Top 5 Attractions in Guwahati: Maa Kamakhya Temple to Dighalipukhuri

Guwahati’s Entrance To The Unseen: Northeast Mysteries disclosed
Nestled atop the formidable Brahmaputra River, Guwahati serves as the entry point to northeastern India and is home to numerous historic temples, lively marketplaces, museums, and wildlife refuges.

This vibrant city has a lot to offer visitors, including breathtaking views of the majestic river and sights like picturesque hills and places of pilgrimage that are sure to make an impression. These are Guwahati’s top 5 tourist destinations that you should not miss.

1. Maa Kamakhya Temple: A Fusion of Majesty and Myth
One of the 51 ancient sites honoring goddess Sati’s sacrifice is the Shakti Peeth Kamakhya temple, which is perched atop the Nilachal hill. The main shrine is located here; the dark chamber represents the goddess Kamakhya’s yoni. Even now, flowers and animal sacrifices are made here.

The yearly Ambubachi festival attracts a sizable crowd of devotees. Explore intriguing stone sculptures that tell mythological stories while you take in breathtaking views of Guwahati city from the temple courtyard.

2. Navagraha Temple: On top of Chitrachal Hill, embracing celestial harmony
The ancient Navagraha temple on top of Chitrachal hill is believed to be the home of nine planetary deities according to Hindu astrology. It has a central lingam surrounded by smaller shrines representing the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu.

Visitors will never forget the ethereal experience of the early morning aarti and the views of the sunrise illuminating Guwahati city and the Brahmaputra river below.

3. Peace at Umananda Temple Amidst Peacock Island, Brahmaputra
The historic Umananda temple is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, overlooking Peacock Island. A quick ferry ride will get you there. Devoted to Lord Shiva as Umananda, it’s worth the picturesque voyage across the channel to arrive at this small island populated with golden macaques from the Himalayas.

The Shiva temple offers a serene atmosphere to immerse oneself in spiritually amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, all surrounded by placid waters.

4. The Assam State Zoo: A Guwahati Wildlife Wonderland
This expansive habitat, which was created in 1957 and is well-known as the Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden, is home to rare plants and unusual animals. Key attractions include white tigers, Asiatic lions, and Himalayan bears in expansive enclosures that replicate natural settings, enabling both children and adults to observe animal behavior up close.

Offering environmental education, the botanical garden section boasts an impressive collection of native orchids, palms, and other plants. Convenient battery-operated cars are available—minus sore feet!

5. Dighalipukhuri: Central Guwahati’s Calm Waters and Historic Charm
A tiny island with sporting temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi sits in the middle of this historic tank in the heart of Guwahati. The island is illuminated beautifully at night.

Built during the former Ahoms kingdom, Dighalipukhuri tank, which means “long lake,” is a favorite spot for residents to take a leisurely evening stroll around. In this quaint recreational area that doubles as lung space, watch kids sail small boats while relaxing music plays and snack vendors bustle with activity.

In summary

Guwahati is where heritage blends in perfectly with picturesque surroundings, as evidenced by the holy shrines nestled on hillsides and the temples beside rivers. Through its famous satras and archaeological museums, the city provides a window into Assam’s composite culture. You can also easily access the town center and enjoy views of the Brahmaputra River, wild habitats, and verdant hills.