Top 10 Best Road Trips From Guwahati
Nestled in the heart of Assam, Guwahati serves as the perfect launchpad for some of the best road trips in Northeast India. From the lush greenery of the Eastern Himalayas to the crystal-clear waters of natural lakes, each road trip from Guwahati promises an unforgettable journey through the wonders of nature and culture.
List of Places Near Guwahati for a Road Trip
Best Road Trips From Guwahati: Within 100 km
1. Nongpoh | 58 km
Nongpoh, with its pristine natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, is a perfect stopover on the way to Shillong. This short road trip from Guwahati to Nongpoh is smooth and offers a glimpse into the serene countryside of Meghalaya.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Popularity: Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary and Kyllang Rock
- Activities to do: Wildlife spotting, trekking, and exploring local markets
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Nongpoh
2. Umiam Lake | 82 km
Umiam Lake's vast, serene waters offer a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the city's chaos. The Guwahati road trip to Umiam Lake is short but incredibly scenic, making it an ideal getaway for a day or weekend.
- Best Time to Visit: March and June
- Popularity: Known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views
- Activities to Do: Boating, kayaking, water cycling, water scooters and picnicking
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Umiam Lake
Best Road Trips From Guwahati: Within 200 km
The following are the top 10 road trip destinations from Guwahati that promise unforgettable experiences and scenic views:
3. Shillong | 106 km
Known as the 'Scotland of the East', Shillong's captivating beauty, with its rolling hills and colonial architecture, makes it a perfect road trip destination from Guwahati. The journey itself is a delightful experience, with scenic views and pleasant weather.
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Popularity: Tribal heritage, nightlife, natural beauty and colonial architecture
- Activities to Do: Visit Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, museums, parks, and enjoy the local markets
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Nongkhrah - Shillong
4. Cherrapunji | 154 km
Famous for its living root bridges and waterfalls, Cherrapunji offers an ethereal experience amidst clouds and rain. The drive from Guwahati to Cherrapunji is an adventure through some of the most spectacular sceneries in the Northeast.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Popularity: Living root bridges, Nohkalikai Falls, rich culture and scenic landscapes
- Activities to Do: Trekking to the living root bridges, exploring caves, and waterfall hopping
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Shillong - Cherrapunji
5. Mawsynram | 160 km
Holding the title of the wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram is a mesmerising destination with lush greenery and enchanting waterfalls. The road trip to Mawsynram is a journey through the heart of Meghalaya's rain-soaked landscapes
- Best Time to Visit: June to September and October to February
- Popularity: Its natural beauty and unique weather patterns make it a sought-after destination
- Activities to Do: Explore the Mawjymbuin Cave and witness the majestic waterfalls
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Shillong - Mawsynram
6. Kaziranga National Park | 168 km
Home to the majestic one-horned rhinoceros and elephants, Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The drive from Guwahati to Kaziranga, along the lush tea gardens of Assam, is indeed scenic.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Popularity: One-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, elephants, tigers and swamp deers
- Activities to Do: Jeep safaris, elephant rides and bird watching
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Nagaon - Kaziranga National Park
7. Dawki | 181 km
Dawki is renowned for its crystal-clear river, a natural marvel that attracts tourists from across the globe. The road trip from Guwahati to Dawki, with its picturesque landscapes, is an experience of a lifetime.
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
- Popularity: The clear river waters and boat rides are major attractions.
- Activities to Do: Boating, camping, suspension bridge and visiting the India-Bangladesh border.
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Shillong - Dawki
8. Jaintia Hills | 187 km
Offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Jaintia Hills is a hidden gem in Meghalaya. The journey from Guwahati is a picturesque drive through rolling hills and serene landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Popularity: Nartiang Monoliths, Waterfalls, Caves and Lakes
- Activities to Do: Trekking, exploring caves and sightseeing
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Shillong - Jaintia Hills
Best Road Trips From Guwahati: Within 300 km
9. Tura | 214 km
A picturesque town in the Garo Hills, Tura is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The journey from Guwahati to Tura, through winding roads and lush landscapes, is as beautiful and memorable as the destination itself.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April.
- Popularity: Known for its wildlife and cultural festivals.
- Activities to Do: Go on a wildlife safari, visit caves, and explore local villages.
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Dudhnoi - Tura
10. Bomdila | 258 km
Nestled amidst the Eastern Himalayas, Bomdila enchants travellers with its picturesque landscapes and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The road journey offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- Popularity: Bomdila Monastery, Dirang Valley and Apple orchards
- Activities to do: Visit monasteries, trekking, birdwatching and apple orchards
- Ideal Route: Guwahati - Bhairabkunda - Bomdila.
Road trips from Guwahati are not just about the destinations but the journeys themselves. Each route unfolds its own set of marvels, from the lush greenery of the Eastern Himalayas to the cultural richness of the tribal lands. Whether you seek adventure in the wilderness or tranquillity amidst nature, these destinations promise an enriching experience.
FAQs about Road Trips from Guwahati
Is it possible to rent a car for a road trip from Guwahati?
Yes, it is possible to rent a car for a road trip from Guwahati. There are several car rental agencies in the city offering a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.
How are the road conditions outside Guwahati for travelling?
In Guwahati, Assam, traffic congestion is a common occurrence, even during nighttime hours, as the city permits the entry of heavy trucks.
Which destination is most expensive for a road trip near Guwahati?
Bomdila and Shillong are the most expensive destinations for a road trip near Guwahati due to their higher accommodation and dining costs compared to other destinations.
What is the famous thing about Guwahati?
The famous thing about Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism.
Is Guwahati a good place to travel?
Guwahati is considered a good place to travel due to its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and various tourist attractions.
Which is the best route from Guwahati?
The best route from Guwahati depends on the destination. For example, to reach Shillong, the NH40 via NH6 is commonly preferred.
How many tourist places are there near Guwahati?
There are numerous tourist places near Guwahati, including Kaziranga National Park, Mawsynram, Cherrapunji, Umiam Lake, and Dawki.
Which season is best for Guwahati?
The season best to visit Guwahati is during the winter, when the weather is cool and comfortable.
What is the speed limit in Guwahati?
The speed limit in Guwahati varies depending on the area, but it is generally around 40-50 km/h in residential areas and 60-70 km/h on highways.
What are the top weekend destinations from Guwahati?
Top weekend destinations from Guwahati include Shillong, Cherrapunji, Kaziranga National Park, Dawki, and Tawang.
Which is the ideal time to visit Guwahati?
Generally speaking, October through April are the best months to visit Guwahati because of the pleasant weather that is ideal for outdoor activities.
How secure is Kaziranga National Park for travellers?
Kaziranga National Park is generally safe for travellers, but visitors are advised to follow safety guidelines and stay with authorised guides during safaris.
How excellent are the roads in and around Guwahati?
The roads in and around Guwahati are generally in good condition, especially the highways leading to popular tourist destinations.
What is the best way from Guwahati to Shillong?
The best way to travel from Guwahati to Shillong is by road, either by private vehicle or public transport. The journey takes around 3-4 hours via NH40.