Guwahati is often confused as the capital of Assam. It is not. But it is, in fact, the gateway to northeast India. The strategically placed city is an important corridor to most northeastern states. Rich in culture, steeped in history, and surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty, this bustling city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you are visiting the city or just transiting and have only 24 hours, this guide to a day in Guwahati will help you experience the city in a swift, albeit fulfilling, way.
Guwahati offers a delightful mix of sightseeing and shopping experiences. It’s important to note that shops in Guwahati don't typically stay open late into the evening, so it's wise to combine shopping with your sightseeing activities.
Your first stop should be Fancy Bazaar, one of the most popular shopping destinations in Guwahati. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant market caters to all kinds of shopping needs. Whether you’re looking for traditional silk mekhela chador, handcrafted items, or unique local products, Fancy Bazaar has something for everyone. For souvenirs, be sure to pick up some indigenous musical instruments, bamboo products, and the famous Assamese gamosa—a traditional scarf. These items make for thoughtful and authentic keepsakes from your trip which you can also gift friends and loved ones.
Kamakhya Temple
After exploring the markets, it's time to delve into the spiritual heart of Guwahati. A visit to the Kamakhya Temple should be at the top of your list. Situated atop Nilachal Hill, this sacred temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya and is one of the most significant Shakti Peethas in India. It’s not only a spiritual experience but also offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Umananda Temple
For a unique experience, take a ferry ride to Umananda Temple, located on Peacock Island, about six km from Guwahati. This tiny island, dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva, is a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, accessible by a scenic boat ride across the Brahmaputra River.
If you are travelling with kids and looking for a more educational experience, there are several options to explore in Guwahati. The Guwahati Planetarium offers an engaging look at astronomy and space science, making it an enjoyable stop for science enthusiasts. If you're interested in wildlife, the Assam State Zoo-cum Botanical Garden is a great place to observe local flora and fauna, while the Assam State Museum provides an in-depth exploration of the region’s history, culture, and heritage.
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in the local arts and crafts scene, head to the Maati Centre in Uzan Bazar. This unique cultural centre showcases a fantastic mix of folk and traditional arts, highlighting local and regional craftsmanship. The centre offers a mini heritage tour through handicrafts and artefacts created by local artisans. It also promotes work from organisations like Tihar Jail and Dastakar Ranthambore, supporting artisans from all walks of life. This is an excellent place to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the rich artistic heritage of Assam.
Start your day early so you have the maximum time to explore. Take a walk around whichever neighbourhood you are in and check out the local breakfast places in Guwahati. Nothing beats a hearty and very 'local' breakfast of paratha and ghugni (snack made with white peas). Restaurants like 11th Avenue Cafe and Bistro in Dighalipukhuri (opposite Assam State Museum), Sagar Ratna in Paltan Bazaar, and Mocha Cafe & Bar in Christian Basti are some of the best places for a hearty brunch.
Gam's Delicacy Restaurant, Paradise Restaurant, Heritage Khorikaa and King Chilly are some of the best places for a traditional Assamese meal of pork curry, aloo pitika (Indian-style mashed potatoes), omita khar (young papaya curry), maas pura (roasted fish), and haa kumora (duck cooked with white gourd). Also, when in Guwahati, be it Bihu season or not, a must-try local dish is pitha, which are traditional Assamese sweet and savoury snacks that you will find in local sweet shops.
If you are in the city for only a day, it is best to avoid splurging on accommodation and choose something budget-friendly with good connectivity.
Apart from stand-alone hotels and some luxury options, there are plenty of lodges in the city as well. For budget travellers, some of these lodges and hotels are the best options as they are in almost all major localities, making shopping or simply dining out an easy option. Dispur Lodge, Hotel Sunview International, and Tranqville are some options for stays you can book without burning a hole in your pocket. Starting from INR 1,600, good, clean hotels are easy to find all around the city.
By Air: Guwahati Airport, or Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, situated 25 km away from the main city, links the destination with all prime Indian cities.
By Rail: Guwahati Railway Station, the prime railhead of the city, is just five km away from the city centre.
By Road: And if you are taking the road, you can easily drive from Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, West Bengal and Nagaland.
