10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions In Guwahati For The Wanderlust In You

If you're a fan of history, culture, and everything else that makes you want to learn more about a location and its surroundings, a museum is where you should go, right? While in Assam, you should definitely visit the state museum. It's also known as the Assam Rajyik Museum.

The collection includes sections on Epigraphy, Sculptures, Miscellaneous, Natural history, Crafts, Anthropology, Folk art, and Arms. There is also the Manuscript section, the Arms and Ammunition area. Sculptors from the Indus Valley civilisation and the various terracotta objects extracted from the different parts of North East India are displayed in the prehistoric Terracotta section.

The museum has also put on display the various handicrafts and handmade objects of the North-east India along with the reconstructed tribal huts. There are also weaving and musical instruments on display. You can check the official website for more information here.

Attractions: The Sculptures section has a collection of metal relics of Vishnu, Goddess Durga, and Buddha.

Timing: 10 AM- 4 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays.

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

LBB tip: The library was founded in 1985 and has extensive stenographic collections. Don’t forget to check that out! It has journals from the Asiatic Society as well.

Contact: 091271 64118

Google rating: 4.3

Umananda Island is not just any other island. Do you know what makes it unique? Well, 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. During British administration, it was dubbed "Peacock" because of its shape, which resembled the feathers of the bird. One of the myths is around Lord Shiva creating this island for Goddess Parvati. Lord Shiva, as Bhayananda, lived here alongside Goddess Parvati.

All access to the island was lost during the major flooding of the Brahmaputra River. And, get this—the Umananda temple, established in the 18th century, has never been impacted by a natural disaster. Some say the temple possesses mystical abilities, which could explain why the name Umananda is derived from 'Uma,' another name for Goddess Parvati.

Attractions: You can get a glimpse of the rock-carved figures of Ganesha, Surya, Vishnu, and other Hindu deities crafted by local craftsmen. 

LBB tip: The Kamdev temple on the island features distinctive architectural and scripture carvings. Umanada is sprinkled with tamarind trees, a diverse mix of flora and fauna, including some endangered species. There are also various hiking trails to soak in the picturesque landscapes, urban views, and waterfalls from above.

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 - 5 PM.

Google rating: 4.5

Despite the fact that a huge section of people in India are still reticent about discussing menstruation or the problems that women face, there is a temple that, despite the stoop of time, worships one of the most common natural phenomena.

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.

It is said that in the temple’s 'Garvagriha,’ or the womb chamber of the temple, is preserved the womb and vagina of the goddess Shakti. In June, every year during the Hindu month of Ashaad, the rivers in the vicinity of Kamakhya temple, the Brahmaputra river, turns red in colour. Today that space where the Kamakhya temple is located is also believed to be the place where Shiva first courted Sati.

Attractions: 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

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.

Contact: 0361 273 4654

Google rating: 4.6

The Hengrabari Reserve Forest is home to the Zoo and one of the best places to visit in Guwahati. The zoo features a floral garden, a boating lake, and a diverse collection of domestic and exotic species. 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 reptile house, which houses different snakes in separate exhibits, is another fantastic feature. 

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

Timing: 8 AM - 4:30 PM

LBB tip: The greenhouses have a diverse range of plants on display and is a must-see for anyone who loves nature.

Entry fee: INR 30 per adult, INR 10 for children between 3-12 years of age. Entry is free for children below the age of 3 years old. 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.

Google rating: 4.1

The Brahmaputra flows through the vibrant city of Guwahati and taking a memorable two-hour Alfresco Grand Cruise along the meandering waterbody just fits the bill, you know? From 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. For more information, you can check the official website.

Attractions: Boat excursions, bird-watching experiences, jungle safaris if any, and more.

Timing: 4 PM - 9 PM

LBB tip: 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.

Price: INR 600-INR 1800 per person.

Contact: 9854958549, 9435558001

Google rating: 4.3

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.

According to history, the concept of building the bridge had been laid out in 1910 and had gained traction during World War II. During the rains of 1942–43, the stability of a railway line between Bongaigaon and Amingaon was questioned. Nonetheless, the decision to proceed with the bridge's construction was announced during the 1958 Budget Session, and work began in 1959. 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.

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

How to reach:  You might have to travel to Pandu, which is to the south and cross Bramhapatura River to Amnigaon to the north.

Many of us feel most alive when we're entirely immersed in nature. The sounds, smells, and pictures fill our senses; we take a breath, and everything is well. These times are commonplace for some but a rarity for others. You can establish a stronger connection with nature at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Dipor Bil Bird Sanctuary, Manas National Park, and Kaziranga National Park. But wait, there's more…. Nameri National Park, Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Orang National Park, and so on.

Attractions: River-rafting, jungle safaris, largest project tiger reserve, elephant reserves, biosphere reserves. Leopards, gaurs, wild boars, capped langurs, feral horses, asiatic water buffaloes, and one-horned rhinos.

Timing: Open 24 hours.

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

Google rating: 4.5

Until the 1970s, the outside world was unaware of this area. located at Baihata Chairali in Assam's Kamrup district. In 1977, the Indian Archaeological Department conducted an excavation effort that resulted in the discovery of the temple remains. The temple's ruins date back to the 10th and 12th centuries AD, when the Pala dynasty governed Kamrupa.

History mentions that Rati begged Lord Shiva for pity for her husband when he reduced Kamdev to ashes for disrupting his meditation. Her sadness inspired the almighty Lord, who told Rati to build the famous Sati shrine on Nilachal Hill. Once the mission was finished, Shiva returned Kamdev's life, and in exchange for his Lord's kindness, he created a holy temple devoted to the great deity of destruction, which is now known as the Madan-Kamdev Temple.

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, Shiva and Parvati, and other gods and goddesses in spectacular form. Artistically carved door frames, walls, and pillars, as well as the Kalpa-vriksha tree, often known as the tree of fulfilment, contribute to a divine backdrop.

Attractions: 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. 

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year. Rent a vehicle at Baihata Chariali, or if you're with a group, try walking.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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

Entry: Free

This is 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 its cultural legacy.  It is supervised by a committee of executives from the Assam Government's Cultural Department 

Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

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

LBB tip: You can click Instagram-worthy and Pinterest-like photos of the highlands of Shillong plateau.Visit the Bhupen Hazarika Museum.

Google rating: 4.4

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. Surrounded by deep forests, small villages, and mesmerising tea gardens, Chandubi lake is considered an ideal spot for a picnic amidst nature.

The 2.5-hour 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 cuisine.

Attractions: Breakfast at Chandubi Lake Eco Resort, boat rides.

Timing: 7 AM - 6 PM for Chandubi Lake, Chandubi Lake Eco Resort is open 24 houra.

LBB tip: Live like a local as you dig deeper into the tribal-styled huts dotting the area.

Price: INR 1200 to INR 1500 for Chandubi Lake Eco Resort

Google rating:  4.4

In addition to the obvious reasons for visiting or paying respects to loved ones, cemeteries and war memorials are frequently regarded of as extremely peaceful places. When you visit, you will feel a lot of energy emanating from the ground. There are so many people, each with their own memories and lives.

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, 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

Google Rating: 4.6

Okay, to the ones who love living life on the edge and have FOMO frequently, river rafting on the Kameng River needs to be on your list. Come on, it offers not only a thrilling element but also breathtaking scenery. Take in the clear mountain air and allow the calming atmosphere to completely surround you.

On a side note, the river is  a major tributary and merges with Bhramaputra at Tezpur which is located on the east of Kolia Bhomora Bridge. It also acts as a boundary between East Kameng districts and West Kameng districts which houses the Aka tribe.

Best Time To Visit: Mid-October to February

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

Attractions: Camping, hiking trails, water sports.

LBB tip: Carry dry snacks and some liquids, a first-aid kit and a bag for you wet clothes.

Price:  INR 20000 to INR 90000

Google rating: 4.4 to 4.8

Halflong is a hill station in Assam. The town of Haflong serves as the administrative centre for the Assamese district of Dima Hasao. 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 enchanted place you come across, it is full with rivers, verdant rolling hills, flora, and fauna.

Attractions: 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.

LBB tip: Enjoy the visual feast of Assam's sole hill station district, which features hills on all sides, paddy fields, valleys, and an abundance of bamboo. Interact with the locals who will tell you more about their history.

How to reach: The drive to Haflong is 6 hours and 48 minutes. 

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.

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

LBB tip: Don't miss the water tank inside the monastery known as the Mucalinda Tank.

How to reach: There are regular public buses and cars you can hire to Namphake.

The tea estate was found 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 make-shift film studio were brought to life by Jyotiprasad Agarwala, the father of modern Assaemese culture. The studio was dubbed Chitroban Studio and the first film was Joymoti. Currently, the tea estate is a heritage sight and is under the Assam Tea Corporation.

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

Notable for its 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.

Attractions: Joy Durga Temple, Vastra Uduyan Museum

LBB tip: 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!