti.

How To Reach: By road, it takes 3 hours. Gohpur railway station is the nearest station

Google Rating: 4.3/5

 A thriving weaving sector; 74% of households in this area weave. The Kamrup district's Sualkuchi is well known for its fine silk fabrics, which include the golden Muga, ivory-white Pat, and light beige Eri/Endi silks. It is also termed as the Manchester of the East because it is, to this day, the world's largest weaving village where the entire population is engaged in the process and output of weaving using exquisite silk fabrics. You can spot the craft of weaving being done on the backstrap loom inside the homes. And of course, don't forget to get your hands on the finest of silk saris, such as the Mekhla Chador.

Attractions: Joy Durga Temple, Vastra Uduyan Museum

How To Reach: There are local buses that will cost you between INR 50 and INR 100 per person

Visit Michinga Ethnic Cuisine, which serves Assamese as well as Naga, Khasi, and other Asian cuisines, for the best in the city. It combines the bread and the rice. Pulao with eggplant, paneer kofta, chicken korma, chicken meat cutlet, paneer and mutton in an Assamese gravy are among the nine meals that are included.

Timing: 12 PM - 11 PM

Price: INR 1,500 for two

Contact: 084020 54999

Instagram: @michinga_ghy

Google Rating: 4.2/5

Go to Nehru Park, where the 25 or so street vendors serve a wide variety of street cuisine. The spicy chicken chow should be your first priority. Chicken lollipops are deep-fried chicken drumsticks with a bright red colour and crispy pieces. It also has onions, carrots, and chillies. If you visit China Town in Guwahati, it'll be a little more expensive.

Price: INR 60 - INR 100 per plate; INR 600 onwards in China Town

Address: Cotton University Rd, Pan Bazaar, Guwahati, Assam 781001

Raw chicken is cooked within a bamboo branch with onions, green chillies, turmeric, garlic, ginger, garam masala, and other spices to create this delicious chicken curry. You will be ecstatic to have it again because it is so tasty. Try the Bamboo Chicken from Arunima's Takeaway while you're in Tezpur. It will give you a foodgasm!

Timing: 9 AM - 10:30 PM

Price: INR 110 - INR 200 for two

Contact: +918638569172

Facebook: Arunima's Takeaway

Google Rating: 3.9/5

Masor Tenga is a staple of traditional Assamese Thali and one of the most well-liked main dishes in Assamese cuisine. Try this from Paradise in Silphukuri. This dish, which is also called Spicy Fish Curry, is light and zingy. The sourness of the tomatoes and kokum is thought to aid in the quick and healthy digestion of the food. You will feel revitalised and refreshed after devouring this on a summer afternoon with steamed rice.

Timing: 9 AM - 10 PM

Price: INR 800 for two

Contact: 09435548812

Instagram: @paradise_assamese_restaurant

Google Rating: 4/5

Served with a bowl of hot buffalo milk and jaggery, this dish is made with rice flour and banana pulp. Traditionally, Bheem Kol, or Bheem banana, is a native, densely seeded banana species that is exclusively found in Assam and some areas of northeastern India is used to make Kol Pitha. The best variety of kol pitha will be there at the Pakghar Sweets By Bipanan Khetra shop.

Timing: 10 AM - 9 PM

Price: INR 40 - INR 100

Contact: +919864391047

Google Rating: 3.4/5

Water snails are boiled with pumpkin to make pani hamuk. Taste this Assamese delicacy when you visit Mising Kitchen. Snails are consumed by Assamese and other Northeastern people. These snails are unique to this area and are harvested from rice fields. The snail must be sucked out of its shell. Such a très escargot moment, is it not?

Timing: 11 AM - 11 PM

Price: INR 800 for two

Contact: 08134032862

Google Rating: 4.4/5

An ancient cooking technique used by the Karbi tribe of Assam. The vegetables or meat are wrapped in banana or turmeric leaves and baked on an iron tawa or smoked directly over charcoal. 'Patot dia' is another name for this in Assamese. It's roasted on a tawa with spices, including salt, chopped onion, garlic, chilli, raw turmeric, and cilantro. Alohi Restaurant serves the best one, so be sure to book a table there and devour kangthu.

Timing: 10 AM - 11 PM

Price: INR 800 for two

Contact: 09864113889

Google Rating: 4.1/5

The crunch of Kardoi, the sweetness of Narikol Laru, and the festive charm of Til Pitha all showcase the tastes of Assam. Khar, Khorisa, and Bogori pickles add taste and history, while Jolpan adds comfort. Bhut Jolokia pickle completes the package for the daring. These local snacks are a delicacy that no one should miss out on!

Away from all the din of the city life, this Airbnb nudges you to welcome peace and seclusion with open arms as you venture into the soothing abyss of Mother Nature’s embrace. This 2,400 sqft, three-bedroom apartment has three terraces overlooking the river, three king-size beds, a cosy common area that includes a dining space, a living room, and a large kitchen with all the facilities you need. While the demeanour of the home is minimalist, it encapsulates all mod cons and encourages sustainability. 

Hosted By: Hosted by MD Faranur

Price: INR 2,425 + taxes for per night

Airbnb Rating: 5/5

Solace Suites is a homestay with muted tones along with monochromatic elements filling the space, creating a soothing ambience. Each of the family rooms and connecting rooms has a kitchenette, a private bathroom and air conditioning. There is an outdoor fireplace, a terrace, and free WiFi for visitors. Bicycle parking, an outdoor seating area and a minimarket are extra amenities.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Price: INR 1,575 + taxes per night

Contact: 07896661250

Google Rating: 4.9/5

Instagram: @solace.suites

This environmentally friendly retreat provides a respite for nature lovers within the verdant surroundings close to Kaziranga National Park. Wake up to the sound of chirping birds and head on guided nature walks and thrilling jungle safaris to discover the flora and fauna. As cultural evenings turn your visit into an amazing adventure, take in the beat of traditional Assamese music and dance beneath the stars.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Price: INR 2,750 - INR 5,000 per night

Contact: 09435515011

Google Rating: 4.5/5

Instagram: @naturehuntassam

Facebook: Nature Hunt Eco Camp Kaziranga

It is located in the suburbs of the Kohora range of Kaziranga National Park, just a short distance from NH 37. The expansive IORA resort spans 20 acres and features tea gardens that capture the spirit of the northeast, landscape gardens, a well-kept pool, a sports hall (gym), an extraordinary restaurant, a spa, an activity centre, and more—all of which offer a stunning perspective of the lush surroundings.

Timing: 5 AM - 11 PM

Price: INR 7,725 per night

Contact: 09954000444

Instagram: @iora_theretreat

Facebook: : IORA The Retreat Kaziranga

Google Rating:

This tourist lodge is run by the state government in Assam and has the best facilities at an affordable price. As you enter, the space becomes a true feast for the senses, a place where artistry and tranquillity converge through neutral colours, natural materials and indoor greenery. When you come, you can rent basic hotel rooms or cottages. The staff's conduct is outstanding because they always make you feel at home. The concierge desk will set up for the elephant safari along with the jeep for you as well.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Price: INR 1,300 - INR 1,600 per night

Contact: 03776262429

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Head to Balipara in Assam and book a stay at Wild Mahseer, a heritage bungalow dating back to the colonial period. Wild Mahseer is home to over one lakh plants, 90 species of birds, and 72 species of butterflies. It also serves as the gateway to the forests of Kaziranga, Nameri, Orang, and Pakke. 18 bedrooms are divided into six beautiful types of bungalows—Burra, The Cottage, Camellia, Silver Tips, Golden Tips and Ambrosia.

Timing: Open 24 hours

Price: INR 24,170 per night

Contact: 07002325502

Google Rating: 4.4/5

Instagram: @wildmahseer