Kohima to Guwahati: 350 km Road Guide NH-17 · 8h 30m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026

Top Attractions in Guwahati: What to See and Do

Once you arrive in Guwahati, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:

• Kamakhya Temple

  ⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:30-22:00 daily

  Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. It is located on Nilachal Hill and is an important pilgrimage site for Tantric worshippers.

  Best Time to Visit: Morning - avoid afternoon crowds

  💡 Insider Tip: Consider hiring a local guide to navigate the temple complex and learn about its history.

• Umananda Island

  ⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) for ferry • 🕐 07:00-17:00 daily

  Umananda Island, also known as Peacock Island, is the smallest inhabited river island in the world. It is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River and is home to the Umananda Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  Best Time to Visit: Afternoon - enjoy the sunset view

  💡 Insider Tip: Bargain with the ferry operators for a better price, especially during off-peak hours.

• Assam State Museum

  ⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹250 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:00-17:00 daily

  The Assam State Museum showcases the rich history and culture of Assam. It houses a collection of sculptures, artifacts, and ethnographic exhibits.

  Best Time to Visit: Morning - avoid afternoon heat

  💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide at the entrance for a more detailed explanation of the exhibits.

• Guwahati Zoo (Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden)

  ⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:30 daily

  The Guwahati Zoo is the largest zoo in Northeast India, housing a diverse collection of animals and birds. It also includes a botanical garden with a variety of plant species.

  Best Time to Visit: Morning - cooler temperatures

  💡 Insider Tip: Rent a battery-operated vehicle to cover the entire zoo if you have limited time or difficulty walking.

• Navagraha Temple

  ⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-19:00 daily

  The Navagraha Temple, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies, is located on Chitrasal Hill. It is an important center for astrological studies.

  Best Time to Visit: Evening - pleasant weather

  💡 Insider Tip: Consult a local astrologer at the temple for a personalized reading.

• Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra

  ⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:00-19:00 daily

  Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is a cultural institution showcasing the art, culture, and literature of Assam. It features museums, art galleries, and open-air theaters.

  Best Time to Visit: Afternoon - cultural performances

  💡 Insider Tip: Visit during festivals or special events to experience the vibrant cultural scene.

Where to Eat in Guwahati: Local Cuisine Guide

Must-Try Dishes in Guwahati

Don't leave Guwahati without tasting these local specialties:

• Masor Tenga - A sour fish curry made with tenga (a local souring agent). Try it at Paradise Restaurant.
• Khar - A dish made with an alkaline extract from banana peels. Try it at a traditional Assamese restaurant.
• Pitha - Rice cakes, often sweet. Try them at local sweet shops during Bihu.
• Duck Roast - Roasted duck, a popular dish during special occasions.
• Doi-Chira - Flattened rice with yogurt and jaggery. A common breakfast item.

Recommended Restaurants in Guwahati

Where to Stay in Guwahati: Hotels for Every Budget

Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)

Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)

Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)

Best Time to Visit Guwahati: Season & Weather Travel Guide

Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Guwahati:

Guwahati Travel Tips: Money, Safety & Local Advice

More Road Trips from Kohima: Popular Nearby Routes

Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Kohima:

How to Reach Guwahati from Other Cities

Traveling to Guwahati from a different city? Explore these alternative routes: