Guwahati

Guwahati is the largest city in the Northeast and it is the most important gateway of entire Northeastern India. Situated on the banks of the river Brahmaputra the age-old city symbolizes the true spirit of the land. The history of Guwahati dates back to the ancient period. People can find references in Ancient Hindu texts. From the Kushan period to the Ahom dynasty, the city of Guwahati remained the most important place in the region. It remained the most important place in the northeast even during the British period. To date, Guwahati retains its significance. Once the state of Assam was formed in the post-independent era it has been considered as the real capital of the state albeit Dispur becomes the capital.

Important festivals

Bihu is the most important and the most vibrant festival in Assam. It is a non-religious festival. This festival is an inseparable and intrinsic part of the culture of Assam. Bihu takes place thrice a year in Assam such as Magh or Bhogali Bihu in January, Bohag or Rongali Bihu in mid-April and Kati or Kangali Bihu in mid-October.

Ambubachi Mela at the Kamakhya temple – The most important religious festival in the region. Thousands of people come from across the country to participate in this festival which takes place at Kamakhya temple. This festival marks the annual menstruation period of Devi Kamakhya. The holy temple is closed for three days during this festival.

Places to visit

Kamakhya Temple – One of the holiest Hindu temples in the country. The visit to the city is incomplete without a visit to this ancient temple. Situated at the Nilachal hill at the bank of the river Brahmaputra, this holy shrine is just 7-8 km from the main city. It is considered the oldest Shakti Peethas among the 51 Shakti Peethas. When Sati’s body was dissected into 108 pieces by Lord Shiva, her Yoni (Vagina) fell here. It is one of the most important pilgrim centres for the Hindus. The temple is also a melting pot of Different sects of Tantras and Tantrik worshippers. The temple complex is well maintained and has every facility for the traveller. Apart from the main temple, there are a few other temples in the complex. The view from the temple is scenic. Nestled in the hills and surrounded by the great river, the temple offers a stunning view of Brahmaputra.

Umananda temple – Not only the temple itself but the journey to this temple is also equally interesting and enthralling. This temple is located on an island amid the Brahmaputra River. The only option is to take a ferry or motor boat. One can access this service from Kachari Ghat. It is a Shiva temple and has great architectural importance.

Navagraha Temple – Built during the mid-18th century Navagraha Temple is located in the southeastern corner of the city atop Chitrachal Hill.

Assam State Museum – It is a beautifully constructed museum in the city. The first thing one can notice here is the way the museum building was built. It is a colossal building with the very best essence of colonial architecture. The museum houses some phenomenal sculpture collections made of wood, metal, terracotta and even stone. Apart from this, the museum displays a wide collection concerning tribal life and culture. The museum covers other important areas such as natural history and arts and crafts work and it has also a section which displays several arms.

Accoland – It is a newly built water entertainment park close to the city. It is just 20 km from the city.
Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden – The largest zoo in the northeastern side of the country. And home to more than 110 species of animals and birds.

Basistha ashram – According to the Hindu Puran, this ashram was founded by the sage Basistha. The ashram was built in the confluence of three small streams.