7 Best Tourist Places Near Guwahati

Seeking the best weekend destination from Guwahati? The following is the list of the best tourist places near Guwahati. It is the gateway to Northeast India. This cultural capital is situated in the Brahmaputra valley and is accessible to hill stations, waterfalls, national parks, and a distinct cultural journey within a few hours by road. Whether you are interested in the hills of Meghalaya, ancient temples or teeming-with-wildlife forests, there is something to please every traveller. Read this blog to get to know more about its vicinity, its speciality and the right time to visit.

Guwahati

Key Takeaways

• Strategic hub: Guwahati provides access to 10+ major regional destinations within a 250km radius
• Various sceneries: The hill stations in Meghalaya, to Assam, national parks and pilgrimage places
• All-year round availability: the best time of the year for touring in neighbouring places is October to March
• Cross-state connectivity: Well-connected routes to Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and other northeastern states
• Cultural richness: Experience diverse tribal cultures, ancient traditions, and unique ecosystems

Top 7 Tourist Places Near Guwahati

1. Shillong

Shillong is one of the most picturesque places in Meghalaya. It is the most popular hill station near Guwahati. The capital of Meghalaya is often called the Scotland of the East. You can visit the top attractions, including Ward Lake and Elephant Falls. The sunrise view from Shillong Peak feels like standing above a sea of clouds, and the vibrant music culture and authentic Khasi cuisine add charm to it.

• Distance from Guwahati: 103km (2.5 hours)
• Best time: March to June, September to November

2. Cherrapunji (Sohra)

Cherrapunji, once the wettest point on Earth, is located 150 kilometres from Guwahati at 1,484 meters. Known for record rainfall, it has live root bridges and Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge cascade at 340 meters. Furthermore, the Seven Sisters Falls offers a stunning seven-stream cascade during the monsoon season. It is advisable to avoid Cherrapunji during the peak monsoon due to landslides.

• Distance from Guwahati: 150km (4 hours)
• Best time: October to February

3. Dawki

Situated on the India-Bangladesh border, features the crystal-clear Umngot River. It is one of the top tourist places near Guwahati. The river looks clearest in early winter, and the boating on it feels surreal, as the water is so clear you can see pebbles. This is a little border town with river activities such as boating ( 500-800 rupees per boat), fishing and camping along pristine riverbanks. Shnongpdeng, a nearby village, offers more water sports and cultural attractions.

• Distance from Guwahati: 185km (4.5 hours)
• Best time: November to March

Tips: Weekends in Dawki are crowded, so visit on weekdays clearer boating experience.

4. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is among the famous places to visit in Assam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceroses, and it attracts 2 million+ tourists annually. This park covers 858 sq km of four ranges, and has jeep safaris ( 1,750- 2,250) to find rhinos, elephants, or tigers. Its grasslands, wetlands, and forests also support 35 mammal species and 478 bird species.

• Distance from Guwahati: 217km (4-5 hours)
• Best time: November to April

Tips: Safari bookings at Kaziranga should be done online through the official portal in peak season

5. Manas National Park

Manas National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for endangered species conservation. This biosphere reserve protects golden langurs, pygmy hogs, and Assam roofed turtles found nowhere else on Earth. The National Park also provides an adventure river rafting experience of the Manas River, along with the typical jeep safari watching experience. There is an entry fee of INR 250 for Indians and INR 1,500 for foreigners.

• Distance from Guwahati: 176km (3.5 hours)
• Best time: October to March

6. Jowai

Jowai, situated in West Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya, is famous because its lakes are clear and its waterfalls spectacular. It is among the best places in the North-East to explore the Jaintia tribal culture and the beauties of nature. There is serene boating in Thadlaskein Lake, one can enjoy swimming in a crystal clear turquoise waterfall on Krang Suri Falls, and at Nartiang Monoliths megalith can be viewed that is centuries old.

• Distance from Guwahati: 199km (4.5 hours)
• Best time: October to March

7. Haflong

It stands as the only hill station of Assam, situated in the Dima Hasao district. This destination is at 680 meters, and it has lake activities, adventure sports and cultural activities. It is among the best tourist places near Guwahati within 200 km. Haflong Lake offers boating and angling services, and the hills in the area have trekking tracks that give views of the valleys. It features a wonderful tribal architecture and is your introduction to the mystical phenomenon of Jatinga birds.

• Distance from Guwahati: 179km (4 hours)
• Best time: October to March

Transportation Options

Guwahati is well connected with regular bus services of the state to Shillong (INR 150-200) and Kaziranga (INR 300-400). Private taxis (₹12–18/km) and self-drive rentals offer flexible options for exploring nearby destinations at your own pace.

Essential Preparation

• A valid photo ID would be required to travel interstate and enter national parks.
• Pack in layers to adjust to changes in elevation en route
• Save offline maps because connection coverage is not good everywhere
• Avoid night driving due to fog
• Carry cash in rural Meghalaya, where ATMs may be limited

Conclusion: Visiting Places Near Guwahati

The tourist places near Guwahati showcase Northeast India’s incredible diversity, from Meghalaya’s misty hill stations to Assam’s world-famous wildlife sanctuaries. Each destination offers unique experiences, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Make your trip hassle-free with Pickyourtrail by discovering the best adventure tour packages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest hill stations to Guwahati for weekend trips?

Shillong (103km, 2.5 hours) and Haflong (179km, 4 hours) are the nearest hill stations to Guwahati for weekend trips, which offer cool weather, waterfalls, and lake activities.

How far is Cherrapunji from Guwahati, and what makes it special?

Cherrapunji lies 150km from Guwahati, requiring 4 hours of travel. It’s famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, featuring spectacular waterfalls, living root bridges, and panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains from 1,484 meters.

Which national parks near Guwahati offer the best wildlife viewing?

Kaziranga National Park (217km) and Manas National Park (176km) are the best national parks near Guwahati that offer the best wildlife viewing.

What is the ideal duration for exploring tourist places near Guwahati?

A 5-7 day itinerary covers major nearby destinations, including 2 days in Shillong-Cherrapunji, 2 days for Kaziranga wildlife experience, and 1-2 days for local Guwahati attractions.

Are permits required for visiting places near Guwahati?

Most destinations do not require any special permission. Only Arunachal Pradesh requires Inner Line Permits (ILP), in case one wishes to go further than Assam and Meghalaya.