Exploring Guwahati on a Shoestring Budget: A 7-Day Itinerary
Wednesday, October 11: Arrival in Guwahati
Welcome to Guwahati! Start your trip by checking into a budget-friendly hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a renowned pilgrimage site for Hindus. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning views of the city from the top of the Nilachal Hill. In the evening, explore the local markets like Fancy Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, clothes, and local snacks.
Kamakhya Temple: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
Fancy Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
If you're looking for a delicious breakfast, try Khorika. They serve a variety of traditional Assamese breakfast dishes, such as pithas and jolpan. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Naga Kitchen. This restaurant specializes in Naga cuisine, known for its unique flavors and ingredients. Enjoy dishes like smoked pork and bamboo shoot curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The White Pearl. This rooftop restaurant offers a beautiful view of the city and serves a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes. Indulge in their mouthwatering biryanis and sizzlers. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, October 12: Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
Start your day by visiting the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden. Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including rare species like the one-horned rhinoceros. In the afternoon, head to the Umananda Island, located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. Take a ferry ride and visit the Umananda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and breathtaking river views.
Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden: Entry fee - INR 20 (adults), INR 10 (children), approximately 3-4 hours
Breakfast: Cafe Coffee Day - A popular chain serving a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, croissants, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Lunch: Paradise Restaurant - Known for its authentic Assamese cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes like fish curry, masor tenga, and khar. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: The Wishing Tree - A cozy restaurant with a romantic ambiance, offering global cuisine with a fusion twist. Try their signature dishes like deconstructed sushi and smoked lamb chops. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 13: Kamakhya Hill Trek and Sunset Cruise
Embark on an adventurous trek to the Kamakhya Hill. Enjoy the scenic beauty and panoramic views of Guwahati. In the afternoon, take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River. Marvel at the changing colors of the sky and witness the beauty of the river banks. End your day with a visit to the Alfresco Grand, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Assamese cuisine.
Kamakhya Hill Trek: Free, approximately 3-4 hours
Sunset Cruise: Cruise ticket - INR 200-300, approximately 2 hours
Alfresco Grand: INR 500-800 per person, dinner
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Khorikaa Restaurant, a charming eatery known for its variety of local Assamese breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, try the delectable dishes at Paradise Restaurant, renowned for its authentic Assamese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, indulge in the mouthwatering delicacies at Heritage Khorikaa, a popular restaurant offering a fusion of Assamese and Indian flavors. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, October 14: Sualkuchi Silk Village and Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
Visit the Sualkuchi Silk Village, located around 35 km from Guwahati. Explore the traditional silk weaving industry and witness the intricate craftsmanship. In the afternoon, head to the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, a cultural institution that showcases Assamese art, dance, and music. Attend a cultural show and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Assam.
Sualkuchi Silk Village: Free entry, approximately 3-4 hours
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra: Entry fee - INR 50, cultural show ticket - INR 100-200, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Khorikaa, a popular restaurant in Guwahati known for its delicious Assamese cuisine. Try their mouthwatering pithas (rice cakes) and jolpan (traditional Assamese breakfast). The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Paradise Restaurant located near Sualkuchi Silk Village. Indulge in their delectable Assamese thalis, which showcase a variety of dishes including rice, dal, vegetables, and fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Naga Kitchen, a cozy restaurant in Guwahati offering a range of authentic Naga dishes. Try their signature pork with bamboo shoot or the spicy Naga chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Sunday, October 15: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Brahmaputra Riverfront
Take a day trip to the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located around 50 km from Guwahati. Spot the famous Indian one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife species during a jeep safari. In the evening, stroll along the Brahmaputra Riverfront and enjoy the scenic beauty of the river. Indulge in some street food and relax in the peaceful ambiance.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Safari ticket - INR 500-800 per person, approximately 4-5 hours
Brahmaputra Riverfront: Free, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Hendrix, which offers a range of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at Paradise Restaurant, known for its authentic Assamese cuisine. Try their mouthwatering thali meals and enjoy the traditional flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Khorika Restaurant, where you can feast on grilled Assamese delicacies like smoked pork and fish. The rustic ambiance and hearty flavors make it a must-visit. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Monday, October 16: Umananda Temple and Bhubaneshwari Temple
Start your day with a visit to the Umananda Temple, situated on Umananda Island. Enjoy the boat ride and seek blessings at this ancient temple. In the afternoon, head to the Bhubaneshwari Temple, known for its architectural beauty and tranquility. Spend some time in meditation and appreciate the spiritual vibes of the temple.
Bhubaneshwari Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Yellow Table, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a fulfilling lunch, head to Foodie's Paradise, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and international cuisines. Don't miss their mouthwatering biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Paradise Garden, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city and a delectable menu of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Hajo and Sankardeva Kalakshetra
Take a day trip to Hajo, a pilgrimage center located around 25 km from Guwahati. Visit the Hayagriva Madhava Temple, Powa Mecca Mosque, and the Kedareswara Temple. Immerse yourself in the religious and cultural heritage of the place. In the afternoon, head back to Guwahati and visit the Sankardeva Kalakshetra once again to explore its various exhibits.
Hajo: Transportation costs vary, approximately 5-6 hours
Sankardeva Kalakshetra: Entry fee - INR 50, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kamakazi Fast Food. This popular eatery offers a variety of delicious breakfast items such as parathas, sandwiches, and tea. Average cost for a meal is about 100 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to Paradise Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Assamese cuisine. Try their traditional thali, which includes a variety of dishes like rice, daal, vegetable curry, and fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 250 rupees per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Naga Kitchen. Indulge in the flavors of authentic Naga cuisine, including dishes like smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry, and spicy fish preparations. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Guwahati on a shoestring budget, don't miss out on visiting the Madan Kamdev Temple, an ancient archaeological site known for its beautiful sculpture. You can also visit the Regional Science Center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for both children and adults. For those who enjoy nature, a visit to the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. This wetland ecosystem is home to various bird species and offers a peaceful retreat from the city hustle.
For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.