10 Things-To-Do in Guwahati

Discover the best things to do in Guwahati, from Kamakhya Temple and Brahmaputra river cruises to wildlife sanctuaries, local markets, Assamese food and scenic day trips around the city.

1/1/20263 min read

Guwahati is the gateway to Northeast India and one of the oldest living cities in the region. Sitting on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, the city blends ancient temples, river life, wildlife pockets, and a growing urban culture. For travelers, Guwahati works best as both a destination and a base to explore Assam and nearby states. It offers slow mornings by the river, spiritual landmarks, local food experiences, and easy day trips into nature.

Below are ten real, worthwhile things to do in and around Guwahati from a visitor’s point of view.

1. Visit Kamakhya Temple

Located on Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peeths in India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and is known for its unique tantric traditions. Even if you are not religious, the hilltop offers sweeping views of Guwahati and the Brahmaputra. Early mornings are calmer and more atmospheric than peak hours.

2. Take a Brahmaputra River Cruise

A river cruise is one of the best ways to understand Guwahati’s geography. Sunset cruises are popular and usually last one to two hours. You get wide river views, city lights, and sometimes live Assamese music on board. Longer cruises also run toward nearby islands.

Umananda Island sits right in the middle of the Brahmaputra and is often called the smallest inhabited river island in the world. A short ferry ride takes you to Umananda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The island is quiet and green and works well for a short, peaceful break from the city.

4. Walk Through Assam State Museum

The Assam State Museum gives a solid overview of the region’s history, tribes, textiles, and sculptures. It helps visitors understand Assam beyond surface-level travel. Plan about one to two hours for a relaxed visit.

5. Spot Wildlife at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 50 km from Guwahati, Pobitora is known for its high density of one-horned rhinoceroses. A jeep safari here offers good chances of sightings along with migratory birds in winter. It is an easy half-day trip from the city.

6. Watch the Sunset at Brahmaputra Riverfront

Spend an evening along the riverfront near Fancy Bazaar or Pan Bazaar. Locals gather here to walk, snack, and watch boats move across the river. The sunset over the Brahmaputra is wide, slow, and memorable.

7. Go Shopping at Fancy Bazaar

Fancy Bazaar is Guwahati’s busiest local market. You will find Assamese silk mekhela chadors, traditional jewelry, spices, and everyday street food. It is crowded but gives a real sense of city life.

8. Try Authentic Assamese Food

Look for local dishes like khar, masor tenga (sour fish curry), duck curry, and bamboo shoot preparations. Several local restaurants and homespun eateries across the city serve traditional Assamese thalis. The food is generally mild, fresh, and rice-based.

9. Visit Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra

This cultural complex showcases Assam’s art, architecture, and traditions. It includes museums, open-air exhibits and performance spaces. It is a good place to understand the cultural diversity of the state in one visit.

10. Take a Day Trip to Chandubi Lake

Around 60 km from Guwahati, Chandubi Lake is a quiet freshwater lake surrounded by hills and forests. It is ideal for boating, picnics, and relaxed nature time. The drive itself is scenic and passes through rural Assam.