Guwahati is one of the most important regions and the gateway to the seven sisters. Rich in flora and fauna, this city has been one of the top-notch places to visit in North East India. Located in Assam- Guwahati is a very rich city even in terms of tourist attractions. From nature lovers to wildlife enthusiasts to adventure junkies; everyone finds it like home during their trip to this beautiful city.
If you are planning on a trip to Guwahati then here are some top-notch places to visit:
1. Nehru Park
One of the oldest parks in Assam- Nehru Park is located in the heart of Guwahati. Sitting opposite the premier education institute a lot of travelers visit here to spend some time with their family, solo, and friends. It is an amazing recreational spot and also works as a place offering nature walks to people.
During the peak season, you might find a lot of families flocking in the park having a good time and some enjoying a picnic. The main attraction of the park is still the flower garden and the portion having sculptures on show. Whereas kids find their peace in the gaming section of the park and enjoy the swings.
2. Kaziranga National Park
Whenever wildlife lovers think about the majestic Indian one-horned rhinoceros there is one name that prompts in the head- Kaziranga National Park. One of the finest national parks in the entire country, Kaziranga has the largest number of Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was declared as a national park in 1974. Located in the Nargaon region of Assam, Kaziranga has a huge diversity in flora and fauna. One can spot elephants, rhinos, wild water buffalos, swamp deer, and a lot more. Usually, wildlife buffs and adventure enthusiasts visit here for a jeep safari or an elephant safari in the park.
3. Kamakhya Temple
Situated in the Nilachal Hill of Guwahati; Kamakhya Temple is one of the most visited religious sites in Assam. Be it the legend that tails this temple or its location, Kamakhya Temple has been an integral part of Guwahati tourism.
As per the locals, Kamakhya Temple is revered as the residing place of the “Bleeding Goddess.” People usually visit here during June because very interestingly the Brahmaputra river flowing around the temple turns blood red. The locals believe that this is the time when goddesses menstruate, changing the color of the river. To witness this amazing phenomenon, people visit here during June.
4. Manas National Park
Manas National Park is another important attraction of Guwahati. The park is located at the foothills of the Himalayas and houses some endangered species of wildlife. Some species include golden langur, Assam roofed turtle, pygmy hog, and hispid hare.
But Manas National Park is popular for the density of wild water buffalos. This national park is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the diversity of flora and fauna attracts a lot of people throughout the year except for the monsoon season.
5. Peacock Island
Amidst the Brahmaputra River that flows across Guwahati, there is a small island that looks like the shape of a peacock. The locals call it Umananda, but owing to its design, the Britishers called it “the peacock island.” According to Hindu Mythology, this island was created by Lord Shiva for his wife to make her happy and please her.
You can take a ferry to this island at a reasonable price and enjoy spending some time here. There are few hotels located on the island where travelers can stay overnight.
6. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is also situated in the vicinity of Guwahati and it draws a huge crowd every year, especially during winters. People love taking a jeep safari to spot the Great Indian One-Horned Rhino at the sanctuary. It is simply a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts because of its huge diversity in flora and fauna.
Apart from the Rhinos, people get to spot barking deer, wild boar, leopard, wild buffalo, and more. If you are an avid bird watcher, then this place is going to give you a good time because apart from the inhabitants, there are more than 2000 migratory birds to spot.
7. Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple is situated on Peacock Island and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Tourists enjoy a ferry ride to cross the Brahmaputra river and reach here. This temple is small but offers a peaceful environment to the visitors.
There are a few hotels on the island that can offer you a staying option. If you are looking for a less crowded place on your trip to Guwahati, then this is the right one.
8. Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden
Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden is the largest garden of its kind and that’s one of the reasons why people love and fancy visiting here. For those who get intrigued by the diversity of flowers and other flora then this is a must-visit place for you.
Established in 1957, this botanical garden has 639 mammals, 142 reptiles, 389 bird species, and 285 species of exotic plants. There are several endangered species in this garden and all of them are living here in harmony. The entire place is divided into museums, a reptile house, a garden, and a few other sections.
