Guwahati, the capital of Assam in North East India, is a curious blend of history and modernity. It serves as a spiritual nerve centre, carries memories of ancient wars, and moves to the rhythm of the Brahmaputra River—its nurturing force and lifeline. This is less a city you visit than one you drift into, like a boat caught in the river’s steady pull. Here, centuries-old temples coexist with momo stalls and tea vendors brewing conversations across generations.
Once known as Pragjyotishpur—the City of Eastern Light—Guwahati has been a seat of astrology and mysticism for over 2,000 years. Today, it is a thriving metropolis that steadfastly preserves its sacred heritage. This guide covers the city’s major attractions, culinary delights, travel tips, and more—perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers.
Guwahati at a Glance
Guwahati is the largest city in Assam and the entire Northeast. A major river port and among India’s fastest-growing cities, it lies on the south bank of the Brahmaputra River and serves as a gateway not only to Northeast India but also to parts of Southeast Asia.
Historically known as Pragjyotishpur, Guwahati was once the capital of the ancient Kamarupa kingdom. It is mentioned prominently in the Mahabharata and retains traces of its regal past.
Quick Facts
Location: Assam, Northeast India
Coordinates: 26.1158° N, 91.7086° E
Population: ~1 million (metro area)
Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
Railheads: Guwahati Railway Station, Kamakhya Railway Station
Weather: Hot, rainy summers; cool, dry winters
Elevation: 50–680 m (164–2,231 ft)
Major Languages
Although Assamese is the primary language here, Guwahati is a fairly cosmopolitan city where people from various parts of India can be found. Everyone understands Hindi while you should find enough English speakers too. Assam has always had a Bengali population, so you will find a good number of Bangla speakers too.
Why Visit Guwahati?
Gateway to the Northeast: Whether you’re bound for Kaziranga’s rhinos, Meghalaya’s waterfalls, or Arunachal’s snow-clad peaks, Guwahati is the ideal starting point.
Spiritual Energy: Guwahati is the home to the sacred Kamakhya Temple—one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. Often called the Temple City, it teems with shrines that echo ancient mysticism.
Historical Abundance: Once the seat of many great kingdoms, Guwahati reflects a fusion of eras—from Ahom fortifications to colonial layouts, and stone inscriptions to war cemeteries.
Food & Culture: From bamboo-smoked pork to ferry rides and local rock bands, Guwahati is where traditional tribal lifestyles and modern energy intersect. Discover authentic Northeast cuisine and culture in its rawest form.
Vibe Check: Young, Urban, and Rooted
Guwahati is unmistakably Assamese, yet proudly pan-Northeast. You’ll hear a blend of Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, English, and tribal languages. Locals might sport a mekhela sador, jeans, or a football jersey, depending on the time and place.
Carry a jacket for winter and shorts for the rest of the year. You’ll find street style and heirloom silk coexisting in harmony. Grab your sunglasses and explore—Guwahati wears its culture effortlessly.
Culture & Flavours
Rongali Bihu, celebrated in April, is the city’s cultural crescendo. June brings the mysterious Ambubachi Mela to Kamakhya Temple, drawing tantric pilgrims from far and wide. Durga Puja in September-October brings a new lease of life after a harsh summer.
December to March is the peak tourist season in the Northeast
The River City
The Brahmaputra is Guwahati’s eternal companion, shaping its culture and seasons.
During the monsoon, the “Old Man River” transforms into a roaring sea. The rains bathe Guwahati in hues of green and grey, blending nature and concrete into an unrepeatable mosaic. Walk along bougainvillea-lined banks or ride the ropeway to glimpse the city’s ancient soul.
Navigating the Lanes
Public transport connects most of Guwahati, with bike taxis (Rapido), shared autos, Tum Tums, buses, and Uber/Ola all readily available. First-time visitors may want to rely on Google Maps for navigation.
When to Visit?
October to March offers cool, dry weather—ideal for sightseeing and exploration.
April: Rongali Bihu energizes the city with first rains of spring
May–September: Monsoon brings lush landscapes and the Ambubachi Mela although it is hot and humid.
Post-monsoon: The summer subsides, festive seasons return, wetlands like Deepor Beel also come alive with migratory birds.
Where to Stay?
While all sorts of hotels are available in Guwahati, Airbnbs and homestays are increasingly popular, offering comfort and affordability. For budget travellers, there are backpacker hostels too.
