Not only the largest city in Assam but also the largest city in North Eastern India, Guwahati is one of India’s fastest developing cities. Guwahati was identified as the original capital of Assam up till the 10th century, but till date remains as one of the fastest growing metropolitan cities in North Eastern India. Often referred to as the ‘gateway’ of North East India, Guwahati has one of the most appealing climatic conditions and surroundings as the city is still untouched in terms of development due to the lack of a defined roadway.
The city of Guwahati is renowned for its silk-weaving, wild life, archeological ruins and cumulatively for its rich heritage and culture, making it a perfect holiday destination for those interested in a place that is beyond just shopping. Several ancient Hindu temples are located within this city, out of which Kamakhya Temple located on the Nilachal hill is very famous and aesthetically beautiful. While the famous Hajo is a common pilgrimage site for Buddhist, Muslims and Hindus.
One of the most important parts of your visit to Guwahati should be exploring the Kaziranga National Park that is located along the perimeter of the city. The endangered one horned rhino is a resident of this national park located just about 200km away. Speaking of wonders, one man made wonder in Guwahati is the Saraight bridge, a railroad bridge over river Brahmaputra which speaks a lot about the city's development in terms of infrastructure. While much of Assam still remains untouched, Guwahati is one of the top fastest growing cities in India, especially in terms of education and commerce in North Eastern India. Guwahati is also the location of one of the first Indian Institute of Technology to be set up in the country.
One of the more well known facts about Guwahati is that it is the biggest tea production area in India, second to only China in the world. And the Guwahati Tea Auction Center is one of the most engaged tea trading centers in the world, making Guwahati the tea capital of India and the world.
The taste and flavor of North Eastern food is completely different from that of the rest of India due to the use of certain indigenous herbs and spices and this is exactly why the food in Guwahati is a must try. Right from the heart warming thukpa to delicacies such as silkworms, the food you eat in Guwahati is a true representation of the taste of North Eastern India. While you can visit Guwahati at any time throughout the year, the best time to go is usually when the weather is calm and cool, i.e. usually in the first half of the year and in the final three months of the year.
Exploring Guwahati for ethnic handicrafts and handlooms is a must, as the Assam silk and the golden silk muga is literally famous all over the world. The Deepor Beel and the Rani Garbhanga Reserve Forest are some of nature's gifts to Guwahati that need to be visited for picturesque memories.
Hence, while planning a trip to North Eastern India, Guwahati should make it to the top of the list in order to make the journey a memorable and heartwarming adventure.