Places to visit in Guwahati

It is tough to decide which tourist places in Guwahati to explore. But according to me, the Guwahati trip plan must start by paying respect to the Kamakhya temple. This is my ultimate guide to beautiful places in Guwahati.

Kamakhya Temple

Built in the 9th century, this Shakti Peeth is known as to be the reincarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is considered to be one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage spots in the country.

Although it is popularly known as black magic temple, it is also infamous for animal offerings. But keeping all that aside, this temple is important because it is the only temple that celebrates a woman’s menstruation and fertility.

Kamakhya is a celebration of the power that every woman possesses in creating a life by giving birth. Also known as the Bleeding Goddess, Kamakhya is associated with feminine sexuality, so much so that the idol in the temple is a rock shaped like a yoni or vagina. A naturally occurring spring keeps the area wet. Devotees are allowed to touch this rock fissure as a form of prayer and offer flowers.

A visit to Kamakhya temple Guwahati ensures that one gets impressed with the architecture.

Like most temples in India, Kamakhya mandir also has beautiful architecture on the outer walls as well as on the interior walls of the temple. A few sculptures also exist on the temple gates. The temple is designed as a beehive and devotees have to step down into a basement structure (the inner sanctum) to reach the rock fissure.

Visiting the temple would easily take 2-3 hours depending upon the day of the week so it is ideal to start early.

Kamakhya temple timings: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30

Entry to Kamakhya temple: Entry is free to Kamakhya temple however there are VIP tickets which makes visiting the temple sooner.

When is the Kamakhya temple closed?

Kamakhya temple is closed during the Ambubachi Mela that takes place in the month of June every year. It is closed during these 3 days and then open with a grand celebration and fervour.

Guwahati Planetarium, Guwahati

The Guwahati Planetarium is one of the popular tourist attractions in Guwahati.

The planetarium plays awe-striking videos of space that includes secrets of the universe, the evolution of the universe and scientific information about stars. It has state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that hosts shows in English and Assamese focusing on astronomical history.

The projection of stars is the highlight and makes kids as well as adults stare in awe. Besides the star sky the planetarium also has high quality telescopes to encourage students for sky watching.

There are 140 seats in the planetarium that tend to fill up soon so it is advisable to arrive early. The duration of each show is 1 hour.

Assamese show timings at Guwahati Planetarium: 11 am, 1:30 pm and 3 pm

English show timings at Guwahati Planetarium: 12 noon and 4 pm.

Entry ticket price for Guwahati Planetarium: INR 30 per adult.

Navagraha Temple, Guwahati

Navagraha is derived from two terms: nava (meaning nine) and graha (meaning planet). Navagraha is nine heavenly bodies and deities that influence human life on Earth in Hinduism and Hindu astrology.

The Navagraha temple is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies of astrological significance, represented in the form of Lingas (a symbol of divine generative energy, especially a phallic object).

Perched on top of the Navagraha Hill, near Guwahati city, Navagraha Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the nine celestial bodies. Pragjyotishapura, the ancient name of Assam originated from this temple. Built-in the late 18th century by King Rajesvar Singha, Navagraha Temple is known to have survived major earthquakes.

If astronomy interests the visitors then this is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati. The view from this temple is also lovely – one can see the Brahmaputra river in the distance.

Timings of Navagraha Temple, Guwahati: 7 am to 6 pm

Entry ticket: Free

Guwahati War Cemetery

On the way back from Navagraha temple, it is only fair to stop at the Guwahati War Cemetery.

One of the most offbeat places to visit in Guwahati, it is quite unheard of and most locals and tourists give it a miss. The Guwahati War Cemetery is built and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. This organization also maintains a record of casualties.

However, it is a nicely maintained property that serves as the resting ground for over five hundred allied forces personnel who laid down their lives in the second world war. The graves are of brave soldiers from the United Kingdom, India, Canada, South Africa, China and New Zealand. 25 of the burials are unidentified.

The place gives a glimpse of the suffering and the young lives that were lost during the war.

Timings of Guwahati War Cemetery: 9 am to 6 pm

Entry ticket: Free

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Assam State Museum

Established in 1940 by the Assam Research Society, the Assam State Museum was taken over by the State Government in 1953.

Not just Assam, but the museum takes the visitor through the entire Northeast India – exploring the culture, architecture and community. The museum displays an extensive collection of sculptures, handicrafts, arts and artefacts, all of which are spread over three storeys. All the displays and information will keep the visitors hooked.

Located 1.5 km away from the Guwahati Railway Station, the Assam State Museum is located opposite the Prashanti Udyan Park.

Timings of Assam State Museum: 10 am to 4:30 pm

Entry Ticket to Assam State Museum: INR 15 per adult with camera. Without camera fees is INR 10.

Boating on the Brahmaputra River

A visit to Guwahati is not complete without gasping at the expanse of Brahmaputra river.

Taking a ride over Brahmaputra river is on the top of things to do in Guwahati, Assam. The Brahmaputra is the 9th largest river in the world by discharge, and the 15th longest.

It is also known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, the Siang/Dihang River in Arunachal Pradesh, and Luit, Dilao in Assam. It is a transboundary river which flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh.

The Brahmaputra also hosts Majuli – the world’s largest river island. Spanning over 800 sq km, Majuli has been the cultural capital and the cradle of Assamese civilization for the past few centuries.

While some visit the river for religious purposes, some go for a romantic experience. One can take a ferry boat over Brahmaputra river to go to the Umananda Temple on Umananda Island or rent a boat for a few hours or one can choose a luxury cruise on the Brahmaputra. Boating on the Brahmaputra River offers some scenic landscapes rich with diverse ecosystems.

Brahmaputra river cruise could be for a simple dinner with local food and live music or one could choose a 7 or 10-day Brahmaputra cruise itinerary. Although a couple of international travel operators run these river cruises, the itinerary includes visiting other places and national parks in Assam.

Timings: Always Open

Entry Ticket: Free

Umananda Island / Umananda Temple

Known as the smallest inhabited river island in the world, Umananda Island is one of the best places to visit in Guwahati.

The island has a temple built in dedication of Lord Shiva known as the Umananda temple. The island is also known as the ‘Peacock Island’ from its peacock-like shape. The temple promotes a blend of Shaivism and Vaishnavism practices and has a variety of Vaishnav Scripts inscribed on its walls.

According to the legends, the temple was built when King Supaatphaa asked for a Hindu temple to be built in the 16th century. The temple was however ruined during an earthquake but restored by a local merchant.

How to Reach Umananda Island

The best way of reaching Umananda Island is to avail of a ferry boat. There is regular ferry service every half an hour from 9 am to 4 pm from Umananda Ghat, Uzanbazar. The ferry ticket charge is INR 20 for to and fro journey (just take care of the ticket). There are private boats charging anything between INR 100-300 per person for the same journey, so one needs to stay alert.

Shopping in Guwahati

Guwahati is a paradise for shopaholics that has amazing choices of Assamese souvenirs to buy.

Retail therapy is a must even if you have one day in Guwahati. Things to buy in Guwahati include Assam tea because it is world famous. Assam has many tea gardens and although you probably drink Assam tea in your house, it’s only fair to buy some from here.

Other must-buy souvenirs from Guwahati include Assam silk sarees and fabrics, wooden handicrafts, handmade toys, bamboo pickel, Assamese traditional handmade jewellery (Dug-Dugi, Kerumuni, Thuriya, Gam-kharu, Loka-paro, Jonbiri, Dholbiri/Motabiri, Gal-pata, etc).

Jaapi is one of the most prevalent and best souvenir and gifting items from Guwahati. The jaapi is a traditional conical hat from Assam, made from tightly woven bamboo and/or cane. It has coloured portions with embellishments.

Gamusa is another useful souvenir from Guwahati that can be picked up. It can be used as a handkerchief, towel or a stole for sunny days. It is white in colour with red embroidery. Gamosa is hand woven on looms. It is so important to the culture of Assam and during the Bihu festival that it is gifted to guests in official ceremonies. The fabric used is cotton and is so versatile that it is used in making kurta, blouses or even modern-day gamusa masks.

Shopping markets in Guwahati

Fancy Bazaar

Fancy Bazaar is a street lined with small shops selling all sorts of household stuff. There are shops that sell souvenirs such as jaapi, gamusa, assam silk fabric and others.

The Maati Centre

Maati Centre is a studio which encourages artisans to sell their handicrafts directly. There are workshops and seminars conducted for the artisans. The collection is unique as there is something new each time.

Location: 10, Lamb Rd, Dighalipukhuri East, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001

NEDFi Haat

The NEDFi Haat is run by a local administration. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation through this Haat helps artisans from the unorganized sector to sell their products to the public directly.. It is the best place for handicraft shopping in Guwahati.

Location: Gopinath Bordoloi Rd, Ambari, Guwahati, Assam 781001

Pragjyoti Assam Emporium

The Pragjyoti Assam Emporium showcases Assam’s best crafts and arts under one roof. All the Assam souvenirs can be bought from here at affordable rates.

Location: G.N.B. Road, Ambari, Guwahati, Assam 781001

Assam Silk Sarees

If you have the question of where to buy assam silk sarees in guwahati? I am getting there.

The Silkalay, Assam Silk Emporium, Kalpataru The Assam Co operative Silk House Limited, Aunty’s Shop are some of the stores selling assam silk sarees and fabrics. Google the names and the address would come up.

Food in Guwahati

Like every Indian city, Guwahati’s food is unique and flavourful.

The city has a mix of cuisines from all the northeastern states, including Assamese, Nagaland and Meghalaya food. The cuisine has vegetarian as well as meat dishes.

The flavors are quite peculiar as the cuisine uses fermented fruit and vegetables. It also uses the world’s hottest chili – Bhut jolokia, also known as the ghost pepper. These are some must-try food in Guwahati.

The famous street food of Guwahati includes Thukpa, Chowmein, Khaar, Silkworms, Masor Tenga and Payash.

Best Cafes in Guwahati / Best Restaurants in Guwahati

Mising Kitchen

If you’re looking to pamper your palate with traditional tribal Assamese food, then your calling has to be Mising Kitchen. It is popular for the non-veg thali – The Chicken Thali and Pork Thali. The Mising Chicken Thali (Rice, Yellow Dal, Black Dal, Khar, Leafy Fry, Veg Anja, Home Made Pickle, Mising Chutney, Chicken Curry, Chicken Boiled, Chicken Khorika, Chicken Aran, Fish Pitika, Fish Patot Diya) and the Mising Pork Thali (Rice, Yellow Dal, Black Dal, Khar, Leafy Fry, Veg Anja, Home Made Pickle, Mising Chutney, Pork Curry, Pork Boiled, Pork Khorika, Pork Aran, Fish Pitika, Fish Patot Diya).

Address: 1st Floor House No 24, Hengrabari Rd, Near Public Health Chariali, Ganeshguri, Guwahati

11th Avenue Cafe Bistro

Popular as a breakfast bistro, it is best-known for its Eggs Benedict and Italiano Frittatas. Their mocktails and coffee are delicious too! Their Italian spread – Spaghetti, Pizza and Pasta is worth trying.

Address: 53, Tayabulla Rd, Digholi Pukhuri East, Dighalipukhuri, Guwahati

Cafe Craft

Cafe Craft is a unique combination of a cafe, craft studio and graphics & animation studio, all under one roof. It is well decorated with masks and artistically painted kettles. They also have a little studio room selling handcrafted ceramics and other arty things. The sit-out in the balcony is spacious & colourful. Food is reasonably priced and served in good quantities.

Address: 187, Maniram Dewan Road Krishna Nagar, Chandmari, Guwahati

Where to stay in Guwahati

Being a transit point, there are many comfortable and affordable accommodation options in Guwahati.

Hotels in Guwahati

Hotel Rajmahal, Guwahati

I have stayed at Hotel Rajmahal, 2 out of 3 times I was in Guwahati and found it extremely comfortable. Being close to railway station, all major guwahati tourist places and a market on walking distance, it is a perfect place to crash. The food is also good. Book it here: Hotel Rajmahal

The Guwahati Address

The Guwahati Address is another good business hotel that is near Paltan Bazaar. It is cozy, contemporary and classy. Book it here: The Guwahati Address

Hostels in Guwahati

Gibbon Backpackers Hostel

Located in the middle of the city, Gibbon Backpackers Hostel provides a comfortable stay. It is a spacious, traditional Assamese house with a lawn area to lounge around. Meet like minded travelers from around the world and chat up over a cup of Assam Tea. Book it here: Gibbon Backpackers Hostel

Mezenga Backpackers Hostel

Another hostel in the city centre that is perfectly located to most tourist places in Guwahati. Book it here: Mezenga Backpackers Hostel

Best time to visit Guwahati

Guwahati is pleasant during winters (November to February) so it is best to visit then. Summers are extremely hot and humid which can make moving around and walking a small distance extremely uncomfortable. Monsoons are not a good time due to flooding in the Brahmaputra river and excessive rainfall everywhere.

How to reach Guwahati

By Flight:

Guwahati is well connected by regular flights to most major cities. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport is the major Airport in all of North East India and you can book a taxi/cab or board a bus to get to the city centre or to your hotel.

By Rail:

Guwahati railway station is well linked by rail to all major cities of the country with trains plying frequently at regular intervals.

By Bus:

Guwahati is very well connected with adjoining cities and states by regular bus services.

Getting around in Guwahati

Auto and app-based taxis – Ola and Uber are easily available round the clock. They are efficient, cost-effective and safe to explore the places to visit in Guwahati. There is also a possibility to rent a taxi for the day with a fixed charge.

Sustainable Tips for Places to visit in Guwahati

• This is a unique city having environmental as well as pilgrimage importance, so please respect it in all ways.
• Respect the ancient structures of temples by not sitting on them or by carving or writing on them.
• Observe peace and silence in temples. Do not use mobile phones in temples.
• Do not litter any of the tourist areas, especially while hiking or near waterfalls.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Kamakhya Devi Story

It revolves around the Hindu gods Shiva and Sati.

King Daksha, father of Sati, organized a great yajna, where he invited all the deities, gods and sages but consciously excluded his son-in-law Shiva to insult him.

Hurt by her father’s decision, Sati decided to visit her father and demand the reason for not inviting them. When she entered Daksha’s palace, she had to listen to the insults directed towards the Shiva. Unable to bear anything against her husband, a devastated Goddess Sati threw herself in the glowing sacred fire of yajna.

When Shiva came to know of what had happened, his anger knew no limits. Carrying his wife’s burnt corpse, he went on a rampage with his ‘Tandav‘ or the dance of destruction. While all other gods cowered in fear under Lord Shiva’s rage, Lord Vishnu using Sudarshan Chakra cut Sati’s body, in order to calm the aggrieved deity.

These pieces fell on earth at various places and came to be known as Shakti Peeths. All these 51 places are considered to be holy lands and pilgrimages.

Architecture of Kamakhya Temple

The temple consists of four chambers: one garbhagriha (inner sanctum) and three mandapas (pillared hall).

These mandapas are generally aligned from east to west. The temple has a beehive-like structure which is very characteristic of lower Assam. The Kamakhya temple essentially follows the Nagara style of architecture of North India. The sculptures are apparent mostly on the exterior walls as well as on the interior walls of the temple. A few sculptures also exist on the temple gates.

The western mandapa is large and rectangular and is not used by the general pilgrims for worship. The middle mandapa is square, with a small idol of the Goddess. The walls here contain sculpted images of Naranarayana, related inscriptions and other gods. The middle mandapa leads to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

Significance of Kamakhya Temple

The feminine divinity in Hinduism, Shakti (power), is considered to be the greatest creative force in the universe. Kamakhya is a celebration of this ‘shakti’ within every woman, the shakti to create life by giving birth.

The Kamakhya temple is associated with feminine sexuality, fertility and the very origin of all living beings which is why the deity Kamakhya Devi is fondly called the bleeding Goddess. The sexual organs of Shakti are present in the sanctum sanctorum and worshiped by devotees.

Most important Festivals and Celebrations around Kamakhya mandir

Ambubachi Mela is one of the most important festivals celebrated during the monsoon season. This takes place in mid-June which is the celebration of the yearly menstruation course of goddess Kamakhya. The temple is closed for 5 days and opens on the 6th day with grand fervor. It is said that the Brahmaputra river turns red during these 5 days.

Another annual celebration is the Manasha Puja. Durga Puja is also celebrated annually at Kamakhya during Navaratri in the autumn.

My experience at Kamakhya temple Guwahati

I reached the temple premises at 7:15 am, much before the opening of gates at 8:00am. Walking through the approach road surrounded by shops selling puja items, souvenirs and sweets to be offered, I refused to turn my neck towards the sides and ignored the calls of the shopkeepers. I walked straight to the temple.

I was not sure at this point as to what to expect while visiting the Kamakhya temple. The temple was already packed with devotees wanting to pay their respects to Maa Kamakhya.

There were clearly two queues (just like most temples) where one queue was paid also called ‘VIP Darshan’ and the other one was free. VIP Darshan queue is a paid queue wherein you can reach the inner temple. The fee is Rs. 500 per person and it takes between 2-3 hours to reach. The other queue is free and could take 5-6 hours to reach the inner sanctum. Since I was in a time crunch I chose the paid queue.

During the waiting time I couldn’t help but notice the number of goats in the temple premises.

These goats were brought here for tantric (black magic) purposes that is to sacrifice a life to appease the god in exchange of something desirable for the human being. I have absolutely detested this concept of exchange of life for a worldly pleasure and do not believe that it works – after all all lives exist on earth with God’s permission. There were baby goats and chickens with red tika on their forehead. There were dozens of pigeons with gulal (red powder) on their bodies fluttering around. I found this to be weird for a temple complex since such scenes are not commonly seen anywhere.

Moving at a snail pace, somewhere around 10am, that is 2 hours after the gates opened, I was finally close to reaching the inner sanctum or garbhagriha – the main part of the temple.

It is a small cave below the ground level. I climbed down steep rock steps in order to reach the garbhagriha. The steps width is small which made it possible for only two people to pass and the entire area was pitch dark. There were only a couple of lamps providing the light and I had to make my way to the deity.

The garbhagriha has no image or sculpture, but a Yoni or a vagina-shaped rock fissure which is the main deity.

It was completely covered with flowers and other offerings so I could not see its shape or tell if it resembled a vagina. People were allowed to touch this rock and women were encouraged to touch the rock by the priest.

This rock fissure was wet with a small pool of water and people touched it and then patted their forehead with it. I even saw a few take a quick sip from their hand. The fissure gets filled via an underground natural water spring.

I climbed back those steep steps to come out of the complex. I was in the inner sanctum for probably less than 2 minutes and I felt extremely claustrophobic and anxious because of the dark and crowd. No, I did not feel any different vibe or energy – just people pushing each other and the priests shouting instructions so that the crowd moves quicker just like I had experienced in Trimbakeshwar Temple.

Best time to visit Kamakhya Temple Guwahati

Month wise, Guwahati is pleasant during winters so it is best to visit then. Time wise, afternoons are the best to visit the temple to avoid the crowds.

The Kamakhya temple timings are open 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm everyday except during Ambubachi festival.

Kamakhya Temple Location

Kamakhya Temple is located on Nilachal Hills in the western part of Guwahati near the Guwahati Railway Station and around the Brahmaputra river. While the main temple is of utmost importance, the temple is located in a complex which consists of several temples. There are temples of 10 Mahavidyas in and around the temple.

How to reach Maa Kamakhya Temple

Being one of the important shrines in the city, Kamakhya temple Guwahati is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Autos, private taxis as well as Ola and Uber are easily available even at 5 am to reach the temple.

Is Kamakhya temple Open right now?

With the ever changing COVID-19 guidelines by the Assam state and the country it is best to check before going. More details can be found on their official website.

Sustainable tips to visit Kamakhya Mandir

• Like every Hindu temple, devotees are not allowed to wear shoes. Do not wear socks as the premises have many areas with water and gulal. The inner sanctum also is wet due to the natural spring.
• Respect the Hindu culture and do not wear clothes that show too much skin. Cover your shoulders and knees.
• Keep your mobile phone away while entering the temple sanctum.
• Throw your garbage in the dustbins located at the entrance of each temple.
• Priests in the temple may offer to conduct some puja or push you to touch something and then demand money. Gently fold hands and do not touch anywhere or talk to the priests unless you want to conduct a sacrifice or puja or abhishek.
• Keep away from the place where they conduct ‘bali’ or tantric puja of sacrificing goats. It may be disturbing for some.

Do Indian temples fascinate you? Read about Chidambaram Temple or Modhera Sun temple.

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Manas Spring Festival Experience: Gunzema Bodo Ethnic Experience 

For this 2 day festival, transportation was arranged from Guwahati which had many pick points to chose from. A small bus full of enthusiastic travel bloggers from across the country gathered to enjoy the Manas Spring Festival.

And the journey started covering 140 km between Guwahati and Manas.

3 hours into the journey, the landscape started changing. The famous Assam tea gardens were visible on both sides of the road. The bus then turned towards the protected area and stopped at a fenced area which said Gunzema.

The area looked vibrant with tents pitched at one side, stalls on the other and a lot of local people in traditional attires.

We were excited to check out what was in store at this festival. We were allotted tents wherein we put away our luggage and started exploring around. Over the next 2 days, we experienced responsible tourism is its most authentic and rustic form.

Sustainable food

Food plays the most important part of any festival and Manas Spring Festival was no different. The local villagers showed some extraordinary culinary skills to showcase lip-smacking food with locally procured produce. Freshwater fish, eel, silkworm, chicken, pork, rice, lentils, rice beer and vegetables all grown locally were the highlight of the festival.

The Bodo community even demonstrated making the dishes and beer to the curious participants. All the preparation for food was done in front of us during the festival using wood stock as fuel in the traditional chulha system. This technique not only enhanced the flavours of local produce but was extremely satisfying.

The food experience was further enhanced when this festival was inaugurated by celebrity chef  Gautam Mehrishi who even cooked a few items for the participants.

Traditional handloom showcase at Manas Spring Festival

Bodo women are known as one of the finest weavers in the entire North East region. The basic raw material used is cotton and silk which is procured from markets of Guwahati city. The traditional motifs used by the Bodo are mainly inspired by nature. The Bodo colours are shades of yellow and red as the base, with green or blue as the accent, and floral patterns inspired by nature. The looms were demonstrated during the Manas Spring festival and traditional garments like Mekhela Chador (Skirt and shawl) and Dokhna (shawl) were on sale.

Sustainable tourism through culture

Bodo tribe is famous for their diverse culture which incorporates dancing and singing during festivals and otherwise. Bihu dance, Jhumur and Bagurumba are some of the traditional dances. All of these dances performances at Manas Spring Festival kept the tourists in awe and camera ready swaying on the beats of He he haiya he he haiya..

Showcasing Nature at Manas Spring Festival

Being on the fringe of Manas National Park, a safari was arranged for participants. You may have read my previous post ‘4 reasons to visit Manas National Park’ and I was excited to find even more reasons and spot more wildlife this time. But the rain gods spoiled our safari and we ended up spotting only a couple of elephants, Malabar red squirrel and a few birds. The safari made up for the rain when we reached Mathanguri on the banks of Manas River for the same charm as last time.

Overall experience of Manas Spring Festival

Camping in tents with no electricity, eating delicious food and knowing a tribe so close were all part of the amazing rural and sustainable tourism at Manas Spring Festival. There are efforts being made to set up a permanent market of traditional clothes, dance and food for the alternative livelihood of the Bodo tribe. If you ever happen to visit Manas National Park, do take some time out to visit Gunzema – The Bodo Ethnic Experience. The information about this centre can be procured from SMOA – Swmkar Mittinga Onsai Afat – 8133069620/9365465351

When to visit Manas Spring Festival

Manas Spring Festival will be held in the months of Spring. Check online the exact dates before planning the travel.

How to Reach Manas 

By Air

The nearest airport to the Manas National Park in Assam is at Gauhati, which is around 176 km from the destination. Gauhati airport is well connected to the other parts of India through New Delhi.

By Rail

Barpeta Road is the junction which is around 32 km away from the Manas National Park. However, you can travel by train to Gauhati railway station and then travel by road Manas.

By Road

From Gauhati, take national highway number 31 to reach Barpeta road. Barpeta to Manas National Park is pretty much a straight road. From there the highway will lead you to Bansbari, which is the entry point of Manas. It will take approximately 4 hours to reach Manas National Park.

Manas Spring Festival Accommodation

While tented accommodation is available, if visitors want a more comfortable or even luxurious experience, there are many options to choose from like The Wild Tiger Resort and Musa Jungle Resort.

Sustainable tips for Manas Spring Festival

• The festival promotes responsible tourism by using no plastic products, using local food and cultural tourism.
• During the festival, if you take the safari, please be sensitive towards forest wildlife.
• Wear camouflage colours which will easily blend with the forest – shades of green, brown and grey.
• Do not talk loudly or make unnecessary noises in the forest.
• Avoid wearing perfumes or body spray in the forest.
• Carry water and food but do not dispose of plastic or leftover food in the forest. Keep it in your bag or vehicle and dispose of safely once you return to the hotel.
• Do not feed anything to wild animals.

I hope this blog on Manas Spring Festival helps you to plan a trip. This festival is taking place in 2021.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running. Read my Privacy Policy for more.

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Wildlife of Manas National Park, Assam | What is Manas National park famous for?

It is difficult to answer – Manas National Park is famous for which animal?

Manas National Park animals range from 55 species of mammals, 380 species of birds and 50 species of reptiles. It is quite easy to spot Asian elephants, Indian one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, Indian gaur or water buffalo, Assamese Macaque, Hoolock gibbons and Red panda.

If you are a bird watcher, Manas National Park is a paradise for you with more than 450 species of birds, which include the endangered Bengal Florican, Giant Hornbills, Fishing eagles, Jungle fowls, Finn’s weaver and Magpie Robins. Common species include Small Minivet, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, Pied Flycatcher, Black rested Bulbul, Lesser Adjutant Stork, and Russet Sparrow, which are frequently seen.

Here are the Manas National Park attractions that are must add to your list:

Manas National Park Safari

It is surprising as a lot of people have not heard of Manas. Even my friends ask me where is Manas National Park. And it was a bigger surprise for them when I visited Manas twice. Yes, it is amazing that one visit cannot do justice to it.

With a dense forest cover, visitors need loads of luck to spot any animals or birds and are luckier to be able to photograph them. Like all national parks and sanctuaries, it is best to start early to get the best of wildlife and weather. Visitors may opt for an elephant safari as they can leave dedicated vehicle tracks and go in marsh areas which give a better chance to spot the elusive Indian Rhinoceros and Tiger but ethically it is best to avoid them!

Being in the Northeast of India and a different terrain altogether the wildlife of Manas National Park here is very different from Western and Central India which makes it even more exciting to click photos. During my 2 visits here, I have spotted Indian Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Red Panda, Barking deer and Golden langur. In birds, I have spotted Oriental Pied Hornbills, Serpent eagle and minivets.

Manas National Park has survived poaching but there is still a threat to the animals and birds due to habitat destruction.

Things to do in Manas other than a wildlife safari

If you are not interested in wildlife, is Manas National Park worth the visit?

Yes, a hundred times yes. The forest of Manas is lush green and taking a ride in the forest is the perfect way to unwind. Read how Vacation in Indian Jungles is therapeutic.

Other than jeep rides, Manas provides something most other parks don’t offer.

Manas River Rafting

While travel to Rishikesh is quite popular for adventure watersports like water rafting, very few people know that Manas also offer water rafting. Albeit, a slow one.

Slow water rafting, managed by the forest officials and Assam tourism is a one hour journey on the natural flow of water. There are hardly any rapids but the flow of water is good enough for an adventurous ride which gives you a chance to observe the dense forests and maybe also some wildlife. Very few tourists know about the option of rafting on the Manas river and that is why you must go before it gets too touristy and no fun. The rafting begins from Mathanguri which means you need to drive from the park gate to till here in safari jeeps. The forest officials will then take you on the 20km journey ahead.

As lazy as the slow water rafting sounds – it reminds me of lazy pool rides in a waterpark, but it is nothing like lazy. The clear Manas water will make you want to look deep down the river bed and look at some aquatic life. The crystal white river bed with dead logs floating around it will keep you stunned with its pristine beauty. You can easily spot birds overhead not giving a damn about the manmade borders and crossing from India to Bhutan and vice versa. And you can especially not feel lazy as there are chances to spot wildlife on the riverbanks. I happened to spot a bison.

Visiting Assam Tea Estates

Assam Tea is a world-famous beverage. So it is only fair to pay a visit to these tea estates, when in Manas, Assam.

While driving to the Park entrance, notice the tea estates on your right. While a quick photo-op is possible and even allowed for the tourists, it is super interesting to see the entire process. On request, the tea estate owner can allow visitors to stroll in the tea estate and also take a look at the factory. You can see the plucking of tea leaves and the entire process of making leaves into tea powder. If you are a tea lover, you will surely get transported into tea heaven. This certainly reminded me of visiting a tea estate in Munnar.

I was lucky enough to roam in these gardens and also have chai with the owner. He is a good storyteller I must tell you.

Nature Walk

Depending upon where you are staying around the park premises, most resorts arrange a nature park around their property which is also the fringe areas of the Park. If you are a birder request a birding walk and you will be surprised with the number of birds you will spot with a professional guide or in-house specialist.

Don’t be a fool like me who did not carry the telephoto lens because I did not want to lug around the heavyweight. On one such walk, I spotted the one-horned rhino that I did not spot in the actual safari.

Best Time to Visit Manas National Park

Like every other national park in India, Manas remains closed during monsoon – June to September. Hence the best time to visit is in the winter months – October to February. March to May is extremely humid and may rain in the mornings, lowering the chances of spotting wildlife in the forest. Though safe, it is always advisable to check with the forest department for any untoward incidences in the periphery of Manas as the forest entry may be closed and the safari could be cancelled. Each safari lasts for 3 hours and there are 3 options to choose from. Ideally, go for the morning safari. Manas National Park Safari Timings are:

• Morning safari – 6:30 am to 9:30 am
• Mid-morning safari – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
• Evening safari – 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

You can plan a trip around spring to participate in the Manas Spring Festival.

Manas National Park Safari Cost

Like all parks, there are various zones. Manas National Park is divided into 2 zones – Bansbari and Bhuyanpura. Jeep safari in open gypsy is possible for both zones. The safari can be booked online here

Safari cost in Bansbari zone: Approx. INR 4000 (including gypsy, driver cost, permit charges, online payment gateway charges & service charges)

Safari cost for Bhuyanpura zone: Approx. INR 4500 (including gypsy, driver cost, permit charges, online payment gateway charges & service charges)

Up to 5 visitors are allowed to sit in each gypsy.

Resorts near Manas National Park | Hotels in Manas National Park

When I first visited Manas back in 2013, there were only a handful of options to stay. Most people relied on the Forest Rest House. And deservingly so.

The Mathanguri FRH at Manas National Park offers the best views of the Manas forest, Manas River and the experience is amazing. I feel this is one of the highlights of Manas.

Visitors can opt to stay here for the night with a very basic tariff. This place has 6 rooms and needs to be booked in advance. I don’t know about now but when I stayed there in 2013, there was no electricity. The experience of living right in the middle of the jungle at night was nothing less than an adventure.

Hotels and Resort near Manas National Park are:

Bansbari Lodge

Birina Eco-lodge

Musa Jungle Retreat

How to Reach Manas National Park

By Air

The nearest airport to the National Park in Assam is Gauhati, which is around 176 km from the destination. Gauhati airport is well connected to the other parts of India through New Delhi.

By Rail

Barpeta Road is the junction which is around 32 km away from the Manas National Park. However, you can travel by train to Gauhati railway station and then travel by road to Manas.

By Road

From Gauhati, take national highway number 31 to reach Barpeta road. Barpeta to Manas National Park is pretty much a straight road. From there the highway will lead you to Bansbari, which is the entry point of Manas. It will take approximately 4 hours to reach Manas National Park.

Sustainable travel tips

• Do not get down from the jeep ride in the national park as it is dangerous and against the rules.
• Strictly avoid wearing perfume or body spray with a strong scent. It distracts wild animals.
• Wear camouflage colours that will easily blend with the jungle – shades of green, brown and grey.
• It is totally understandable to get excited when you spot a wild animal in the jungle. But do not make noises – whisper if necessary.
• You may carry water and snacks in the care but do not dispose of plastic or leftover food in the jungle. Keep it in your bag or gypsy and dispose of it safely once you return to the hotel.
• Do not feed anything to wild animals.

Enjoy Indian Wildlife? Read more wildlife posts here

• For Nilgiri tahr: Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
• For Blackbucks: Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar
• For tiger: Jim Corbett National Park , Tadoba National Park
• For Asiatic lion: Gir National Park

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