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Guwahati is arguably the only major city in the north-eastern region of India. It is today considered as the region’s largest city in terms of commercial volume of transactions and industrial output and as an educational centre.
In fact, Guwahati is now referred to as the commercial capital city of Assam. It is crested on the eastern hills of the Himalayan mountain ranges, with the Brahamaputra River on its other side. In terms of tourism, Guwahati is the start off point for most tourists headed to other tourist spots in the Himalayas. Guwahati also has its own attractions that draw tourists from the overseas.
The progress of Guwahati is attested to, by the fact that there are now 5 star luxury hotels in the city. Guwahati is divided into two parts by the river Brahamaputra into two city sections: North Guwahati and South Guwahati. You can find many cheap but good and clean lodging houses in the north side of the city.
History of Guwahati
It is said that Guwahati is one of the more ancient cities of Assam. This is particularly true because of the many old temples abounding in Guwahati. Chitrachal Hill houses quite a few such old and ancient temples. An excavation showed archaeological remains of ancient civilization in Guwahati, which are now displayed in Basista. This was known as the Ambari excavation that traced the city’s ancient origin to the 6th century A.D. Based on the findings, the city was first called Pragijyotishpura and then Durjoya in some order of time. The city was made the capital of the ancient dynasties of the Varmans and then the Palas.
Attractions of Guwahati
- Ancient Temples: Also in the list of famous places to visit in Guwahati are its ancient and holy temples. The temple known as Kamakhya temple, which is located atop Nilachal Hill is the most sacred temples in Guwahati. This temple, built in the 10th century is famous for sacrificing animals to appease the gods.
- Guwahati Zoo: Nowhere in India can one find as many varied and numerous species of animals as in the Guwahati Zoo.
Best Time to Visit Guwahati and Recommended Clothing
The months of October to April are the best time to visit Guwahati. It is recommended that one dresses warm for the said trip as it does get cold during the winter months. Light woollens suit the climate.
Location of Guwahati
Guwahati is the biggest city in the state of Assam. It is on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Three major national roads pass through the city; National Highway (NH) 31, NH 37, NH 40.
How to Reach Guwahati
By Air: Guwahati has its own International Airport from where there are regular flights to New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai, aside from flights to other countries. The airlines that serve this route are Indian Airlines, Sahara Airlines and Jet Airways. Foreign airline companies also service this route.
By Rail: Guwahati is the railhead station of trains to and from many points in India. Known as Paltan Bazaar railway station, this railhead junction in Guwahati is almost always busy and bustling with people.
By Road: If one wishes to go to other places by road, Guwahati is connected by road to Siliguri, Sibsayar, Dimapur, Imphal, Kohima, Hanager and other towns and cities.
Other Attractions near Guwahati
- Probitura Wildlife Sanctuary located just 60 kilometres, towards the eastern side of Guwahati makes for an interesting trip for wildlife lovers.
- Shillong, a beautiful and a magnificent hill station, surrounded by pine trees rests just about 100 kilometres from the southern side of Guwahati.
Guwahati Tourism Information Offices
Assam Tourism Development Corporation Ltd
(Opp ) B.Barua College
Ulubari
Guwahati 781007
Phone: 91 0361 2454421
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