Guwahati is an ancient urban city and was in fact known as Pragjyotishpur and Durjaya in the state of Kamrup now known as Assam. Situated on the banks of river Brahmaputra and foothills of the Shillong plateau, Assam is known for its rich heritage. Guwahati is also a major educational and commercial hub. In This Article I will tell you Top Tourist Places in Guwahati, Assam.
Guwahati serves an important transit centre for travel within the North Eastern states. The Guwahati airport connects the city to many other cities within the North East. When travelling by train, the city can be reached through the North East Frontier Railway. The nearest railheads are the Kamakhya Junction and the New Guwahati stations. The city is well connected by roads too. The National Highway 31 connects the city with Bihar, West Bengal and Jharkhand.
Here are the top 7 places in Guwahati that you shouldn’t skip on your next trip there:
1. Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati
On the Nilachal Hills, 7 km from Guwahati, is where you’ll find the Kamakhya Temple. The temple was reconstructed in the year 1565 after it was destructed by Kala Pahar. The temple has several myths associated with it. Kamakhya Temple complex houses five temples inside it. Kamakhya Temple is a best Tourist Place in Guwahati. The temple gains more importance, as in this place of worship, Aryans and non-Aryans follow common practices and hold common beliefs.The temple is closed for four days each year for the visitors since it is believed that Goddess Kamakhya’s menstrual cycle falls at this time.On the fifth day, when worshippers swarm the temple in search of the Goddess’ blessings, the temple reopens. This is considered a significant Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of 51 Shakti Peethas.
2. Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati
Declared as National Park in 1974, the 430 sq. kms Kaziranga National Park houses various wild species including tigers, elephants, leopards and panthers. It is home to one horned rhinoceros. The park could be called as haven for bird watchers, as birds in thousands are seen here. It is also declared as world heritage site. As elephant safaris are available, it would be a great experience for you if you opt to settle down on elephant’s back to tour the park. The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is between November and April because that is when the park is available to visitors.
3. Manas National Park, Guwahati
Manas National Park spreads across 391 sq. km area on Himalayan foothills. This park too has the honor of being declared a World Heritage Site and it received this status in the year 1985. Famously referred to as the only Tiger Reserve in Assam, the park is home to various species including elephants, bison, langur, sambar, chital, rhinos and buffalos. Additionally, the park has endangered species. Bulbuls, falcons, serpent eagles, hornbills, and magpie robins are a few of the birds seen here. The best months to visit this park are from October to April.
4. Umananda Temple, Guwahati
One of the most important temples of Guwahati, On Peacock Island, in the heart of the Brahmaputra River, is where you’ll find Umananda Temple. The temple belongs to the 17th century and it was constructed by Bar Phukan Garhganya Handique. Since the temple is at the center of River Brahmaputra, it can be accessed only on ferries or motor launches. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the sculptures and engravings depict other gods namely Surya, Ganesha and Devi. The temple’s walls are beautifully engraved and sculpted, demonstrating the artisanship of the people of the past.
Navagraha Temple belongs to the 18th century. It is situated on Navagraha Hill, which was previously known as Chitrasal Hill. The temple takes its name from Navagraha, or the solar system’s nine planets, and it is dedicated to these nine planets.
6. Nehru Park, Guwahati
If you’re visiting with your family, Nehru Park is an excellent choice. The spell of tranquillity encircles you. You could grasp the essence of the life and culture of the people of Assam. The concrete statues depict various dances namely Bihu, Deodhani, Bor Taal and Ojapali.he park provides a tranquil setting for a relaxing picnic spot for your family to visit and is great for leisure activities. In the park, there are over 45 statues that represent the several Assamese dancing styles, including the Bihu, Deodhani and Jhumur. You will love the rock garden here. Yet another specialty of the park is the open-air theatre.
7. Assam Rajyik State Museum
Assam Rajyik State Museum provides insight into the region’s rich culture and heritage. The museum is awe-inspiring with stunning range of collections. The massive collection in the library includes over thousands of scripts belonging to ancient period. Apart from scripts, the museum houses prehistoric sculptures and ivory paintings. Costumes belonging to ancient people are on display as well.
Also Read: 3 MOST POPULAR TREKS IN UTTARAKHAND THAT YOU MUST VISIT
