Guwahati is the largest city of Assam and opens up to the north eastern region. Located on the banks of river Brahmaputra, Guwahati is an enchanting city that is truly a reflection of the diversity of not only the state but also the region. Guwahati is colourful as it is the nerve-centre of cultural, commercial and religious activities. People belonging to different ethnicity, religions and regions have been staying in Guwahati for decades, making it all the more bright and colourful.
Guwahati is a culturally rich city as the people of several communities and religions live in and around the city. All of these communities celebrate different festivals throughout the year. Bihu is the state festival of Assam that is celebrated all over the state in mid-April to commemorate the Assamese New Year. Ambubachi Mela is another important festival celebrated every year in the month of June. Brahmaputra Beach Festival, Durga Puja, Manasa Festival, Rongali Utsav are the other festivals celebrated in Guwahati with great pomp.
Guwahati is home to a huge number of old temples, all of which have interesting stories and legends behind them. The Kamakhya temple, arguably the most visited temple in the city, is a temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, who was also known as the goddess of desire. Associated with a legend that finds its way in the pages of history, this temple hosts the annual Manasha Puja and the Ambubachi Mela, celebrations which see pilgrims from far and wide congregating to attend them. Other temples in Guwahati worth visiting include the Umananda temple and the Navagraha temple.
If you’re curious about the local folklore and culture, a visit to the Assam State Museum, which houses artefacts belonging to ancient times, will give you an authentic taste of the local history and its development through the years.
