Guwahati

Famously regarded as the gateway to North-East India, Guwahati is the largest city in the state of Assam. It is also the largest metropolis in the entire North-Eastern region of India, making it the most preferred staging point to other destinations in the region. Sandwiched by the river Brahmaputra on one side and the Shillong Plateau on the other, this city was formerly known as Pragjyotishpura. The name Guwahati is derived from the union of two Assamese words - ‘Guwa’ meaning Areca Nut and ‘Haat’ meaning market.Boasting a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty, Guwahati beckons travelers with its diverse attractions and bustling atmosphere. One of the key reasons to visit Guwahati is its cultural significance, as it is home to the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Lakhs of pilgrims and tourists throng to this holy site during the Ambubachi Mela each year. Apart from the Temple of Kamakhya, other sacred temples such as Umananda and Navagraha are also present in the city. This bustling city also serves as a starting point for exploring the region's breathtaking landscapes, including wildlife sanctuaries, lush tea gardens, and picturesque hill stations. The city's vibrant markets, such as Fancy Bazaar and Paltan Bazaar, offer a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies, providing a glimpse into Assam's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, Guwahati's culinary scene is renowned for its delectable Assamese cuisine, featuring mouthwatering dishes like masor tenga (sour fish curry) and pitha (traditional rice cakes), which tantalize the taste buds of visitors.Apart from its cultural and culinary offerings, Guwahati is also known for its adventure activities, including river rafting on the Brahmaputra, trekking in the nearby hills, and wildlife safaris in Kaziranga National Park. The capital of the state of Assam, Dispur, is located within Guwahati.  The city's strategic location makes it easily accessible from major cities in India, with Lokpriya Gopinath International Airport towards the west and India’s first fully solar-powered railway station at its heartGuwahati has been one of the frontrunners in terms of Education in the North-Eastern Region of India. It houses some of the best-rated institutions in the country, namely Indian Institute of Guwahati (IITG) and Guwahati Medical College (GMC) in the fields of engineering and medicine respectively. Subsequently, the recent influx of more students and scholars has led to the betterment of infrastructure and modern-day amenities in the city. The two major roads - G.S Road and R.G Baruah Road, houses many malls, restaurants and theatres, thus forming the major entertainment and shopping hub in this rising cosmopolitan.