Guwahati, also calls Gauhati, is located in the northeastern part of the country. It is the largest city in Assam and serves as the gateway to the northeastern region of India. Guwahati is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, and is known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and historical significance.
The city has a population of over one million people and is a major commercial and educational center in the region. It is also an important transportation hub, with an international airport, a major railway station, and several highways connecting it to other parts of the country.
Guwahati has a diverse population, with people from various ethnic and linguistic backgrounds living together. The Assamese language is the most widely spoken language in the city, but Hindi and English are also commonly spoken.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Guwahati include the Kamakhya Temple, the Umananda Temple, the Assam State Museum, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Guwahati Planetarium. The city is also known for its street food, which includes dishes like momos, jhal muri, and pitha.
Guwahati is one of the most important cities in India, not just because it is the capital of Assam but also because it is home to some of the most important temples in the country. The Kamakhya Temple is one of India’s most sacred Hindu temples and is said to be the site of the goddess Kamakhya’s menstrual temple. The temple is visited by pilgrims from all over India and is a major tourist attraction in Guwahati. Other important temples in the city include the Navagraha Temple, dedicated to the Hindu pantheon’s nine planets, and the Umananda Temple, which is situated on an island in the middle of the River Brahmaputra. Guwahati is also home to the famous Assam Tea Gardens, which produce some of the finest tea in the world.
How to Reach Guwahati:
Guwahati is well-connected by air, rail, and road to other parts of India. Here are the ways to reach Guwahati:
- By Air: The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Chennai, among others. Several airlines operate regular flights to and from Guwahati.
- By Train: Guwahati is a major railway station and is well-connected to other cities in India. There are regular trains from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, among others.
- By Road: Guwahati is well-connected to other cities in the region through a network of national highways. There are regular bus services from cities like Shillong, Siliguri, Kolkata, and Dimapur, among others.
- By Water: Guwahati is also connected by waterways to other parts of the region through the Brahmaputra River. Ferry services operate between Guwahati and other towns and cities along the river.
Once you reach Guwahati, there are several options for local transportation, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses.
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Historical Importance Of Guwahati:
Guwahati has a rich historical and cultural significance, and has been an important center of trade, commerce, and politics for centuries. Here are some of the key historical events and landmarks that are associated with Guwahati:
- Kamakhya Temple: The Kamakhya Temple, located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, and is believed to have been built in the 8th century AD. The temple is also associated with the legend of the Shakti Peethas, which are believed to be the places where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her body.
- Ahom Kingdom: Guwahati was the capital of the Ahom Kingdom, which ruled Assam for several centuries. The Ahoms were known for their military prowess, and their rule was characterized by a strong administration and a rich cultural heritage. The remains of the Ahom Kingdom can still be seen in the form of temples, monuments, and palaces in and around Guwahati.
- Battle of Saraighat: The Battle of Saraighat was fought on the banks of the Brahmaputra River near Guwahati in 1671. The battle was fought between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal Empire, and is considered to be one of the most significant battles in Indian history. The Ahoms, under the leadership of Lachit Borphukan, defeated the Mughals and prevented them from establishing a foothold in Assam.
- Guwahati War Cemetery: The Guwahati War Cemetery is located in the heart of the city, and is the final resting place of soldiers who died in World War II. The cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and is a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers from India and other parts of the world.
Overall, Guwahati has a rich history and cultural heritage, and is an important center of art, literature, and politics in northeastern India.hati, Assam. The temple is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is known for its beautiful architecture and scenic location. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of India’s most important Vaishnavite temples. The temple is also known for its annual festival, celebrated with great pomp and show.
15 Places To Visit In Guwahati:
Here are 15 popular places to visit in Guwahati:
- Kamakhya Temple
- Umananda Temple
- Assam State Museum
- Guwahati Planetarium
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
- Nehru Park
- Navagraha Temple
- Basistha Temple
- Guwahati Zoo
- Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
- Dipor Bil
- Manas National Park
- Chandubi Lake
- Saraighat Bridge
- Brahmaputra River Cruise
These are just a few of the many attractions that Guwahati has to offer. The city is also known for its street food, which includes dishes like momos, jhal muri, and pitha, and is a great place to experience the unique culture and history of northeastern India.
Cusines And Delicacies Of Guwahati:
Guwahati, like the rest of Assam, is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. Here are some of the popular cuisines and delicacies of Guwahati:
- Assamese Thali: The Assamese thali is a complete meal that includes rice, dal, vegetables, fish or meat, and achar (pickle). It is a popular and nutritious meal in Guwahati.
- Pitha: Pitha is a type of rice cake that is a popular snack and dessert in Guwahati. It is made with rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, and is often steamed or fried.
- Masor Tenga: Masor Tenga is a tangy fish curry that is a staple in Assamese cuisine. It is made with fish, tomatoes, and lemon juice, and is usually served with rice.
- Khaar: Khaar is a traditional Assamese dish made with vegetables, meat, or fish, and is flavored with a special ingredient called khaar. Khaar is made by filtering water through the ashes of burnt banana leaves, and gives the dish a unique and smoky flavor.
- Duck Meat Curry: Duck meat curry is a popular non-vegetarian dish in Guwahati. It is made with tender duck meat, cooked in a spicy tomato and onion gravy.
- Bamboo Shoot Fry: Bamboo shoot fry is a popular vegetarian dish in Guwahati. It is made by frying bamboo shoots with onions, garlic, and spices.
- Momo: Momo is a popular street food in Guwahati. It is a type of steamed or fried dumpling, filled with vegetables or meat, and is usually served with a spicy chutney.
- Chira with Curd: Chira with curd is a popular breakfast dish in Guwahati. It is made by mixing flattened rice (chira) with curd, sugar, and sometimes, bananas.
- Tea: Tea is an integral part of Assamese culture, and Guwahati is known for its strong and flavorful tea. The tea gardens in Assam produce some of the finest tea in the world.
- Pani Puri: Pani puri, also known as golgappa, is a popular street food in Guwahati. It is a crispy, hollow puri filled with spiced potatoes and chutney, and is eaten by dipping it in a tangy water made with tamarind and spices.
Parks And Gardens In Guwahati:
Guwahati is home to several beautiful parks and gardens that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are some of the popular parks and gardens in Guwahati:
- Nehru Park: Nehru Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Guwahati. It is spread over an area of 85 acres and is known for its lush greenery, walking trails, and children’s play area.
- Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden is a popular attraction in Guwahati. It is spread over an area of 82 acres and is home to a wide variety of plants and trees, including medicinal plants, orchids, and cacti.
- Dighalipukhuri Park: Dighalipukhuri Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Guwahati. It is spread over an area of 40 acres and is known for its tranquil surroundings and beautiful lake.
- Basistha Ashram: Basistha Ashram is a popular attraction in Guwahati. It is a beautiful park located in the foothills of the Shillong Plateau and is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
- Manas National Park: Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located on the outskirts of Guwahati. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and pygmy hog.
- Chandubi Lake: Chandubi Lake is a popular attraction in Guwahati. It is a natural lake located on the outskirts of the city and is known for its beautiful surroundings and peaceful atmosphere.
- Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary: Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the outskirts of Guwahati and is known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to several species of birds, animals, and reptiles, including the Indian elephant, Assam macaque, and Indian rock python.
- Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden: The Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden is a popular attraction in Guwahati. It is spread over an area of 432 acres and is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and plants.
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the outskirts of Guwahati and is known for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It is also home to several other species of animals and birds.
- Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary: Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland located on the outskirts of Guwahati. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several species of birds, animals, and fish.
Hotels And Restaurants In Guwahati:
Guwahati is known for its diverse cuisine, ranging from traditional Assamese food to Chinese, Thai, and other international cuisines. There are also several hotels and restaurants in Guwahati that offer a range of accommodation options and dining experiences. Here are some popular hotels and restaurants in Guwahati:
Hotels:
- Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati
- Vivanta Guwahati
- Hotel Palacio
- Hotel Gateway Grandeur
- Hotel Prag Continental
Restaurants:
- Paradise – A Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
- Gam’s Delicacy
- Naga Kitchen
- Khorikaa Restaurant
- Bhogali Restaurant
- The Woking Mama
- Tandoor Express
- The Yellow Chilli
- Cafe Hendrix
- Spice Route
These are just a few options among the numerous hotels and restaurants in Guwahati, offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences to suit different budgets and preferences.
Places Of Worship In Guwahati:
Guwahati is home to several places of worship, reflecting the diverse religious and cultural heritage of the city. Here are some popular places of worship in Guwahati:
- Kamakhya Temple: Kamakhya Temple is a popular pilgrimage site in Guwahati and is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
- Umananda Temple: Umananda Temple is a Shiva temple located on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. It is accessible by boat and is a popular tourist attraction in Guwahati.
- Basistha Temple: Basistha Temple is an ancient temple located in the eastern part of Guwahati. It is dedicated to the sage Vashistha and is visited by devotees throughout the year.
- ISKCON Guwahati: ISKCON Guwahati is a popular temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in the heart of the city. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Navagraha Temple: Navagraha Temple is a unique temple in Guwahati that is dedicated to the nine planets or “grahas” in Hindu mythology. It is located on the Chitrachal Hill and is visited by devotees seeking blessings for good fortune.
- Sukreswar Temple: Sukreswar Temple is a Shiva temple located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. It is known for its beautiful location and peaceful atmosphere.
- Poa Mecca: Poa Mecca is a mosque located in the heart of Guwahati and is visited by Muslims from across the city. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha: Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha is a Sikh temple located in the heart of Guwahati. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
These are just a few of the popular places of worship in Guwahati, reflecting the diverse religious and cultural heritage of the city.
Schools And Colleges In Guwahati:
Guwahati has several schools and colleges, providing education to students from different backgrounds and fields of study. Here are some popular schools and colleges in Guwahati:
Schools:
- Delhi Public School Guwahati
- Royal Global School
- Kendriya Vidyalaya, Guwahati
- Srimanta Sankardeva Vidyalaya
- Sanskriti – The Gurukul
- Don Bosco School, Guwahati
- Maria’s Public School
- St. Mary’s English High School
- South Point School, Guwahati
- Army Public School, Narangi
Colleges:
- Gauhati University
- Cotton University
- Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
- Assam Engineering College
- Gauhati Medical College and Hospital
- Assam Don Bosco University
- Handique Girls’ College
- B. Borooah College
- Royal Group of Institutions
- Regional Institute of Science and Technology
These are just a few options among the numerous schools and colleges in Guwahati, providing quality education to students from various fields of study.
Arts And Commerce In Guwahati:
Guwahati has several institutions that offer courses in arts and commerce, providing students with a comprehensive education in these fields. Here are some popular institutions in Guwahati that offer courses in arts and commerce:
- Gauhati University: Gauhati University is a premier institution in Guwahati that offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts and commerce. The university also has several affiliated colleges that offer courses in these fields.
- Cotton University: Cotton University is another popular institution in Guwahati that offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts and commerce. The university also has several research centers and departments that focus on different areas of study.
- Assam Don Bosco University: Assam Don Bosco University is a private university in Guwahati that offers courses in arts and commerce, along with several other fields of study. The university has state-of-the-art infrastructure and experienced faculty members.
- Handique Girls’ College: Handique Girls’ College is a popular women’s college in Guwahati that offers courses in arts and commerce. The college has a well-established reputation for academic excellence and is known for its quality education.
- B. Borooah College: B. Borooah College is another popular institution in Guwahati that offers courses in arts and commerce. The college is known for its quality education and is affiliated with Gauhati University.
These are just a few options among the numerous institutions in Guwahati that offer courses in arts and commerce, providing students with a wide range of choices to pursue their academic interests.
Trade And Commerce In Guwahati:
Guwahati is a major hub for trade and commerce in the northeastern region of India. It serves as a gateway to other states in the region and is strategically located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, which makes it an important transportation hub. Here are some key aspects of trade and commerce in Guwahati:
- Wholesale markets: Guwahati has several wholesale markets that serve as distribution centers for various products such as agricultural produce, textiles, hardware, and electronic goods. Some of the prominent wholesale markets in Guwahati include Fancy Bazar, Paltan Bazar, and Ganeshguri.
- Retail markets: Guwahati has a vibrant retail market, with several shopping centers and malls offering a variety of products. Some of the popular retail markets in Guwahati include Pan Bazaar, GS Road, and Chandmari.
- Industries: Guwahati is home to several industries, including tea processing, petroleum refining, and manufacturing of cement and paper products. The city also has a growing IT sector and a thriving hospitality industry.
- Export and import: Guwahati is an important center for the export and import of goods to and from other countries. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is well-connected to other major airports in the country and serves as a gateway for international trade.
- Transportation: Guwahati is well-connected to other parts of the northeastern region through road, rail, and air transport. The city also has a major river port on the Brahmaputra River, which facilitates transportation of goods and commodities.
In summary, Guwahati is an important center for trade and commerce in the northeastern region of India, with a diverse range of industries, markets, and transportation infrastructure.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Guwahati is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From its ancient temples and monuments to its modern industries and commercial centers, Guwahati has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy its rich cultural heritage, sample its delicious cuisine, explore its parks and gardens, and shop at its bustling markets. Students can also benefit from its excellent educational institutions that offer courses in various fields of study. As a hub for trade and commerce, Guwahati plays a significant role in the economic development of the northeastern region of India. Overall, Guwahati is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the diversity and beauty of India’s northeastern region.