8 Picnic Spots Near Guwahati for A Weekend Getaway

Fenced with the Brahmaputra River on one side and the Shillong Plateau on the other, Guwahati is an unexplored gem of India. Formerly known as ‘Pragjyotishpura,' (the light of the east) Guwahati derives its name from the union of two Assamese words - ‘Guwa’ (Sanskrit - Guvaka) which means areca nut and ‘Haat’ meaning market. The starting point of the seven sisters of North East India – Guwahati is one of the few cities where you can find yourself close to nature and still have all the comforts of modern life. Whether you choose to stroll across back alleys, visit the tiny single-storey traditional huts or click timeless pictures of old colonial-era mansions, you will have an experience beyond your expectations. So, if you are planning to visit this mesmerising city anytime soon, here is a list of some of the most amazing picnic spots near Guwahati that will help you plan your weekend getaway:

1. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is one of the most popular spots in the northeast and it is majorly because it houses the largest population of the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros i.e. 2413 according to the latest census. So, if you are fascinated by wildlife and want to witness some rhinoceros and tigers in their natural habitat, Kaziranga National Park would be one of the best weekend places near Guwahati for you. Other than this, it also houses the largest population of Asiatic water buffalo, so much so that you are bound to come across at least a couple of them roaming around in the picturesque environs of the sanctuary.

2. Majuli

If you wish to spend some time in solitude or just give your family some quality time, Majuli is the perfect spot for you. Being the largest river island in the world, it is located on the Brahmaputra River and is undoubtedly one of the most stunning and unexplored places in the country. This is one spot where you will find yourself away from the chaos of the city, thus making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate. Majuli is known to be the cultural capital of the Assamese civilization since the 16th century. It is definitely one of the best picnic places near Guwahati for those who love a tete-a-tete with Mother Nature.

3. Kamakhya Temple

Nestled on Nilachal Hill in the western region of Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple is amongst the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, a fact that makes it one of the holiest spots in the Northeast and also the most sought-after tourist places in Guwahati. The temple is decorated with vibrant flowers and the entrance is exceptionally designed with elegant yet intricate carvings. It also has a huge dome that overlooks the picturesque Nilachal Hills. So, people planning for a spiritual retreat can visit this temple and spend some time in peace and tranquillity.

4. Nameri National Park

Nameri National Park is another must-visit for wildlife and nature lovers out there. It is also one of the hidden gems of the Northeast and one of the best picnic spots near Guwahati. Nestled at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, the national park is the last home to the endangered white-winged wood duck. You can also witness elephants, bison, wild boars, giant squirrels, capped langurs, black bears, leopards, and sloth bears here. The Golden Mahseer fish is also extremely popular here. It is also known as the ‘Tiger of the Himalayan Rivers’ owing to its strength and size. There is so much to do here that you might want to visit this place on an extended weekend, no kidding whatsoever! Such is its beauty and the sheer splendour of its marvels that it will coax you into staying a little longer.

5. Assam State Zoo and Botanical garden

The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden must be included in your Guwahati tourism packages if you are planning on a weekend getaway to this wonderful city. Spread over 430 acres, it is also known as the green lung of Guwahati owing to its unique diversity of varied flora and fauna. It is the city’s major ex-situ conservation centre which also offers services like rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals and drives the cause of nature awareness. Don’t be surprised if you keep coming back to get a glimpse of the scenic vistas, lush gardens, indigenous and exotic species, and perennial water bodies.

6. Mawsynram

Located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya at a distance of just 138 kilometres from Guwahati, Mawsynram is a place you will absolutely fall in love with. If you are someone who can be referred to as a pluviophile (i.e. the one who finds peace when it rains), this place can be your retreat for an amazing weekend getaway from Guwahati!

Known as the wettest place in the world, you will find yourself sniffing petrichor while you sip a cup of coffee (or filter kapi, if you will) or read a book by the balcony. Doing absolutely nothing in Mawsynram can turn out to be one of the most exciting and satisfying experiences for you. And while you are here, you must visit the Mawjymbuin cave which is known for its stalagmites. Enter inside and you will come across an impressive pair of cave formations which is in the form of Shiv Linga, making it a sacred shrine for Hindus.

7. Hajo

Hajo is by far one of the most interesting places that you can visit near Guwahati in Assam. It is an ancient pilgrimage centre for Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. Yes, a holy spot for three different religions! The term ‘Hajo’ is derived from the Bodo word ‘Hajw’ which means hill. Dotted with several temples, mosques and pagodas, Hajo is a place that welcomes people from all walks of life wholeheartedly. So, if you are travelling with your kids, this place will help them learn more about other religions. While the Hayagriva Madhava Mandir is believed to be the site where Buddha attained Nirvana, Powa Mecca Mosque is popular amongst Muslims. What could be a better picnic place in Guwahati!

8. Mawlynnong

A small and quaint village that is located at the East Khasi Hills, Mawlynnong has an impressive moniker - ‘the God’s own garden’. How so? Well, it has been titled as the cleanest village in Asia! People from near and far come to witness its vibrant orchards, misty landscapes, vast farmlands, stunning views, and crystal-clear waters. Also, its proximity to the living-root bridges makes it one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the northeast. Is it any wonder that Mawlynnong is one of the best picnic places near Guwahati?! We don’t have any reason to believe otherwise.

Guwahati, as a city, is a hearty blend of different cultures, architecture, and religions. Conserving its glory from ancient times, it still takes pride in its colonial architecture. Endowed with pristine beauty, there is so much that you can see and explore in this cosmopolitan yet traditional city. We are sure that your weekend getaway from Guwahati will turn out to be one of the most interesting experiences for you and the ones who are travelling with you!