Guwahati:-the capital city of the northeastern state

Image source:-N.K.singh

The Seven Sisters of India consists of the  states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. They are home to some magnificent terrains, exotic flora and fauna, and diverse culture. The reason of calling them The seven sisters  is the similarity between the states, in terms of geographical features, and interdependence between them. All the seven states are isolated from India and the only way to reach there is via Siliguri Corridor  in Assam. Northeast destinations in India include some of the most coveted places for a nature lover, with experiences that are out of the ordinary.
Not so much established on the travelers map, yet the North Eastern India, has its own charm that will sweep you off your feet. Come here for once and loose yourself in its magic.
Explore with me most beautiful cities of northeast India

1.Guwahati (Assam)

photo by:-R.Neog

Guwahati, the capital city of the northeastern state of Assam, was formerly known as Pragjyotishpur (the City of Eastern Light). Its etymological root is derived from two Assamese words, "Guwa," meaning areca nut and "Haat," meaning market. Present between the picturesque hills of the eastern ghats  of the Himalayan mountain range, Guwahati houses the political capital of the state, Dispur. The gateway to the seven other northeastern states, Guwahati is an important tourist link point, besides being an attraction in itself.

It is Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, at an altitude of 55 meters above sea level. Guwahati is the junction of three important roads, National Highways 31, 37 and 40. It is split into two parts by the river and North Guwahati is almost a separate town. One can visit it via the Saraighat Bridge or by the ferries that ply on the river.

The demon king Narkasura is said to have built this ancient city. Another reason for Guwahati's charm is its being the ancient 'Kamrup', the birthplace of Kamdeva, the God of Love.

Places to visit in Guwahati:-

Photo via:-A.a.hazarika

1. Kaziranga National Park :-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 of one of most famous one horned rhinoceros also known as Indian 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. If you want to visit Kaziranga National Park, you need to plan your tour between November and April, as these are the months, the park is open for tourists.

Photo via:-Agamonee

2.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. The park houses endangered species as well. Some of the birds spotted here include bulbuls, falcons, serpent eagles, hornbills and magpie robins. The right time to visit this park would be between October and April.



3. Umananda Temple:-One of the most important temples of Guwahati, Umananda Temple is situated on Peacock Island in the middle of Brahmaputra River. 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 walls of the temple are wonderfully engraved and sculpted, which stand proof of the artisanship of the people of the past.

Photo via :-H.rabha

4. Kamakhya Temple:-Kamakhya Temple is situated 7 km away from Guwahati on Nilachal Hills. 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. The temple gains more importance, as in this place of worship, Aryans and non-Aryans follow common practices and hold common beliefs. Kamakhya temple is said to be the home of black magic. It is one of the  51 sakhti peth of  ma Durga.

5. Assam Rajyik State Museum:- Assam Rajyik State Museum offers an insight into the rich culture and heritage of the place. 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.

6. Guwahati Planetarium:- Guwahati Planetarium is located on MG road. It is one of the popular tourist destinations in Guwahati. The planetarium conducts sky watching sessions regularly. Viewers are delighted by special shows projected here.

8. Nehru Park:-Nehru Park is an ideal location if you are here with your family. The serene atmosphere spell bounds 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. The park has excellent facilities to entertain children. There are various rides to keep the children amused. You will love the rock garden here. Yet another specialty of the park is the open-air theatre.

9. Brahmaputra River Cruise:- The real thrill and fun in touring Guwahati lie in cruising Brahmaputra. The majestic river flows through Guwahati dividing the same into halves. Spectacular views while on cruise will leave you mesmerized. You could opt for longer cruise or short cruise. The cruises are well planned and conducted that you are not short of anything while on board. Both your taste buds and your vision are left to feast upon at will.

How to reach Guwahati:-
Guwahati is well connected.

By Air
Located at a distance of around 25km away from the main city center, the nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International airport, well-connected to all major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur. Regular flights operate from Kolkata, Mumbai and Goa.

By Train
Settled within the close proximity, around 4km, the city has its own railway station namely Guwahti railway station. There are a number of trains that connect Guwahati to all major cities of India including Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.

By Road
There are sufficient numbers of scheduled buses available such as private, local, luxury or Volvo connecting Guwahati to other major parts of India such as Delhi (1787km), Assam (169km), Gangtok (525km), Shillong (134km) and Darjeeling (490km).

Welcome to our incredible India.